Bakersfield, CA
Where oil rigs meet honky-tonks and California sunshine
Where oil rigs meet honky-tonks and California sunshine
Things to know
This legendary honky-tonk, museum, and restaurant was founded by the Bakersfield Sound pioneer himself. It's a living monument to the city's country music heritage, where you can still catch live bands and see Buck's famous red, white, and blue guitar.
Drive along the Kern River and witness the iconic forest of pumpjacks nodding against the skyline. This is the heart of one of America's most productive oil regions, a defining part of Bakersfield's economic history and industrial landscape.
Taste the bounty of the Central Valley at its vibrant farmers markets. Load up on just-picked almonds, citrus, stone fruit, and vegetables directly from local growers, showcasing why Kern County is a national agricultural powerhouse.
Escape to the largest non-profit preserve on the West Coast, just south of town. Hike through rolling grasslands, oak woodlands, and canyons, spotting tule elk, wildflowers, and enjoying stunning vistas of the southern San Joaquin Valley.
Discover the city's creative pulse in the revitalized downtown core. Explore the Bakersfield Museum of Art, catch a show at the historic Fox Theater, and browse independent galleries and boutiques along 19th and Eye Streets.
Dive into a unique culinary tradition at family-style Basque restaurants like Wool Growers or The Noriega Hotel. Expect massive platters of steak, lamb, chorizo, and sides served communally, a legacy of the region's immigrant sheepherding community.
things to do
Bakersfield offers a mix of cultural heritage, outdoor access, and family-friendly attractions, all soaked in abundant California sunshine.
Trace the legacy of Buck Owens and Merle Haggard. Visit the Bakersfield Sound exhibit at the Kern County Museum, see Buck's memorabilia at the Crystal Palace, and catch live music at Trout's or other local venues keeping the twang alive.
This unique zoo and botanical garden focuses exclusively on native California wildlife and plants. See black bears, mountain lions, eagles, and endangered San Joaquin kit foxes in natural habitat exhibits.
Wander through Pioneer Village, a 16-acre site with over 50 historic buildings relocated from around the county. It tells the story of Kern's settlement, oil boom, and agricultural development in an engaging, hands-on way.
When water levels allow, the Kern River provides a refreshing escape. Rent a kayak or tube for a leisurely float through the heart of the city at the Park at River Walk, or find more adventurous stretches upstream.
Cheer on the Bakersfield Condors, the city's professional hockey team and AHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers. Games at Mechanics Bank Arena are high-energy community events with a passionate local fanbase.
Marvel at the restored Spanish Colonial Revival architecture of this 1930s landmark. It hosts a diverse lineup of concerts, Broadway touring shows, and comedy acts, serving as a crown jewel of the downtown arts scene.
neighborhoods
Bakersfield's neighborhoods range from historic downtown grids to sprawling suburban valleys, each with its own distinct character.
The city's evolving urban core, centered around Truxtun Avenue and the Arts District. Here you'll find the Fox Theater, museums, government buildings, a growing number of restaurants and cafes, and historic architecture like the El Tejon Hotel.
A prestigious, master-planned community in southwest Bakersfield known for its large custom homes, manicured lawns, the Seven Oaks Country Club, and top-rated schools. It represents the city's modern, suburban growth.
The lively area surrounding California State University, Bakersfield. It's a mix of student housing, casual eateries, and coffee shops, with a youthful, academic energy that contrasts with the city's industrial and agricultural base.
A beloved, tree-lined neighborhood with mid-century and traditional homes, known for its strong community feel. It's close to shopping at The Marketplace, parks like the Park at River Walk, and features the iconic Stockdale High School clock tower.
One of Bakersfield's original mid-century neighborhoods, characterized by charming, well-kept homes on curving streets, many named after nuts and fruits. It offers a quiet, residential feel with easy access to downtown and the Stockdale corridor.
Browse by category
Salons and barbershops that blend Central Valley style with genuine hospitality.
Where western wear meets downtown boutiques and major retail hubs.
From family-style Basque feasts to authentic Central Valley farm-to-table.
Trusted local pros for everything from pool care to almond tree maintenance.
Find your balance with yoga in the park and hikes in the nearby preserves.
Energy, agriculture, and legal expertise rooted in the Kern County economy.
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