Visalia Travel Guide

The oldest residential community between Stockton and Los Angeles, Visalia was settled in 1852. Today, as the city continues to grow, it prides itself on providing a small-town feel with all of the modern amenities and vibrancy that can be expected from a large California city.

Things to Do in Visalia

When it comes to recreation, Visalia isn’t lacking by any means. Visitors who stumble upon the city can enjoy a scenic nature hike on the sequoia-lined paths of Sequoia National Park, go on a bike ride through Balch Park, go fishing or kayaking on the crystal clear waters of Lake Success, trek through Crystal Cave, go snowshoeing during the winter months, and take a weekend-long camping trip at the Sequoia National Forest Campgrounds.

Visitors wanting to tap into their creative side can enroll in an art class at Arts Visalia Visual Art Center or admire the creative process behind the Trash Enclosure, while golf lovers can play round of golf at Valley Oaks, history buffs can take a walking tour of historic Visalia, and fans of the performing arts can catch a live play at Visalia Fox Theater.

Best Time to Visit Visalia

The best time to visit this vibrant city is June through August, as during this time the weather is generally stable and warm.

Food in Visalia

Visalia is home to an abundance of places to eat, including fast food chains, 5 star restaurants, and quaint cafes. The Jade Restaurant serves authentic Chinese food, Thai Basil Restaurant offers classic Thai food, and The Vintage Press Restaurant specializes in American fine dining. Perfect for the health conscious visitor, Farm Fresh Bowls is known for its sweet and savory meal bowls, made up of rice or couscous and a variety of toppings.

Best Events in Visalia

Visalia's residents and visitors are treated to a host of events each calendar year. The annual Downtown Christmas Parade and Visalia Christmas Tree Lighting are two of the city’s most popular Christmas events, offering festive cheer, tasty food, and a variety of fun holiday activities.

Things to Do for Families in Visalia

A day spent at the InteractiveU Children's Museum is a day well spent for families with children. The Museum features a variety off hands-on exhibits and hosts various special events for children such as Phunky Physics, Night at the Museum, Winter Camp, and Create a Vacuum Day.

Adventure Park is another family-friendly location, offering everything from go-karts and mini-golf, to classic arcade games. Families can spend the afternoon getting creative at Clay Cafe Visalia -- a family-friendly art center that offers guided craft and art projects for family members of all age -- or get up and active at Boingo’s, which offers a number of bounce houses and castles and obstacle courses.