Nine cities, nine personalities
From the cultural energy of Fresno to the country soul of Bakersfield, each Central Valley community has its own story, flavor and pace.
Find your city
Discover where to eat, stay and play across the heart of California.
Fresno
The Valley's largest city and gateway to three national parks. Explore the Art Deco Tower District, the hand-dug Forestiere Underground Gardens, Fresno Chaffee Zoo and 300-acre Woodward Park.
Bakersfield
Birthplace of the twangy "Bakersfield Sound" of Buck Owens and Merle Haggard. Visit Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, the Kern County Museum and the city's celebrated Basque restaurants.
Visalia
The closest big city to Sequoia & Kings Canyon. Founded in 1852 — the oldest town between Stockton and Los Angeles — with a lively downtown and the restored 1930 Fox Theatre.
Modesto
Hometown of George Lucas and the cruising culture of American Graffiti. See the 1912 Modesto Arch, the Victorian McHenry Mansion and the roots of E. & J. Gallo Winery.
Stockton
An inland seaport on the California Delta. Wander the revitalized waterfront, tour the Haggin Museum, and visit University of the Pacific — the state's oldest chartered university.
Merced
The "Gateway to Yosemite" and home to UC Merced — the first American research university of the 21st century. Don't miss the Castle Air Museum's fleet of vintage military aircraft.
Clovis
"A Way of Life," with Old West charm. Stroll historic Old Town Clovis, walk the Old Town Trail, and catch the PRCA Clovis Rodeo — running every April since 1914.
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Turlock
The "Heart of the Valley" and a national leader in dairy and poultry. Home to Stanislaus State, a lively downtown farmers market, and the annual Stanislaus County Fair.
Tulare
Home of the World Ag Expo — the largest agricultural exposition on Earth, drawing 100,000+ visitors each February to the International Agri-Center.
Where to next?
Pair a city stay with a day trip to the parks or a drive along the Blossom Trail.