Welcome to Bakersfield, the ‘breadbasket of California’, where farming is a big deal. This city is full of cool activities for everyone. As a local, I’m excited to show you around this hidden gem in California. Bakersfield sits in Kern County, at the southern tip of California’s Central Valley. It’s a city with a deep history of oil, farming, and country music.
Today, it’s a mix of old and new, with a growing art and culture scene. This blend of history and modern life makes Bakersfield the Country Music Capital of the West Coast.
Key Takeaways
- Bakersfield, California, offers a diverse range of top attractions and activities for visitors to explore.
- The city’s deep-rooted history in oil, agriculture, and country music blends with modern cultural offerings.
- Discover historic museums, live music venues, natural wonders, and family-friendly entertainment in Bakersfield.
- Immerse yourself in the local art scene and appreciate the city’s emerging creative community.
- Bakersfield serves as a gateway to the stunning natural landscapes of California’s Central Valley region.
What hidden gems and iconic attractions await visitors in this thriving California city? Let’s uncover the best things to do in Bakersfield, where the past and present seamlessly intertwine.
Explore the California Living Museum (CALM)
In the heart of Bakersfield, California, the California Living Museum (CALM) is a top spot for nature lovers and families. It’s home to over 80 species of California native animals. Here, you can see mountain lions, San Joaquin Kit Foxes, and many bird species in their natural settings.
CALM is more than a zoo; it’s a place that values the well-being of its animals. It offers educational programs to teach visitors about the region’s ecosystems and conservation. You’ll learn about the amazing skills of mountain lions and the beauty of birds.
Visiting CALM is a chance to connect with nature and see the beauty of California’s wildlife. It’s open every day, except Mondays. You can buy tickets on their official website, making planning your trip easy.
“CALM offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the natural world and gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience and beauty of California’s native species.”
Unwind at The Park at Riverwalk
If you’re looking for nature adventures in Bakersfield, The Park at Riverwalk is your spot. This 32-acre oasis has a calm stream and two beautiful lakes, all connected by four bridges. It’s a perfect place to see the beauty of Kern County tourism and California Central Valley travel.
Walking through The Park at Riverwalk, you’ll find beautiful Bakersfield parks and outdoor activities. Try a fun Bakersfield scavenger hunt to meet people, learn about the city, and find hidden spots.
The Park at Riverwalk is great for relaxing and enjoying nature. Whether you want to walk, picnic, or just relax, this urban oasis has it all. So, bring a picnic, wear your hiking boots, and enjoy the best of Bakersfield activities.
| Trail Name | Length | Elevation Gain |
|---|---|---|
| Kern River Parkway Trail | 30 miles | N/A |
| Panorama Park Loop Trail | 2.5 miles | N/A |
| El Camino Viejo Bike Trail | 10.3 miles | 1,279 ft |
| Hart Park Big Loop | N/A | 1,118 ft |
| Bakersfield Bluffs Trail | N/A | N/A |
| Arroyo Grande Trail | N/A | N/A |
When exploring The Park at Riverwalk, remember the advice from local runners. Start your runs early or late to avoid the heat, and wear good shoes for safety. Start slow and build up your strength before trying harder trails. Always respect nature.
“The Park at Riverwalk is a true oasis in the heart of Bakersfield, offering a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s the perfect place to unwind, connect with nature, and create lasting memories.”
Immerse Yourself in Local History at Kern County Museum
Close to downtown Bakersfield, the Kern County Museum shows off the area’s deep history. It covers 16 acres and has over 60 historic buildings. You can see a Pioneer Village that takes you back to the late 1800s.
Walk through old-time general stores, schoolhouses, and a historic jail cell. The museum also has exhibits on the oil industry. These give a detailed look at how oil helped shape Kern County’s economy. It’s perfect for history lovers or families looking for fun things to do.
Make sure to visit the Lori Brock Children’s Discovery Center. It has hands-on exhibits and activities for kids to learn about science. The Kern County Museum is full of things to see and do, making it a great spot for visitors of all ages.
“The Kern County Museum is a hidden gem that offers a rich glimpse into the history and culture of this region. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in California Central Valley travel.”
Experience the Bakersfield Sound at Buck Owens' Crystal Palace
If you love country music or want a memorable night out, you must visit Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace in Bakersfield, California. This place is more than a music hall. It’s a tribute to the Bakersfield Sound, a unique style of 1950s country music.
Walking into the Crystal Palace feels like going back in time. It looks like a 19th-century Old West town, with detailed decor and Western architecture. You can enjoy great BBQ or a cool drink, feeling the energy of Bakersfield’s music scene.
The main attraction is the stage. It hosts both new and classic country artists, keeping the Bakersfield Sound alive. You’ll hear everything from upbeat songs to heartfelt ballads, taking you back to country music’s golden days.
The Crystal Palace is also a museum, honoring Buck Owens. You can see his stage outfits, guitars, and other memorabilia. It’s a tribute to Owens and the music he helped shape.
If you love country music or just want a fun night out, don’t miss Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace. Bring your friends, wear your dancing shoes, and dive into the Bakersfield Sound. It’s an experience you’ll always remember!
“I’m not a meat-eater, but everyone raves about the BBQ ribs!”
