Tulare County Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich Tulare County in California, USA with our week-long itinerary, places to visit, hiking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Tulare County

Tulare County, located in the heart of California’s San Joaquin Valley, is a hidden gem for those seeking an authentic and immersive travel experience. The county is famous for its majestic mountain views, scenic orchards, agricultural fields, and stunning national parks. This area is culturally diverse and offers unique attractions, exciting adventures, and mouth-watering cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Tulare County

  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
  • Lake Kaweah
  • Visalia Farmers Market
  • Three Rivers Historical Museum
  • Tulare County Museum
  • Bravo Lake Botanical Gardens
  • Porterville Historical Museum
  • Exeter Murals
  • St. John’s Cathedral
  • McDermont Field House and Aquatic Center

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors interested in delving into Tulare County’s rich cultural history can explore the county’s diverse museums and historical places. The Three Rivers Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the county’s Native American, pioneer, and gold rush eras. The Tulare County Museum showcases the county’s natural and cultural heritage and features fascinating exhibits that highlight local agriculture, art, and artifacts. The Porterville Historical Museum features exhibits on the county’s mining, farming, and railroad history, while the Exeter Murals present a colorful tribute to the region’s agricultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Tulare County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Tulare County is renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, and visitors can enjoy plenty of outdoor recreation activities. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offers scenic trails that are perfect for hiking and climbing. Lake Kaweah is a popular spot for water sports, and McDermont Field House and Aquatic Center provides an ideal spot for indoor activities. The Bravo Lake Botanical Gardens offer stunning views of colorful flowers, while St. John’s Cathedral is one of the county’s most beautiful landmarks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tulare County

Hikers and bikers can explore the great outdoors on Tulare County’s extensive trail system. The Mineral King to Mt. Whitney Trail is a challenging hike that rewards hikers with stunning panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The Hockett Lakes Trail is a less strenuous hike, ideal for families with children. For a fun and easy bike ride, try the Santa Fe Trail, which offers views of the county’s beautiful orchards, fields, and farms.

Best Things to Do in Tulare County: Activities and Tours

Tulare County offers plenty of exciting activities and tours that are perfect for visitors of all ages. The Sequoia National Forest Guided Tour takes visitors on an informative and scenic journey through the forest. Visitors who enjoy arts and crafts can attend the Tulare County Fair, which showcases the county’s finest crafts, livestock, and horticulture. For a family-friendly activity, head to the Visalia Adventure Park, which offers mini-golf, go-karts, an arcade, and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tulare County

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Day 2 Visit the Three Rivers Historical Museum
Day 3 Hike the Hockett Lakes Trail or Mineral King to Mt. Whitney
Day 4 Take a guided tour of the Sequoia National Forest
Day 5 Visit the Tulare County Museum or the Porterville Historical Museum
Day 6 Spend the day at Lake Kaweah, participating in water sports or taking a scenic boat ride
Day 7 Visit the Tulare and Visalia Farmers markets or go to the Tulare County Fair

Food and Drink Scene of Tulare County

Must-Try Dishes

Tulare County’s food scene is a reflection of its rich agricultural heritage. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Oranges and almond- the county’s top agricultural product
  • Basque cuisine, such as chorizo and garlic soup
  • Pistachios- local nut crisp roasted with a touch of saltiness
  • Tacos- a perfect blend of Mexican and American cuisine

Local Beverages

Visitors can quench their thirst with the county’s variety of beverages, including:

  • Beer from Three Rivers Brewing Co.
  • Wine from the Alta Olive Oil and Orchard
  • Apple Juice from the Murray Family Farms

Where to Stay in Tulare County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tulare County offers a range of affordable accommodation options that cater to all types of travelers, including budget-friendly hostels, comfortable guesthouses, and luxurious hotels. Some of the most popular accommodation options include:

  • The Three Rivers Bed and Breakfast
  • The Sierra Lodge in Tulare
  • The Pelican Inn and Suites in Morro Bay

What to Buy in Tulare County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Tulare County should take home some traditional souvenirs and local products, such as:

  • Pistachios and dates from Oasis Date Gardens
  • Hand-crafted soap from the Tulare Mercantile
  • Jewelry and pottery from the Three Rivers Art Center

Local Culture and Customs of Tulare County

Tulare County has a unique cultural heritage that visitors should be aware of. The county is home to several Native American tribes, and visitors should respect their cultural practices and customs. The county also celebrates traditional festivals, such as the Portuguese Holy Ghost Festival, and visitors should join in the festivities if possible.

Best Time to Visit Tulare County

The best time to visit Tulare County is between June and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, visitors should be aware of peak season crowds and plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tulare County

Do:

  • Respect the region’s natural beauty and heritage
  • Support local businesses and communities
  • Participate in traditional festivals and events

Don’t:

  • Litter and harm the environment
  • Disrespect cultural practices and traditions
  • Ignore health and safety precautions

Safety and Health

Safety and health are important considerations when visiting Tulare County.

Safety in Tulare County

Visitors should be cautious when exploring any national parks, especially those with steep elevations and dangerous wildlife. It’s best to stay on designated trails and avoid wandering off-course. Visitors should also be careful when driving on winding roads as they may encounter unexpected obstacles.

Health in Tulare County

Visitors should be aware of the county’s mosquitoes, which carry the West Nile Virus, and take steps to avoid being bitten. Visitors should also be careful when hiking and bring plenty of water, sunblock, and snacks. It’s always best to consult a doctor for medical advice before traveling.

Getting to Tulare County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Tulare County is easily accessible by various transportation options, including planes, buses, and cars.

Airports Near Tulare County

Visitors can fly to several airports near Tulare County, including:

  • Fresno Yosemite International Airport
  • Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport
  • Los Angeles International Airport

Bus Stations Near Tulare County

Visitors can take buses to Tulare County from various locations, including:

  • Greyhound stations in Fresno and Bakersfield
  • Amtrak stations in Bakersfield and Hanford

Other Options

Visitors can also take advantage of car rental services and explore the county at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Tulare County

The easiest way to get around Tulare County is by renting a car. Visitors can also take taxis or join organized tours to explore the county.

Where to Go Next from Tulare County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can include some nearby destinations and excursions in their travel pack, such as:

  • San Luis Obispo: If you prefer the beach life, enjoy sea, surf and sand
  • San Francisco: explore the city with iconic views, landmarks and cultures
  • Death Valley National Park: go off-grid and add a dose of adventure

Conclusion

A visit to Tulare County offers travelers an opportunity to explore some of California’s most scenic and cultural destinations. The county’s stunning national parks, rich history, delicious food, and friendly locals provide a one-of-a-kind travel experience that visitors will never forget. From hiking trails to local festivals, Tulare County is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and immersive travel experience.



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