The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Bakersfield

Experience the heart of California in Bakersfield.

03 May 2023

Bakersfield is a charming city located in the southern region of California known for its rich agricultural heritage and country music scene. As a tourist, you can explore the vintage treasures of Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, experience the thrill of racing at the Kern County Raceway, or sample delicious farm-to-table cuisine at local restaurants and farmers' markets. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a music fan, Bakersfield has something unique to offer everyone.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

A Foray into Bakersfield's Best Attractions

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at The Broken Yolk Cafe, an eatery known for its delectable pancakes and omelets.
  • Next, take a stroll around the Kern County Museum, which boasts 16 acres of intriguing exhibits, including a 19th-century frontier village, a blacksmith shop, and an oil derrick.
  • Head to the nearby Crystal Palace and Museum to explore the fascinating memorabilia of legendary country singer Buck Owens, and catch a show of live music at the venue he founded.
  • For lunch, grab a sandwich and a beer at Lengthwise Brewing Company, a local brewery that serves up satisfying bites and refreshing brews.
  • Cap off the day with a visit to the Rabobank Arena, Theater and Convention Center, where you can catch a game or a concert, depending on the schedule.
  • Stay: Hotel Rosedale this hotel boasts comfortable accommodations, a relaxing pool area, and a great location near many attractions.
Day 2

A Day to Savor Bakersfield's Food and Drinks

  • Start with a coffee and pastry at Dagny's Coffee Company, a quirky cafe with funky decor and a cozy vibe.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Murray Family Farms, where you can pick your own produce, pet some animals, and indulge in artisanal treats.
  • For lunch, head to The Padre Hotel's Belvedere Room, a swanky restaurant that serves up gourmet dishes and craft cocktails in a chic setting.
  • Spend the afternoon tasting some of the area's best wines at one of the nearby wineries, such as the award-winning Famoso Hills Vineyard and Winery.
  • End the evening with a nightcap at The Mark, a hip cocktail lounge that offers a unique and innovative drink menu, as well as live music.
  • Stay: Padre Hotel this stylish hotel offers luxurious rooms, a rooftop pool, and a prime downtown location.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bakersfield by plane is to fly into Meadows Field Airport (BFL) which is located about 7 miles north-west of the city. Major airlines like United, American or Delta provide daily flights to BFL from major cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver or Phoenix.

Car

Bakersfield is easily accessible via major highways like Interstate 5 or 99. If you're driving from San Francisco or Los Angeles, you can reach Bakersfield by taking Interstate 5 which passes through the western part of the city. Alternatively, you can take Highway 99 which connects Sacramento, Fresno, and Bakersfield.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Bakersfield. The nearest Amtrak stations are located in Fresno and Los Angeles.

Boat

Since Bakersfield is landlocked and there are no ports nearby, boat transportation isn't an option for this destination.

Bus

You can reach Bakersfield by bus by taking greyhound bus services which operate from different cities across California like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Fresno or Sacramento. The Greyhound station is located at 1820 18th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301.

Destination

Bakersfield

Bakersfield - where the heat is as sizzling as the local BBQ and the accents are as thick as the pancakes at breakfast diners. Don't be surprised if you leave with a newfound love for country music and cowboy boots.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Scrumptious Bakersfield: Charm, History, and Twanging Fun!

Bakersfield, located in the heart of California, is a great destination for a family friendly trip. With a range of fun activities and attractions, families can enjoy exploring places like CALM (California Living Museum) where they can see native animals up close, or have an exciting adventure at the Kern River Parkway Trail for hiking and biking. The city also offers delicious dining options, such as Dewar's Candy and Ice Cream for a sweet treat, making it a perfect destination for families seeking a memorable getaway.

A Romantic Day Trip to Bakersfield, California

Bakersfield, located in central California, is a perfect destination for a romantic trip. Couples can enjoy long drives on scenic routes, explore local wineries, and indulge in delicious farm-to-table cuisine. The city also offers a variety of cultural attractions such as galleries, theaters, and museums to add to your itinerary.

Bakersfield on a Budget: A Day Trip Guide

Bakersfield, located in the southern part of California, is a city known for its agricultural industry and oil production. Despite being a smaller city, there are many budget-friendly activities to enjoy such as hiking in the nearby mountains or visiting local museums. Additionally, there are numerous affordable dining options, including authentic Mexican cuisine and classic American diners.

Bakersfield Bonanza: 5 Days of Family Fun

Bakersfield, located in California's Central Valley, offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with an abundance of attractions and activities. Explore the captivating exhibits in the California Living Museum, where you can witness diverse wildlife up close, or indulge in fun-filled water adventures at the popular McMurtrey Aquatic Center. Additionally, enjoy quality family time at the scenic Murray Family Farms, where you can pick your own fruits, have thrilling hayrides, and savor delicious homemade treats.