Fresno is known for its agriculture, although it seems more and more of the farmland is being replaced by houses. Be sure to stop by a fruit stand and try the figs, fresh  sweet grapes, strawberries so sweet they don't need sugar, and oranges you can pick right off a tree by the roadside (though the local farmers may not appreciate you taking part of their crop).

The road to Shaver Lake from Fresno is very scenic. You go from near sea level to 4000 feet elevation (in the Sierras) in less than an hour.

Temperature in Fresno can get into the high 100's in the summer, but it gets rather nice in the evening.  Winters are rainy, but the temperatures rarely drop below freezing.

In the valley's cultural hub, visit Fresno's Metropolitan Museum of Art, History, and Science. Get a glimpse of turn-of-the-century lifestyles at two homes turned museums: the 1889 Meux Home and the 1906 Kearney Mansion.

At the Forestiere Underground Gardens, tour a clever subterranean antidote to the summer heat. Fish, play tennis, or take in the zoo, playground, and fun rides in Roeding Park. Or experience white-water rafting on the nearby Kings River.

If you're visiting in late winter or early spring, take a leisurely drive or bicycle ride along the Fresno Blossom Trail to view seas of pink, white, and crimson blossoms in the fruit orchards. The western town of Clovis attracts visitors to both its antiques emporiums and rodeos. Visit the Mennonite Quilt Center in Reedley to watch skilled artisans create striking quilts.

Skiing is available in the Sierras east of Fresno at two locations, Sierra Summit and Badger Pass.

If you are a sports fan, Fresno has several sports team as well as excellent collegiate teams.  During the summer you can take in a baseball game at the downtown stadium and see the San Francisco Giant's Triple A affliate, the Fresno Grizzlies.  Or during the fall and winter you can see Fresno Falcons hockey team at the new SaveMart Center (also an excellent concert venue) at Fresno State.  And if you are a college sports fan, don't miss any of the Fresno State Bulldogs football or basketball games.  These games are always full of energy and great for a family outing.

Of course one can't forget Yosetime National Park which is only about 60 miles north of Fresno.  Take Hwy 41 north for a hour or so and you are there.