1. The Tower District Is Anything But Boring
Fresno’s Tower District is hands down one of the liveliest places in town. You can find everything from arts and entertainment to dining and clubs. Hit the spot at night to catch a show or have a drink with friends, and relax in the day with a cup of coffee at a local café.
2. Orange Is SO Fresno’s Color
Or at least you’ll start to think so after moving to Fresno. It’s impossible not to get caught up in the city’s passionate Grizzly fandom; residents’ loyalty to the minor-league baseball team stays strong. And don’t even get me started on their awesome orange mascot, who beat out the mascot’s of major league teams to be named the best mascot of 2007.
3. The Entire City Is Dripping In Bulldog Pride
From t-shirts to tattoos, you can’t escape the snarling face of the California State University, Fresno football team. The city goes crazy for their Bulldogs and attending a game is an experience you can’t miss. Just picture a sea of red and hundreds of passionately cheering (and occasionally barking) football fans and you’ll get the idea
4. But If You Can’t Make It To The Game In Person, Head On Over To Dog House Grill
Catching the game at Dog House Grill is a close second to attending it in person. Plus, you get to hang out in front of your choice of several TVs with an enormous bucket of fries and a juicy burger by your side. Just make sure to get there early, because this spot can get PACKED.
5. Fresno Will Make A Rogue Out Of You
Each year Fresno celebrates independent performers and artists with its Rogue Festival. The event gives all types of people the opportunity to showcase their works, from film and theatre to music and dance, in various locations throughout downtown Fresno and the Tower District. It’s non-juried, so anyone can perform. Yet that also means that you might not know whether a performance is going to be a gem or a bust—but that’s just half the fun.
6. Fresnans Don’t Need To Go South Of The Border For Great Mexican Food
Fresno has several great restaurants that will make you think you’re miles farther south than you actually are, like Don Pepe’s Taqueria and Castillo’s Mexican. But, be warned, some of the dishes can pack some serious heat. You might just find a trace of spicy Fresno peppers, named after the city, in your food.
7. Fresno Offers Its Own Slice Of New Orleans Each Year
There’s no need to make the trek to New Orleans for some Fat Tuesday Fun; Fresno has a Mardi Gras Parade of its own. The annual celebration takes place in the Tower District and is a favorite event. Make sure to stake out a spot on the parade route early so you can catch your fair share of shiny beads while enjoying fantastic Cajun and Creole food.
8. Fresno Takes “Reel Pride” In Its Film Festivals
Each fall Fresno throws a widely anticipated event that features gay and lesbian flicks: Fresno Reel Pride Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. Hosted by Fresno Reel Pride, this beloved celebration that gathers a huge crowd every year. And, for those who can’t get enough of indie and international films, Fresno Filmworks puts on the Fresno Film Festival in the spring, as well as a monthly series on the second Friday of each month.
9. Fresno Puts The Sun-Maid In Raisins
They don’t call Fresno the raisin-capital of the world for the nothing. The city has rightfully earned its wrinkly claim to fame. Not only is the Sun-Maid Raisin company based in Fresno, but the entire raisin industry began right here in Fresno County.
10. Fresnans Take Their Tri-Tip Seriously
You don’t know good tri-tip until you’ve been to Fresno. The city has perfected that slowly smoked marbled cut of sirloin and can blow your taste buds away with one bite of its iconic barbeque sauce slathered sandwich. As for restaurants, you can’t go wrong with Mike’s Grill—many swear the spot has the best tri-tip sandwich in town
11. The Fruit In Fresno Goes Straight From The Tree To Your Mouth
Fresno County is a prime spot for agriculture. The entire area is dotted with farmland and produces a huge variety of crops like grapes, almonds, tomatoes, and oranges. The area is also a reigning king when it comes to agriculture, ranking #1 in the nation in 2007.
12. Wine And Dine During The Old Town Clovis Wine Walk
Bring out your inner wine connoisseur as you stroll the streets of Old Town Clovis during one of the city’s best wine walks. You can sample some of the best sips from local wineries while tasting mouth-watering food from local restaurants. It’s a night you don’t want to miss.
13. La Boulangerie Is A Sweet Tooth’s Taste Of French-Inspired Heaven
With its sinfully sweet treats that seem like they came fresh out of a Parisian café, La Boulangerie opens a door to France right here in Fresno. The French Bakery & Café in Fig Garden Village has rows upon rows of treats, so good luck settling on just one or two. With colorful macaroons, fruit filled Danishes, sweetly frosted cinnamon rolls and warm buttery croissants, no one will blame you if you want to take a taste of everything.
14. There’s Only One Way To Beat The Heat In Fresno…
And that’s at Island Waterpark. Sure you could take a dip in the pool or run through the sprinkler, but why would you want to that when you can zip down a water slide or a take a trip down a lazy river? Yeah, that’s what I thought.
