Fresno, California, is a hidden gem for filmmakers and business owners looking to create stunning commercial and branded content.
Its diverse landscapes, vibrant urban areas, and unique historical sites provide a perfect backdrop for any video production. Sequoia Films, your local expert in video production, is here to guide you through the top ten filming locations in Fresno.
Whether you’re shooting a commercial, educational video, or branded content, these spots will elevate your project’s visual appeal. Please note that permits are generally required for filming in these locations, and we’ve included the relevant information for each.
Here are the top 10 filming locations in Fresno California:
1. Fresno Chaffee Zoo
Located in Roeding Park, the Fresno Chaffee Zoo offers a variety of exotic animal exhibits and lush greenery.
Perfect for family-oriented content or nature-themed videos, the zoo provides both open and enclosed spaces for versatile filming options.
Permit Information: Permits are required for commercial filming. Contact the zoo’s administration for specific guidelines and costs.
2. Forestiere Underground Gardens
These unique underground gardens, built by immigrant Baldassare Forestiere over 40 years, provide a one-of-a-kind location with intricate passageways and subterranean rooms.
Ideal for creative and historical projects, the gardens offer a distinctive setting that can’t be found anywhere else.
Permit Information: Commercial filming usually requires a permit. Contact the management directly for detailed information.
3. Fresno's Tower District
Known for its vibrant nightlife and historic charm, the Tower District is perfect for urban and cultural scenes.
The eclectic mix of theaters, restaurants, and street art provides a colorful and dynamic backdrop for any shoot.
Permit Information: Permits are generally required for filming in public areas. The City of Fresno issues these permits.
4. Shinzen Japanese Garden
Located in Woodward Park, the Shinzen Japanese Garden offers a tranquil and picturesque setting.
The traditional Japanese landscape, complete with koi ponds and stone lanterns, is perfect for serene and elegant video content.
Permit Information: Permits are necessary for commercial shoots. Obtain these through the garden’s administrative office.
5. Fresno State University
The scenic campus of Fresno State University boasts beautiful architecture and well-maintained grounds.
Ideal for educational videos or professional content, the university offers a variety of settings from modern buildings to lush green spaces.
Permit Information: Filming on campus requires a permit from the university’s administration. They provide specific guidelines for commercial projects.
6. Kearney Mansion Museum
This historical site, located in Kearney Park, offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved mansion and surrounding grounds.
It’s a perfect location for period pieces or educational content about California’s history.
Permit Information: Permits are required for filming. Contact the museum’s administration for details.
7. San Joaquin River Parkway
For outdoor and nature-themed shoots, the San Joaquin River Parkway provides stunning river views, trails, and picnic areas.
This location is great for fitness, lifestyle, or environmental projects.
Permit Information: Filming permits are necessary. The San Joaquin River Parkway and Conservation Trust can provide more information.
8. Meux Home Museum
Another historical gem, the Meux Home Museum, is a Victorian-era house museum that offers beautifully preserved interiors and gardens.
This location is perfect for historical recreations and elegant, period-specific content.
Permit Information: Commercial filming requires a permit. Contact the museum for specific requirements.
9. Fulton Street
Fulton Street is the heart of downtown Fresno, recently revitalized to feature public art installations, fountains, and historic buildings.
It’s a great spot for urban and modern-themed videos, capturing the essence of Fresno’s city life.
Permit Information: As a public space, filming permits from the City of Fresno are needed for commercial projects.
10. Millerton Lake State Recreation Area
For those looking to capture water activities and scenic landscapes, Millerton Lake is a fantastic choice.
The expansive lake and surrounding hills provide a versatile backdrop for outdoor adventure and lifestyle shoots.
Permit Information:Filming permits are required and can be obtained through the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
Choosing the right location is crucial for the success of your video project.
These top ten filming spots in Fresno offer a diverse range of settings that can cater to any type of content you’re looking to create.
At Sequoia Films, we understand the importance of a perfect location and are here to help you bring your vision to life.
Contact us today to start planning your next project in one of Fresno’s amazing locations.
Let's create something amazing together.
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Contact Nick at Sequoia Films Company today for a free consultation.
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A: Look for diversity in their projects, quality of work, and whether they have experience in producing the type of content you need.
A: Client testimonials and reviews are crucial as they provide insights into the company’s reliability, quality, and client satisfaction.
A: Key elements include scriptwriting, storyboarding, and location scouting. These steps ensure a well-organized project and help identify potential challenges early on.
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