Top Things to Do in Bakersfield

Bakersfield, United States

Things to Do in Bakersfield

Chili Cheese Dog Chowdown

Food & Drink

Get ready to unbutton that top button, because you're gonna want to make room for Bakersfield's iconic chili cheese dogs. Load up on a beefy dog smothered in spicy chili and a generous sprinkle (okay,...

Hart Park Paddleboard Pizzazz

Outdoors

Get ready to walk on water! Well, not literally, but paddleboarding at Hart Park will make you feel pretty close. Glide over the lake like water-bound royalty, soaking up the sun and maybe doing a lit...

Aquatic Amusement Expedition

The Unexpected

Splash into fun and cool off from the Bakersfield heat! Dive in and make waves at a local aquatic center, where lazy rivers beckon and water slides call your name. It's a wet and wild escapade for aqu...

The Haggard Homeplace History Hop

The Unexpected

Strum along through the streets that inspired country music legend Merle Haggard. Hit the historic hotspots and learn how Oildale's own shaped the soundwaves of America. It's a honky-tonk history less...

Ghostly Gallivants

The Unexpected

Who ya gonna call? Yourself! Embark on a spectral adventure and tour the haunts of Bakersfield. Try not to shiver as you uncover spooky tales and maybe, just maybe, catch a glimpse of the paranormal. ...

Retro Roller Rink Rewind

The Unexpected

Lace up those skates, it's time to roll back in time! Feel the groove as you glide around with some old-school roller rink shenanigans. Whether you're a disco diva or a rock 'n' roll rebel, this wheel...

Panorama Park Picnic

Outdoors

Lay out a blanket, kick back, and indulge in a leisurely picnic with a side of stunning views. Don't forget your favorite munchies!

Rockhounding Road Trip

Outdoors

Dust off your geologist's hammer, it's time to go rockhounding! Scour the Bakersfield outskirts for hidden geologic gems. Quartz, gold, or just a neat-looking stone — what will you find? It's like tre...

Archery Adventure in the Orchard

Outdoors

String your bow and let those arrows fly. Who knew you could practice your aim among the almond trees? Whether you're a seasoned archer or trying it out for the first time, the sweet smell of the orch...

The Sunset Horseback Hustle

Outdoors

Yeehaw, partner! Saddle up for a chill ride with your four-legged buddy as you trot along scenic trails. As the sun dips low and paints the sky, you’ll think, ‘Wow, this is livin’!’ No wild mustang ta...

Carrot Cake Quest

Food & Drink

For a sweet twist to your Bakersfield food journey, embark on a quest for the best slice of carrot cake in town! Seek out that perfect balance of moist cake, studded with nuts, maybe some pineapple bi...

Country Croonin' at Buck's Place

Sights

Y'all ready for some toe-tappin', guitar-strummin' good times? Head on over to Buck Owens' Crystal Palace to catch live country music that'll have you two-steppin' all night long. It's Bakersfield Sou...

Blast from the Past at Kern County

Sights

Travel back in time at the Kern County Museum! With a village full of preserved buildings, you can literally walk through history. From frontier structures to an oil boom town, you'll get a kick out o...

Magic at the Fox

Sights

Step into a time machine and get ready to be charmed by the grandeur of the 1930s! The Fox Theater is an opulent piece of Bakersfield's history that'll have you ooohing and ahhing at the architecture ...

Speed Demons Unite

Sights

Get your motor runnin' with Bakersfield's love for all things fast and furious! Kern County Raceway Park is the spot to catch some high-octane action and get your adrenaline fix. Whether you're there ...

Garden of Delights

Sights

Craving a green escape? The Bakersfield Botanical Gardens are cueing up nature's symphony just for you! With every step, you'll discover a new leafy masterpiece. Perfect for a zen walk or a lively jau...

Dust Bowl Delicacies

Food & Drink

Munch on some down-home cookin' that'll remind ya of the ol' Dust Bowl days. Get ready to fill yer belly with hearty eats that stick to your ribs!

Olive Oil Odyssey

Food & Drink

Olive oil isn't just for Popeye, folks. Dive into the smooth, rich world of Californian olive oils with a tasting tour. Drizzle it, dip it, sip it – find your favorite among the peppery, the fruity, a...

Farmers Market Freshness Feast

Food & Drink

Are you even a foodie if you haven't been to a farmers market? Bakersfield is all about fresh produce, and the local farmers markets are buzzing with activity. Pick up some fruits, veggies, or locally...

Subterranean Speleological Sortie

The Unexpected

Ready to channel your inner Indiana Jones? Well, maybe on a smaller scale – swap out the ancient temple for the fascinating underground tunnels! It's time to explore Bakersfield from below, where you'...