Forestiere Underground Gardens
5021 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA, 93722
The Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno, California, are a network of underground rooms, courtyards, and passageways built in the early 1900s by Baldassare Forestiere that are just as impressive today as they were way back when. Trees, shrubs, and vines still grow throughout, making for quite the sight next to the garden’s massive stone walls.
The basics
Most travelers who visit the Forestiere Underground Gardens go on their own, as the attraction itself offers tours daily. You can plan ahead and book a 1-hour tour directly on its website, and be sure to arrive early. If you just want to stop by the location, a Fresno city tour or self-guided audio tour is also a great way to see the gardens.
Things to know before you go
The areas of the underground gardens vary by temperature, so make sure to dress in layers when you go.
Good news for families—children 4 and under are free to visit and tour the gardens.
You must arrive 15 minutes before your reservation start time. If you’re late, you’ll lose your spot on the tour.
How to get there
To get to the Forestiere Underground Gardens from downtown Fresno, use CA-99 N, and exit at Shaw Avenue. There is only street parking available on Shaw Avenue, Forestiere Avenue, and Cornelia Avenue for visiting the gardens. There’s no parking lot or handicap-accessible parking spaces, unfortunately.
When to get there
The Forestiere Underground Gardens are only open seasonally, so you can only visit from March through November. It’s best to watch the weather before visiting, as the gardens will also close during rain and extreme heat. A September, October, or November visit may be less crowded, too.
Combine a visit to the Kearney Mansion Museum
While in Fresno, you can also visit the Kearney Mansion Museum, which is only about a 15-minute drive from the Forestiere Underground Gardens, making it easy to see both in a day or on the same weekend. This 1903 residence features beautiful period pieces, and its history is worth exploring.
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