Located at the heart of San Joaquin Valley, Clovis is a bustling city in Fresno County, California.
It also lies less than ten miles northeast of downtown Fresno City.
Like many Californian cities, Clovis’ first permanent residents were prospectors during the Gold Rush in the mid-1800s.
Nevertheless, in the 1870s, Clovis M. Cole discovered that the fertile valley lands were perfect for dry grain farming.
The construction of a railroad in the area led to the official establishment of Clovis in 1891, named after Cole.
Incorporated in 1912, many of the city’s century-old structures still exist.
While the population has increased since the 1990s, the city retains its small-town vibe.
Today, Clovis is a highly livable city with numerous parks, attractions, and activities all year round.
Here are the best things to do in Clovis, California:
Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Clovis Botanical Garden is a tiny paradise near the city’s heart spanning three acres.
Run and operated by volunteers, the garden opened its doors to the public in 2004 after a decade of planning and preparation.
The garden contains various species of cacti, shrubs, and trees that thrive in the area.
Moreover, the garden is divided into different themes.
Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Mediterranean, Cactus, Home Demonstration, and Sensory themes each feature unique landscapes and plants that fit their respective environments and settings.
Furthermore, it features a Children’s Garden where kids can learn about plants and the ecosystem.
There’s also a pavilion that guests can use for events and gatherings.
Clovis Botanical Garden is one of the city’s most beautiful and relaxing places.
One of Fresno County’s most significant events, Clovis Rodeo, is an annual celebration at the city’s heart every April.
Guests and visitors are treated with fun and exhilarating bull-riding and roping action courtesy of brave and skilled cowboys.
Many rodeo-related activities also happen throughout the month, leading to the main event.
Other excellent attractions during the event include the Gem and Mineral Show, reminiscent of California’s colorful Gold Rush era.
A night concert featuring country music complements the event’s theme perfectly.
As one of the most sought-after events in the city, Clovis Rodeo is a must-experience for everybody.
Featuring lovely views and pleasing surroundings, Cottonwood Park is a nice little patch of green space nestled within Clovis’ bustling urban environment.
One of its standout features is the picturesque views of the nearby lake.
Moreover, you can use the park’s viewing telescope to zoom in on the local wildlife, particularly the geese and other birds resting along the water.
The park is famous for biking and walking thanks to its clean environment.
Likewise, the park is a favorite spot for picnicking and other community activities with its wide open spaces.
Cottonwood Park may only contain basic amenities, but its beauty and simplicity are enough to provide everyone with a relaxing time.
Located along W. Rialto Ave, Clovis Flat Track Museum is a haven for motorcycle enthusiasts.
It features more than a dozen of vintage motorbikes that have conquered the dirt tracks of the past.
Well-preserved and in mint condition, each bike shares a unique history.
Local legends have ridden some of these bikes, which have won many races.
The museum also contains trophies, posters, photos, and other racing memorabilia.
Moreover, it also hosts open house events and shows featuring regional stars and unique and custom-made machines.
Motorbikes hold a special place in modern American culture.
Thanks to the Clovis Flat Track Museum, everyone can take a glimpse of the colorful and exciting history of the sport.
Clovis Agility & Performance Academy is a batting cage center along Minnewawa Avenue.
The state-of-the-art facility is open to everyone of all ages.
The academy promises hours of batting fun for everybody, featuring four softball/baseball tunnels and machine rentals.
For added realism, the academy features a climate-controlled environment and turfed flooring.
It also gives 30-minute private lessons for those who want to improve their softball and baseball batting.
The academy is also open for birthday parties, making it the perfect spot for sports-themed celebrations.
Clovis Agility & Performance Academy takes the home run for family recreation and enjoyment with its modern facility and features.
MachineHead Brewing Co. is a family-owned artisanal brewery located at W. Palo Alto Avenue.
The brewery offers an excellent selection of flavorful beers.
It also specializes in barrel-aged wild ales and sours.
The brewery features spacious areas for both indoor and outdoor seating.
Staying true to its name, the brewery’s massive steel vats and warehouse-like design evoke an industrial vibe.
Moreover, you can also take a tour of the brewery, where you learn the history and process of making their delicious beer.
MachineHead Brewing Co.’s excellent beer menu and relaxed atmosphere make it one of the best places to hang out in Clovis.
Enzo’s Table has become Clovis’s top destination for organic products, which started as a humble roadside stand along N. Willow Avenue.
The shop features various high-quality and handcrafted products sourced straight from the farm.
It is mainly known for its purely organic olive oil and vinegar.
It also sells nuts, freshly-made jams, biscotti, and chocolates.
Over the years, Enzo’s Table has raked in more than 200 awards.
The shop is also a popular food hub in the city, thanks to several food trucks parked outside.
Enzo’s Table is a one-stop shop for an unforgettable gourmet experience with its own high-quality organic products and great food conveniently located nearby.
DEFY Clovis is an all-in-one family center along N. Halifax Avenue.
You can enjoy their open jump trampolines to your heart’s content.
If you seek more action, you can take on their exhilarating zip line, ninja course, trapeze, and aerial silks.
Try their gravity-defying wall tramp, parkour ramps, and state-of-the-art air track.
