West Fresno - Fresno, CA Area Guide

Following the California Gold Rush in 1856, the county of Fresno was established and named after the numerous ash trees that once lined the San Joaquin River. Upon the construction of the Central Pacific Railroad station in 1872, residents voted to make Fresno the county seat 2 years later. During the 19th century, numerous fires caused extensive damage to the town due to the wooden construction and lack of adequate fire-fighting techniques, destroying an entire block in 1882, while Temple Beth Israel was founded in 1904 as Fresno's first and oldest synagogue. Annual events, such as the Big Fresno Fair, provide fun activities for people of all ages. Watch the kids squeal with delight as they prepare to ride the carousel, or satisfy your thrill-seeking spirit as you flip upside down on the popular Footloose ride. Art lovers appreciate the Fresno Art Museum, showcasing works by Degas, Rockwell and others.

Finding places to dine out and enjoy exciting nightlife typically requires a quick trip to downtown Fresno. For fresh seafood and succulent steaks, visit Max's Bistro & Bar on West Bullard Avenue. The trendy atmosphere and casual vibe make this the perfect place to enjoy a romantic meal for two or dinner with family and friends. Start with some crab egg rolls and coconut prawns before ordering the petite filet mignon with brandy peppercorn sauce or pan-seared salmon with roasted butternut squash. Be sure to order the signature strawberry spinach side salad and a sweet heat martini for an unforgettable culinary experience. Change things up with some exotic spices and flavors at Diana's Classic Armenian Cuisine on West Shaw Avenue. The quiet setting and attentive service add to the quality food served here. Treat your taste buds to classic Persian, Iranian, Armenian and Mediterranean dishes, such as bulgar pilaf, koobideh with basmati rice or chicken fatoush. The house-made hummus makes a delectable side dish, while the cucumber yogurt provides the perfect end to your meal. When you want some old-fashioned American standards with a twist, head to Benaddiction on West Bullard Avenue. Specializing in breakfast and brunch, this hip spot remains committed to using only the freshest ingredients while creating your meal from scratch. Try the signature Tom Sawyer benedict served with classic hollandaise sauce or the more adventurous Blaze of Glory benedict. Graham cracker-crusted, deep-fried Hawaiian bread French toast and classic pancakes make this unique diner a must stop. For a great evening, make your way over to Fulton 55 on Divisadero Street. This music venue has plenty of seating, an open floor, and a spacious stage. Enjoy a cold blended ice cocktail or beer while you listen to some live tunes from one of your favorite local or national bands. There two full bars make it easy to grab a drink between songs or during breaks. This wonderful venue tends to be frequented by people of all ages depending on the show that night. For live music performed by local bands, head to Strummer's on East Fern Street. The dance floor's close location to the small stage allows you to connect with the musicians as you move to the music. This unique venue also has great drink specials and a vegan-only menu when you feel the urge to grab a snack between sets.

West Fresno's close proximity to the 41, 99 and 180 freeways makes getting around by car easy. Use your own vehicle, or hire a taxi or shuttle service through the convenient Uber app on your smartphone. If you prefer to take advantage of the Mediterranean-like climate, you can enjoy an outdoor commute on a number of bicycle-friendly roads and walking paths located throughout the area. The Fresno Area Express runs several routes during the day and night for a wallet-friendly fare, while plenty of public parking garages provide secure options when you need to travel downtown for a few hours or the entire day. The Promenade Lot on Tulare and Ventura Street charges a minimum of $1 and a maximum of $9 for the day.

Strap a leash on the dog and lather the kids in sunscreen as you make your way to the expansive, admission-free Oso de Oro Lake Park on North Forkner Avenue. With a stream that runs through the play area, the park allows the kids to dip their toes in the water after flying high on the playground swings. The paved path lets you go for a jog or brisk walk with the dog, while the pond has several families of ducks to admire. Join a game of pick-up basketball on one of the designated courts. If you want to get some free exercise before enjoying a picnic with family and friends, go to Figarden Loop Park on West Figarden Drive. Two playgrounds, covered pavilions and a fitness course means something for everyone to enjoy. The summer water feature gives the kids a chance to cool off before engaging in some friendly competition during a game of baseball or softball at this charming, dog-friendly park.

The cost of living in West Fresno can be classified as low, still averaging 9 percent more than the greater Fresno area. A standard one-bedroom apartment goes for $630, while a pint of beer at the local pub sets you back about $4. The price of gas hovers around 6 percent higher than the national average, and a one-way ride on the FAX bus costs $1.25.

Residents of West Fresno typically travel to nearby downtown Fresno for a day of mall or boutique shopping. Browse the latest in casual-chic jeans and fashionable sweaters at J.Crew while visiting Fig Garden Village on North Palm Avenue. Other stores located in this shopping village include Eddie Bauer, Chico's, Banana Republic, Talbots, and Pottery Barn. One of the most interesting and unique stores in the area, the Holiday Boutique, is staffed by expert volunteers from the local Holiday Guild who help you hand-pick gift ideas from around the world. The Holiday Boutique stocks gifts for all occasions from anniversaries, bar/bat mitzvahs and baby showers to birthdays, graduations and weddings. Rosenbalm Rockery provides stone, landscaping and masonry supplies, with an outdoor testing ground that enables customers to examine the products in the sort of setting they are designed for. The store also carries concrete sand, their own blend of potting soil mix and playground bark, as well as retaining wall blocks. These versatile blocks can be used to build fireplaces, garden walls, patio enclosures and more. Locals take care of weekly grocery shopping at Whole Foods Market, where the numerous organic selections make it easy to get all of the shopping done in one trip. For the finest in locally produced fruits, vegetables, meats and dairy items, as well as beautifully fragrant, fresh-cut flowers, visit River Park Farmers Market on El Camino. Bring the family to enjoy a number of activities as you get to know each vendor. Open year-round, you can stock up on seasonal items any time. Make sure to grab a tasty bite from one of the many food trucks on site.