Tulare

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Tulare's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Nature Trails and Wildlife Watching
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Farm Tours and Fresh Produce
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a visit to a local farm, where you can take a tour and learn about the agricultural practices in the area. Participate in a hands-on experience, such as fruit picking or vegetable harvesting, depending on the season. Savor a fresh, homemade breakfast made from farm ingredients, which reflects the local flavors.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Tulare Farmers Market to explore a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts from local vendors. Enjoy sampling seasonal fruits, homemade jams, and baked goods as you meet the passionate farmers and artisans behind the products. Consider purchasing some local produce to take back for dinner.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation to prepare a meal with the fresh ingredients you've gathered from the market. Enjoy a cozy dinner while reflecting on the day's experiences, perhaps inviting fellow travelers to join. Spend your evening relaxing in the backyard or on the porch, soaking in the peaceful country atmosphere of Tulare.

day 4
Adventure at Lake Success
morning
:

Set out early for a day at Lake Success, a beautiful reservoir offering a variety of recreational activities. Start with a hearty breakfast at a lakeside café, enjoying views of the water and surrounding hills. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene waters and get a workout in at the same time.

afternoon
:

After your morning on the water, indulge in a picnic lunch on the shore, enjoying the scenic views and the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon swimming or relaxing by the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at fishing or hiking around the lake's trails.

evening
:

As the day winds down, find a local BBQ spot to enjoy a delicious meal, featuring grilled meats and sides that reflect the region's culinary heritage. After dinner, take a sunset stroll along the lakeside, watching the colors change in the sky as the sun sets over the water. End your evening with a campfire by the lake, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.

day 5
Cultural Experience at Local Festivals
morning
:

Begin your day by checking out the local festival schedule, as Tulare often hosts vibrant events celebrating its culture and community. Enjoy breakfast at a local diner, where you can mingle with residents and get recommendations for the day's activities. Head to the festival grounds early to enjoy the opening festivities and avoid the crowds.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon immersing yourself in the festival's offerings, from music and dance performances to local food stalls featuring regional delicacies. Participate in hands-on workshops or demonstrations to learn more about the traditional crafts and arts of the area. Take breaks to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps shop for unique crafts to take home.

evening
:

As evening approaches, find a prime viewing spot for the festival’s evening entertainment, which may include live music or dance performances. Enjoy dinner at one of the food stalls, sampling a variety of local dishes and desserts. Conclude your night by watching the festival fireworks display, a perfect way to celebrate the community spirit of Tulare.

day 6
Exploring Local Vineyards
morning
:

Start your day with a scenic drive to nearby vineyards, where you can enjoy the picturesque landscape of rolling hills and grapevines. Arrive early for a vineyard tour, learning about the winemaking process from grape to bottle. After the tour, savor a delightful brunch at the vineyard's restaurant, featuring seasonal produce and local wines.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon enjoying wine tastings at various vineyards, sampling different varieties and learning about the unique terroir of the Tulare region. Engage with passionate winemakers and gain insights into their craft while tasting their best offerings. If time permits, take a vineyard stroll to appreciate the beauty of the grapevines and the surrounding countryside.

evening
:

Return to Tulare for dinner at a cozy bistro that pairs local cuisine with wines from the vineyards you visited earlier. Enjoy a leisurely meal while reminiscing about your day of exploration and tasting. End your evening with a nightcap at a local wine bar, savoring a glass of your favorite vintage.

day 7
Outdoor Adventure and Camping
morning
:

Gear up for an outdoor adventure by heading to the Sierra Nevada foothills for a day of camping and exploration. After packing your camping gear, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café to fuel your day. Arrive at your campsite, set up your tent, and get acquainted with the beautiful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon hiking the trails that wind through the foothills, taking in the stunning views and diverse wildlife along the way. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature, surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of birds. If you're up for it, try your hand at fishing in one of the nearby streams or lakes.

evening
:

As the sun sets, gather around a campfire and prepare a delicious dinner using your camping stove or grill. Share stories and laughter with fellow campers as you roast marshmallows and enjoy the warmth of the fire. End your night under the stars, stargazing and listening to the peaceful sounds of nature around you.

day 8
Discovering Local History and Heritage
morning
:

Begin your exploration of Tulare's rich history by visiting the Tulare Historical Museum, where you can learn about the area's agricultural heritage and local stories. Spend your morning engaging with interactive exhibits and viewing artifacts that showcase the region's past. Enjoy a light breakfast at a café nearby, reflecting on what you've learned so far.

afternoon
:

Afterward, take a guided historical walking tour of downtown Tulare, where you can see notable buildings and hear stories from local historians. Visit the Tulare County Courthouse and other historic landmarks that represent the city’s growth over the decades. Enjoy lunch at a local farm-to-table restaurant that highlights the agricultural bounty of the area.

evening
:

In the evening, find a local theater or community center that might be showcasing a historical play or film related to Tulare's history. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that features a historical theme, perhaps a place that has been around for generations. Conclude your night with a visit to a local bookstore or café, reflecting on the day's historical journey.

day 9
Sports and Recreation Fun
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tulare Recreation Park, where you can engage in various sports activities such as tennis or basketball. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast from a nearby café before heading to the park. Participate in a friendly game with locals or simply enjoy the recreational facilities available.

afternoon
:

After a morning of sports, spend your afternoon at the Tulare Aquatic Center, where you can cool off in the pools or try your hand at water slides. Grab a quick lunch at the center's snack bar while enjoying the lively atmosphere. If you're looking for more activity, consider renting bikes to explore the nearby trails.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a sports-themed restaurant where you can catch a game on TV and enjoy hearty meals. Engage in conversations with fellow sports enthusiasts and share your day's adventures. As the night winds down, consider stopping by a local bowling alley for some fun and friendly competition.

Discover Tulare

Read more in our Tulare 2025 Travel Guide.

Tulare Travel Guide