Location: Bakersfield
Top Things to do in Bakersfield
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The 10 Best Things to Do in Bakersfield, United States
Bakersfield is a city in and the county seat of Kern County, California, United States. It covers about 142 square miles (370 km) near the southern end of the San Joaquin Valley and the Central Valley region. Bakersfield's population is approximately 365,000, making it the ninth-most populous city in California and the 52nd-most populous city in the nation. The Bakersfield–Delano Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes all of Kern County, had a 2010 census population of 839,631, making it the 62nd largest metropolitan area in the United States. The more built-up urban area that includes Bakersfield and areas immediately around the city, such as East Bakersfield, Oildale and Rosedale, has a population of approximately 464,000. Bakersfield is a charter city.
Restaurants in Bakersfield
1. California Area Living Museum (CALM)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 229 reviews
Reviewed By K2service - Visalia
How can this place be open? The place looks very run down and neglected. The animal habitats are very bare and the animals look lonely and trapped in sad depressing conditions. They should really reconsider their signage where it’s says the animals natural habitat is in a “pack’ but they are the only one in their pen. So basically they are saying the animal is lonely. It doesn’t look like anything has been done in years to spruce the place up so maybe all their money went to the Christmas light show. This place should be shut down.
2. Kern County Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 230 reviews
Reviewed By Livesbythec - Devon, United Kingdom
We stopped here to break up a long drive to Death Valley, and were really pleasantly suprised. Outside there are a collection of historical buildings that have been moved, restored and displayed for all to see. They ranged from jail houses, to oil rings and barbers. It was a fascinating 90 minutes, and felt like walking around giant doll houses. I doubt we will be back in the area, but would encourage anyone close by to attend. It is a real gem. I don't feel we did the museum justice, but we were on a tight timescale.
3. Crystal Palace and Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 463 reviews
Combination theater and a museum housing memorabilia spanning Buck Owens' 40 year career in country music.
Reviewed By webcam13 - Seattle
When looking for an overnight stop we chose "Bakersfield"...even after witnessing two guys dukeing it out in a parking lot at 3 o'clock in the afternoon! Reading the TA reviews suggested that the Crystal Palace might be some fun entertainment for a Fat Tuesday evening...and it did not disappoint!
We did not have reservations however, by showing up at 5PM (when they opened) they found a spot for us. We were seated along the rear banister area that had a great view of the stage but large enough to enjoy dinner (the Dwight Yoakum ribs & the steak salad). The food was an "ok" value but the beverages were kinda expensive. The service was friendly and exceptional.
Hoping to hear country music (in a Buck Owens-tribute venue) that evening however, we were disappointed. In fact, we only stayed for three or four songs (after the high school band left) since we didn't care for the music.
Recommendation: The Buck Owens Crystal Palace is a worthy Bakersfield stop for the Buck Owens/Hee Haw/Classic-Country-music fans. Just check their online calendar to confirm the type of music they're playing that night if that is important to you! (Budget travelers may want to stick to appetizers/non-alcoholic beverages.)
4. Murray Family Farms
Overall Ratings
4 based on 173 reviews
Reviewed By g-cardozo - Porto Alegre, Brazil
Here you can reload your stomach and full fill the gas tank. Besides, when using the gas station to fill up the tank they give you some samples of fruits or a piece of pie. We found some nice dried fruits, a bot sugared but good.
5. Fox Theater
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 108 reviews
Reviewed By Sean E - Bakersfield, California
Im sentimental about this place. Used to go see matinees on saturdays when i was a kid. it was the more expensive of the theaters in town. Has a balcony and the most amazing woodwork inside. Its worth just looking at. Giant wood scrolls on the sides painted gold with velvet curtains. Old school snack bar. I remember my grandfather told me he had painted the ceiling in this place back in the 60s when he was a painting contractor. Acoustics are really good and concerts sound great. Saw John Fogerty here some time back and Shinedown just recently. (took my daughter).
She was impressed by the old place too.
6. Rabobank Arena, Theater & Convention Center
Overall Ratings
4 based on 136 reviews
Reviewed By bakersfieldmom78 - Bakersfield, Ca
I have been here many times for concerts, and other events. Each time was a different experience, depending upon the event and the producers of such an event. The parking was good, and after the event, there are several places for a GOOD meal. I recommend going here for whatever you desire, sports, musicals or local special events.
7. Buena Vista Museum of Natural History
Overall Ratings
5 based on 28 reviews
Reviewed By SanMo - Malibu, California
Don't go outta you way, but if your in Bakersfield...yes.
$8.00 to get in...not worth it but the staff is way way cool. Friendliest people around.
3rd floor dinosaurs. Mezzanine -- stuffed animals. 1st floor stuffed animals and shark teeth.
Not sure why it's called Buena Vista Museum of Natural History.
8. The Park at River Walk
Overall Ratings
4 based on 46 reviews
Reviewed By rduinc - Saint Louis, Missouri
As the name suggest, this is a park that follows the river going thru Bakersfield. In this park are picnic areas, softball diamonds, volleyball courts, and a walk path that follows the river. At one end of the park there is also a cancer survivors memorial that is actually quite well done and moving.
9. Peacocks at Hart Park
10. Kern County Raceway Park
Overall Ratings
5 based on 20 reviews
Reviewed By Bobeel49 - Bakersfield, California
Races are first class with a lot of good events. Are constantly adding more events and races. Food and great beer available. Everyone of any age loves the races.
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