Forestiere Underground Gardens Fresno
Explore a hidden world carved by hand! Discover Fresno's unique underground gardens, a testament to immigrant vision and resilience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Forestiere Underground Gardens Fresno
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a hidden world carved by hand! Discover Fresno's unique underground gardens, a testament to immigrant vision and resilience.
"This was an unexpected highlight of our trip to CA."
🎯 Guided Tours Only
Self-guided tours aren't an option here; the magic is in the guided narrative.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces and through tunnels, so comfy footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Subterranean Oasis
Throughout the gardens
Explore a network of hand-carved rooms, courtyards, and tunnels, a cool refuge from the California sun.
Baldassare Forestiere's Story
During the guided tour
Hear the inspiring tale of an Italian immigrant's vision and resilience in creating this unique underground marvel.
The Citrus Grove
Underground
Discover citrus trees and other plants thriving in this unexpected, naturally cooled environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Embrace the Underground Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Guided Tours Only
Self-guided tours aren't an option here; the magic is in the guided narrative.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces and through tunnels, so comfy footwear is a must.
🚗 Ride-Share Drop-off Tip
Construction can affect access; ask to be dropped on a side street for easier entry.
📸 Respect Photo Rules
While photos are allowed, some areas might have restrictions. Be mindful of your surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Guided Tours Only
Self-guided tours aren't an option here; the magic is in the guided narrative.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be walking on uneven surfaces and through tunnels, so comfy footwear is a must.
🚗 Ride-Share Drop-off Tip
Construction can affect access; ask to be dropped on a side street for easier entry.
📸 Respect Photo Rules
While photos are allowed, some areas might have restrictions. Be mindful of your surroundings.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Even underground, the Central Valley can be warm. Bring water, especially in warmer months.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Forestiere Underground Gardens as an unexpected and inspiring highlight of their trip to Fresno. The incredible story of Baldassare Forestiere's resilience and ingenuity in creating this unique subterranean oasis is a major draw. While some note it's not an 'amazing' experience, most find it well worth the visit for its historical significance and unique charm.
"Amazing! We were looking for something to do as we transition from Sequoia National Park to Yosemite and this was perfect. It’s an amazing place, with a great story of resilience. You’ll love it! Stopped at Max’s Bistro and Bar for lunch after to have an incredible Italian meal to celebrate Baldasare Forestiere heritage and creation! This was an unexpected highlight of our trip to CA."
Martha Laning
"What a great experience! We love touring gardens and totally get into the history. This is a must see if you’re ever in Fresno. They do take reservations, we lucked out and they had room for us! Our guide Lashika was absolutely amazing- if you can, request her!"
Cindy Nelson
"I am so happy I went on this tour on a quick layover! An amazing story and history, and any photos don't do it justice with how cool and absolutely beautiful this space is. Loved Kai as our tour guide, all of the staff were great, very cute gift shop.
If you are going to ride share here, be aware that there is construction out front and you are better off getting dropped off on the side street so you don't have to do a u turn like us!"
Kayla Landaeta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Forestiere Underground Gardens are located at 5021 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93722. If using ride-sharing services, be aware of potential construction and ask to be dropped off on a side street for easier access.
Yes, there is parking available on-site for visitors. However, during busy periods, it can fill up quickly.
While public transportation options to the immediate vicinity might be limited, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a viable option for reaching the gardens.
If you're coming from out of town, using GPS is recommended. Be mindful of potential road construction in the area that might affect your route.
Due to the nature of the underground tunnels and uneven surfaces, accessibility can be challenging. It's best to contact the gardens directly to discuss specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your guided tour tickets in advance, as tours can sell out, especially during peak times.
The gardens are typically open for tours Thursday through Monday, from 9 AM to 3 PM. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours.
Ticket prices vary, but generally, there's an admission fee for the guided tours. Check the official website for current pricing information.
Discounts may be available for seniors, children, or groups. Inquire directly with the gardens or check their website for any special offers.
Refund policies can vary. It's advisable to review the cancellation policy at the time of booking or contact the gardens directly for information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Forestiere Underground Gardens are exclusively experienced through guided tours. This allows visitors to learn about the history and unique features from knowledgeable guides.
