I drove past Brix Mansion probably a hundred times before I actually stopped to look at it properly…read moreand I'm annoyed it took me that long. this building is stunning. built in 1889 and it still commands the whole block on Fresno Street. the architecture is the kind you just don't see anymore, ornate, detailed, genuinely grand. standing in front of it you get this weird feeling like you accidentally walked into a different century. it's on the National Register of Historic Places which it absolutely deserves. Fresno has more history than people give it credit for and Brix Mansion is one of the best physical reminders of that. if you're into architecture, local history, or just beautiful old buildings it's worth a deliberate visit not just a drive by. bring your camera because the photos basically take themselves. it's the kind of thing that makes you proud your city has preserved it and also a little sad most locals probably don't know its there. now you do. go look at it.

This is the only Italian Villa mansion with a baroque ornamentation that you would ever find in…read moreFresno, so tourist, architecture buffs and history lovers, this is perfect place for you to visit. This is a historic site and it should be on your must visit list while in Fresno. This mansion located in downtown Fresno, is one of its kind and unfortunately it is now a law office and doesn't showcase the lavish feature of its interior anymore to the public: three story twelve luxurious room, 4500 sq feet space. However the exterior of the house really is something to see and take plenty of picture off. Plus if you do visit this building, it wont be the only thing on your list to visit because 1 block away is the St John Cathedral and also the Meux mansion. There is no parking around its since its really close to the community hospital, I would suggest parking on R street near the church and take the opportunity to appreciate and take pictures of this architecture marvel. It looks like something that should be in Hollywood to be honest. most people in Fresno can pass it without even knowing that they have this beautiful building. If you must know the building was constructed for Herman H. and Helena S. Brix in 1910-1911. Herman H. Brix made a pioneering contribution to the development of Coalinga and was influential in the commercial expansion of Fresno. In addition to its historical associations, the Brix Mansion possesses considerable architectural significance. Designed by architect Edward T. Foulkes, it represents a brilliant example of a period-inspired Italian Villa, the only residence in Fresno built in this lavishly-embellished style. So take the opportunity to visit this unique mansion and bring your friends to impress them about the landmarks and historical building of Fresno.

What an amazing story and terrific guide. We thoroughly enjoyed the visit and would highly…read morerecommend to everyone

Shoutout to Kelsey, our awesome tour guide. She walked us through the Forestiere's underground…read moregarden and spoke proudly about its history. My family came here to visit not knowing what to expect. It was a great experience learning how Forestiere built these tunnels so intentionally and with innovation. The guided tour is about 60 minutes and includes a lot of walking with some stairs, so be prepared with comfy shoes. However, there's also benches in the tunnels if you need a quick seat. The tour ends in the grand ballroom which connects to the gift shop. There you can find citrus sorbet made from the fruits of this garden. I had to give that a taste and it was sweet and zesty. I went home with some postcards to send to friends too. This place is also California State National Landmark No. 916! You must add it to your bucket list of adventures.

Over the past few yers I have become increasingly interested and in admiration of Mary Austin…read more I've listened to "The Land of Little Rain" on an audible type thing, and I have a large copy of the book with photos of the Eastern Sierra. This home was, from what I understand, one that she lived in for some years, I believe when she was a young girl living with her family. I believe she lived in a few various homes throughout the region with her husband as well, although I'm not sure where those homes are or if they are still standing, for that matter. Nonetheless, this house has history to it, and the informational plaque in front has a beautiful quote and info. You cannot go inside, as it looks locked up and like it cannot withstand much more traffic. I do hope there is an organization that will restore this home when it falls into further disrepair, as it really is a special part of local history. Also, if you have not read any of Mary Austin's writings, I highly recommend you do so. She wrote from a place of humility and great appreciation for the land, the native Americans, and all the wild creatures.

There's really nothing much to say, here, except there is a California State Historical plaque in…read morefront of this private home. Visitors cannot view the interior. There is an Owens Valley Historical Museum a short distance away that has a collection of books written by Mary Austin and some other materials about this author.

