At the base of the towering Sierra Nevada mountains in California’s central valley is Visalia, the gateway to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Warm, welcoming and vibrant, the city boasts a lively Main Street with restaurants, boutique shopping and entertainment.

“Visitors come to see the world’s largest trees in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, but they stay for all the city offers,” said Suzanne Bianco, tourism marketing director at Visit Visalia. “Groups can immerse themselves in the local culture with farm tours, food tastings, cooking demonstrations led by our top chefs, or a historic walking tour of downtown.”

Stroll along Main Street, enjoy the views of the mountains from a rooftop bar, shop local boutiques or explore the giant sequoia trees. Visalia is waiting to welcome you.

Visit Visalia
800-524-0303 
visitvisalia.com

EXPLORE

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, Calif.
Credit: Visit Visalia

At Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, groups can tour the groves of mighty sequoia trees, including the largest living thing on earth — the General Sherman Tree. Hike the trail to Tokopah Falls or make the climb up Moro Rock for sweeping views of the great western divide. Head underground on a tour of Crystal Cave.

DINE/SIP

Rooftop, The Darling Hotel, Visalia, Calif.
Credit: Visit Visalia

Enjoy a cocktail from the rooftop restaurant at the boutique Darling Hotel or watch as a mixologist prepares a cocktail in a dome of smoke for a taste like none other. Sample local craft beers while enjoying a friendly game of cornhole with the locals at BarrelHouse Brewing. Group tours are available at the Bueno Beverage facility.

DISCOVER

Catered lunch or dinner, McKellar Family Farms, Visalia, Calif.
Credit: McKellar Family Farms

California may be known for its large metropolitan cities but it is also the largest agricultural producing state in the country. Tour McKellar Family Farms, a working citrus ranch, to learn why this area produces more oranges than Florida.

VISIT

Mooney Grove Park & Museum, Visalia, Calif.
Credit: Visit Visalia

Mooney Grove Park and Museum celebrates local culture set amid an oak preserve. One of the largest native American basket collections in California is on display as well as artifacts of the pioneer era, antique agriculture equipment, and many other treasures that tell the history of Tulare County.