Wall-to-wall cascading ivy adorns this patio/courtyard area at the west end of the Peters business building.

The west end patio area houses tables shaded with peppermint striped umbrellas and a soothing fountain that flows freely.

As students begin the fall semester at Fresno State, this will become a popular gathering spot to cool down and take a break from the high temperatures that remain in Fresno well into September.

"For anyone looking for a shaded and cool place on campus, look no further than the west end patio courtyard area of the business building," said Traci Obata (Undergraduate Admissions). "It is enveloped with lush, green, cascading ivy vines that make this area one of the coolest places to escape the summer heat."

This is just one of many beautiful patio and courtyard areas at Fresno State for students, staff and faculty to enjoy all year long.

"I was so tempted to stick my feet in the cool water fountain as the temperature climbed to about 103 on Friday," Traci said.