Downtown Fresno, California · 2026 Visitor Guide
Fresno Convention Center: Plan Your Event, Parking and Hotel
Heading to a convention, trade show, graduation, concert or private event in Fresno? Get the correct entrance, actual parking options, current event information, nearby accommodation and accessible visitor facilities before leaving home.
Fresno Convention Center: Quick Answers
Fresno, CA 93721. Use this address for the Convention Center exhibit halls and meeting rooms.
Executive office. For event planning, call (559) 621-8742.
City-owned 5-level parking facility. Posted event parking generally differs from normal weekday rates.
Three exhibition halls that can operate independently or together.
Second-floor meeting and breakout facilities, with additional pre-function space.
Entry time depends on your conference, show or event organizer. There is no single universal attendee schedule.
Fresno Convention Center Events in 2026
The entertainment complex hosts exhibitions, performing arts, concerts, sports events, trade shows, graduations and community functions. Tickets and entry requirements are determined by the event and venue.
Selected Upcoming Events
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Bluey’s Big Play | November 11–12, 2026 | Saroyan Theatre |
| Freestyle Explosion | November 14, 2026 | Selland Arena |
| World Ballet Company: Swan Lake | November 21, 2026 | Saroyan Theatre |
| Suit Bros Traveling Suit Sale | December 18–20, 2026 | Convention Center, Exhibit Hall 3 |
| Wedding and Quince Expo | January 31, 2027 | Fresno Convention Center |
Selected events from the published venue calendar, checked October 17, 2026. This is not the complete schedule. Times, availability and programming can change.
How to Find Your Event and Get Tickets
- Identify the correct event building. Look for Fresno Convention Center, Selland Arena, Saroyan Theatre or Valdez Hall on your event listing.
- Open the venue’s current calendar. Visit Fresno’s official events listing and locate the event name or date.
- Check admission requirements. Read the organizer’s information for ticket prices, free-entry conditions, age restrictions, assigned seating and registration.
- Check showtime versus door time. Doors or registration may open earlier than the published performance or conference start.
- Complete the final purchase or registration. Use the ticket or booking pathway shown by the official event listing or authorized organizer.
Fresno Convention Center Parking: Garage, Lot and Rates
The most important parking distinction is between regular weekday garage parking and special-event parking. Event rates override ordinary parking assumptions.
Convention Center Garage
Location: O Street and Inyo Street, downtown Fresno.
Capacity: 1,565 spaces, including 26 designated accessible spaces and 8 motorcycle spaces, according to the City.
Structure: Five levels. Follow signs for reserved sections and applicable event rates.
FCEC Surface Lot
Access: O Street, serving the Fresno Convention & Entertainment Center complex.
Payment: The venue’s ticketing operator describes card-only payment and event-specific rates.
Accessible spaces: Ask the attendant for directions; spaces are first-come, first-served.
Published City Garage Parking Rates
| Parking period | Published price | Important condition |
|---|---|---|
| First hour | $3 | Regular weekday rate, 6 AM–6 PM |
| Each additional hour | $1 | Regular weekday schedule |
| Regular weekday maximum | $9 | Monday–Friday, 6 AM–6 PM |
| Evenings and weekends | Normally free | Not during applicable Convention Center complex events |
| Special-event garage parking | $10–$25 | City’s published event-rate range for this garage |
| Event-area parking overall | Can reach $50 | Some metered and other downtown event parking has different approved rates |
Rates are based on the City of Fresno parking pages. Charges can change, and special-event signs or payment systems govern the actual transaction.
How to Park Without Paying the Wrong Rate
- Check whether a special event is taking place. Event pricing can apply even when the standard garage schedule suggests lower charges.
- Choose your lot before driving. For the Convention Center, compare the O Street surface lot with the city garage at O and Inyo.
- Read posted signs at entry. Check event rate, payment method, garage access and closing instructions.
