Did you know that Kern County is home to the largest wind farm in California, generating enough clean energy to power over 400,000 homes? This often-overlooked region in Central California is a treasure trove of surprising attractions, from the birthplace of the distinctive “Bakersfield Sound” country music to breathtaking natural wonders. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a unique destination off the beaten path, Kern County delivers with authentic California charm and diversity that few visitors expect.
Plan Your Kern County Adventure
Ready to explore all that Kern County has to offer? Start planning your perfect trip today with these essential travel resources:
Best Time to Visit Kern County
Kern County experiences a desert-like climate with hot summers and mild winters. The ideal times to visit are during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities.
Spring (March-May)
Spring brings comfortable temperatures ranging from 68°F to 84°F (20°C to 29°C). This is the perfect season to witness wildflower blooms in the foothills and enjoy outdoor activities before the summer heat arrives. Spring also features several local festivals and events.
Fall (September-November)
Fall offers similar comfortable temperatures to spring, ranging from 65°F to 89°F (18°C to 32°C). The crowds thin out after summer, making it an excellent time to explore popular attractions without the bustle. Fall harvests also bring special events at local farms.
| Season | Temperature Range | Precipitation | Crowd Levels | Recommended Activities |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 38°F-64°F (3°C-18°C) | Moderate (0.8-1.2 inches monthly) | Low | Museum visits, holiday events, Sequoia National Forest snow activities |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 46°F-84°F (8°C-29°C) | Low (0.2-1.4 inches monthly) | Medium | Wildflower viewing, hiking, Kern River activities, festivals |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 64°F-97°F (18°C-36°C) | Very Low (0-0.1 inches monthly) | High | Water activities, early morning hikes, indoor attractions |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 44°F-89°F (7°C-32°C) | Low (0.2-0.6 inches monthly) | Medium-Low | Farm visits, hiking, outdoor events, Basque dining |
Getting to Kern County
By Air
Meadows Field Airport (BFL) in Bakersfield serves Kern County with connections to major hubs. Alternatively, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is about a 2-hour drive south, offering more flight options.
By Car
Kern County is easily accessible via Interstate 5 and Highway 99, which run north-south through the region. From Los Angeles, the drive takes approximately 2 hours, while from San Francisco, it’s about a 4-hour journey.
By Bus
Greyhound and Amtrak bus services connect Bakersfield to major California cities. The Amtrak San Joaquin route offers train service to Bakersfield with bus connections to Los Angeles and other destinations.
Getting Around Kern County
Kern County is spread out, making a car essential for exploring the region efficiently. While public transportation exists in Bakersfield, it has limited reach to outlying attractions.
Rental Cars
The most convenient way to explore Kern County is by car. Major rental companies operate at Meadows Field Airport and throughout Bakersfield. Having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to visit remote attractions and scenic areas at your own pace.
Public Transportation
Golden Empire Transit (GET) provides bus service throughout Bakersfield. Kern Transit offers intercity routes connecting communities across the county. While useful for getting around Bakersfield, public transit has limited service to many attractions outside the city.
Where to Stay in Kern County
Downtown Bakersfield
Stay in the heart of Kern County’s largest city for easy access to dining, shopping, and cultural attractions like the Fox Theater and Bakersfield Museum of Art. The historic Padre Hotel offers upscale accommodations with character, while several chain hotels provide reliable comfort.
Lake Isabella Area
For outdoor enthusiasts, the communities around Lake Isabella offer cabins, campgrounds, and modest hotels. This location provides easy access to water activities, Sequoia National Forest, and the Kern River for whitewater rafting adventures.
Tehachapi
This charming mountain community offers a cooler climate and small-town atmosphere. Stay in local B&Bs or hotels to explore Tehachapi’s wineries, hiking trails, and the famous Tehachapi Loop railroad engineering marvel.
Top Attractions in Kern County
Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
A mecca for country music fans, Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace combines a restaurant, museum, and live music venue celebrating the legacy of country music legend Buck Owens. The venue’s Western Revival architecture resembles a 19th-century American town, complete with boardwalks and vintage storefronts. Inside, you’ll find an extensive collection of memorabilia including Buck’s iconic red, white, and blue guitars, stage costumes, and gold records.
Address: 2800 Buck Owens Blvd, Bakersfield, CA 93308
Hours: Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM; Friday & Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Closed Sunday–Wednesday
Pro Tip: Reserve a table for dinner and a show to fully experience the venue’s unique blend of dining and live country music.
Kern County Museum
The Kern County Museum offers a comprehensive look into the region’s rich history, featuring over 50 historic buildings spread across 16 acres in the Pioneer Village. Visitors can explore structures like a one-room schoolhouse, general store, and jail, each meticulously preserved to reflect life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum also houses the Lori Brock Children’s Discovery Center and the fascinating “Black Gold” exhibit detailing Kern County’s significant role in the oil industry.
Address: 3801 Chester Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Closed Monday & Tuesday
Pro Tip: Visit during one of their special events or festivals to experience interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.
The Park at River Walk
The Park at River Walk is a 32-acre public park featuring two lakes connected by a stream, offering a serene environment for relaxation and recreation. The park includes walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a playground, making it a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The Spectrum Amphitheater within the park hosts various concerts and events throughout the year, enhancing the community’s cultural offerings.
Address: 11298 Stockdale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93311
Hours: Open daily from sunrise to 10:00 PM
Pro Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy live music at the Spectrum Amphitheater during summer evenings.
Outdoor Adventures in Kern County
Kern River Parkway Trail
The Kern River Parkway Trail is a 30-mile ribbon of tranquility that winds through the heart of Bakersfield’s natural landscape. Stretching along the Kern River, this expansive trail system connects parks, neighborhoods, and open spaces, creating a seamless corridor for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re on foot, a bicycle, or skates, the trail offers a refreshing alternative to city streets with frequent glimpses of local wildlife.
Address: 10500 Alfred Harrell Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93306
Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
Pro Tip: Start your outing early in the morning when wildlife is most active and the air is cool—perfect for a peaceful walk or invigorating ride.
Sequoia National Forest
Bakersfield is blessed with world-class scenic environments close to the city. The Kern River Canyon starts just northeast of the downtown district and leads deep into the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains, including the enchanting world of Sequoia National Forest. This outstanding national forest encompasses wild and scenic rivers, glacier-carved canyons, and at least 30 groves of towering sequoia trees.
Getting There: Approximately 1-2 hours drive from Bakersfield, depending on which area you visit
Activities: Hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, photography
Pro Tip: Visit Trail of 100 Giants to walk among some of the largest trees on Earth without the crowds of the more famous national parks.
Hart Memorial Park
Hart Memorial Park is the crown-jewel open space of Bakersfield, nestled along the banks of the Kern River in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Among its 370 acres are picnic tables, playgrounds, and paved walking trails. It’s also home to two fishing lakes stocked with rainbow trout, bluegill, and bass. The entire park is dotted with shade thanks to numerous mature trees throughout, making it popular for hikers, family picnickers, and anglers.
Address: Hart Memorial Park, Alfred Harrell Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93308
Hours: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Pro Tip: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to experience the park’s serene beauty and avoid peak temperatures.
Cultural Experiences in Kern County
Fox Theater
Standing tall with its iconic marquee and Art Deco tower, the Fox Theater is Bakersfield’s crown jewel of culture and nostalgia. Since opening in 1930, this beloved venue has evolved from a glamorous movie palace into a live performance powerhouse hosting concerts, film festivals, symphonies, and local showcases. Walking into the theater feels like stepping back in time, with ornate moldings, velvet seats, and golden ceilings welcoming guests into an era of elegance.
Address: 2001 H St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Box Office Hours: Mon–Fri: 10:00 AM–1:00 PM; tickets also sold online
Pro Tip: Book a balcony seat for the best acoustics and views—especially during a live music or stand-up show.
Bakersfield Museum of Art
Tucked away in Central Park and shaded by old-growth trees, the Bakersfield Museum of Art is an oasis for creativity and contemplation. Inside its sunlit galleries, visitors find a rotating selection of contemporary paintings, sculpture, photography, and mixed-media pieces that reflect both local talent and global conversations. The museum’s permanent collection comprises 20th-century California artists, and the outdoor Tejon Ranch Sculpture Garden invites slow strolls and quiet moments.
Address: 1930 R St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Hours: Tues–Sat: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; closed Sunday & Monday
Pro Tip: Visit during First Friday ArtWalk to enjoy extended hours, outdoor vendors, and a festive local art scene.
Basque Dining Experience
Bakersfield boasts a rich Basque heritage, evident in its array of authentic Basque restaurants. These establishments offer hearty meals that begin with a series of communal dishes—soup, beans, salad, and bread—followed by main courses like lamb stew, oxtail, or grilled meats. Dining at places like Chalet Basque, Benji’s, or Wool Growers is not just about the food; it’s about the experience of community and togetherness at long communal tables.
Popular Locations:
- Chalet Basque Restaurant: 200 Oak St, Bakersfield, CA 93304
- Benji’s French Basque Restaurant: 4001 Rosedale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93308
- Wool Growers Restaurant: 620 E 19th St, Bakersfield, CA 93305
Pro Tip: Opt for the traditional family-style dining to experience a variety of dishes and the communal atmosphere that Basque cuisine is known for.
Family-Friendly Attractions in Kern County
California Living Museum (CALM)
If you want to understand California’s wild side, CALM offers a fun, educational, and heartwarming way to do just that. This 14-acre facility serves as a sanctuary for injured, orphaned, and non-releasable native wildlife—everything from bobcats and black bears to golden eagles and porcupines. But it’s also a botanical garden, a living museum, and a kid-friendly zoo all rolled into one. Each exhibit is thoughtfully designed to mimic the animal’s natural environment.