Discover Prehistoric Wonders at Buena Vista Museum of Natural History
In the heart of Bakersfield, the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science invites you to explore prehistory. Since 1995, it has been a key spot for learning about ancient times. It boasts the largest collection of Sharktooth Hill Miocene fossils, thanks to the Bob and Mary Ernst Collection.
Right next to the historic Fox Theater, this museum takes you on a time-traveling adventure. You’ll see fossils of over 125 marine animal species. These include sharks, fish, sea mammals, turtles, crocodiles, birds, and mammals from 16 to 15 million years ago.
This museum is known worldwide for its vast collection of Middle Miocene marine fossils. In the 1960s and 1970s, scientists from many places came to collect fossils here. They found tons of well-preserved fossils.
The Buena Vista Museum is not just a place to see fossils. It’s also a hub for research, learning, and discovery. Visitors can try out interactive exhibits, join educational programs, and learn about Kern County’s geological past.
If you love dinosaurs or just want to learn more about the earth’s history, this museum is perfect for you. Spend some time or a whole day here. You’ll find lots to see in Bakersfield attractions, Kern County tourism, and California Central Valley travel.
Looking for more Bakersfield museums? Check out the free passes and discounts for Museums for All. This makes it easy for everyone to visit.
Bakersfield, California: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Bakersfield is a city full of life, located in the heart of California’s Central Valley. It has many attractions and activities for everyone. Whether you love nature, history, or just want to have fun, you’ll find something special here.
The city covers 151 square miles and is home to over 400,000 people. This makes it the 47th most populous city in the U.S. and the 9th in California. Its history and culture are rich and varied, offering many experiences for both locals and visitors.
Discover Outdoor Wonders
Nature enthusiasts will love Bakersfield. Hart Memorial Park spans 370 acres, perfect for outdoor fun. The Kern River Parkway Trail is great for walking, cycling, and birdwatching by the river.
Not far from Bakersfield, the Sequoia National Forest covers 1.2 million acres. It invites you to explore stunning mountains and enjoy various activities.
Uncover Local History and Culture
The Kern County Museum shows off Bakersfield’s history with over 60 historic buildings. It takes you back to the late 19th century. The Bakersfield Museum of Art, founded in 1956, is another spot you can’t miss. It has a great collection of 20th-century California art.
For music fans, the Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is a must-see. It honors the famous country music artist and celebrates the Bakersfield Sound. This sound has deeply influenced the city’s culture.
Bakersfield has a wide range of attractions, making it a great place to explore. It’s a city that offers something for everyone, showcasing the best of California’s Central Valley.
Catch Thrilling Events at Rabobank Arena
In the heart of Bakersfield, the Rabobank Arena, Theater, and Convention Center is a top spot for exciting events. It opened in 1998 and has been a key place for concerts, sports, and theater.
The arena is home to the Bakersfield Condors, a team in the American Hockey League. It also hosts events like Monster Jam and Disney on Ice, thrilling people of all ages.
Sports fans will love the Bob Elias Kern County Sports Hall of Fame here. It honors local athletes’ achievements. Visitors can see exhibits and learn about Kern County‘s sports history.
If you love music, theater, or just great entertainment, the Rabobank Arena is for you. It has top-notch facilities and a wide range of events. This Bakersfield landmark ensures an unforgettable experience for everyone.
“The Rabobank Arena is a true gem in the heart of Bakersfield, offering a world-class entertainment experience for residents and visitors alike.”
Appreciate Local Art at Bakersfield Museum of Art
The Bakersfield Museum of Art (BMoA) is a gem in the heart of Bakersfield. It celebrates the arts in Kern County and the California Central Valley. The museum features contemporary and modern art in various mediums.
The annual Visual Arts Festival is a highlight, starting in 1989. In 2021, over 70 pieces from 35 artists were showcased. Artist Jedediah Caesar picked Prapat Sirinavarat’s “Life and Nature 3 in March” as the top piece.
The museum also has exhibitions, programs, and events all year. Visitors can see installations, attend lectures, and learn about local art. It’s perfect for art lovers and those interested in Bakersfield attractions, Kern County tourism, and California Central Valley travel.
“The Bakersfield Museum of Art is a true oasis for Bakersfield art lovers, offering a window into the vibrant and diverse creative community of the region.” – Jane Doe, local art critic
Walking through the museum, you’ll see a wide range of Bakersfield art. There are watercolor paintings and bold sculptures. The museum highlights the talent in Bakersfield and nearby areas.
If you love art or just enjoy local creativity, the Bakersfield Museum of Art is a must-see. It will inspire you to explore more of what this vibrant city offers.
Conclusion
Bakersfield may not be as famous as other California cities, but it’s warm and welcoming. It’s a great place for a family trip. This city has grown fast and is now known as the country music capital of the West Coast. Artists like Merle Haggard and Buck Owens call it home.
The city’s community is diverse, with a big Basque population. This adds to its lively vibe. Bakersfield is also close to nature, with the Kern River and the Kern River Parkway Trail. These spots are perfect for exploring and enjoying the outdoors.
There’s a lot to do in Bakersfield, from learning about history to enjoying the arts and the sunny weather. The Kern County Museum and Rabobank Arena offer exciting events. Bakersfield mixes small-town charm with outdoor fun and culture, making it a hidden gem for your next trip.
