Fresno Discovery Center
Fresno, CA
An ideal place for family outings, the Fresno Discovery Center offers outdoor exhibits with play structures, gardens, and even animals, as well as an indoor science center. All of the exhibits have thoughtful, hands-on components, for an experience that encourages wonder and excitement when it comes to learning.
The basics
The Fresno Discovery Center makes for a fun half-day adventure, especially for those with families and little ones who are looking to learn through play. Some visitors book a self-driving audio tour of Fresno and make a stop here during the drive around the city; for most, though, coming here is a dedicated trip. Be sure to leave up to four hours to experience all that this attraction has to offer.
Things to know before you go
Families will be happy to know that kids 2 and under are free to get into the Fresno Discovery Center. The center is just a 5-minute drive from the Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT). If you visit in July, keep in mind the Fresno Discovery Center is closed on weekdays, so you’ll have to plan for a weekend visit.
How to get there
If you’re coming to the Fresno Discovery Center from the Fresno Yosemite International Airport, take East Clinton Way and turn left on North Winery Avenue. The discovery center will be on your left-hand side, with free and accessible parking spaces.
When to get there
The Fresno Discovery Center is only open Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays; note that it’s closed weekdays in July. If you’re looking for the quietest time to visit, try going on a Monday around 11am until closing. The center opens at 9am, but many parents bring their kids early in the morning and then head home for lunchtime.
More family fun in Fresno
Two other popular attractions in Fresno for families with young children are the Fresno Chaffee Zoo and Island Waterpark. Keep in mind that the Island Waterpark is only open during the summer, so plan accordingly. The zoo is open daily year-round.
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