Things To Do
in Tulare
Tulare is a family-friendly city in California's Central Valley, surrounded by orchards and farmland that fuel the region's agriculture. It serves as a practical base for exploring nearby Sequoia and Kings Canyon country while offering a relaxed, small-town vibe. The downtown area blends historic charm with modern eateries and markets, reflecting the area's diverse communities.
With easy highway access and a focus on local produce, Tulare is ideal for warm-weather day trips and farm-to-table experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Tulare Historical Museum, where you can explore local artifacts and stories that shaped the area. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café that serves fresh local ingredients, giving you a taste of the region. As you stroll through the historic streets, take in the charming architecture and perhaps stop by local shops for unique souvenirs.
After lunch, head to the nearby Tulare County Fairgrounds to see if any local events or fairs are occurring, showcasing the community spirit. Spend some time at the nearby Plaza Park, where you can relax, enjoy the green spaces, and perhaps have a picnic under the trees. Before concluding your afternoon, visit the local art galleries to appreciate the work of regional artists.
As the sun sets, make your way to a popular local restaurant known for its farm-to-table cuisine, where you can savor dishes inspired by the surrounding agricultural bounty. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the town square, where you might find live music or community events happening. End your evening with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop before heading back to your accommodation.
Start the day with an early drive to the nearby Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge, where you can witness the stunning beauty of the wetlands at dawn. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the diverse bird species that populate this serene landscape, including migratory waterfowl. Enjoy a packed breakfast while listening to the sounds of nature around you.
After exploring the refuge, head to the Sequoia National Park, where you can hike the easy trails that lead you through giant sequoias and breathtaking landscapes. Engage in a guided nature walk to learn about the flora and fauna that inhabit this majestic area. Take a break for lunch at one of the park's scenic picnic spots, surrounded by towering trees and the fresh mountain air.
Return to Tulare in the evening and dine at a local steakhouse known for its hearty fare and welcoming atmosphere. After dinner, visit a nearby park for a relaxing evening stroll, where you can enjoy the tranquil ambiance under the stars. Wrap up the night with a visit to a local brewery to sample craft beers and socialize with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay (budget) | $70-120 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly staples) | $40-80 |
| 🚗Gasoline for a moderate trip | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee or casual snack | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to fresh Central Valley produce and farm-to-table dining
- Proximity to Sequoia/Kings Canyon region for day trips
- Friendly, family-oriented atmosphere with affordable prices
- Easy highway access and a compact downtown with historic charm
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared with larger cities
- Hot summers and occasional long drives to major attractions
Places to Visit in Tulare
Visit one of these nice places.
Photogenic storefronts, vintage signage, and street corners with local character—great for morning or late afternoon light.
Colorful market stalls and alleyways with murals create vibrant urban photography opportunities.
Golden fields, irrigation lines, and sunset skies provide classic Central Valley landscape shots.
Food in Tulare
Tulare Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-braised meat in a rich sauce served with onions, cilantro, and lime; widely available at taquerías around Tulare.
Must-Try!
A hearty burrito typically stuffed with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa, a common find in local taquerías.
Desserts featuring Central Valley peaches and other in-season fruit; look for bakers and markets offering house-made pies and cobblers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with fresh produce, salsas, baked goods, and ready-to-eat street snacks from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting with a smile and a handshake is common. Be polite, patient, and respectful when interacting with locals; Spanish phrases are appreciated in many neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Tulare
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, it is customary to tip 15-20% at restaurants and cafes. Tip higher for excellent service and consider a smaller tip for carryout or quick service depending on the level of service.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming orchards; ideal for outdoor photography, farm visits, and community events.
Hot and dry; carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
Harvest season brings abundant produce and seasonal desserts; pleasant days for exploration and markets.
Mild to cool days with occasional rain; good time for indoor museums and cozy dining, plus occasional damp-weather scenery.
Tulare at Night
Hiking in Tulare
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hikes in the foothills with rewarding valley views and moderate elevations suitable for a half-day trip.
Short drives to forested trails offering shaded routes, wildlife viewing, and cooler temperatures in higher elevations.
Riverside and river-adjacent trails with opportunities to spot birds, wildflowers, and scenic river views.
Airports
How to reach Tulare by plane.
Small regional airport serving general aviation and some domestic flights; roughly 20–25 miles from Tulare.
Major regional airport with many domestic flights; about 60–70 miles west and a straightforward drive via highways.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the community, contributing to the celebration of Mexican and other Latin American cuisines and cultural events.
A substantial presence in the city, with families and professionals contributing to the local economy.
A growing community that enriches food options and cultural offerings in the region.
Represented within the broader population, participating in community activities and local businesses.
A mix of additional ethnic backgrounds contributing to Tulare’s diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common local and school sports with community leagues and park facilities available for spectators and participants.
Popular among youth and adults; indoor gyms and outdoor courts are common city amenities.
Rural roots show in rodeo and agricultural fairs held in Tulare and surrounding counties, seasonally featuring competitions and demonstrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tulare.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Tulare kitchens can prepare vegetarian options; look for veggie tacos, bean-based bowls, salads, and fruit-forward desserts. When in doubt, ask for meat-free versions of popular dishes and request cheese or sour cream on the side to control portions.