Address: 10500 Alfred Harrell Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93306
Hours: Tues–Sun: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM; closed Mondays
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the HolidayLights event each winter—it’s one of the most dazzling displays in California’s Central Valley.
Murray Family Farms
Murray Family Farms is a beloved destination that offers visitors a genuine taste of farm life combined with family-friendly entertainment. Spanning over 43 acres, the farm provides a plethora of activities, from picking fresh fruits like cherries, strawberries, and peaches to exploring the vibrant fields filled with seasonal crops. The iconic Big Red Barn serves as the heart of the farm, housing a country store stocked with homemade pies, jams, and local produce.
Address: 6700 General Beale Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93307
Hours: Monday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Friday–Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Pro Tip: Arrive early during harvest seasons to enjoy the freshest pick-your-own fruits and avoid the midday crowds.
Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science
Nestled in the heart of downtown Bakersfield, the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science offers an immersive journey through time and nature. Spanning multiple floors, the museum showcases an impressive collection of Miocene-era fossils, including specimens from the nearby Sharktooth Hill. Beyond paleontology, visitors can explore exhibits featuring African, Asian, and North American wildlife mounts, a detailed model of Yosemite Valley, and a replica of a Yokuts Native American village.
Address: 2018 Chester Avenue, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Hours: Thursday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM–4:00 PM; Closed Monday–Wednesday
Pro Tip: Visit on the third Thursday of the month for $2 admission—a great deal for families and curious minds alike.
Seasonal Events in Kern County
Bakersfield Jazz Festival (Spring)
The Bakersfield Jazz Festival is a celebrated annual event that brings together jazz enthusiasts from across the region. Held on the lush grounds of California State University, Bakersfield, the festival showcases a blend of renowned jazz musicians and talented local artists over a two-day period in late April or early May.
Kern County Fair (Fall)
This beloved annual tradition features carnival rides, livestock exhibitions, live entertainment, and an array of food vendors. Typically held in September, the fair draws thousands of visitors with its combination of agricultural heritage and modern entertainment.
Basque Festival (Spring)
Few places outside of Europe celebrate Basque heritage as vibrantly as Bakersfield. Hosted by the Kern County Basque Club over Memorial Day Weekend, this multi-day event honors a legacy of hard work, hospitality, and hearty cuisine with traditional food, music, dancing, and cultural exhibits.
Bakersfield Christmas Parade (Winter)
The Bakersfield Christmas Parade is a cherished annual tradition that brings the community together to celebrate the holiday season. Held in early December, the parade features a delightful array of floats, marching bands, and festive performances that illuminate the streets of downtown Bakersfield.
Kern County Nut Festival (Summer)
Celebrating the county’s agricultural bounty, this festival features nut-themed foods, cooking demonstrations, live entertainment, and family activities. It’s typically held in June at the Kern County Museum, offering a taste of local flavors and culture.
Hot August Nights (Summer)
This classic car show and music festival brings vintage automobiles and rock ‘n’ roll to Bakersfield each August. Featuring car cruises, concerts, and vendor booths, it’s a nostalgic celebration of American automotive and music culture.
Practical Tips for Visiting Kern County
Weather Considerations
Kern County’s climate varies dramatically by season. Summers are hot with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F (32°C), so plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening. Winters are mild but can be chilly, especially in higher elevations. Always check weather forecasts before heading to outdoor attractions, particularly if visiting the mountains where conditions can change rapidly.
Local Etiquette
Kern County has a friendly, down-to-earth culture. Casual attire is acceptable in most places, though some restaurants and venues like Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace appreciate western wear. The area has strong agricultural and oil industry roots, so conversations about these topics are common. Respect for the outdoors is important—always practice “leave no trace” principles when enjoying natural areas.
Safety Information
When exploring outdoor areas, especially during summer, bring plenty of water and sun protection. If hiking or visiting remote areas, inform someone of your plans and expected return time. For water activities on the Kern River, always use proper safety equipment and consider guided tours, as the river can be dangerous with strong currents. In urban areas, take standard precautions with valuables and be aware of your surroundings.
Money-Saving Tips
Many of Kern County’s natural attractions have low or no entrance fees. Look for combination tickets when visiting multiple museums or attractions. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for better accommodation rates. For dining, lunch specials often offer the best value, and many Basque restaurants provide generous portions that can be shared or saved for another meal.
Experience the Unexpected Charm of Kern County
From the twangy notes of the Bakersfield Sound to the towering sequoias of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Kern County offers a diverse tapestry of experiences that surprise and delight visitors. This often-overlooked region of California reveals its treasures to those willing to explore beyond the expected path—whether you’re savoring family-style Basque cuisine, hiking through wildflower-covered hills, or stepping back in time at meticulously preserved historic sites.
What makes Kern County special isn’t just its attractions but the authentic character and warm hospitality you’ll encounter throughout your journey. So pack your sense of adventure and prepare to discover California from a fresh perspective—one where country music legends, outdoor adventures, and cultural gems await around every corner.
Ready to Explore Kern County?
Start planning your perfect Kern County adventure today with these essential travel resources:
