The Best Things to do in Fresno in Fall
Who doesn’t love Fresno in fall? With the changing leaves comes the smell of pumpkin spice lattes and apples wafting through the air. Right at the heart of San Joaquin Valley, the charming city treats you with an eclectic mix of Fresno attractions you shouldn’t miss.
Not sure about things to do in Fresno? Start with these activities:
Go to a winery
Sip your way through more than 100 wineries in Fresno. Catch up with friends or spend a lovely date night with a glass of wine. The glass is never empty as Fresno is home to almost ⅕ of the state’s wine grapes. Many wineries host fall festivals that celebrate the harvest season—and often feature live music performances by local artists! The scenery is beautiful, and the wine flows freely—what could be better? If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can’t go wrong with Vineyard Limousine. They offer first-class tickets to a day of luxury, style, and posh Southern California wine tasting. Hosting a larger party? Renting a party bus is always a great idea!
Looking for things to do in Fresno at night? The Press Box is a great place to grab a drink in Fresno’s Tower District. It is consistently recognized as one of the world’s most spectacular rooftop bars, offering gorgeous views of downtown and the hills beyond. They offer beer and wine flights and cocktails from their full bar. Their expansive list of menus will fill everyone’s appetite, even those with special dietary requirements.
Hike through the national park.
There is a reason Fresno tops the list for the Big City for National Park. It is the only metropolitan hub in the state with 300 days of sunshine a year. Experience the natural beauty of three national parks-Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia -which are all 90 minutes away from Fresno. It’s one of the top things to do in Fresno, and if you’re in the city for a while, you simply have to visit one of them. Tie your boots up, get ready to see the fall foliage, and enjoy time with your family. The national park has over 30 miles of trails you can walk or run. It doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced hiker or a novice—there’s something here for everyone!
Head Downtown For Ice Cold Beer
There is more to Fresno than wine. With microbreweries scattered throughout Fresno County and several offering tastings along the Downtown Ale Trail, you’re sure to find a great brew. Bar-hopping in Old Town Clovis or the Tower District? Enjoy a carefully crafted cocktail at one of the area’s many local bars like the School House Restaurant & Tavern in Sanger, Cracked Pepper in Northwest Fresno, or Elbow Room in Fig Garden Village. Be it your go-to brew or a new local craft, Fresno has something unique crafted just for you. Downtown Fresno is a trendy tourist spot for eclectic galleries or snazzy cafes.
Join Oktoberfest
You don’t have to buy a plane ticket to Germany to enjoy Oktoberfest. Fresno hosts a range of Oktoberbest celebrations, featuring rare beers from across the world. Get your share of Oktoberfest, which features sliced beer bratwurst, yellow onions, green bell peppers, and sauerkraut on top of mozzarella and gouda cheese. For a list of Oktoberfest activities in Fresno, click here.
Enjoy a hay ride
Many pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and Haunted House options pop up this time of the year. Check out Hillcrest Christmas Tree, Pumpkin Patch, Planet Pumpkin, Sunshine Farm, and The Pumpkin Grove for the pumpkin patch, straw maze, and hayrides. Go for those with extra activities, like a corn cannon, cow train, inflatables, farm animals, or zip lines to make it extra fun for kids. The mazes usually pay a small fee, but hayrides are often free. Best to call before you go to confirm prices and hours of operation.
Pick Apples with Kids
Apple picking tops the list of fun things to do in Fresno with your kids. There’s nothing like the experience of going out in the autumn sun and picking apples with the family. Although it’s a drive from Fresno, the trip to Apple Hill in Sacramento is worth it. Besides picking a variety of apples, you can also have your fill of delectable pies. Take home apple-related products such as cider and apple butter while you are at it. Visiting Apple Hill is a family-bonding experience with apple picking, pumpkin patches, picnic grounds, and nature walks.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Fall in Fresno is incredible for long walks, cafe hopping, pub crawl, wine-tasting, and apple pickings. While you’re exploring Fresno, book your stay at Fresno City Inn. Our pet-friendly hotel welcomes you and your furry friend to our spacious rooms with full amenities. We are conveniently located at the center of downtown Fresno. You’re near the best Fresno attractions, with plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and more just a short walk away.
