Experience Bakersfield's Best in 5 Days

Discover the charm of Bakersfield - where the sun always shines and the memories never fade.

22 April 2023

Bakersfield is a city located in the southern part of California, known for being a significant oil-producing area. As a tourist, you can explore its rich history and culture at the Kern County Museum and visit the California Living Museum to see native animals. You can also enjoy live music and entertainment at the Buck Owens' Crystal Palace.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Bakersfield

  • Check-in at The Padre Hotel, a historic and trendy spot in downtown Bakersfield
  • Visit the California Living Museum to see the local wildlife
  • Stroll through the Downtown Arts District, see street art and check out local artists and galleries
  • Grab a bite at Moo Creamery, a farm-to-table spot with delicious ice cream
  • Take in a show at the Fox Theater, a restored Art Deco movie palace
Day 2

Outdoor Adventures

  • Head to Sequoia National Forest to hike among giant trees
  • Visit the Kern River for white water rafting or kayaking
  • Stop at the Brimhall Farmers Market for fresh produce and snacks
  • Relax at Lake Ming, a lakeside recreation spot with boating and fishing opportunities
  • End the day with a craft beer at Temblor Brewing Company
Day 3

History and Culture

  • Visit the Kern County Museum, learn about local history and see historic buildings
  • Stop at the Buck Owens Crystal Palace, a museum dedicated to country music
  • Check out the Bakersfield Museum of Art, showcasing local and national artists
  • Find a cool new outfit at the Valley Plaza Mall
  • Grab dinner at Luigi's Restaurant, a classic Italian spot
Day 4

Wine Tasting

  • Visit the award-winning wineries of Kern County, such as Wind Wolves Preserve or Vista Del Lago Vineyards
  • Pick up some artisanal cheese at Edible Arrangements
  • Check out the collection at Grapevine Mercantile, a boutique featuring handmade goods
  • Dine at Cafe Med, a Mediterranean restaurant that celebrates fresh ingredients
  • Take in a movie at Maya Cinemas
Day 5

Shop and Dine

  • Shop for funky t-shirts and vintage finds at Thrifty's
  • Head to Tacos El Gallito for authentic Mexican food
  • Grab a coffee at Lengthwise Brewery, known for their California-style craft beer
  • Visit Rusty's Pizza Parlor, a local favorite for pizza
  • Celebrate the end of the trip at Sandrini's Public House, a lively spot with live music and a great atmosphere.

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.

More travel plans

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.

The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Bakersfield

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.

Bakersfield in 3 Days: Budget-Friendly Family Fun!

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.

Bakersfield Beat: A Culture and Nature Day Trip

Bakersfield, known as the "Country Music Capital of the West Coast," offers a perfect destination for tourists seeking a blend of nature and culture. Visitors can explore the vast Kern River Valley or stroll through downtown to admire the street art and historical buildings. The city also boasts impressive museums, such as the Kern County Museum and Buena Vista Museum of Natural History.