Have a good quality time with family or friends when you travel to the dynamic city of Tulare in the heart of San Joaquin Valley.
Part of Tulare County, California, the city was founded in 1872 and incorporated in 1888.
Known for its agriculture-based economy as its lifeblood, it’s not surprising that the city is teeming with a plethora of attractions related to agriculture that people of all ages can enjoy.
It is home to the Tulare County Fair, Tulare Historical Museum, and the internationally known World Ag Expo, to name a few.
Whether you want to view exhibits, immerse in nature, participate in events, go shopping, or get a fill of delectable fare after watching your flick, there’s something for you here.
Here are the best things to do in Tulare, California:
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Downtown Tulare is packed with hundreds of businesses, providing its residents and visitors with everything they need.
The Tulare Downtown Association and Foundation work to maintain and improve the downtown area of Tulare, thereby making it an attraction and destination.
Whether you’re in the city as a traveler or just happen to stop by, you’ll find something inviting downtown.
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There’s something worth indulging in here, including the bustling sidewalks, gastronomic restaurants, retail shops, department stores, exciting events, excellent services, a friendly community, and more.
Enjoy exploring the streets and gems in Downtown Tulare!
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Learn about the city’s rich local history at the Tulare Historical Museum along West Tulare Avenue.
The Tulare City Historical Society owns and runs the museum, which opened in 1985.
It houses fascinating exhibits and collections, drawing the interests of residents and visitors, including history buffs and art lovers.
Some fun things to do here are learning about the Yokuts Indians, the area’s first inhabitants, meeting Tulare’s heroes, and checking out examples of fully furnished rooms from the city’s pioneer families.
You’ll also come across the Manuel Toledo Military Collection, which features hundreds of military memorabilia that this decorated World War II hero collected, and the Tom Hennion Archives Room.
Besides its main displays, view the exclusive artworks by various local artists through its temporary art, cultural, and holiday exhibits in the Heritage Art Gallery and Depot Gallery.
The Tulare Historical Museum offers guided tours and hosts various events throughout the year, and its rentable art gallery is an ideal venue for birthdays, parties, and other special occasions.
Before departing the museum, stop by its gift shop to purchase souvenirs like T-shirts, books, and mugs.
Galaxy Theatres Tulare, situated along Retherford Street, is one of the city’s most visited attractions.
It’s a top-notch movie theater not just in Tulare but also in the Central Valley, attracting many moviegoers.
It gives you a superb theater experience with its latest in motion picture technology, such as DFX with 4K laser projection and Dolby Digital surround sound system.
While watching great movies in their comfortable luxury reclining seats, match it with popcorn or delicious food and beverage options.
Bring the family, invite friends, or spend a romantic date night with your special someone at Galaxy Theatres Tulare.
Whatever your skill level, you’ll enjoy playing golf at Tulare Golf Course, located on South Laspina Street.
It is an 18-hole, par 72 golf course that sits on 6,762 yards featuring scenic Bent Grass Poa greens, Bermuda fairways outlined with Chinese Pistachio and Eucalyptus trees, water features, and tees.
It also features a driving range where you can practice your golf swing before taking up the challenge.
Before or after your golf session, head to its American diner, the 9 Iron Bar & Grill, to get a hearty meal while gazing over the picturesque views of the golf course and the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
While you might be interested in golf lessons at Tulare Golf Course, you can also visit its pro shop to find everything you might need for a round of golf.
If you’re a shopaholic or just want to find good deals, head to Tulare Outlets, the city’s premier shopping destination for locals and travelers from around the world.
This outlet center is more than 226,000 square feet, featuring charming Mediterranean-style architecture, and is perfect for a shopping spree or window shopping if you’re on a tight budget.
It sports a marvelous array of stores, from world-famous brands and anchor stores to specialty shops and casual eateries, making it an ideal place to spend a day.
Some popular brands you’ll find here include Banana Republic Factory Store, Calvin Klein, Forever 21, Tommy Hilfiger, and Bath & Body Works.
This Central Valley savings destination offers exclusive discounts and holds numerous events throughout the year.
Whether it’s shopping, dining, or entertainment, there’s something that you’ll enjoy at Tulare Outlets, located on Retherford Street.
Del Lago Community Park is a perfect spot to visit for a picnic on the weekend with the family, as it has many reservable picnic areas with BBQ grills.
The park features a water play area with splash pads that kids can use to beat the heat on sunny days.
If you want to break up some sweat, you can jog on the trails or play basketball or tennis with friends.
Besides the standing trees and green spaces, you’ll also find a small lake and animals, such as ducks, geese, and turtles.
Moreover, Tulare Parks and Recreation make this lovely park a venue for presenting events like “Movies in the Park,” wherein you can bring your kids, chairs, and blankets to watch great movies.
If breathing the atmosphere at a local park delights you, visit Del Lago Community Park on North Laspina Street.
DT-1 MX Park, also known as Tulare Cycle Park, is an ideal getaway for riders of all kinds and those who’re fond of watching races.
Nestled on Paige Avenue in western Tulare, this massive motocross park features several tracks, such as vet, main, and kids track, with elevation changes and tricks.
The park has spectator bleachers for those who want to view this heart-pumping outdoor activity.
Other amenities are picnic areas, ample parking, refreshments, and restrooms.
Moreover, DT-1 MX Park also conducts occasional race events, which you can watch with your family and friends.
Bringing the kids, especially boys, would be a great idea, as they show much amazement when seeing a sport like this one.
Situated along East Walnut Avenue, Kaweah Brewing Co. has become a destination for beer lovers.
This family-friendly establishment is a fantastic place to hang out with your pals, as it offers a menu of great food and local craft beers for your enjoyment.
You’ll find a selection of mouthwatering items on their food menu, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes.
Don’t forget to taste their beers, which are their primary focus, including Brown Ale, Chocolate Cow Milk Stout, and Holy Toledo IPA.
Your stay is even more enjoyable with some live music, so stop by Kaweah Brewing Co. after a long day and indulge in what this brewery offers.
If you prefer a park with waterfront views, head to Elk Bayou Regional Park adjacent to Elk Bayou, a waterway in Tulare County.
The community park contains picnic shelters, BBQ pits, restrooms, and tables, making it an ideal picnic spot.
Playing is also great here because it has a ball field, horseshoe pits, and a kids’ play area.
It is an oasis for those who want to embrace nature because it has plenty of trees and a peaceful atmosphere.
Elk Bayou Regional Park is located on Hosfield Drive.
Tulare is home to the annual Tulare County Fair, where the community comes together to attend and enjoy exciting activities.
The five-day extravaganza started in 1915, highlighting the rich agriculture of Tulare County in the state of California.
This event features a parade, carnival rides, demolition derby, monster trucks, tractor pulls, circus acts, dog shows, 4-H exhibits, livestock shows, contests, kids’ activities, food, and other family-oriented entertainment and activities.
Many vendors offer fresh local produce, clothing, handmade crafts, and other interesting items you might want to buy.
Whether you’re a child or an adult, there’s something to explore at the Tulare County Fair, from live music to games.
It has been a time-honored tradition for more than 100 years, so why not give it a chance to enjoy with family and friends?
The Tulare County Fair is held each September at Tulare County Fairgrounds on South K Street.
On East Tulare Avenue in Downtown Tulare sits an attractive community park named Zumwalt Park, previously Pavilion Park.
It features lit walking paths and a gazebo for a plethora of public events, such as Cars in the Park, Kids Day, Spring Carnival, and Cinco de Mayo festivities.
There are plenty of things to enjoy during the events, including game booths, face painting, bounce houses, egg hunts, pony rides, make-and-take crafts, an E & M Reptile show, food vendors, music, and more!
Stay in the know about Zumwalt Park’s events and take your kids to let them have fun with others in these kids’ events.
You may also reserve this park if you want it to be the spot for your special event.
Head over to Bravo Farms, one of the city’s leading restaurants, if you’re on the lookout for an excellent dining spot.
You’ll enjoy its splendid California cuisine offerings, whether it’s custom-made sandwiches, salads, wraps, pizza, or soups you’re craving.
While dining in its relaxing atmosphere, view the beautiful paintings by talented local artists displayed on the walls.
Then, grab a beer or a glass of wine to complete your hearty California meal.
Bravo Farms hosts Wine Wednesday, where you can enjoy half-priced wine, and has live music on the weekends for your entertainment.
The restaurant also has a gift shop where you’ll find impressive handcrafted sweet treats and souvenirs.
Situated along South Laspina Street close to Tulare Golf Course, the International Agri-Center was formed in 1976 to promote the agriculture industry within California.
Visit it with your friends and family, including your kids, as it features many things that all of you will enjoy.
It is known for California Antique Farm Equipment Show, an annual event held in April featuring hundreds of exhibitors, an antique equipment parade, antique tractor pulls, a swap meet, children’s activities, and more.
It is also the home of AgVentures Learning Center & Museum, where one can learn about agriculture and agriculture history through its interactive, hands-on exhibits, displays, and activities.
The center boasts the Livestock & Equestrian Complex here, a large indoor arena of up to 57,000 square feet, with many amenities available for rent for many events, such as equestrian shows, livestock shows, and ridings.
Likewise, you’ll also find the World Ag Expo here, the world’s largest yearly agricultural exposition, which happens in February, with more than 1,400 exhibitors and an attendance of more than 100,000 per year.
If you’re the type who likes the smell of books and prefer a peaceful setting, the Tulare Public Library is the best place for you.
The library has moved from different locations since 1882 until it opened its current location on North M Street in July 2010.
When you visit the public library, make the most of your time with its numerous books, ebooks, audiobooks, computers, services, and other accessible materials, from print to digital.
The Tulare Public Library has programs and events throughout the year, including Preschool Story Time, Summer Reading Program, A Night at the Library, Tulare Garden Festival, and Book Sale.
Some of these events feature face painting, kids’ crafts, carnival games, interactive exhibits, specialty foods and cocktails, and more.
That said, there’s something fun for everyone at this dynamic library.
Set in an isolated area southeast of Tulare, Rankin Field Weapons Range is the perfect place for some target practice or if you want to try something new.
It is one of Central California’s supreme shooting destinations, featuring a 100-yard rifle range, multiple pistol ranges, challenging competitions, and special events.
Keep your pulses ready and aim for the target as you unleash your shooting skills.
These are extremely gratifying activities that even the novice will enjoy and remember.
Rankin Field Weapons Range also offers training classes to first-timers and those who want to learn more about this kind of sport.
The range can also assist you in earning your Carry Concealed Weapon Permit.
Historically, Rankin Field was a former military airfield during World War II, and after the wars ended, the government ordered it closed.
The site is now operating as Rankin Field Weapons Range by the Tulare County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, which acquired it in 1997.
Tulare has a lot to offer, from relaxing at verdant parks to exploring interesting spots.
Its urban life is brimming with all sorts of exciting things to do, be it learning history, watching performances, splurging on food, or going on a shopping spree.
Plan your trip and enjoy the best things to do in Tulare, California!
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