GUIDE TO FARM FRESH FARE IN AND AROUND VISALIA
Here's a quick list of all the festivals, farmers markets and family fun in and around Visalia that showcase our rich bounty. Find out what to do, see, and taste if you are a foodie at heart!
IN VISALIA, FARM TO FORK IS NOT JUST A TREND, IT'S A WAY OF LIFE
Are you looking for places to pick up the ripest, freshest fruits and vegetables while supporting local farmers? Here are some suggestions in and around Visalia.
Farmers Markets
Visalia Farmers Market, located in the heart of California’s Central Valley, celebrates our region’s rich agricultural history. They support our local food system by providing the public with a wide selection of locally grown produce and handmade products seasonally available year-round!
- Court House Parking Lot at Mooney Blvd and Main Street (North parking lot)
- Year-round on Saturdays from 8:00-11:30 am
- Downtown Visalia (Church Street at Main Street)
- March to December on Thursdays nights from 5:00 - 8:30 pm
- Kaweah Health (Corner of Akers and Tulare Av)
- Seasonal Wednesdays May to August 8:00 - 11:30 am
Seasonal Fruit Stands
Seasonal fruit and vegetable stands can be found on corners around the area. Sometimes there is not a specific address but that's OK! You will be exploring some of California's most beautiful farmland. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Farmer Laro's at Caldwell Avenue and Lovers Lane (3283 E Caldwell Ave, Visalia)
- Phan's Strawberries at 15634 Ave 292
- The Big Orange Road 120 north of Avenue 432
- Ben Maddox Way and Tulare Avenue (south of highway 198)
- Hurley Avenue and Shirk Road (also known as Road 92) Just a few blocks north of the 198 freeway
- Akers Street and Ferguson Avenue
- Cairns Produce Corner - Lindsay, CA
U Pick Family Fun
What is more fun than getting to pick your own fruit from the field it is grown in? This is a great family activity that everyone will enjoy. Find your favorite fruits on the list below:
- Big L Ranch Woodlake - known for their ripe blueberries and fun family activities (Blueberries Mid May - Early June)
- Rancho Notso Grande - known for their berries but also stone fruits and more
- Julie's Organic Porterville - Blueberries (Mid May - Mid June)
WHERE TO FIND LOCALLY MADE GOOD EATS
It is only natural that in the heartbeat of agriculture you will find some of the freshest food and drink as well as artisans that create from the local bounty. Here are our top picks on where to find some locally crafted beers, food, ice cream and more. Visalia also has a growing brewery district in the heart of downtown.
Local Craft Beer and Wine
- Visalia Brewing Company
- Brewbakers Brewing Company
- Barrelhouse Brewing Company
- Pita Kabob Gastropub Downtown
- Sequoia Brewing Company
- Blend Wine Room
Locally Made
- Naturally Nuts: fresh nuts, dried fruits, honeys, and much more
- Rosa Brothers Ice Cream and Dairy: take a dairy tour on their farm or visit the creamery for ice cream treats
- Reimer's Chocolates: if you are on the way to the national parks, this is a must-stop
- Stafford Chocolates: beautiful confections
- Bari Olive Oil: gift shop and tastings
Good Eats
- Watson's Organic Market and Cafe
- Farm Fresh Bowls
- Orange Works Visalia
- Bistro di Bufala
- The Vintage Press
- Bravo Farms Restaurant
FUN LEARNING AND FESTIVALS
When you want to dig a little deeper into the heart of this community, participate in one of these festivals or head to one of the many hands on learning experiences available. You are sure to learn how food is grown and feeds the world.
Museums and Activities
- Imagine U Children's Museum: fun for all ages, this is a hands-on learning experience
- Tulare County Farm Labor and Agriculture Museum: Learn about the many cultures that have made an impact on farming in this region
- Ag Ventures: From cows to cotton, you will learn all about local farming
- Antique Farm Equipment Museum: Exhibits of the tools from yesterday and today used in farming
Festivals and Events
- Downtown Visalia Wine Walk (April)
- Taste of Downtown (October)
- Taste the Arts (October)
- Bari Olive Oil Harvest Festival (November)
- Citrus Tasting at Lindcove Station (December)