The guided tours typically last about 45 minutes to an hour, providing a comprehensive overview of the gardens and their history.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be navigating uneven terrain and tunnels. Lightweight clothing is also recommended due to the underground temperatures.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always a good idea to be respectful of other visitors and any specific guidelines provided by your tour guide. Some areas might have restrictions.
Yes, there is a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and mementos of your visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no dining facilities within the gardens themselves, there is a gift shop that may offer small snacks or drinks. Visitors often plan meals before or after their visit.
Many visitors enjoy dining at Italian restaurants in Fresno to celebrate Baldassare Forestiere's heritage. Max's Bistro and Bar is a popular choice mentioned by visitors.
It's generally best to check the specific policy of the gardens regarding outside food and beverages. To preserve the underground environment, it's often discouraged.
There are no designated picnic areas within the underground gardens. Visitors typically enjoy picnics in nearby parks or at their accommodation.
Given Baldassare Forestiere's Italian heritage, many visitors opt for Italian cuisine to complement their experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique architecture of the carved rooms, courtyards with lush greenery, and the interplay of light and shadow offer numerous photogenic opportunities throughout the gardens.
Yes, photography is generally permitted, but always be mindful of your surroundings and any specific instructions from your tour guide.
A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the enclosed spaces. Good low-light performance is also beneficial due to the underground setting.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at historical sites and attractions to ensure the safety and preservation of the area. Always check for specific regulations.
Focus on the textures of the carved earth, the natural light filtering in, and the contrast between the enclosed spaces and any open courtyards.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Wear comfortable shoes as there's a good amount of walking involved. The naturally cooler temperatures underground can also be a welcome relief on a hot day. While there aren't specific play areas, the entire garden is an exploration zone, sparking curiosity about how Baldassare Forestiere created this hidden world.
🏛️ History Buffs
+2The gardens serve as a tangible link to early 20th-century immigrant life in California and showcase an incredible feat of manual labor and architectural foresight. Learning about his process, his motivations, and the sheer dedication involved makes this more than just a garden tour; it's a journey into a remarkable personal history.
🌿 Garden Enthusiasts
The gardens offer a different perspective on horticulture, showcasing how life can thrive even in unexpected conditions. The natural cooling effect of the underground chambers creates a microclimate that supports a variety of plant life, making it a distinctive horticultural experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Visionary Behind the Gardens
+2Instead of abandoning his land, Forestiere ingeniously decided to work with the earth. He began excavating a subterranean home and garden complex, using only hand tools and his own vision. Over 40 years, he meticulously carved out a network of tunnels, courtyards, and living spaces, creating a unique refuge from the intense Central Valley heat.
+1 His work is a testament to perseverance, ingenuity, and a deep connection to the land. Forestiere's underground creation wasn't just a personal sanctuary; it was designed with the intention of sharing it with others. Today, the gardens stand as a historical landmark and a living museum, preserving his legacy and inspiring visitors with his incredible story of resilience and creativity.
+1Experiencing the Underground Oasis
The gardens themselves are a cool, tranquil escape. You'll wander through a series of interconnected rooms, courtyards, and tunnels, many featuring unique architectural elements carved directly from the earth. Some areas are open to the sky, allowing natural light to illuminate the lush greenery, while others are more enclosed, creating an intimate grotto-like atmosphere.
Expect to see citrus trees, grapevines, and various plants thriving in this naturally climate-controlled environment. The underground setting provides a consistent temperature, making it a comfortable visit year-round, especially during Fresno's hot summers.
The experience is both educational and awe-inspiring, offering a glimpse into a truly unique piece of California history. Photography Tips for the Gardens
Pay attention to the textures of the carved earth and the way light filters into the courtyards. The contrast between the dark, earthy tunnels and the brighter, open-air sections can make for striking images. Look for interesting architectural details and the way plants have adapted to this unusual environment.
While photography is generally allowed, always be mindful of your surroundings and the tour group. Avoid using flash in areas where it might be disruptive or prohibited. The best shots often come from patiently observing the light and finding unique perspectives within the carved spaces.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit