Fresno, the heart of California's San Joaquin Valley and the fifth-largest city in the state, is a thriving metropolis with plenty to offer visitors and residents alike. From the Fresno Chaffee Zoo and the Fresno Art Museum to the Tower District and the Fresno County Blossom Trail, Fresno has plenty of sites to see and activities to enjoy. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll along the San Joaquin River or take in a show at the Warnors Theatre, Fresno has something for everyone. Read on to learn more about all the great attractions that Fresno has to offer.
Getting to Know Fresno
Fresno, California, is a growing city located in Central California, the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. It has a population of over 527,000, making it the fifth largest city in California. The city stretches across parts of three counties, Fresno, Kings and Madera. There is only one time zone in Fresno, the Pacific Time Zone, allowing for consistent sleep and work routines.
The native language in Fresno is English, with Spanish being the primary foreign language. As of 2018, about 39.9% of the population spoke a language other than English at home. There are also a variety of other languages spoken by different immigrants from all over the world.
The official currency of Fresno is the US Dollar. It is widely accepted in most places, and is the most convenient form of payment. Some local stores may accept Mexican Pesos, however most retailers only take US Dollars.
Climate and Weather
Fresno is located in central California, at an altitude of about 300m above sea level. The city enjoys an oceanic climate that is quite mild, with an average temperature of 13.4° C (56.2° F). Summers are warm, with average high temperatures reaching 30° C (86° F). Winters are mild, with average low temperatures of around 5° C (41° F). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with wet winters and dry summers. Average rainfall is around 224mm (8.8in) a year. The average number of sunny days is 247. Fresno can also experience strong winds, especially during the winter months. The air quality in Fresno is sometimes poor due to seasonal dust blown in from the nearby Sahara Desert.
Touring Fresno: Airport and Transportation
There are two official airports in Fresno: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) and Fresno Chandler Executive Airport (FCH). You can get from the main airport to downtown in Fresno via taxi, rideshare, or public transportation. A taxi ride is estimated to cost $23-$25 and takes about 15 minutes. Public transportation buses cost $2 per person one way and run regularly throughout the day. No, you cannot change money at Fresno Airport, but there are ATMs located throughout the airport and in the surrounding area.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Fresno
- Fresno is a city located in California's San Joaquin Valley that has a diverse and vibrant cultural heritage. The city is home to a variety of unique cultural attractions, from the Fresno Art Museum to the Fresno Tigres baseball team
- Fresno's history dates back to 1856 when the area was first settled by John S. Field and William P. Lawton. Since then, it has grown significantly, becoming one of the largest cities in California
- The area also has a strong agricultural history, home to a variety of crops including grapes and many others. Tourists to Fresno will have the opportunity to explore the culture of the region, which includes a mix of Native American, Spanish, and European influences