Sunnyside - Fresno, CA

Sunnyside's history dates back to 1868, when the San Joaquin Valley Land Association was established in the area, followed by the construction of 5 miles of the Southern Pacific Railroad. In 1872, a man named Moses J. Church developed a water irrigation system that allowed for optimal crop growth, which in turn caught the attention of railway magnate Leland Stanford. Stanford saw the area's potential, which led to the growth of the town of Fresno and the Fresno Railroad Station within six miles of the area. Sunnyside was officially established in 1890 and continues to thrive today.

While there are no museums within the immediate vicinity, The Fresno Art Museum features multiple exhibits of local and renowned artists' works and encourages submissions from local artists. The museum also hosts art classes for children and oversees a variety of cultural events such as the annual Chinese New Year Celebration.

Sunnyside residents don't have to venture far for tasty food and exciting night spots, as many popular establishments reside just a short trip away, between East Belmont Avenue and East Kings Canyon Road. With everything from casual Italian eateries to fast food establishments, Sunnyside has something for everyone.

When locals have a craving for Italian food served in a cozy dining room, they visit DiCicco's Sunnyside on East Kings Canyon Road. In business since 1956, DiCiccos features a full bar and a vast menu with classic favorites such as veal Parmesan, rigatoni with meat sauce and melt-in-your-mouth manicotti. Regular patrons also recommend the thin crust pizza, topped with delicious cheeses and a "heavenly" tomato sauce with just the right amount of salt.

For authentic Chinese fare, check out the Golden Dragon Restaurant on East Kings Canyon Road. Locals can't say enough about the restaurant's stellar customer service and bright, friendly dining room, as well as its signature menu items such as foil-wrapped, deep-fried chicken with sweet and sour sauce. For out-of-the-ordinary Chinese food, try the curry tomato shrimp, a delectable combination of stir-fried shrimp, tomatoes, peppers and curry sauce.

If you've got a taste for delicious Mexican breakfast, local foodies suggest Oaxaca Restaurant on East Belmont Avenue. This popular neighborhood restaurant features a welcoming dining room, fast service and an extensive menu. If you like your meals spicy, insiders recommend the huevos a la Mexicana, a savory blend of scrambled eggs, jalapenos, onions and tomatoes, served with rice and beans.

In the mood for an exciting evening of dancing and cocktails? Then pay a visit to the Red Lantern on East Belmont Avenue. With a full bar, karaoke Monday through Friday, live music and a lively dance floor, the Red Lantern makes for a stellar evening any night of the week. Or, for a casual evening of drinks and appetizers, head over to Ewell's Place on East McKinley Avenue. With drink specials every night of the week, friendly bartenders, darts and pool, regular patrons completely agree with Ewell's motto, "Ewell be back "

In addition to driving, many residents of the Sunnyside community enjoy riding bikes and walking, as the neighborhood streets provide solid terrain for bikers and the sidewalks are pedestrian-friendly. Local cyclists also appreciate having access to over 30 miles of bike lanes throughout the city of Fresno.

Commuters who ride the bus can board Fresno Area Express (FAX) buses at various stop locations within the local area. Travelers and commuters who drive into the city for work can access California State Road 180 at several different points. Taxis are rare in this residential neighborhood, but individuals in need of transportation can book rides through ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft, as well as A-1 Taxi Service of Fresno.

Residents and visitors can park on certain residential streets for free, as long as they park within the specific hourly limits posted on the neighborhood's parking enforcement signs. Residential parking districts located near schools and hospitals require drivers to obtain permits prior to parking. Drivers can also utilize standard paid meters when parking in busier areas such as downtown Fresno.

The Fresno Parks and Recreation Department provides Sunnyside residents with several parks throughout the community. Most parks are free to enter, but some dog parks charge $5.00 parking fees for vehicles. Individuals who wish to reserve space for large parties may also be subject to rental and deposit fees.

Families enjoy spending the day Sunnyside Park on East Butler Avenue, a spacious park that provides visitors with playground equipment, picnic tables, barbecue grills and playing fields. Outdoor sports enthusiasts often visit Pilibos Soccer Park on North Willow Creek Lane. While this park is part is part of a community association, it welcomes non-members to its football fields and soccer fields.

Trolley Creek Park on East Huntington features a 9-acre man-made lake and wildlife observation area, making it the perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. If you're looking for a great spot to spend some quality time with your dog, Basin AH1 Dog Park on West Alamos and Todd Beamer Dog Park on East Plymouth Way provide safe running and playing space. Park amenities include wading pools, drinking water and sectioned-off areas for smaller dogs.

Sunnyside residents enjoy attending a variety of annual community events hosted by the City of Fresno and the Fresno Parks and Recreation Department. The annual Santa's Village celebration takes place at the Ted C. Wills Community Center and features arts, crafts, cookie decorating and Santa photos. Another popular favorite for kids and adults alike is Fresno's annual Carnaval, a fall celebration featuring a petting zoo, carnival midway games, obstacle courses and a wildlife exhibit.

The cost of living in the Sunnyside community exceeds the Fresno average by approximately 19 percent, where the average rent is at $620 per month for one-bedroom apartments. Individuals who utilize public transportation pay $1.25 for standard bus rides and $0.60 for discounted bus rides into the Central Fresno. Sunnyside residents pay between $3.50 and $5.50 for a beer at local establishments, and gasoline costs approximately 19 percent more than the national average.

When it comes to groceries, apparel and specialty items, Sunnyside residents appreciate living just a short jaunt away from several popular establishments located on and around East Butler Avenue, East Jenson Avenue and West Shaw Avenue.

For groceries and household items such as cleaning supplies, shampoo and pet food, local shoppers recommend Vons and Walmart Supercenter on East Kings Canyon Road. For fresh veggies and fruits grown locally in California, stop by the Rue and Gwen Gibson Farm Market on North Chestnut Avenue.

To pick up some unique apparel and handbags, Passions boutique on Tulare Street has got you covered. Passions features stylish apparel for every occasion, as well as fragrances, candles and cosmetics. If you're planning a party or searching for the perfect gift, pay a visit to Clara's Balloon Boutique on East Tulare. Clara's features novelty items, collectibles, party favors and more.

While there are no high-end merchandise shops within the immediate vicinity, local shoppers suggest taking a trip to the Fig Garden Village Shopping Center on West Shaw Avenue. While this mall resides 11 miles northwest of the neighborhood, it's definitely worth the trip. For the perfect designer outfit, be sure to visit J.Jill, Couture New York, or Eddie Bauer. If you're in need of a housewarming gift or want to treat your own home to something special, Williams-Sonoma and Pottery Barn supply an array of specialty home goods.