Must-Do Activities in Fresno

1. Kearney Mansion Museum
   Housed within a turn-of-the-century estate in a sprawling municipal park, this site preserves the legacy of the “Raisin King of California.” Visitors can tour the meticulously restored French Renaissance-style residence, which retains many of its original furnishings and ornate fixtures. Surrounded by lush gardens and historic outbuildings, the museum offers a glimpse into the agricultural wealth and domestic life of the early twentieth-century San Joaquin Valley.
2. Fresno Art Museum
   Located in the heart of the Central Valley, this institution focuses on modern and contemporary works that reflect the region’s diverse heritage. Its permanent collection features an impressive array of Pre-Columbian artifacts and Mexican graphic arts. Through rotating exhibitions of painting, sculpture, and photography, the galleries provide a vital platform for both established and emerging artists while offering enriching educational programs for the local community.
3. African-American Historical & Cultural Museum
   This cultural landmark serves as a cornerstone for preserving the rich contributions of African Americans to the San Joaquin Valley’s history. Its galleries showcase a compelling mix of historical artifacts, fine art, and photographic archives that document the journey from early pioneers to contemporary leaders. Through community events and educational outreach, the institution fosters a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the local landscape.

Top 3 Hotels in Fresno for Conference Attendees

1. Piccadilly Inn Shaw
   Located in a convenient North Fresno location, this reliable hotel offers easy access to the area’s business parks and shopping centers. Guests can unwind in comfortable rooms and utilize amenities including a pool, spa, and an on-site restaurant and bar. With its well-regarded service and established presence, it provides a dependable and relaxed stay for travelers in the northern part of the city.
2. Hampton Inn & Suites Fresno Northwest
   Located off Highway 99, this contemporary hotel provides a convenient gateway to both the Central Valley’s business centers and the nearby Forestiere Underground Gardens. Guests enjoy modern rooms and suites equipped with intuitive amenities, alongside a fitness center and an outdoor pool. With complimentary breakfast and reliable service, it offers a comfortable and practical stay for travelers.
3. DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center
   Located in the heart of downtown, this convention center hotel provides convenient access to local business and entertainment districts. Guests can enjoy classic amenities, including a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant and lounge. As a full-service property, it serves as a reliable and comfortable hub for both business travelers attending events and tourists exploring the city.

Top 3 Restaurants in Fresno for Convention Attendees

1. The Annex Kitchen
   Located in the heart of the Central Valley, this bustling culinary destination specializes in rustic Italian fare inspired by local seasonal produce. The open kitchen features a wood-burning oven used to craft artisanal pizzas and fire-grilled meats, while house-made pastas remain a menu highlight. With its industrial-chic design and a sophisticated craft cocktail program, the restaurant provides a vibrant and modern neighborhood dining experience.
2. School House Restaurant & Tavern
   Located in a meticulously restored historic schoolhouse, this charming tavern offers a menu of elevated American comfort food in a unique, nostalgic setting. The kitchen emphasizes scratch-made dishes and classic cocktails, served in a warm atmosphere complete with a cozy fireplace. It blends regional history with contemporary culinary execution, creating a beloved local gathering spot.
3. Irene’s Cafe
   This charming neighborhood institution provides a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere for enjoying classic American comfort food. Known for its hearty breakfasts and reliable lunch fare, the cafe emphasizes fresh ingredients and generous portions served in a welcoming, casual setting. It serves as a local staple where patrons return for familiar flavors and a relaxed dining experience.

Closest Airport to Fresno

Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT)
The primary commercial airport for the San Joaquin Valley and gateway to Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks. nonstop flights to 13 domestic and 3 international destinations in Mexico, serving approximately 1.4 million passengers annually.