Things to Do Close to Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield, California may be famous for its oil heritage and country‑music roots, but the surrounding region offers a surprisingly diverse mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and family‑friendly activities. Whether you’re staying a weekend or planning a day‑trip, the area within a 60‑minute drive from Bakersfield is packed with must‑see sights, unique experiences, and hidden gems that showcase the natural beauty and history of the southern Central Valley. Below is a thorough look to the best things to do close to Bakersfield, organized by theme and distance, so you can craft an itinerary that fits any interest or schedule.
1. Outdoor Recreation – Nature at Your Doorstep
1.1. Kern River Parkway & River Walk (5 mi)
A short drive from downtown, the Kern River Parkway offers a scenic, paved trail that follows the river for more than 30 miles. Perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling, the pathway is lined with native oaks and offers occasional wildlife sightings—deer, hawks, and even the occasional river otter. Bring a picnic and stop at one of the shaded rest areas for a relaxing lunch.
1.2. Lake Ming (15 mi) – Fishing, Boating, Camping
Lake Ming, a 104‑acre reservoir, is a favorite spot for anglers targeting bass, catfish, and trout. The lake also supports non‑motorized boating, paddle‑boarding, and has a well‑maintained campground with 70 sites. Sunrise on the water is especially photogenic, making it a great backdrop for social‑media posts.
1.3. Wind Wolves Preserve (20 mi) – Hiking & Birdwatching
Managed by The Nature Conservancy, Wind Wolves Preserve spans 93,000 acres of rolling hills, oak woodlands, and grasslands. The Gateway Trail (2.5 mi) is an easy loop that introduces visitors to the preserve’s diverse ecosystems. Birdwatchers will love spotting golden‑eagles, western bluebirds, and the rare California quail.
1.4. Sequoia National Forest – Hume Lake (55 mi)
Cross the Sierra foothills and you’ll reach Hume Lake, a crystal‑clear, 2,500‑acre reservoir nestled within Sequoia National Forest. The lake offers kayaking, fishing, and hiking along the Hume Lake Trail, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding granite peaks. In winter, the area transforms into a quiet snow‑shoeing haven.
1.5. Mojave National Preserve – Kelso Dunes (70 mi) – Desert Adventure
For a taste of the Mojave Desert, drive to Kelso Dunes, where towering sand dunes rise up to 600 feet. The dunes are famous for the “singing sand” phenomenon—when the wind passes over the dry grains, a low humming can be heard. Hike the Kelso Dunes Trail (3 mi) for sweeping desert vistas and a chance to spot the elusive desert tortoise.
2. Cultural & Historical Highlights
2.1. Kern County Museum (2 mi) – “Step Back in Time”
Located in downtown Bakersfield, the Kern County Museum houses over 30 historic buildings, including an 1880s schoolhouse and a 1905 train depot. Interactive exhibits let visitors explore the county’s oil boom, agricultural heritage, and early Californian life. The museum’s annual “Railroad Days” event features steam locomotive rides and vintage photo booths Simple, but easy to overlook..
2.2. Fox Theater (0.5 mi) – Art Deco Entertainment
The beautifully restored Fox Theater, a 1930s Art Deco landmark, hosts live concerts, classic film screenings, and community events. Catch a performance by a local band or enjoy a movie night under the historic marquee for a nostalgic evening No workaround needed..
2.3. Murray Family Farms (12 mi) – Agritourism Experience
Open seasonally, Murray Family Farms offers U‑Pick strawberries, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches. The farm also runs a small market selling homemade jams, honey, and seasonal baked goods. Families love the petting zoo and hayride, making it a perfect half‑day outing.
2.4. The Bakersfield Museum of Art (1 mi) – Local Creativity
Located in the historic Beale Memorial Library building, this museum showcases works by regional artists, rotating exhibitions, and a permanent collection of 20th‑century American paintings. Free admission on the first Thursday of each month encourages community engagement.
2.5. Historic Westchester Village (25 mi) – Old‑West Charm
A preserved 19th‑century mining town, Westchester Village offers a glimpse into the gold‑rush era with restored adobe homes, a blacksmith shop, and a small museum. Guided tours run on weekends, featuring stories of early settlers and the town’s role in the Kern River Gold Rush.
3. Family‑Friendly Activities
3.1. California Living Museum (CALM) (8 mi)
CALM is a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary focusing on native California species. Visitors can see bobcats, mountain lions, and the endangered California condor in naturalistic habitats. Interactive programs, such as “Keeper for a Day,” let kids learn about animal care and conservation Simple, but easy to overlook..
3.2. Bakersfield Ice Center (3 mi) – Ice Skating Fun
Open year‑round, the ice center offers public skating sessions, figure‑skating lessons, and a small arcade. The “Family Skate Night” on Fridays includes music and discounted tickets, making it a popular weekend activity That alone is useful..
3.3. Adventure Playground at Hart Park (4 mi)
Hart Park’s sprawling playground features climbing structures, zip lines, and a splash pad. Adjacent picnic areas and a lake with paddle‑boat rentals make it a convenient spot for a full‑day family outing Simple, but easy to overlook. And it works..
3.4. Kern County Fairgrounds (7 mi) – Seasonal Fairs & Events
The fairgrounds host the Kern County Fair each summer, featuring livestock shows, carnival rides, and live entertainment. Throughout the year, the venue also holds car shows, craft fairs, and the popular “Christmas in the Park” holiday celebration Worth keeping that in mind..