- Pay using the designated system. The city garage uses parking kiosks/ParkMobile arrangements as directed. The FCEC surface lot is described as cashless.
- Remember your parking location. Record the floor, stall or section, then walk to the entrance named on your ticket.
For the current city guidance, see the official Convention Center Garage rate and map listing.
Which Fresno Venue and Entrance Should You Use?
Do not navigate only to a generic “Fresno Convention Center” search result if your ticket mentions a different building.
| Venue | Address | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| Fresno Convention Center | 848 M Street, Fresno, CA 93721 | Expos, conventions, exhibit halls, business meetings and trade shows |
| Selland Arena | 700 M Street, Fresno, CA 93721 | Sports, concerts, graduations and arena performances |
| Saroyan Theatre | 730 M Street, Fresno, CA 93721 | Theatre, ballet, touring shows and seated performances |
| Valdez Hall | Same entertainment complex | Banquets, exhibitions and event-specific functions |
Fresno Convention Center Entrance Choices
Kern Street Entrance
Use the Kern Street side when your registration instructions direct you there. This entrance is separate from the M Street entrance.
M Street Entrance
Located on the M Street side of the main Convention Center building. Confirm whether the entrance is active for your event.
If parking in the O Street or city garage area, walk toward the assigned convention entrance using the surrounding marked crossings. Follow temporary signs rather than assuming every public-facing door is open.
Getting to Fresno Convention Center: Car, Bus and Airport
Driving from Highway 41 or Highway 99
| Approach | Venue-published exit options |
|---|---|
| Highway 41 southbound | Tulare Street, O Street or Van Ness Avenue |
| Highway 41 northbound | Van Ness Avenue |
| Highway 99 in either direction | Ventura Avenue |
Downtown Fresno contains one-way streets and event traffic changes. Use live directions to the specific venue or parking entrance rather than simply routing to downtown Fresno.
FAX Bus Options
Useful for the Saroyan Theatre side of the event complex.
Useful for the Selland Arena side.
Convention Center access with an approximate five-minute walk described by the venue.
The venue’s visitor guide describes a $1 standard FAX bus fare with transfer options. Confirm the current fare, routes and accessibility arrangements before departure using Fresno Area Express information.
Arriving from Fresno Yosemite International Airport
Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is east of downtown. For visitors with luggage, a taxi or ride-hailing trip to 848 M Street is often the simplest option. Budget for traffic and event arrivals, rather than treating any travel-time estimate as guaranteed.
For a transit trip, check the current FAX journey and whether a transfer is required. For large conventions, ask your organizer if a hotel or conference shuttle has been arranged.
Fresno Convention Center Floor Plans, Halls and Room Sizes
The Convention Center is designed for both large exhibitions and smaller meetings. Its halls can operate separately or as a combined main exhibition floor.
Approximate published dimensions: 334 × 129 feet.
Approximate published dimensions: 80 × 135 feet.
Approximate published dimensions: 80 × 157 feet.
The combined exhibition area totals 66,371 square feet. There are also 20 second-floor meeting rooms and approximately 16,000 square feet of additional lobby and pre-function space.
Which Space Is Suitable for Your Event?
| Event requirement | Space to investigate | Planning consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Large consumer expo | Combined exhibit halls | Booth configuration, loading and utility services |
| Smaller trade show | Individual exhibit hall | Number of exhibitors and aisle widths |
| Professional conference | Exhibit halls plus meeting rooms | Registration, breakout schedules and A/V |
| Board or training meeting | Second-floor meeting rooms | Seating plan, presentation equipment and catering |
| Reception or banquet | Hall and pre-function areas | Catering, permitted layout and contracted capacity |
Where to Check the Floor Maps
- Open the official Fresno Convention Center facility page.
- Find the first-floor and second-floor map links under the venue description.
- Match your event’s assigned hall or meeting room with the relevant floor.
- Check elevators, registration space, loading requirements and access routes.
- For a customized layout, request the current planning specifications from the venue sales team.
