The Best of Clovis, CA: A Visitor’s Guide

Just 6.5 miles northeast of Fresno lies Clovis, a charming city known as the “Gateway to the Sierras.” With a population of 120,124, Clovis offers visitors a perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. From strolling through Old Town Clovis to admiring vibrant blooms at the Clovis Botanical Garden, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Clovis, CA.

1. Clovis Botanical Garden

• Address: 945 N Clovis Ave, Clovis, CA 93611

• Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 9 am-4 pm

• Admission: $5 for adults, $3 for seniors/students, free for members and children under 12

The 3-acre Clovis Botanical Garden is a hidden oasis in the heart of the city. Wander through themed gardens showcasing drought-tolerant plants from the world’s five Mediterranean climate zones. Don’t miss these highlights:

Insider Tip: Visit in spring to see the most colourful blooms, especially the eye-catching Matilija poppies with their plate-sized white flowers.

2. Old Town Clovis

• Location: Clovis Avenue and Pollasky Avenue

• Best For: Shopping, dining, events

• Parking: Free street parking and public lots

Step back in time in Old Town Clovis, the city’s historic heart. Beautifully preserved buildings from the early 1900s house unique boutiques, antique shops, restaurants, and even a craft brewery. Must-visit spots include:

• Fogg’s Depot: Eclectic home decor in a former Southern Pacific Railroad depot

• Trelio Restaurant: Innovative farm-to-table cuisine

• House of JuJu: Handcrafted gifts and one-of-a-kind jewellery

Don’t miss special events like the weekly Friday Night Farmer’s Market (May-September), featuring fresh produce, food trucks, and live music. Old Town also hosts beloved annual festivals:

1. Big Hat Days: Largest two-day outdoor festival in Central Valley (early April)

2. ClovisFest & Hot Air Balloon Fun Fly: Hot air balloons and family fun (late October)

3. Glorious Junk Days: Vintage and antique extravaganza (spring and fall)

3. Wild Water Adventure Park

• Address: 11413 E Shaw Ave, Clovis, CA 93619

• Hours: May-September, daily 10:30 am-6 pm

• Admission: $36.99 for adults, $26.99 for children under 48″

Beat the Central Valley heat at Wild Water Adventure Park. This 52-acre water park boasts over 20 rides and attractions, including:

• Bonzai Pipeline: Three thrilling water slides

• Kalani Towers: Four 5-story speed slides

• Kaanapali Kooler: 800-foot lazy river

Little ones will love Buccaneer Cove and Ohana Bay’s kiddie pools, water cannons, and mini slides. Families can also enjoy go-karts, miniature golf, and the Yukon Jack’s Grizzly Falls ropes course.

Insider Tip: Rent a cabana for shade, comfortable seating, and wait service. Cabanas start at $100/day.

4. Clovis Rodeo

• Location: Clovis Rodeo Grounds, 748 Rodeo Dr, Clovis, CA 93612

• Dates: April 20-23, 2023

• Tickets: $20-$30 for adults, $10-$15 for children

Experience the thrill of the Wild West at the annual Clovis Rodeo. For over 100 years, this PRCA-sanctioned event has brought together top cowboys and cowgirls to compete in heart-pounding events like:

• Bareback Riding

• Saddle Bronc Riding

• Bull Riding

• Steer Wrestling

• Team Roping

The fun continues outside the arena with live music, dance halls, a carnival midway, and a Western trade show. Don’t miss the Rodeo Parade through Old Town Clovis on April 22.

Insider Tip: Rodeo tickets sell out fast! Buy online in advance to secure your seats.

5. Fresno County Blossom Trail

• Location: Self-guided drive through Fresno County

• Best Time to Visit: Mid-February to Mid-March

• Trail Map: Download at GoBlossomTrail.com

Just outside Clovis, the Fresno County Blossom Trail bursts into colour each spring. This 62-mile self-guided scenic drive winds through orchard country, where millions of fruit and nut trees erupt in delicate blooms. You’ll see:

• Snowy white almond and plum blossoms

• Fragrant pink peach and nectarine buds

• Vibrant orange citrus blossoms

Stop at farm stands along the way to sample just-picked produce and shop for preserves, nuts, and dried fruit. The Blossom Trail is busiest on weekends, so visit midweek for a quieter drive.

Other Top Things to Do in Clovis, CA

• Shop and dine at Sierra Vista Mall

• Hike or bike Dry Creek Trailhead

• Visit the Clovis-Big Dry Creek Museum

• Take a day trip to Kings Canyon National Park

• Experience Clovis Fest in October

Know Before You Go

• Getting There: Fresno-Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is just 11 miles from Clovis. The city is also easily accessible via Highway 168 and Highway 41.

• Getting Around: Clovis has limited public transit. The best way to get around is by car.

• Where to Stay: Clovis has a range of lodging options, from budget-friendly motels to full-service hotels. Top-rated hotels include the Fairfield Inn & Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, and Homewood Suites by Hilton.

• Dining Scene: Clovis has 200+ restaurants serving everything from farm-fresh Californian fare to international cuisines. Don’t miss the Farmer’s Daughter at Clovis Culinary Center for innovative dishes showcasing the Central Valley’s agricultural bounty.

Make the Mo\st of Your Clovis Trip with Airtel’s Connectivity

Clovis offers visitors a wealth of activities and attractions to explore. Whether you’re strolling through blooming gardens, shopping in historic Old Town Clovis, or feeling the rush of the Clovis Rodeo, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Clovis, CA.

To stay connected and make the most of your Clovis getaway, consider getting an international roaming plan from Airtel. With affordable data and call rates, you can easily navigate the city, book tickets online, and share photos of your favourite Clovis, CA, things to do.

Ready to discover all that Clovis has to offer? Start planning your trip today!