15. Find Your Inner Da Vinci At Fresno Art Museum
Gaze all you want at the many masterpieces harbored at the Fresno Art Museum, but if you want something a little more hands on they’ve got that for you too. In addition to their great gallery, the museum offers art excursions, classes and workshops for all ages. You’ll be an art pro in no time.
16. River Park Is More Than Just Your Average Shopping Center
The busy retail spot is composed of three, count ‘em, three different shopping areas: The Shops at River Park, The Marketplace at River Park, and River Park Plaza. You’ll find a myriad of stores, restaurants, and even a movie theatre. It’s much more than a mere smattering of shops.
17. Roeding Park Means Days Of Entertainment
You’ll find much more than green space and a swing set at Fresno’s Roeding Park. The spot could impress you with its gardens, tennis courts, pavilions, and picnic spots alone, but it’s also got the Fresno Chaffee Zoo and the Rotary Storyland & Playland amusement park.
18. Roger Rocka’s Puts The Phrase “Dinner And A Movie” To Shame
With its dinner and show combination, Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theatre is your one stop spot for a great night out in Fresno. You don’t have to bother hopping around town for a good time, just sit and relax in the theater for a great entertainment and delicious food.
19. Fresno Is A Shopaholic’s Paradise
Those who need their regular retail fix will feel right at home in Fresno—it’s a shopper’s paradise. There are many spots where you can give your credit card a workout or simply stroll the town and window shop. Some Fresno favorites include Fashion Fair Mall, Fig Garden Village, and the boutique shopping in Northeast Fresno.
20. Don’t Expect 365 Days Of Sunny Weather
Or you’ll be sorely disappointed. Despite being in California, a state known for its sunny and warm climate, Fresno is notorious for a thick fog that can settle in the area: Tule fog. The low lying cloud is characteristic of the Great Central Valley so it’s hard to avoid. But don’t worry, it’s never long before the sun is out and shining again.
21. Sam’s Deli Will Transport You To Italy, No Plane Ticket Needed
Walking into Sam’s Italian Deli & Market is like apparating to Italy. The spot has a market that’s packed with Italian essentials, like pastas and olive oil. The kitchen always smells of bread and focaccia and the deli makes wondrous sandwiches from their fresh Italian cold cuts and imported cheese. You can even sample an antipasto platter or take a pasta dinner home to-go.
22. Old Town Clovis Is The Perfect Place For A Treasure Hunt
Well, as long as your definition of treasure means antiques. Old Town Clovis, a small low-key section of Clovis City in Fresno County, is great for antiquing. Among the restaurants and local shops you can find some real gems (as well as some old junk!).
23. The Old Fresno Water Tower Is The City’s Pride And Joy
Others cities’ water towers pale in comparison to the Old Fresno Water Tower. Built in the American Romanesque style, this 109 foot-tall red brick building is an iconic part of the town.
24. The Save Mart Center Takes College Arenas To A Whole Other Level
On the campus of California State University, Fresno, you’ll find the Save Mart Center. However, don’t be fooled into believing that the arena only features college performances and sports. The spot has housed big names like The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Billy Joel and Gwen Stefani and has also hosted NBA and NHL preseason games.
25. But If You’re Looking For Some 16th Century Entertainment Instead, Fresno Also Has You Covered
Each summer Woodward Park puts on its annual Woodward Shakespeare Festival. From tragedies like “Richard III” to comedies like “The Taming of the Shrew”, Woodward does it all. It’s a fantastic way to spend a free night in Fresno.
26. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Is Where Fresnans Go To Impress Their Dates
Tucked within the Fashion Fair Mall is Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar. Its central location and great atmosphere makes for a perfect dinner spot, where you can feast on a juicy steak with standout sides like creamy mashed potatoes and chipotle mac and cheese. Make sure to finish with the lava cake—it tastes like molten heaven.
27. The Discovery Center Is Fun For All Ages
The hours seem to fly right by when you’re at Fresno’s Discovery Center. Not only does the spot have a science museum, but it also features several outdoor exhibits, gardens, and countless hands on activities.
28. The Highland Gathering And Games Festival Brings Out Everyone's Inner Scotsman
Fresno’s annual Scottish celebration is so fun, you might just have to be break out a plaid kilt of your own. You’ll find highland athletics for kids and adults alike, as well as pipe bands, Scottish stories, dancing, food and music. You don’t need to have a drop of Scottish blood in you to fully enjoy this festival.
29. Fresno Grows Gardens…Underground
The Forestiere Underground Gardens are a truly unusual man made creation. Built by an immigrant from Sicily, the hand-build network of underground rooms, courtyards and passages were inspired by ancient Roman catacombs. The three level creation also houses a stunning collection of fruit trees, shrubs, and vines, some of which are over 90 years old.
What do you love about living in Fresno? Tell us in the comments below! 
