Bakersfield on a Budget: A Day Trip Guide

Discover Bakersfield on a budget - where affordable fun meets authentic charm.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Exploring the Heart of Bakersfield

  • Start your day with a visit to the world-famous Buck Owens Crystal Palace, a music venue and museum celebrating country music.
  • Head over to the quirky Kern County Museum, where you can learn about the area's history through exhibits and interactive displays.
  • Take a stroll through the downtown area, where you'll find colorful murals and street art.
  • For lunch, grab a bite to eat at Woolgrowers, a local institution known for its authentic Basque cuisine.
  • After lunch, check out the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, where you can see fossils, minerals, and artifacts from around the world.
  • End your day at the scenic Panorama Bluffs, a popular spot for hiking, biking, and enjoying the stunning views of the city and the San Joaquin Valley.
  • Note: Bakersfield has limited public transportation options, so it's recommended to have a car or use ride-sharing services to get around.

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

4 Days of Fun in Bakersfield, California

Bakersfield is located in the southern part of California and is known for its scenic views and rich history. Tourists can explore the city's music heritage by visiting Buck Owens' Crystal Palace or go for a hike in the nearby mountains, such as Kern River Canyon. Bakersfield is also home to a variety of authentic Mexican cuisine, making it a great destination for food lovers.

Discover the Best of Bakersfield in 3 Days

Bakersfield is a city in California, known for its oil and agricultural industries. Tourists can visit the Bakersfield Museum of Art to see works by local artists or explore the lush greenery of the California Area Living Museum. Visitors can also indulge in local cuisine such as Basque cuisine at one of the city's many restaurants.

Bakersfield on a Budget: 3 Days of Fun

A trip to Bakersfield, United States can be done on a limited budget without missing out on fun and adventure. From enjoying the scenic beauty of Kern River Parkway to exploring the vibrant arts scene in downtown Bakersfield, there is always something exciting to discover. With budget-friendly accommodation options and affordable local eats, Bakersfield offers a fantastic getaway without breaking the bank.

Budget-Friendly Adventure: Bakersfield in 2 Days

A trip to Bakersfield on a limited budget can still offer plenty of exciting experiences. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the city's museums, parks, and local eateries. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations such as motels or hostels and use public transportation to get around the city.