Bakersfield, California: 10 Best Things to Do Nearby
10 Fun Things to Do Near Bakersfield, California
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| From Buck Owens country music history to Lake Isabella views and quiet Kern County trails, Bakersfield makes a surprisingly varied California getaway. |
If you're looking for the best things to do near Bakersfield, California, you're in for a surprise. Bakersfield, in Kern County, is more than just a stop in the Central Valley. It’s a great base for outdoor trips, country music history, family fun, and easy weekend adventures.
I’ve always liked places like Bakersfield because they feel real. You can spend the morning in a museum, grab some classic Basque food for lunch, and then head out for a sunset hike without driving all day. If that sounds like your kind of trip, this list is for you.
Here are 10 great things to do near Bakersfield, CA that are worth adding to your travel plans.
1. Visit Buck Owens' Crystal Palace
If you want a true Bakersfield experience, start here. Buck Owens' Crystal Palace is part music venue, part museum, and part local legend. It celebrates the famous Bakersfield Sound, a style of country music that helped shape American music.
Even if you're not a huge country fan, this place is fun. The neon lights, memorabilia, and live shows give it a warm, old-school feel. It’s the kind of place where you can picture boots on the dance floor and hear a steel guitar in your head before the band even starts.
- Great for music lovers
- Good dinner-and-show option
- One of the most iconic attractions in Bakersfield, California
2. Explore the Kern County Museum in Bakersfield, California
Want to learn more about the area? Head to the Kern County Museum. This spot gives you a simple, fun look at local history, from oil and farming to life in the old West.
The museum has historic buildings, exhibits, and wide open walking areas. It almost feels like stepping into a movie set, except the stories are real. If you travel with kids, this is an easy stop because there’s room to move around and plenty to see.
Tip: Bring water and comfortable shoes, especially on hot days.
3. Walk or Bike Along the Kern River Parkway Trail
Sometimes the best travel moments are the simplest. The Kern River Parkway Trail is perfect for walking, biking, or just getting outside for fresh air. It runs for miles and gives you a nice break from traffic and busy streets.
If you’re the kind of person who likes to start the day with a quiet walk and coffee in hand, this is a solid pick. Early morning and sunset are especially pretty.
- Great for couples, families, and solo travelers
- Easy way to enjoy nature near Bakersfield
- Good option if you want free things to do in Bakersfield, CA
4. See the Animals at California Living Museum (CALM)
The California Living Museum, often called CALM, is one of the best family-friendly attractions near Bakersfield. It focuses on native California animals and plants, so it feels different from a large city zoo.
You might see bears, big cats, birds, and reptiles, all in a setting that teaches you about the local environment. It’s fun, but it also helps you better understand the landscape around Kern County.
If you’re traveling with children, this stop can be a lifesaver. Let’s be honest: kids usually remember animals long after they forget another roadside photo stop.
5. Take a Day Trip to Hart Memorial Park
Hart Memorial Park is a nice spot when you want an easy outdoor break without going too far from town. This large public park has picnic areas, lakes, green space, and shady areas that can feel like gold on a warm California day.
It’s a simple place, but that’s the charm. Pack snacks, bring a blanket, and slow down for a while. Not every travel stop needs to be flashy. Sometimes a peaceful park is exactly what you need.
- Perfect for picnics
- Good for families and casual travelers
- Easy outdoor activity near Bakersfield, California
6. Drive Out to Wind Wolves Preserve
If you have time for a bigger nature outing, go to Wind Wolves Preserve. It’s about a short drive south of Bakersfield and offers wide open land, scenic views, and hiking trails. On spring days, the rolling hills can be especially beautiful.
This place feels huge in the best way. It’s like the landscape takes a deep breath and invites you to do the same. If your daily life is loud and rushed, this is a great reset button.
Good to know: Check trail conditions and weather before you go, and bring plenty of water.
7. Tour Murray Family Farms
Looking for something cheerful and local? Murray Family Farms is a fun stop near Bakersfield, especially in harvest season. Depending on the time of year, you may find fresh fruit, events, and family activities.
This is one of those places that feels very California. Fresh produce, open skies, and a relaxed country vibe make it a nice change of pace. If you enjoy farm stands and seasonal treats, you’ll probably leave with more snacks than planned.
- Great for families
- Fun seasonal stop near Bakersfield
- Nice choice for travelers who like local food experiences
8. Discover Local Art at the Bakersfield Museum of Art
For a quieter afternoon, spend some time at the Bakersfield Museum of Art. It’s not massive, which actually makes it easier to enjoy. You can see regional art, rotating exhibits, and outdoor sculptures without feeling rushed.
I always think smaller museums are a bit like neighborhood coffee shops. They may not get all the national attention, but they often have more personality. This one adds a creative stop to your Bakersfield trip.
9. Catch a Race at Kern County Raceway Park
If you want something louder and more high-energy, check out Kern County Raceway Park. This is a fun pick for travelers who enjoy live events and local sports.
The excitement builds fast once the engines start. Even if you don’t follow racing closely, it can still be a fun night out. There’s something about the speed, noise, and crowd energy that pulls you in.
It’s a different side of the area, and that’s part of what makes Bakersfield, CA interesting. One day you’re on a quiet trail; the next you’re watching cars fly around a track.
10. Plan a Scenic Getaway to Lake Isabella
If you don’t mind driving a bit farther into Kern County, Lake Isabella is a great day trip from Bakersfield. It’s a favorite for boating, fishing, relaxing by the water, and enjoying mountain views.
This is a smart choice if you want to stretch your trip beyond the city. The change in scenery is refreshing, and the lake area offers a more laid-back feel. It’s perfect for travelers who like outdoor space without the crowds of bigger California destinations.
- Popular for fishing and boating
- Beautiful views and fresh air
- One of the best day trips near Bakersfield, California
Final Thoughts on What to Do Near Bakersfield
There are plenty of fun things to do near Bakersfield, California, whether you love music, museums, nature, racing, or family-friendly stops. That’s what makes this part of Kern County so easy to enjoy. You don’t need a packed schedule or a huge budget to have a memorable trip here.
If I were planning a weekend, I’d probably mix it up: one music stop, one outdoor stop, and one place to eat something local. That combination usually makes a trip feel complete.
Have you visited Bakersfield, CA before? Which of these spots would you try first? Share this post with a friend who’s planning a California trip, and drop a comment with your favorite Bakersfield-area attraction.
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