Accessibility, Entry Screening and Useful Venue Rules
Accessibility arrangements and event security affect the entrance you choose and the time you should arrive.
Accessible Parking
Designated spaces are available near the venue parking area. Inform the attendant if you need directions. The city garage also lists designated accessible spaces.
Elevator Access
An elevator is in the Convention Center’s first-floor main lobby near the women’s restrooms. It serves the second-floor meeting and executive areas.
Restrooms
Accessible restrooms are provided on both floors. The first-floor main lobby and second-floor gallery are useful reference points.
Wheelchair Seating
Accessible and companion seating arrangements can depend on the event configuration. Request the appropriate booking option early.
Know Before You Go
- Bags: Screening and bag restrictions may vary by event. Do not assume one universal size or clear-bag policy.
- Metal detectors: Security screening may be used at event entrances.
- Outside food and drink: Follow event-specific policies and any medically necessary accommodation process.
- Professional equipment: Exhibitors should confirm cameras, tripods, displays, electrical services and loading permissions.
- Will Call: The venue operator describes pickup beginning two hours before relevant shows; bring matching photo identification.
- Accessibility support: Contact the ticketing operator or event organizer before arrival for specific seating or assistance requests.
For more assistance, review the venue’s accessibility guide.
Hotels Near Fresno Convention Center
Staying downtown can reduce the need to drive back to the Convention Center each day. Prioritize walking access, parking arrangements and the actual event entrance over a hotel’s advertised distance alone.
DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center
Address: 2233 Ventura Street, Fresno, CA 93721.
Phone: (559) 268-1000.
Location: Adjacent to the Convention Center complex, making it a convenient first option for multi-day conferences and exhibitors.
Amenities: Hilton advertises free Wi-Fi, complimentary on-site self-parking, an indoor/outdoor pool, a restaurant, fitness facilities and EV charging.
Check-in / check-out: 3:30 PM / noon, according to Hilton’s published property information.
Check the current reservation conditions, accessible room category, total taxes and cancellation terms before booking.
Other Accommodation Areas to Compare
| Hotel or area | Location context | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Courtyard by Marriott Fresno Downtown | Downtown Fresno | Visitors comparing nearby business hotels |
| La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Fresno Yosemite | Tulare Street area | Visitors comparing lower-cost downtown accommodation |
| Other downtown Fresno hotels | Central business district | Longer stays and visitors combining multiple downtown appointments |
| North Fresno / airport-area hotels | Outside the downtown event district | Travelers prioritizing highway or airport convenience over walking access |
Hotel prices, operations, availability, and parking charges change by travel date. The listed options are location comparisons, not guaranteed vacancies or room rates.
Four Hotel Checks Before Booking
- Ask the convention organizer if a discounted room block is available.
- Compare walking distance to the correct event entrance, not just the building’s map pin.
- Check hotel parking, breakfast charges, accessible rooms and cancellation terms.
- For late-night events, review the return route and whether you prefer walking, driving or a hired ride.
For another California convention-hotel comparison, see our DoubleTree Suites Anaheim Convention Center hotel guide, which explains hotel parking, walking routes and conference travel decisions.
Fresno Convention Center Map and Local Orientation
Main building: 848 M Street, Fresno, CA 93721. The surrounding event complex extends toward Selland Arena and Saroyan Theatre, with parking access from the O Street and Inyo Street area.
Local Orientation for First-Time Visitors
- M Street: Main reference for the Convention Center, Selland Arena and Saroyan Theatre.
- O and Inyo Streets: City-owned Convention Center Garage access area.
- Ventura Street: Useful approach near the DoubleTree hotel and Highway 99 connection.
- Tulare Street: Public transit access and part of the surrounding downtown street network.
- Nearby downtown area: Restaurants, government offices, hotels and other destinations may be affected by event-day parking and street activity.
How to Book Fresno Convention Center for a Conference or Expo
Event organizers should start by matching the room configuration to the expected attendance, exhibition area, food service and technical requirements. Venue rental pricing is quote-based rather than a universal public admission fee.
