Bakersfield in 3 Days: Budget-Friendly Family Fun!

Discover family fun in Bakersfield – the gateway to unforgettable adventures!

19 July 2023

Bakersfield, located in the southern part of California, offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with its wide array of attractions and activities. Enjoy a day at the California Living Museum, where kids can admire and learn about native wildlife, or head to Murray Family Farms for a fun-filled day of fruit picking, hayrides, and animal encounters. Explore the stunning Kern River Parkway, perfect for bike rides and picnics, and make sure to visit the Kern County Museum for a history lesson in the region's rich heritage.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Breezy Beginnings

  • Check into the retro-chic Padre Hotel, where vintage vibes meet modern comforts.
  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the must-try local gem, Vicky's Stoller. Pancakes the size of flying saucers? Yes, please!
  • Explore Murray Family Farms, a colorful wonderland where you can pick your own juicy, sun-kissed fruits and befriend adorable goats.
  • Indulge in a deliciously unusual lunch at Noriega's Basque Restaurant, where hearty lamb stew and buttery tongue await the curious palate.
  • Visit the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History to unearth Bakersfield's paleontological treasures and maybe even take a selfie with a dinosaur!
  • Spend a relaxed evening strolling the charming streets of downtown and pop into Temblor Brewing for a refreshing locally brewed pint.
Day 2

Nature's Embrace

  • Wake up early for a hike at the breathtaking Wind Wolves Preserve, where golden grasses dance and wildflowers dazzle.
  • Refuel at the colorful and vibrant Khartoum, a Middle Eastern oasis where heavenly hummus and succulent kebabs will transport your taste buds.
  • Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling race at the famous Kern County Raceway, where the roar of engines will make your heart sing.
  • Sweet tooth craving? Satisfy it with a visit to Dewar's Candy Shop, where homemade ice cream and nostalgic sweets are truly a treat.
  • Catch a movie at the legendary Fox Theater, a gorgeously restored Art Deco gem that will transport you to the golden age of cinema.
  • End the day with a scrumptious dinner at Luigi's Restaurant, a local institution serving up classic Italian-American fare that'll make you say "Mamma mia!"
Day 3

Amped-up Adventure

  • Start the day by fueling up at J&M Cafe, a hidden gem known for their massive, mouthwatering breakfast burritos.
  • Channel your inner action hero at Action Sports, where you can test your skills in thrilling go-kart races and intense zombie paintball battles.
  • Dive into history at the Kern County Museum, where you can explore an authentic pioneer village and even hop aboard a historic train.
  • Lunchtime calls for a visit to Salty's BBQ & Catering, a local legend known for their finger-licking barbecued ribs and lip-smacking sides.
  • Unleash your creativity at the Bakersfield Museum of Art, where captivating exhibitions will spark your imagination and ignite your artistic spirit.
  • End your Bakersfield adventure with a celebratory dinner at Woolworth's Diner, a retro joint serving up classic comfort food with a side of nostalgia. Don't forget to try their famous milkshakes!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Bakersfield: 3 Days of Romance, Art, and Adventure

Experience a romantic getaway in the charming city of Bakersfield located in California, United States. Explore the beautiful East Hills area and enjoy a picnic on the Kern River. You can also indulge in the delectable cuisine of the region and enjoy some fine wine tasting in the numerous wineries scattered around the city.

Two Days of Family Fun in Bakersfield!

Bakersfield, located in the United States, is a delightful destination for a family-friendly trip. With its warm weather and vibrant atmosphere, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from exploring the scenic Kern River Parkway to visiting the California Living Museum, which houses a variety of native animals. The city also offers numerous family-friendly attractions, including the interactive exhibits at the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History and the thrilling rides at Camelot Park.

A Long Weekend of Love: Bakersfield Adventures

A romantic trip to Bakersfield promises adventure, culture, and relaxation. Lovebirds can explore the vibrant Kern County Museum, hike the Kern River Parkway Trail, and unwind at the luxurious Padre Hotel. Indulge in the city's mouth-watering food options and get swept away in its charming ambiance.

Family Road Trip Adventure: 4 Days in Bakersfield

Bakersfield, located in California's sunny San Joaquin Valley, offers the perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. With its abundance of outdoor activities, families can enjoy exploring the breathtaking scenery of the nearby Sequoia National Forest or have a fantastic day of fun at the popular Camelot Park, featuring thrilling rides and mini-golf. Additionally, Bakersfield's vibrant downtown area is filled with museums, theaters, and delicious dining options, ensuring everyone in the family will have an unforgettable trip.