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More architectural achievement than gardens (although they're definitely an aspect of the place), this amazing spectacle is a tribute to creativity. Sicilian native Baldasare Forestiere hoped to farm the ten acres he bought in 1905. When hard stone made that dream impossible, he excavated parts of the property, creating an intricate network of rooms, courtyards, alcoves, and gardens that were simultaneously residence and career. Arches, columns, and vaults anchor the structure, which also boasts fruit trees, vines, and even water features in its below-ground rooms. The one-man fantasia is an absolute must-see for its unfaltering vision, dedication, ingenuity, and back-breaking efforts – everything, in fact, was fashioned by hand. Tours are "weather-permitting" so call ahead for a recorded message for information.
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Fresno Water Tower
2444 Fresno St, Fresno City and County Visitors Center, Fresno, CA 93721 · 559-237-0988
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This sturdy, Romanesque tower reaches 100 feet into the sky and was modeled after a tower in Worms, Germany. Designed by George Washington Maher, it was completed in 1894 and once had a capacity of a quarter-million gallons. After city growth made it obsolete in 1963, the structure was used by the city for parking meter repairs. By 2001, the entire building had been renovated into a visitors center for Fresno's city and county. Today, the water tower is a city show piece and a victory for adaptive reuse.
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This picturesque brick church, completed in 1914, takes the shape of an Armenian crucifix and was the first American sanctuary constructed in the style of Armenian sacred architecture. Its designer was also Armenian. A short, cylindrical tower sits atop the entrance, and a dome crowns the juncture of the crucifix arms; both are topped with slender crosses. Interior ornamentation includes stained glass windows, ecclesiastical paintings, and crystal chandeliers and sconces. A registered national historic place but still an active parish.
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Pantages Theatre
1400 Fulton St, aka Warnors Center for the Performing Arts, Fresno, CA 93721 · 559-264-2848
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Alexander Pantages, impresario of a number of West Coast theaters, was a Greek immigrant who managed and organized scores of vaudeville acts across several states in the early part of the century. He had this fanciful theater – which boasts Mediterranean and North African design details – built as part of his empire. The building's charm lies in its octagonal tower entrance, ornate terra cotta detailing, and red tile roof. An elaborate ceiling dome distinguishes the interior, along with a rare pipe organ dating from 1929.
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This unexpected Asian garden is an anomaly in Fresno's arid climate, but somehow, it prospers and thrives anyway. Sections of the garden, spread across three acres, honor the four seasons and feature plants that come into their own during these particular quarters of the year. A koi pond, a thatched-roof tea house, meandering pathways, water features, a moon bridge, and landscaped beds all contribute to the overall effect, which is one of tranquility, peace, and natural beauty.
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Built in 1939 in Art Deco style, this sleek theater was intended for first-release movies and was designed by S. Charles Lee. Its exterior is dominated by a vertical spire which is, itself, crowned by a lighted globe. Inside, the extensively renovated theater boasts painted murals, etched glass panels, and artwork that glows in the presence of black lights. Today, the theater is the centerpiece of the Tower District, a neighborhood of clubs, shops, restaurants, and retail establishments. The Tower's performance schedule consists of an interesting mix of live music, comedy, and lectures, most starting around 7pm or 8pm. Ticket prices vary.
Our Sightseeing category provides a feast for the eyes. Why? Because most all of our selections are famous places that you can view and take pictures of to show everyone back home. Landmarks, sculptures, historic homes, historic districts, cemeteries, water fountains, and statues are just a hint of the sights we've selected.
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