What are the things to do in Bakersfield CA?

[Khushi]

What would be the fun and exciting things to do in Bakersfield CA? Please share!

 

[alenaghose]

Absolutely! There is more than you think to pursue in Bakersfield. Here are some exciting ideas:

Buckminister Owens’ Crystal Palace – Live country music, great food, and museum vibe focused on Buck Owens. Super fun spot!

Biking thru the Kern River Parkway Trail, a scenic walk by the river.

California Living Museum (CALM) – local wildlife with a emphasis on families (or people who adore animals).

The Beach – Beautiful California beach near Santa Barbara with party town Salinas nearby.

Murray Family Farms – Pick-your-own fruit, hayrides, and a fun little market.

 

[Helen]

Step back in time at the Kern County Museum, where you’ll find over 50 historic buildings showcasing California’s rich oil and agricultural history. The museum’s Pioneer Village is a hit with families, and the Black Gold exhibit highlights Bakersfield’s oil industry. It’s an engaging, educational experience that captures the spirit of the Central Valley.

 

[Williams Henry]

The Bakersfield Museum of Art offers a diverse range of exhibits featuring local, regional, and national artists. Set within the scenic Central Park, it’s a relaxing place to appreciate visual art. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions and creative workshops, making it a cultural gem for art enthusiasts and a peaceful retreat for visitors.

 

[Miller Jones]

Catch a concert, comedy show, or film screening at the iconic Fox Theater, a restored 1930s landmark in downtown Bakersfield. With its beautiful Art Deco design and excellent acoustics, it’s a great place to experience live entertainment. The theater often features classic films, local performances, and national touring acts.

 

[Charlotte]

Enjoy the outdoors with a walk or bike ride along the Kern River Parkway Trail. This scenic path runs for miles alongside the Kern River, offering views of natural landscapes and peaceful picnic spots. It’s ideal for joggers, cyclists, and anyone looking to connect with nature while staying close to the city.

 

[Kinsley]

• Kern County Museum
  
  • Explore over 50 historic buildings
  • Learn about California's oil and pioneer history
• Bakersfield Museum of Art
  
  • Features local and national exhibits
  • Located in a scenic downtown park setting
• Fox Theater
  
  • Iconic 1930s venue for concerts and films
  • Known for its Art Deco architecture
• Kern River Parkway Trail
  
  • Ideal for walking, running, and cycling
  • Scenic views and peaceful outdoor experience
• Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
  
  • Live country music and museum in one
  • Tribute to the “Bakersfield Sound” movement
• The Park at River Walk
  
  • Beautiful city park with lakes and trails
  • Great for picnics and family outings
• California Living Museum (CALM)
  
  • Wildlife exhibits with native animals
  • Train rides and seasonal lights show
• Haggin Oaks Farmers Market
  
  • Fresh produce, live music, and local crafts
  • Held weekly with a lively community vibe

 

[Jackson]

Stop by one of Bakersfield’s farmers markets to sample fresh, local produce, baked goods, and artisan products. The Haggin Oaks Farmers Market is a community favorite, offering live music and food trucks in addition to local fare. It’s a lively way to enjoy the region’s agricultural bounty and meet friendly locals.

 

[Emly]

CALM is a wildlife rehabilitation zoo that showcases native California animals in a natural habitat setting. You’ll see bears, bobcats, birds of prey, and more. The park also has a train ride, interactive exhibits, and seasonal events like the HolidayLights Festival. It’s an educational and fun destination for families.

 

[Christain]

The Park at River Walk is a beautiful, family-friendly space with lakes, walking trails, and shaded picnic areas. It’s a popular spot for outdoor concerts, relaxing strolls, or just enjoying nature in the heart of the city. Kids love feeding ducks at the pond, and the landscape offers stunning photo ops.

 

[Peterkavinsky]

Fun things to do in Bakersfield, CA include exploring the California Living Museum (CALM), hiking at Panorama Park, catching a show at Fox Theater, enjoying country music at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, and kayaking on the Kern River.

 

[Helen]

Bakersfield, California, offers a variety of attractions that showcase its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Music enthusiasts can visit the Buck Owens Crystal Palace, a venue that combines live performances with a museum dedicated to the country music legend . For a taste of local history, the Kern County Museum features over 50 preserved buildings from the 19th century, providing insight into pioneer life . Nature lovers can explore the California Living Museum (CALM), a zoo focusing on native Californian wildlife , or enjoy outdoor activities along the Kern River Parkway Trail, ideal for walking and biking . For a unique dining experience, the Five and Dime Antique Mall houses the last remaining Woolworth's lunch counter in the U.S., offering classic American dishes in a nostalgic setting . Whether you're interested in music, history, nature, or culinary experiences, Bakersfield provides a diverse range of activities to enjoy.

 

[Shopia]

Bakersfield offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical attractions. At the Kern County Museum, visitors can explore Pioneer Village, featuring over 50 historic buildings that showcase life in the late 19th century. The Bakersfield Museum of Art, located in Central Park, presents a diverse range of art collections, from contemporary works to regional pieces. For music enthusiasts, the Fox Theater, a historic performing arts venue, hosts a variety of events, including ballets, community events, and concerts. Additionally, the Five and Dime Antique Mall, housed in the historic Woolworth Building, features America's last remaining Woolworth's lunch counter, offering classic American dishes in a nostalgic setting .

 

[Evelin]

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Kern River Parkway provides a 6,000-acre natural preserve with trails for jogging, biking, and equestrian activities, along with several lakes and parks such as Beach Park and Hart Park . A short drive east leads to the Sequoia National Forest, offering opportunities for hiking, whitewater rafting, and camping amidst towering sequoia trees and scenic landscapes . Culinary explorers can savor authentic flavors at Punjabi Dhaba, a beloved Indian eatery known for dishes like chicken tikka masala and malai kofta , or enjoy traditional Mexican cuisine at Mexicali, a family-owned restaurant setting standards in California Mexican cuisine since 1957

 

[Alexendar]

Explore Bakersfield’s musical roots at the Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, a museum, restaurant, and live music venue celebrating the Bakersfield sound. Dive deeper into local history at the Kern County Museum, featuring historic buildings and exhibits about California’s oil and pioneer past.

 

[Blakley]

Enjoy nature at Hart Memorial Park, where you can picnic, fish, or hike along scenic trails. For more active fun, head to Kern River Parkway Trail for biking or jogging, or explore the nearby Wind Wolves Preserve, a vast wildlife area perfect for hiking and spotting animals.

 

[Churco]

Take the kids to CALM (California Living Museum) to see native animals like bobcats and bears, or explore interactive exhibits at Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science. The Bakersfield Museum of Art also offers family-friendly programs and exhibits.

 

[Smith]

Stroll through the Kern County Farmers Market for local produce and treats, or sample Basque cuisine at long-standing spots like Wool Growers. For a chill afternoon, grab coffee downtown and explore art galleries, boutiques, and live music in the Arts District.