PLAN TO SEE SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS ALONG WITH THESE GREAT FALL VISALIA EVENTS
Fall is an ideal time to travel to Visalia and the nearby Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. The surge of summer travelers in the national parks, attractions and even hotels will have eased, with children returning to school and parents going back to their regular work schedules. Best of all, the weather is perfect for hiking and exploring. We have put together three itineraries to help you make plans to see Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks and these top Fall events to round out a long weekend getaway.
In September and October, Visalia is host to authentic festivals and events, each giving a “taste” of the San Joaquin Valley’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. There’s no better way to experience local food, art, contemporary music and just plain rollicking good times than in the heart of Visalia at these fun events.
Of course, a visit to Visalia in the Fall must include a trip to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, when the leaves begin to turn golden yellows and reds, and there is a cool nip in the air. Another reason to visit the parks, is to take advantage of the fee free entry days.
The national park service offers several entry days throughout the year where visitors can enter the parks for free. (Normally, the entrance fee is $35 per carload and is good for 7 days. Still a great travel bargain.) In late summer and into Fall the parks are free to visitors on these 2021 dates: August 4, August 25, September 25, November 11.
The best things to see in Sequoia National Park in the Fall include the General Sherman Tree, the largest of the giant sequoias, the top of Moro Rock which offers sweeping views of the Great Western Divide and a hike around Crescent Meadow, to see the color changing on the leaves.
Pick one of these Fall trip ideas that combine a visit to the nearby national parks with exploring Visalia’s unique events, vibrant downtown and thriving food – and craft beer – scene.
Follow this itinerary that we call "Beers, Boots and Brunch" to combine "Oktoberfest," one of Visalia's largest events, with a Fall trip to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. Arrive on Friday by mid-day to check into your hotel. Then enjoy a hearty lunch at one of the many restaurants along Main Street in Downtown Visalia. Our Visalia Restaurant Guide has lots of suggestions for whatever you feel hungry for.
BEERS
Friday Night is the Main Event, the Visalia Chamber's Oktoberfest at Vossler Farms where beer tastings, food vendors, entertainment and shenanigans are plentiful. It is one of the largest and most popular Oktoberfests in the region so be sure to get your tickets early. It does sell out. If you want to explore Visalia's craft beer scene a little more, head to the Brewery District to see what's on tap.
BOOTS
Grab your boots and head to Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks for a day of hiking and exploring from the giant sequoias to the top of Moro Rock. Entry is FREE all day on September 25, 2021. Stop along the way to watch the Rocky Hill Triathlon, a USA Triathlon sanctioned event, as athletes vie for the top spot in swimming, running and cycling.
After your day in the park, head back to Visalia and check out the food scene in Downtown. From the brewery district to fine dining, there is so much for your taste buds to explore.
BRUNCH
Sunday morning enjoy a leisurely and elegant brunch at the Vintage Press Restaurant or The Elderwood Restaurant and Lounge, rooftop at the Darling Hotel. Both are perfect place for dining al fresco in the Fall.
Spend the afternoon exploring the arts and culture here. Visit Mooney Grove Park and Museum for a look at the early days of Visalia or go on a self-guided historic walking tour of downtown. Maps are available for free in at Visit Visalia (we are closed on Sundays) or view on our website.
Stretch the weekend out just a little longer and stay from October 15-20 to enjoy some of Visalia’s signature “Taste” events. We have made it easy to plan this Fall getaway. Here’s what to do, see and taste.
Since this is the weekend to "taste" Visalia, head to downtown and explore our thriving food scene, Brewery District and entertainment venues.
Saturday is Visalia’s signature arts event, the annual Taste the Arts Festival in downtown Visalia. This day-long event highlights the diverse regional arts scene with artist demonstrations, hands-on activities, entertainment, food and more with activities located along several blocks along Garden Street.
Sunday, grab your pumpkin spiced latte and head to Vossler Farms for pumpkin patch and corn maze fun. The unique design of the maze is always highly anticipated!
Monday is a perfect day to see Sequoia National Park which you will have almost all to yourself. Stroll through the groves of giant sequoias and be awestruck at their size. Take in the view from Hanging Rock and take a hike to Tharp Log in Crescent Meadow, a rustic home built from a fallen tree.
Finally, on Tuesday night join in on the fun at the local favorite event, The Taste of Downtown. Restaurants create their best bites to share with participants who stroll along Main Street sampling food and drink throughout Visalia’s vibrant downtown.
Plan for a weekend celebrating diversity, inclusion and acceptance at PRIDE Visalia, starting with the region’s only Pride Festival – PRIDE Visalia on October 23. The event is organized by The Source LGBTQ+, which offers education and support, and will be held at the Valley Strong Stadium. All are welcome to attend.
The Source LGBT+ Center is proud to be a hub of resources, education, and support for our LGBT+ population and the entire community. This day-long event will have food trucks and vendors, exhibits, entertainment, a Kid's Zone, education and outreach.