The Lord told me about this place in a dream, and the upstairs is a temple. I been here 3x first 2…read moreI came it was closed but the third time I came they were open however to visit the temple upstairs you will need appointment in advance. I pray that this place will be preserved forever in Jesus name because the spirit of the LORD dwells here.

Much history here in China Alley. I used tio come here as a kid with my parents. They just…read morerecently had a fire in one of the buildings bt had minimal damage than goodness. But as I figured Id be there when the doors were closed. I strolled through and took some pics. It was fun.

It'll always be Squaw Valley to me. No matter what's politically correct at the moment. Tiny little…read moreplace, so don't blink! They do have a pizza place and it was pretty good. There's also a little coffee shop and a Dollar General. Didn't really pay too much attention when we were helping the kids move to their new place a few weeks ago. We passed a few churches along the way. Looks like a nice little community. Drive safe on the two lane highway and be cautious and careful this time of year, as there are many weeds along the roadside and they're very dry. Next time we're up there, I'll have to explore a bit more!

"California poppies ... are of a burning color--not orange, not gold, but if pure gold were liquid…read moreand could raise a cream, that golden cream might be like the color of poppies." --- John Steinbeck in East of Eden (1952)

Wow talk about a neighborhood coming together to put together an amazing evening for children of…read moreall ages just great wholesome fun to celebrate the holidays the Candy Cane Lane is it. Thank you to all the home owners for allowing us to enjoy your kindness not to mention the tasty treats being sold at various locations. If you haven't been there you have to view these beautiful homes showcasing the wonderful decorations. Absolutely amazing. I just had to add a few more pics. Enjoy

This is an incredibly wonderful Christmas experience. It is…read moreopen December 1 every holiday season. They are not an organized community and do not accept donations. However there are tons of houses that raise money throughout the neighborhood for different charities. They sell food like donuts that are AMAZING. You can walk, but there is not a walking trail and no specific walk nights. It's a neighborhood that loops and is not similar to Christmas tree lane. There is also a home to drop off letters to Santa. The lines get really long but it's a treat that is worth it!

As a child I read a story about Manzanar from the POV of a child. That story stayed with me all…read morethese years. The NPS has recreated some of the buildings here including the bath house, school, mess hall and 'improved' living quarters where walls were installed between family living quarters - replacing the blankets that were hungs as "walls". One of the things I remember in the book was how the toilets and showers were communal and how embarrassed they were to have to do such private business in a public space. No partitions, no privacy on the toilet or shower. Meals were also communal and menus were created by persons unfamiliar with an asian diet. Also from the book the author talks about sweet peaches being put over the rice. Definitely not how rice was eaten. Meals were served on a schedule and each 'block' of quarters had their own mess hall menu. Residents could earn a couple of dollars a month by working in the mess hall. Buildings were erected so hastily the wood was not dried creating gaps between boards so the desert sand would blow in covering everything with sand and allowing scorpians inside. Several families were housed in each building, and as mentioned, with no walls between. Camps were not prepared to educate the children and the first classes were held sitting outside on the ground. Over time teachers, furniture and supplies were provided. So much more information is provided. A short film runs on the hour in the visitor center. A self driving tour (one way) around the acres of camp include informational signs and some recreated buildings while other structures are just a sign (bldg 1, bldg 2, etc.) or foundation. The park has also excavated and reestablished gardens created by residents. A poignant and interesting history lesson for us all. Definitely worth a visit. The museum includes a lot of personal stories and information. The park rangers on duty were very helpful. Gift shop includes a number of books and a few other NPS souveniers. Be sure to get your passport stamped. Public restrooms by the entrance. A handicap drop off point is close to the building. On site parking is a short walk to the visitor center.

