One Day in Bakersfield

I could not think of too many things better that a day in Bakersfield with no plans. There are a lot of things to do and see in this great undiscovered destination, here is how I would spend a day there starting off with nature, a Basque lunch, history, and working our way up to a slightly rowdy night.

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Springhill Suites Bakersfield
My home away from home...I stay in this hotel more than any other hotel in the world. Near most of the things you'll want to see, yet on a quiet side street. Large, very comfortable two room almost-suites (there is no door between the two rooms), with wet bar, microwave, and coffee maker. Free WiFi is enhanced with free ethernet acc... More >
My home away from home...I stay in this hotel more than any other hotel in the world. Near most of the things you'll want to see, yet on a quiet side street. Large, very comfortable two room almost-suites (there is no door between the two rooms), with wet bar, microwave, and coffee maker. Free WiFi is enhanced with free ethernet access also. Pool, spa, fitness room, and free full breakfast complete the package. Oh yeah, the staff goes out of their way to make sure you're comfortable. Nominally around $100-$120 per night, affiliation with a group like AAA, AARP, military, or government can get that down to around $80.
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Tule Elk State Reserve
About 45 minutes west of town is this great nature center with land put aside for the endangered tule elk, smaller elk that once roamed this land in large herds. Take some binoculars and scan the horizon for the antennae-looking antlers. Also a wonderful place for birdwatching and picnics. $8 parking fee.
The collection of old, restored neon signs is also a sight to behold.
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Kern River County Park
30 miles of trails for bikes, pedestrians, wheelchairs, and more. Head out west on Stockdale Highway to Buena Vista Road and visit the section at Riverwalk (behind the Target store) for one of the prettier stretches. Lawns, trees, and bird-filled ponds await those who walk beyond the parking lot. This is also home to the Brighthouse Am... More >
30 miles of trails for bikes, pedestrians, wheelchairs, and more. Head out west on Stockdale Highway to Buena Vista Road and visit the section at Riverwalk (behind the Target store) for one of the prettier stretches. Lawns, trees, and bird-filled ponds await those who walk beyond the parking lot. This is also home to the Brighthouse Amphitheater, where you can see top-notch entertainment in the summer. Free.
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Noriega's
Pass the wine, pass the soup. In a city known for Basque restaurants, this is the most famous. All meals here are "family style" where you sit at long tables with complete strangers sharing a delicious and hearty Basque meal. Don't worry, you won't be strangers for long. Reservations are a must! Show up a bit early (meals are star... More >
Pass the wine, pass the soup. In a city known for Basque restaurants, this is the most famous. All meals here are "family style" where you sit at long tables with complete strangers sharing a delicious and hearty Basque meal. Don't worry, you won't be strangers for long. Reservations are a must! Show up a bit early (meals are started right on time) and have a picon punch in the bar. Around $20 per person.
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Dewar's Candy Shop
Hope you saved room for dessert! Over a century old, this ice cream shop has been serving generations of locals with its premium, delicious ice cream and hand-made candies. Famous for their chews...which we call "Dewar's chewers"...grab a few pounds to take home. Under $5 for ice cream, chews are around $12 a pound.
In the winter, we'll come here to see the Bakersfield Condors hockey team play.
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Kern County Museum
Over 50 historic buildings have been moved here from throughout the county and made into a little town you can explore. The collection of old, restored neon signs is also a sight to behold. The major exhibit on the oil industry is fascinating and the motion simulator diving bell ride to the bottom of the sea is theme park quality and... More >
Over 50 historic buildings have been moved here from throughout the county and made into a little town you can explore. The collection of old, restored neon signs is also a sight to behold. The major exhibit on the oil industry is fascinating and the motion simulator diving bell ride to the bottom of the sea is theme park quality and worth the $10 adult admission all by itself.
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Mexicali Restaurants
We don't come here for the food, which is mediocre at best, but for the dark bar with the friendly locals and the strong margaritas. At the 18th Street location, between Chester and Union. A drink will set you back around $5.
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Rabobank Arena
The main event center for the area. Concerts, plays, conventions, and sports! In the winter, we'll come here to see the Bakersfield Condors hockey team play. A top-ranked minor league team associated with the Anaheim Ducks, the Condors are well supported and will give you sports fans some bang for your buck. Tickets start at $11. More
The main event center for the area. Concerts, plays, conventions, and sports! In the winter, we'll come here to see the Bakersfield Condors hockey team play. A top-ranked minor league team associated with the Anaheim Ducks, the Condors are well supported and will give you sports fans some bang for your buck. Tickets start at $11.
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Fishlips
If you're still up for some action...something other than country music...after the hockey game, head a couple of blocks north on Chester to 18th. Good music, good drinks, and good times. More
If you're still up for some action...something other than country music...after the hockey game, head a couple of blocks north on Chester to 18th. Good music, good drinks, and good times.
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About the Author

Darryl Musick
Darryl Musick
I produce a travel blog with my son, Tim, who uses a wheelchair. You can see our adventures at http://wheelstraveler.blogspot.com and you can send us a message at dmusick61-at-gmail.com
Websitefacebook.com/darryl.musick
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