Its basketball, battle beams, and extreme dodgeball have an extra fun spin to keep guests engaged.
Moreover, the center also contains a special section where little children can safely play.
The center is also open to hosting birthday parties and group events.
With all these features and more, DEFY Clovis should give everyone tons of fun for hours.
RichardHarrison, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Located along Pollasky Avenue, Clovis – Big Dry Creek Museum tells the history of Clovis through its wide array of exciting items.
It contains farming tools, home furniture dating back to the 19th century, and Native American pottery and artifacts.
There are also several home décor and Americana pieces from different periods.
Moreover, the museum contains well-preserved personal items such as clothes, combs, and shoes.
It also features an extensive collection of old photographs, the most notable portraits of the residents, and alums’ pictures of the local high school.
You can also find in the museum the various memorabilia from World War I and II, like military uniforms, helmets, and firearms.
The Clovis – Big Dry Museum may be tiny, but thanks to its collection, it’s easy for everyone to spend considerable time learning about the city’s history.
One of the most popular parks in Clovis, Sierra Bicentennial Park, is located right at the heart of the city.
The park features illuminated softball/baseball fields and cricket grounds as a favorite sports area.
It also contains soccer fields, basketball courts, open play areas, and playgrounds.
Moreover, it also has coin-operated batting cages and snack bars where you can grab a quick bite to keep you energized.
You can also let your furry friends frolic within its built-in dog park.
The park is also great for family gatherings, picnic shelters, and barbecue pits.
Sierra Bicentennial Park is your all-in-one place to relax and play.
The 3 Oaks Vineyard & Winery is a tiny oasis in the city’s northern part.
Established in the late 2000s, the winery offers a wide selection of handcrafted wines.
The winery hosts wine-tasting activities that the owners themselves personally facilitate.
Their red wine options include cabernet sauvignon, petit syrah, and zinfandel.
They also make white wines such as chardonnay and sauvignon blanc.
However, the best part of the experience is enjoying your glass of wine while appreciating the views of lush vineyards.
On top of their delicious wines, 3 Oaks Vineyard & Winery’s overall rural atmosphere and friendly vibe offer a relaxing breather from the urban environment.
Spanning three acres, Dry Creek Trailhead is a small park located at E. Shepherd Avenue.
The park is most known as the end point of the 2.5-mile trail that runs down to the heart of Clovis.
Offering picturesque views of the city, the short trail also features nicely-paved pathways perfect for biking and walking.
On the other hand, the neatly-landscaped park offers valuable amenities such as a water supply for pets and bike pumps and tools.
The park also features several artworks, most prominently “Running Time,” a full-sized mechanical horse with a clock on its body.
Another item proudly exhibited in the park is the “Fresno scraper” farming tool, reminiscent of the city’s agricultural past.
The park also contains picnic shelters which are great for family gatherings and activities.
Whether you want to take on a journey on the trail or spend a relaxing day with the family, Dry Creek Trailhead is the ideal spot for you.
Located along Railroad Avenue, Skyline Club Bar & Grill is a famous watering hole in Clovis.
The bar features a wide selection of drinks, such as beers and cocktails.
These are also best paired with the delicious food on the menu, including salads, sandwiches, and burgers.
Moreover, the bar also has a pool table where you and your peers can play.
You can enjoy these while a live band plays in the background.
However, the bar’s most notable feature is its party paint events, where patrons can join painting lessons inside the establishment.
Skyline Club Bar & Grill is the perfect place to hang out and mingle with the locals with its excellent drinks, fantastic food, and friendly community vibe.
No Surrender Laser Tag & Adventure Park is a famous family recreation center located at Clovis’ Sierra Vista Mall.
The amusement center offers numerous fun and interactive features which promises hours of enjoyment for everyone.
As its name suggests, one of its main primary attractions is its laser tag facility, where you can play with friends and family.
Other features of the park include the Adventure Course and Rope Course, both geared primarily toward children and teens.
For an immersive and interactive experience, you can also try their Omniverse VR arena.
However, you can also go old-school with their traditional arcade game machines.
Moreover, the center also contains fun slides and ball pits where little kids can play and enjoy.
After a tiring couple of rounds of laser tag matches, you can also grab a quick bite at the restaurant conveniently located inside the center.
You can never go wrong with No Surrender Laser Tag & Adventure Park as an all-in-one place for family fun.
One of the highest-rated restaurants in Fresno County is The Craft House, located along Pollasky Avenue, right at the heart of Clovis.
This American restaurant is mainly known for its mouthwatering burgers, sliders, and sandwiches.
Its impressive menu also includes fresh salads and flavorful tacos.
Moreover, they also offer kids’ menus and vegan options.
You can indulge in desserts such as cakes and pastries to satisfy your sweet cravings.
You can also pair their sumptuous food with their vast array of drinks, ranging from beers from local breweries to red and white wines.
Its fantastic food and simple rustic ambiance make the Craft House a must-dine restaurant in the city.
Clovis offers the best of both worlds, a bustling urban community with a familiar Western and rural vibe.
With various local attractions, fun activities, and exciting events, you’ll never run out of things to do and enjoy in the city.
The city has friendly, clean parks and entertaining amusement centers, top-rated restaurants, and local establishments.
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