Things to do in Bakersfield

Activities, attractions and tours

Bakersfield
Sunset aerial view of historic downtown Bakersfield, California, USA.
Bakersfield, California, USA - November 24, 2023: Afternoon sun shines on a historic church and urban core of downtown Bakersfield.
Bakersfield welcome sign, a wide arched street sign. Also known as the Bakersfield Neon Arch, it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bakersfield, California.
Red convertible driving past colorful bouquet of spring flowers blossoming off Route 58 on Shell Creek road, West of Bakersfield in CA
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What to do in Bakersfield

Stay near popular Bakersfield attractions

Aerial view of Mechanics Bank Arena, a theater and convention center, in Bakersfield, California, USA. The arena hosts events and conventions.

Dignity Health Arena

3.8/5 (943 reviews)
This versatile venue hosts rock concerts to thrilling Bakersfield Condors hockey games. Enjoy perfect sightlines and modern amenities in an intimate setting that brings performers and athletes remarkably close.
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Where to stay in Bakersfield

Find the best Bakersfield areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Bakersfield
Learn more about Bakersfield
Photo by John Edralin
Open Photo by John Edralin

Downtown Bakersfield

If you're spending some time in Downtown Bakersfield, Dignity Health Arena and Fox Theater are top sights worth seeing.

Autumn morning view of the Kern River as it flows through Bakersfield, California, USA.

Oleander - Sunset

While Oleander - Sunset isn't home to many top sights, McMurtrey Aquatic Center and Dignity Health Arena are some notable places to visit nearby.

Riviera - Westchester

Riviera - Westchester might not have many top sights, but Fox Theater and Buck Owens Crystal Palace are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

The Kern River oilfield in Oildale, Bakersfield, California, USA. Following an unprecedented four year long drought, Bakersfield is now the driest city in the USA, driven by clima

Rosedale

You might make a stop by Gaslight Melodrama Theatre & Music Hall while you're exploring Rosedale.

Bakersfield welcome sign, a wide arched street sign. Also known as the Bakersfield Neon Arch, it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bakersfield, California.

West Park Community

Though West Park Community might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Buck Owens Crystal Palace and Fox Theater.

Highway runs across a mountain ridgeline in the California wilderness.

Maricopa

Highway runs across a mountain ridgeline in the California wilderness.

Lebec

Frequently asked questions

Is Bakersfield worth visiting?
Whether you want to experience the local charm and cultural hotspots or sample regional foods and explore the outdoors, there are plenty of things to do in Bakersfield.
How do I spend a day in Bakersfield?
Once you've visited leading attractions like Kern County Museum and Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science, spend the rest of your day experiencing Bakersfield's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Bakersfield?
Fox Theater is one of the top tourist attractions in Bakersfield and deserves a place on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Bakersfield?
Three days will give you time to tick off the leading city highlights, such as Fox Theater, Kern County Museum and Bakersfield Museum of Art. The average stay in Bakersfield is two days. If you have the urge to extend your adventure, Buttonwillow isn't far away.
Is Bakersfield a walkable city?
Some leading attractions in Bakersfield, like Fox Theater and Kern County Museum, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Only 3 kilometers from central Bakersfield is West Park Community and Downtown Bakersfield is 0.32 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Bakersfield with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or playful teenagers, a schedule filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Bakersfield with kids.
What to do in Bakersfield for adults?
Mechanics Bank Arena is one of the top things to do in Bakersfield. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Bakersfield?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around vibrant neighborhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Bakersfield. If you need new ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Bakersfield Museum of Art is a must for anyone wanting to save on their traveling adventures.