The Best Things to do in Bakersfield
By Mei Chen
Bakersfield may surprise you with its mix of hidden gems and homegrown charm. This city offers a blend of culture, nature, and unique activities that you can’t experience anywhere else. Here’s a curated list of five must-dos if you want to really get a feel for what Bakersfield is all about.
1. Kern River Parkway Trail
The Kern River Parkway Trail is the crown jewel of Bakersfield’s outdoor offerings. This 30-mile-long trail winds along the Kern River, providing a peaceful escape for hikers, bikers, and even birdwatchers. Pack a lunch and spend the day outdoors, or if you’re short on time, just take a quick stroll. It’s Bakersfield’s answer to the LA River, but with fewer concrete and more actual nature.
2. Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science
You wouldn’t expect a museum packed with dinosaur fossils and Native American artifacts in a city like Bakersfield, but here we are. The Buena Vista Museum offers hands-on exhibits that are surprisingly engaging for both kids and adults. Plus, where else can you dig for shark teeth in the middle of California?
3. The BLVD
If you’re looking for a place to take the kids (or act like a kid yourself), The BLVD is your spot. Part arcade, part bowling alley, and part restaurant, it’s the place to embrace your inner child. Grab some friends or bring the family; either way, it’s a guaranteed good time without feeling too commercial or chain-like.
4. Murray Family Farms
Just outside Bakersfield, Murray Family Farms is where you can pick your own seasonal fruit, grab a fresh pie, or hang out with some farm animals. It’s a great spot for kids to learn about where food comes from (hint: it’s not the grocery store), and if you time your visit right, you can even catch one of their seasonal festivals.
5. The Padre Hotel’s Rooftop Bar
For a nighttime activity that’s strictly for the adults, head to The Padre Hotel and hit their rooftop bar. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re living a different Bakersfield life—elevated drinks, great views, and no kids in sight. It’s a solid way to cap off your day, and honestly, one of the best nightlife spots in town.
The Complete Guide to Bakersfield
The Best Hotels in Bakersfield
With a mix of culture and laid-back charm, Bakersfield offers great places to stay.
Bakersfield’s Best Restaurants
Bakersfield is a place where agriculture meets culture, and that blend extends to the food scene.
The Things to do in Bakersfield
This city offers a blend of culture, nature, and activities that you can’t experience anywhere else.