Bakersfield, CA, is a great place, but what are the must-do things in Bakersfield. The city has much history and culture, which you can explore through its museums and art galleries.
There are also plenty of parks and outdoor spaces where you can enjoy the California sun. Plus, Bakersfield is home to some great restaurants and nightlife spots. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Bakersfield.
#1 Hart Memorial Park
Hart Memorial Park is one of the most popular parks in Bakersfield. It has a playground, picnic tables, and a basketball court. There is also a fishing pond and a walking trail.
It nestles along Kern River in the foothills, approximately 20 minutes from downtown by car or public transportation, and there are plenty more reasons why this space deserves your time! You’ll find picnic tables alongside scenic pathways leading you to two fishing lakes stocked with rainbow trout.
#2 Kern County Museum
The Kern County Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Bakersfield and Kern County. The museum has many exhibits on the area’s history, including the early days of oil production in Kern County.
It immerses visitors into the storied history of this San Joaquin Valley town with costumed characters and well-preserved artifacts, including buildings that date back over 160 years! The Pioneer Village outdoor museum spans 16 acres – showcasing many different types of architecture, from ranch houses to schools (some even still have their original desks).
You can witness live art in action by watching artists paint large murals right before your eyes while learning about how oil production brought much growth to our region’s economy, along with some other interesting facts too!
#3 Fox Theater
The Fox Theater is a historic theater in downtown Bakersfield. The theater was built in 1930 and was initially used as a movie theater. Today, the theater is used for live performances, including music and comedy shows. The theater has a large stage and a beautiful auditorium. The theater is also available for rental for private events.
It is a historical venue in Bakersfield known for its ornate interior and excellent acoustics. Originally, it was used as a silent movie house before showcasing “talkies” on the screen later down through today’s live performances, adding great sound effects to enjoy while you’re here!
#4 Kern River Parkway Trail
The Kern River Parkway Trail is a 12-mile trail that runs along the Kern River. The trail is used for walking, running, and biking. It is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. The trail offers scenic views of the Kern River and the surrounding mountains.
And it’s open to the public from sunrise to sunset. What’s more California-themed than following along the banks of an iconic river? The Kern River Parkway Trail provides a free and fun way to spend your day connecting many natural spaces.
#5 Bakersfield Museum Of Art
The Bakersfield Museum of Art is a great place to see some art. The museum has many exhibits, including a rotating exhibit of contemporary art. The museum also has a sculpture garden. The Bakersfield Museum of Art is open Tuesday through Sunday.
The permanent collection holds 20th-century California artists, with rotating exhibits from national touring collections ensuring something new to see each visit- even if you’ve been before!
#6 Sequoia National Forest
Sequoia National Forest is a national forest in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is home to giant sequoia trees, the largest in the world.
This outstanding national park encompasses wild rivers with Glacier-carved canyons along its course through granite peaks before ending in at least 30 groves of towering sequoias trees!
Popular ways you could explore this lush natural space include backpacking, hiking, whitewater rafting, kayaking, or spending the night under the stars while listening to the sounds of howling coyotes in the distance.
#7 Rabobank Arena, Theater & Convention Center
Rabobank Arena, Theater & Convention Center is home to the Bakersfield Condors, a minor league hockey team. It is a modern, multi-use performance space that can host concerts and other large-scale events. It’s home to the Bakersfield Condors of the American Hockey League and Broadway performances, in addition to top sporting gatherings such as Disney on Ice or monster truck rallies!
#8 Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is a restaurant, concert venue, and museum. The Palace is open for lunch and dinner. It also has a museum with exhibits about the life and career of Buck Owens. The Palace also hosts live music shows.
At the Crystal Palace, you’ll find all your favorite country tunes played by live musicians weekly. From appetizer performances to main event headliners – there’s something for everyone at this venue. And visit their museum too!
#9 Downtown Bakersfield
Downtown Bakersfield is the central business district of Bakersfield. It is home to many businesses, including restaurants, shops, and offices.
Head to downtown for some of Bakersfield’s most delicious foodie treats. The large central district is lined with dozens of trendy cafes that offer local menus and beautiful storefronts.
It makes it the perfect spot when you’re looking forward to something new but also want comfort after exploring all day! This place has everything- from fashion trends (think: vintage clothes)to antiques; there isn’t any shopping you can’t do here.
#10 California Living Museum
The California Living Museum (CALM) provides a home for injured and non-releasable native animals in northeast Kern County. Nonprofit organizations help protect wildlife locally while inspiring visitors with hands-on experiences at their facility outside downtown Bakersfield, CA, near Hart Memorial Park.
The CALM animal shelter is part of the larger Kern River County Park that offers scenic appeal along the pipeline route through town to Lake Ming, which has campgrounds where one can spend overnight if desired. The main attractions are reptiles and mammals that have a second chance thanks to the care and dedication of the staff.
Final Thoughts
Bakersfield is a great place to visit. There are many things to do in Bakersfield, CA. You will not be bored when you visit Bakersfield. There are things to do for everyone in Bakersfield. Now let’s look at things to do in South Lake Tahoe, Palo Alto, and San Clemente.
