Underground Garden

Looking to escape the summer heat? Head to Fresno and discover its cool secret: the Forestiere Underground Gardens–an enchanting garden and architecture oasis like no other.

It was created in the early 1900s by a Sicilian immigrant named Baldassare Forestiere, who dreamed up a visionary solution to the Central Valley’s notorious heat and working with the unforgiving hardpan soil on his land: He dug his home and gardens underground, where temperatures can be up to 25 degrees cooler.

Using only shovels, picks, and other hand tools, Forestiere spent 40 years carving out his masterpiece. Inspired by the architecture of Ancient Rome (picture lots of arches and rustic stone-built walls), he created a subterranean maze of rooms, courtyards, and underground tunnels, some as deep as 25 feet under and spanning over 10 acres.

Today, you can explore this one-of-a-kind historical landmark on a one-hour guided tour. You’ll see how the bachelor lived, touring his kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom (there’s even an aquarium!) and wander among citrus trees and grapevines he planted underground (some nearly 90 years old!), many of which are still thriving today.

Forestiere said, “The visions of my mind almost overwhelm me.” Seeing his beautifully unique creation in person, you just might feel the same–inspired and a little bit cooler, too. 

From downtown Fresno, take the CA-99 N and take exit 140 for W. Shaw Ave. Turn left on Shaw Ave. and the gardens will be on your right. Free street parking is available on Shaw Ave., Forestiere Ave. and Cornelia Ave.

Story and photos by Yvonne Pasquini, @yvonne_pasquini