I came out here on a field trip with a class I'm taking this summer. It's 95 degrees, windy and…read morearid. Even as a visitor, I find these conditions to be uncomfortable, so I could not imagine being forced to live out here in subhuman conditions for an indefinite period of time. However, that is what over 120,000 Japanese Americans and Japanese Nationals living in the USA were forced to do during WWII - and 10,000 men, women, children and babies were forced to do just that at Manzanar. The Visitors Center is only open on Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday - so we were not able to see it, but we were able to eat our lunches in the Mess Hall. I also explored the barracks, and saw the rest of this historic site by bus and on foot. Don't miss seeing Merritt Park, the Children's Village area, and the Issei Obelisk. This site is a powerful reminder that History repeats itself, and visiting Manzanar is an extremely moving and meaningful experience for everyone. Peace.

Mammoth Mountain Scenic Gondola was one of the highlights of our Mammoth trip! We decided to get…read moreon the gondola towards the end of our adventure and turns out we made the right choice! The Gondola takes you up to McCoy where you can get off and enjoy an intermediate course or stay on and head up to the top of Mammoth Mountain! We started off thinking we were going to just enjoy the cafe up there and the views and then some of us would head back down the gondola. Turns out, my boys decided to take the chance and ride down the top of the mountain with me while my wife headed down on the gondola and met us at the bottom after getting some gifts from the gift shop. The way down is a little frightening if I am to be honest but I am a strong believer in the adage, where there is a will there is a way! My boys coming down with me was a wonderful life lesson and a truly exhilarating and exciting adventure! I highly recommend taking the gondola to the top! 5 stars for sure and 2 thumbs up!!

The views from the top are amazing (on a clear day). Whether skiing/snowboarding and heading to…read morethe top, or just here to enjoy the scenery and surroundings, it's more than worth a visit. Personally a clear day after a storm is the best! The gondola ride up is quick and enjoyable. On busy days, they will fill the cabin, so be ready for a tight squeeze. It's almost ski/boarding season!

Construction on Thursdays = Major Delays. Not recommended for families with babies or toddlers…read more We arrived at the Village at 8:30 a.m. to catch the 8:45 shuttle to Devils Postpile, only to be told the first shuttle was delayed until 10:05. Since we were already committed, we drove to Main Lodge instead, where we found a huge line from everyone waiting on the delayed shuttles. At every step, we asked staff for updates, but no one warned us how bad the delays would be. We were told the shuttle ride would take about 20 minutes, but it ended up taking over an hour because of stop-and-go traffic from construction. The return trip was even worse. We boarded the shuttle at 1:30 p.m. and didn't get back to Main Lodge until after 3:00 p.m. The shuttle was hot, overcrowded, made multiple stops, and even returned to Devils Postpile before heading back. Staff seemed just as uninformed as visitors, and no one could provide accurate wait times or expectations. Our timeline: * Arrived at the Village: 8:30 a.m. * First shuttle departed: 10:05 a.m. * Reached Devils Postpile: Just after 11:00 a.m. * Boarded return shuttle: 1:30 p.m. * Returned to Main Lodge: Just after 3:00 p.m. The ticket agent refunded our shuttle tickets and admitted they didn't realize how severe the delays were because multiple agencies are involved. If you're traveling with young children, especially babies or toddlers, I'd avoid visiting on Thursdays during construction. It turned what should have been a simple outing into an exhausting, all-day ordeal.

What a great experience at Devil's Postpile NP. Easy 1/2 mile hike with some climbing, steep…read moreportions of trail. What an incredible experience. Steep climb to top but worth it. Ample parking in dirt lots. Cool info signage about the area. Seeing this phenomenon was amazing. Two miles further to Rainbow Falls. Devil's Postpile is closed 10/6-10/11, major road work repairs.

This is a good stop for travellers along 395. You need to get out and stretch because this road is…read moremassively boring. Take some time and admire the significance of the tree and your insignificance as compared to it. It is making a contribution, while you are likely not. Hey kiddies, while you are wasting your parents' money or taxpayers' money lent to you to get a meaningless degree in some worthless subject, ask your mind-programmers about carbon footprints. Yours is large, this tree has a negative carbon footprint. Your self-indulgent lifestyle is causing climate change and the tree is trying to reverse the damage you are doing. You should reverently bow before this tree because it was here way before you and will be here way after you.

It was a beautiful tree before it died and had to be removed. So don't stop for a visit or look for…read moreit - it is no longer there.