Visalia is located in Central California, just within driving distance from Los Angeles and San Francisco. As the most robust city near Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Visalia has long been known as “the gateway” to these beautiful parks in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The legendary sequoias—including the world’s largest tree, the General Sherman—are a draw for adventure-seeking visitors from around the globe.
The city is more than a basecamp for national park travelers. With a vibrant downtown, unique foodie restaurants, craft breweries, farmers’ markets, boutique shopping and a thriving, eclectic art scene, Visalia is a destination all its own. It’s a hub for family travel, with expansive youth sports facilities and children’s venues and attractions. And, its pedestrian-friendly downtown and access to hotel rooms and meeting space make it a popular convention destination, as well.
Visalia is an all-American city with historic charm and a modern draw.
The Visalia region offers outdoor adventure all year long. From an awe-inspiring hike through the majestic sequoia trees in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks to mountain biking in Balch Park, visitors will find breathtaking views and challenging thrills.
Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy snowshoeing in the winter, fishing in the summer and exploring in the fall. Visitors come to witness stunning waterfalls in the spring and discover the wonders of the two national parks, Crystal Cave, Lake Kaweah and more. From hiking and backcountry horseback riding to tennis courts, shooting ranges, paintball fields and even paragliding, Visalia offers a perfect destination for adventure seekers of all kinds.
From road trips to day trips, Visalia is a destination for families of all ages. Visalia offers numerous attractions, parks and play spaces. The welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere makes visitors feel connected to a small-city experience with big-city amenities.
There are hands-on exhibits at ImagineU Interactive Children’s Museum, and the entire crew can delve into learning at the Antique Farm Equipment Museum and AgVentures! Learning Center. Adventure Park amusement center recently expanded to include an outdoor waterpark—Sequoia Springs Splash Park—that features a 42-foot water structure with four slides.
Visalia hosts many annual events throughout the year that celebrate the diversity of the region, its place as an agricultural powerhouse in one of the most productive growing areas of the world and highlight our amazing arts and cultural. With events like the South Valley Arts Tour, PRIDE Visalia, and charming winter-time Holiday events along Main Street in pedestrian-friendly downtown, visitors get a taste of California while experiencing the arts, culture, music and food of Visalia.
Visalia is gateway to the Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. The legendary giant sequoias are a draw for travelers from around the globe.
Sequoia National Park is home to the largest living tree in the world, the General Sherman Tree. Standing at 275 feet tall, about 102 feet in diameter and weighing more than 2.7 million pounds, it is also the largest living organism, by volume, on the planet. The park also boasts amazing waterfalls and spectacular views from famous spots like Moro Rock.
Visalia is the first-ever Certified Autism Destination. Autistic visitors can travel with confidence knowing that we are prioritizing accessibility and inclusion as they enjoy travel to Visalia and the nearby Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. We are more than just autism friendly, we are autism-certified, allowing Visalia to provide memorable experiences to our visitors with autism with the help of well-trained staff.
Visalia operates seasonal shuttle service from Visalia hotels to Sequoia National Park. Each 16-passenger shuttle is wheelchair accessible, features comfortable seats, luggage space, and an informative video during the trip. Reservations are required. Shuttle passes include park entrance, as well as the unlimited shuttle service inside the park.
Travelers to Visalia, California can experience the grandeur of the nearby Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks but also explore the region more deeply by participating in stewardship events hosted by local non-profit Sequoia Riverlands Trust. The organization teaches participants about the importance of protected lands and their native wildlife and plant species. Travelers put that knowledge into action with hands-on experiences that include working in the native plant nursery or helping to maintain trails and infrastructure. Travelers will meet fellow outdoor enthusiasts, enjoy spectacular views, learn more about the history of the San Joaquin Valley from seasoned naturalists and leave with a profound connection to the land.
The Visalia Blossom and Orchard Trail takes visitors on a self-guided drive through one of California's most diverse growing regions, a powerhouse of agriculture. Peak blossom viewing is mid-February to mid-April when the peaches, nectarines, almonds and orange trees explode with pink and white blossoms.
Maps are available for download or in the Visit Visalia office.
Learn about the original inhabitants of this area as you explore Native American cultural contributions made by the Yokuts and Western Mono or Monache people. Start in Visalia and see one of the largest native American basket collections on display and travel into Sequoia National Park to explore the native American culture in the park boundaries. Have a hands-on experience at the "Go Native Cultural Event" each May hosted by the Wukchumni.
With "farm to fork" a way of life and not just a fad, exploring the culinary scene in Visalia is a must-do when visiting. Stroll through the Farmers Market for the freshest, ripest produce, dine at restaurants along Main Street in Downtown for a culinary 'tour' around the world, or sign up for a Recipe Club at the world renown Vintage Press Restaurant and enjoy a lively, interactive cooking demonstration.
Travelers can experience three of California's most spectacular national parks - Sequoia, Kings Canyon and Yosemite - in one visit. Follow this self-guided itinerary to see the biggest trees, the deepest canyon, and the tallest waterfalls in one epic adventure.
