Just off Highway 99 in Fresno, California a resort lies hidden from view, except for a sign above a staircase and a fruit orchard – Forestiere Underground Gardens is truly a see-it-to-believe-it experience. Constructed by Sicilian immigrant and citrus farmer Baldassare Forestiere in the early 1900s, this network of underground rooms, courtyards, and passageways is home to living fruit trees, a ballroom and more.
CNN chose this site, now a California Historical Landmark, as one of the of World’s Coolest Underground Attractions.
Forestiere Underground Gardens is Climate-Controlled: Naturally!
Much like a wine cave, Forestiere Underground Gardens stay cool in the warmer months and have balanced temperatures in the cool months, because they are subterranean. However, by digging at different depths and opening certain areas to the sky, Baldassare Forestiere created underground micro-climates with temperature variations of 10 to 20 degrees – perfect for growing various types of fruits.
It also makes visiting comfortable most days too. After all, the gardens were built to be a resort in the summer months.
Wait, There’s an Underground Ballroom?
Yes! Tours at Forestiere Underground Gardens take you through the ballroom, the resort areas, garden areas, and Baldassare Forestiere’s living quarters, including his bathroom, kitchen and sleeping areas for cooler and warmer months. Baldassare dug, constructed and planted over 10 acres, a depths up to 20 feet underground. Multiple varieties of original fruit-bearing trees and vines, grow throughout this hidden gem, including some varieties growing together on the same tree.
Visiting the Forestiere Underground Gardens
The gardens are open daily, with guided tours taking about 1 hour. Guests can purchase tickets in advance to secure your tour slot and save time at the door.
The surfaces are uneven, with lots of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Guests are welcome to bring water during the tour.
Forestiere Underground Gardens
5021 W. Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93722
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Article by K.C. Cornwell. Photos by James Collier