Madera, California, is located in the San Joaquin Valley, a region of highly productive farmland in the center of the state. As of 2009, the population of Madera was approximately 56,000. This town was founded in 1876 by a lumber company -- "madera" is the Spanish word for lumber. Some former famous residents include recording artist Bill Aken, space science writer Kelly Beatty and portrait artist Marcus Dorado. For those traveling in the area with a canine friend, there are several motels from which to choose.
Located in the heart of Madera, the Super 8 is only five minutes from the Madera Airport and 40 minutes from the Fresno Airport. Offering a pool and free wireless Internet, the Super 8 will allow your dog to stay with you for $5 per day, as of 2011. This hotel has a restaurant on site, and several national chains such as Burger King, IHOP and Panda Express are nearby. Local attractions include Bass Lake, the county fairgrounds, Sequoia National Park and the Madera Speedway.
The Days Inn of Madera allows pets for a $10 charge, as of 2011. Each room has a microwave and fridge, and high-speed wireless Internet access is complimentary. On site, you can eat at the Farnesis restaurant, or you can dine out at Bobby Sals Mexican, Jack in the Box, Taco Bell, IHOP, Chubby's and Carls Jr., all of which are within walking distance. Local attractions include the Madera Speedway, the Madera Municipal or Riverbend golf courses and the Flicklin Vineyard's or Quady wineries.
At the Motel 6 in Madera, your dog can stay for free. This hotel also offers a coin laundry, an indoor pool with a sauna and hot tub and free wireless Internet access. Nearby attractions include the Madera Fairgrounds, the Island Water Park, the Fresno Underground Forest and Camelot Park. There are several fast food chain restaurants within walking distance, including Dairy Queen, Wendy's, Subway and Quiznos. The local IHOP is dog-friendly if you dine outdoors.
The next closest dog-friendly hotel is in northwest Fresno, about 15 minutes southeast of downtown Madera. It offers guest laundry facilities, a fitness center, a business center and a free breakfast of waffles and muffins. Nearby, you can dine at In-N-Out Burger, Wo Chinese, Oishi Japanese, Applebee's, Brahma Bull Indian, Ton Roma's or Tahoe Joe's Steakhouse. The Forestiere Underground Gardens are less than a mile away, and the Fresno Chaffee Zoo is a 10-minute drive. Other area attractions include Saroyan Theater, Fashion Fair Mall, Island Waterpark and the Shops at Riverpark.