3.5. Bowling & Arcade at The Lanes (2 mi)
A classic alley with 24 lanes, The Lanes also offers an arcade, billiards, and a snack bar. Group packages for birthday parties and corporate events include lane rentals, shoe service, and a “Glow‑in‑the‑Dark” bowling night.
4. Food & Drink – Taste of the Valley
4.1. The 24‑Hour Bar & Grill (0.3 mi) – Local Favorites
Known for its “Bakersfield Burger” and extensive craft‑beer selection, this downtown spot stays open late, making it ideal after a night at the Fox Theater No workaround needed..
4.2. Mojave Desert Brewing Company (45 mi) – Craft Beer with a View
Located near the Mojave Preserve, the brewery offers a rotating lineup of IPAs, stouts, and barrel‑aged ales. The taproom’s outdoor patio overlooks the desert landscape, perfect for sunset sipping.
4.3. Farm‑to‑Table at The Oak Tree Café (13 mi) – Fresh, Local Ingredients
Set on a working farm, the café serves seasonal salads, wood‑fire pizzas, and locally sourced meat dishes. Their homemade apple crumble uses fruit from the on‑site orchard.
4.4. Wine Tasting at Kern River Vineyards (30 mi) – Emerging Wine Region
Kern County’s warm climate produces solid Zinfandel and Syrah. The vineyard offers guided tastings, a small picnic area, and a boutique shop featuring local artisan cheeses.
4.5. Food Truck Fridays at Bakersfield Downtown (0.5 mi) – Street Food Variety
Every Friday evening, a rotating lineup of food trucks gathers at the downtown plaza, offering tacos, Korean BBQ, vegan bowls, and sweet treats. Live music adds to the festive atmosphere Worth keeping that in mind..
5. Adventure Sports & Unique Experiences
5.1. Off‑Road ATV Tours in the Sierra Nevada Foothills (45 mi)
Guided ATV excursions take you through rugged trails, pine forests, and historic mining sites. Most tours include safety gear, a brief training session, and a scenic overlook of the Kern River Canyon Small thing, real impact..
5.2. Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Central Valley (20 mi)
Early‑morning flights provide breathtaking sunrise views of the valley’s patchwork fields and distant mountains. Companies typically offer a champagne toast upon landing, making it a romantic option for couples Worth keeping that in mind..
5.3. Rock Climbing at Quail Hollow (55 mi) – Beginner to Advanced Routes
Quail Hollow’s granite walls feature bolted sport routes ranging from 5.6 to 5.12. The area also has a bouldering garden for those who prefer low‑height challenges. Local climbing shops provide gear rentals and guided instruction It's one of those things that adds up..
5.4. Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals at Lake Isabella (60 mi) – Alpine Waters
Set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada, Lake Isabella offers calm waters ideal for kayaking, paddle‑boarding, and fishing. Rental shops provide all equipment, and guided tours highlight hidden coves and shoreline wildlife Nothing fancy..
5.5. Stargazing at the Kern County Astronomical Society Observatory (12 mi)
The society’s observatory hosts monthly public nights where visitors can view planets, nebulae, and distant galaxies through a 14‑inch telescope. Volunteers provide explanations, making the experience accessible for all ages.
6. Practical Tips for Visiting
- Transportation: Most attractions are within a 30‑minute drive from Bakersfield, but a rental car is recommended for desert and mountain destinations where public transit is limited.
- Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) offers mild temperatures and wildflower blooms, while fall (October–November) provides comfortable hiking weather and lower crowd levels. Summer can be hot in the desert, so plan early‑morning or evening activities.
- Safety: When exploring desert areas like Kelso Dunes, carry plenty of water, sunscreen, and a map. Cell service may be spotty, so a GPS device or offline map app is advisable.
- Permits: Some state parks (e.g., Sequoia National Forest) require a day‑use fee or reservation during peak seasons. Check online ahead of time to avoid last‑minute closures.
- Local Etiquette: Respect private property, especially on farms and ranches. Many agritourism sites ask visitors to stay on designated paths and refrain from picking plants outside of U‑Pick areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far is the nearest major airport?
A: Meadows Field Airport (BFL) is just 5 miles north of downtown Bakersfield, offering regional flights and car‑rental services That alone is useful..
Q: Are there any free attractions?
A: Yes—Hart Park, the Kern River Parkway, and the Bakersfield Museum of Art (free on first Thursday) are all free to the public Not complicated — just consistent..
Q: Can I bring my dog to the outdoor sites?
A: Most trails in Wind Wolves Preserve and the Kern River Parkway are dog‑friendly on leashes. On the flip side, dogs are not allowed in CALM or the Kern County Museum.
Q: What is the ideal time to see the “singing sand” at Kelso Dunes?
A: Early morning or late afternoon when the wind is steady (5–10 mph) produces the most audible vibrations.
Q: Are there wheelchair‑accessible facilities?
A: Many parks, museums, and the Fox Theater provide ADA‑compliant entrances and restrooms. Check individual venue websites for detailed accessibility information Worth knowing..
Conclusion
The area surrounding Bakersfield, CA, is a microcosm of California’s broader diversity—rolling valleys, towering dunes, historic towns, and a vibrant cultural scene all lie within a short drive. By mixing outdoor adventures, family‑friendly outings, local cuisine, and historical exploration, visitors can create a well‑rounded itinerary that satisfies curiosity and offers unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast chasing sunrise over Hume Lake, a history buff wandering the streets of Westchester Village, or a foodie hunting the best burger in town, the region’s blend of accessibility and variety ensures that every day brings a new discovery. Pack your camera, grab a map, and set out to experience the many things to do close to Bakersfield, CA—the valley’s hidden treasures are waiting just around the corner.
