Fresno Famous

Misconceptions of Downtown

            There are many misconceptions concerning Downtown Fresno. I know firsthand because I too have once fallen victim to some of these common misconceptions. I am originally from Visalia, CA and moved to Fresno strictly for school, so I never had the pleasure of visiting Downtown Fresno until much later in life. It wasn’t until I actually began exploring the downtown area that I was first exposed to an urban culture that contradicted my previous misconceived opinions about it. Common misconceptions about Downtown Fresno include parking issues, crime, lack of culture and entertaining things to do. I have had firsthand experiences downtown that demonstrate really how far from the truth these misconceptions can be.    

            There is an abundant amount of free parking located downtown; it doesn’t take much exploring to prove this to be true. The city provides more than an adequate amount of free parking lots. There is not a single location in the downtown area where you will not be able to find free parking within two blocks. Parking spaces with meters are all free after 6pm on weekdays and are conveniently free on weekends as well.

I have been to Downtown Fresno on multiple occasions and at different times of the day; I felt very safe every time I went. The crime rate in Downtown is relatively low compared to other parts of the city. You are more likely to fall victim to a crime while visiting Fashion Fair Mall than you are at Fulton Mall. I have had friends who have had their cars broken into while at clubs and bars in North Fresno, yet I have not met one person who has experienced problems while downtown.   

            I, all too often, hear people say, “There is nothing to do in Fresno.” 9 times out 10 these are people who never visit downtown. Downtown Fresno is rich with culture, art, entertainment, history, and nightlife. It doesn’t matter who you are or what interests you have, there is something in Downtown Fresno for you. I was impressed by the richness of culture and art Downtown has when I visited a monthly art hop. It was an experience I definitely would not forget. I visited many different art studios, viewed a large array of artwork, heard live music, and met a plethora of great people. The greatest thing about the art hop is that none of the studios, artists, or pieces of art was the same. The downtown area is rich with diversity with its cultural festivals that take place each year.

The dining experience downtown is more memorable than dining anywhere else in the city. The different types of restaurants reflect the acceptance of diversity in our community. There are many clubs and bars present in downtown such as Fulton 55, Mezcal, Tokyo Garden, Full Circle Brewery, and many other establishments. If you haven’t visited one of the historic theaters, or watched a ball game at Chukchansi Park, I would suggest doing so.  Just remember: the heart of a city is located in its downtown, and the heart of Fresno beats strong.