We all know Fresno is a city in the heart of California’s agricultural area, but it’s also a thriving university town. California State University, Fresno, commonly known as Fresno State, has a student population of more than 21,000. That number doesn’t include graduate students, faculty, and the many people and businesses who support and serve the student population. We know that where there is a university, visitors can also find great sporting events, top-notch farmer’s markets, and perhaps best of all– an endless calendar of student-led events and festivities. Discover this Northern California college city and all it has to offer!
We consider “Northern California” to be from Fresno to the Oregon border.
And while most Californians would consider Fresno to be distinctly the Central Valley– neither northern or southern, we had to draw the line distinguishing NorCal from SoCal somewhere. But no matter what you consider Fresno to be, we bet you don’t typically think of it as a college town. However, the university and the activities that come with college life, infuse youth and energy into this Central Valley city. With more than a half million residents, Fresno is enriched by the dynamics of the university.
Spanning across 363 acres, the Fresno State campus is a picturesque place that fosters community and education.
This public university was established in 1911 and has contributed significantly to the cultural and economic landscape of the region. With undergraduate and graduate degree programs in agriculture, this university supports the continuing education and success of the region's top industry.
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Fresno State's impressive sports teams draw fans from all over the Valley. The university's 21 sports teams are part of what Fresno State students and faculty call the "Pride of the Valley".
And of course, a university located in California’s “bread basket” has an on-campus winery. Arrange a visit to the campus winery to taste local wine and learn about the area’s thriving viticulture.
College town coffee shops are also places for study sessions and social gatherings. With a multitude of coffee shops dotting the cityscape– many within walking distance from the campus, students and visitors have a diverse array of caffeine havens to choose from.
Another plus of college towns are the boutiques. It seems brick-and-mortar is far from dead in college towns.
In Fresno, some of the boutiques are a long walk from the campus so you might want to consider driving. Do some shopping at Peyton’s Attic Clothing Boutique, The Foundry, and Viva Boutique– all less than a 10 minute drive from the campus.
Fresno State is more than just a university in the Central Valley; it is a vital institution that shapes the city’s cultural, economic, and social fabric.
There is so much to do and see in Fresno. Attend a baseball game or an on-campus concert; attend an art show or a lecture; or walk around town shopping and eating. You’ll enjoy your time in this underrated college city!
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