Fresno, California, United States

Today, we'll be making a virtual visit to Fresno, California. If you look at a map of California, you'll find Fresno halfway between the north and south borders and halfway between the east and west borders in the San Joaquin Valley. According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2006, Fresno had approximately 466,714 residents. In 2000, 50% of the residents were listed as white and 39.9% were listed as Hispanic or Latino. The word fresno means ash tree in Spanish.

Fresno is home to California State University, Fresno, otherwise known as Fresno State. The Fresno State Bulldogs was one of eight teams that made it to the 2008 College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska. Fresno is also home to Fresno Pacific University and National University.

There is plenty to see and do in Fresno. For family fare, there is the Fresno Chaffee Zoo. According to their website, they are "the only zoo in North America that currently houses Northland green geckos (on exhibit) and Southern tent tortoises (off exhibit)". The Tower District is home to cultural mix of shopping, restaurants and nightly entertainment. The majority of the Tower District is located along Olive Avenue. If you're the gambling kind, there are four casinos listed on the Fresno Convention and Visitor's Bureau page.

Fresno is approximately 90 minutes south of Yosemite National Park. There are breathtaking views at Yosemite so be sure to bring your camera if you plan to visit the park. The park charges a $20 entrance fee per car. The entrance fee is good for 7 days. If you are 62 or older, you can purchase a $10 senior pass which is good for lifetime admission to the park.

If you like trains, you can visit the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad. You can choose between riding the Jenny Railcars or the Logger Steam Train. The Steam Train is $17.50 for adults. The Railroad is located between Fresno and Yosemite on Highway 41.

My choice for lodging this week isn't actually in Fresno but it's relatively close. I have chosen Tenaya Lodge as the place to stay. I picked the Lodge because the have a concierge department to assist guests in organizing activities during their stay. It's not just a place to lay your head at night. The Lodge is located in the Sierra Mountains just a few miles from the entrance to Yosemite National Park.

Fresno Convention & Visitor's Bureau
Official Fresno Website