Event Planning Contacts
Venue rental, planning inquiries and available event facilities.
info@fresnoconventioncenter.com
Booking Micro-Steps
- Define your event. Note whether it is a conference, exhibit, wedding, banquet, graduation or community gathering.
- Prepare your requirements. List preferred dates, estimated attendance, space size, stage, booths, breakout rooms and catering needs.
- Select likely facilities. Compare the three exhibit halls and second-floor meeting spaces described earlier.
- Budget for additional services. Ask about audiovisual equipment, utilities, security, cleaning, staffing, Wi-Fi, catering and loading arrangements.
- Send the venue inquiry. Use the official booking/contact page or call the event-sales number.
- Review the final proposal. Confirm availability, permitted occupancy, insurance, deposits, cancellation rules, contracted services and event access times before signing.
More California Convention Center and Travel Guides
Planning several events across California? These related guides help compare visitor parking, exhibition venues, accommodations and local travel arrangements.
Final Fresno Convention Center Visitor Checklist
Before Leaving Home
- Confirm date, ticket and exact event location.
- Check your assigned hall or building.
- Check registration and door-opening time.
- Review current parking rates.
- Bring a valid payment card.
- Check bag and security restrictions.
When You Arrive
- Use the event-designated entrance.
- Follow temporary parking and entry signs.
- Keep your ticket or registration ready.
- Locate restrooms and accessible routes.
- Allow additional screening time.
- Record your parking level or section.
Fresno Convention Center: 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is Fresno Convention Center located?
The main Fresno Convention Center is at 848 M Street, Fresno, CA 93721, in downtown Fresno. Selland Arena and Saroyan Theatre are separate neighboring venues within the broader entertainment complex.
2. How much does parking cost at Fresno Convention Center?
The City of Fresno lists normal weekday Convention Center Garage rates of $3 for the first hour, $1 for each additional hour and a $9 maximum. Special-event garage parking is listed at $10–$25. Other downtown event parking can cost more, so follow the posted event rate.
3. Is Fresno Convention Center parking free on weekends?
The City normally offers free garage parking after 6 PM and on weekends, except during applicable Convention Center complex events. Nearby meters can also be enforced during events, so weekend parking is not always free.
4. Where can I find Fresno Convention Center upcoming events?
Use the Fresno Convention & Entertainment Center’s published event calendar. Check the specific event listing for date, venue, tickets, registration and entry time, because not all events take place inside the exhibition halls.
5. What hotel is near Fresno Convention Center?
DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center at 2233 Ventura Street is adjacent to the event complex. Other downtown Fresno accommodations may be useful depending on your budget, event entrance and parking requirements.
6. Is Fresno Convention Center wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Convention Center provides accessible routes, restrooms, elevator access to the second floor and event-dependent accessible seating arrangements. Accessible parking is available in designated areas, subject to availability.
7. How large is Fresno Convention Center?
The three exhibit halls provide a combined 66,371 square feet of exhibition area. The facility also has 20 second-floor meeting rooms and additional pre-function lobby space.
8. Can I take a bus to Fresno Convention Center?
Yes. Fresno Area Express routes serve the downtown area. The venue highlights routes 1 and 34 on M Street, route 26 on Ventura Street and route 32 on Tulare Street. Confirm current service before departure.
9. How do I book an event at Fresno Convention Center?
Contact the venue’s sales and events team at (559) 621-8742 or use the official contact page. Provide preferred dates, estimated attendance, hall requirements and technical or catering needs to request a proposal.
10. Does Fresno Convention Center have one fixed opening time?
No. Public entry times depend on the scheduled event, organizer and building. Use the specific event listing or registration instructions rather than assuming one universal Convention Center opening time.
Official Sources and Useful Contacts
These authoritative sources provide the final ticket, parking, booking and policy actions after reviewing the visitor information above.