Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Covina, California to Fresno, California
Covina, California and Fresno, California are two vibrant cities in the Golden State that offer an array of activities for road trippers to enjoy. As travelers make their way from Covina to Fresno, they will have the opportunity to stop at several exciting destinations and breathtaking roadside attractions. The halfway point of the trip is the bustling city of Bakersfield, which is known for its rich agricultural history and vibrant arts scene.
1. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks A visit to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is a must for nature enthusiasts. These two parks are home to some of the largest and oldest trees in the world, including the famous General Sherman Tree. Road trippers can explore numerous hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and picturesque picnic spots within the parks.
Interesting fact: Sequoia National Park is home to Mount Whitney, which is the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States.
2. Forestiere Underground Gardens Heading north from Bakersfield, travelers can make a stop at the unique Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno. These intricate underground gardens were hand-built by Sicilian immigrant Baldasare Forestiere over several decades. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore the network of underground rooms, passageways, and gardens that make up this fascinating historical site.
Interesting fact: The underground gardens maintain a constant temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a cool retreat during the hot summer months.
3. Playland Arcade For a dose of nostalgic fun, road trippers can visit Playland Arcade in Fresno. This classic arcade offers a wide array of vintage and modern arcade games, pinball machines, and prize redemption games. Visitors can challenge their friends to a game of air hockey, try their luck at winning prizes, or simply soak in the retro ambiance of this beloved local establishment.
Interesting fact: Playland Arcade has been entertaining guests of all ages since the 1940s and continues to be a popular gathering spot for families and gamers alike.
4. Fresno Chaffee Zoo Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, where they can encounter a diverse array of wildlife from around the world. The zoo is home to over 190 species and offers engaging exhibits such as Sea Lion Cove, Stingray Bay, and African Adventure. Visitors can also partake in educational animal encounters and behind-the-scenes experiences.
Interesting fact: The Fresno Chaffee Zoo is involved in several conservation and breeding programs aimed at preserving endangered species, including the Malayan tiger and the San Joaquin kit fox.
5. Underground Gardens Another intriguing underground attraction awaits road trippers in Fresno - the Forestiere Underground Gardens. These subterranean gardens were created by Baldasare Forestiere in the early 20th century and feature a network of underground rooms, passageways, and courtyards. Guided tours offer visitors a glimpse into the fascinating history and innovative engineering behind this hidden oasis.
Interesting fact: Baldasare Forestiere began excavating the underground gardens as a way to escape the scorching Central Valley heat and to fulfill his dream of creating an underground paradise.
In conclusion, the road trip from Covina to Fresno offers an exciting blend of natural wonders, historical sites, and family-friendly attractions. With a distance of approximately 240 miles, this journey can be completed in around four to five hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way. Whether exploring the ancient giants of Sequoia National Park, uncovering the secrets of underground gardens, or enjoying the retro charm of Playland Arcade, road trippers are sure to make unforgettable memories along this scenic route.