When traveling to California most travelers have the thought of the beach on their mind. Which is perfectly normal. But don’t skim through the lesser known areas. Dare to be different and take a few pit stops in central California where the sun is always shining. First stop, Bakersfield, California. Yea, Bakersfield. The name might ring a bell for multiple reasons as it is one of the largest cities of central Cali. With that being said here is the ultimate Bakersfield bucket list worth checking out.
Bakersfield is a total food hub hosting a galore of mom and pop diners and drive-ins. These small restaurants are perfect for first dates and long conversations. The local restaurant Salty’s BBQ and Catering is featured on Guy Fieri’s television series ‘Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,’ continuing to up Bakersfield’s rank in the food game.
On a casual day head down to the Valley Plaza Mall where locals often hang out. This mall has a steady flow of visitors searching for the perfect outfits, jewelry or gifts. Reading Cinemas theater is placed directly beside the Valley Plaza. When you’re through with your shopping spree be sure to catch a movie.
For over a hundred years the Kern County Fair has been a great treat to locals. It gives people of all ages something fun to do. There are rides, contests, and rodeo shows. When the fair comes around you can smell the funnel cakes topped with fresh strawberries from a mile away. If interested, set a plan to come to Bakersfield near the end of September or beginning of October.
Spend a nice sunny day eating ice cream at Dewar’s ice cream parlor. This ice cream parlor has been around longer than some people have been alive. Because of the popularity with their ice cream and amazing peanut butter chews Dewar’s has multiple locations around Bakersfield. Don’t forget to sample their warm marshmallow topping.
Owned by legendary country singer Buck Owens, The Crystal Palace is a total tourist attraction for visitors across the U.S. This Wild West themed restaurant highlights the country lifestyle with live music acts and mouthwatering food. Guest can also find a museum of Buck Owen’s memorabilia displayed inside the Crystal Palace.
Vintage items always stay relevant with younger generations becoming fascinated with antique décor. Luckily, Bakersfield hosts a variety of antique shops in downtown Bakersfield. One of these amazing antique stores is an old Woolworths building converted into an antique/burger joint.
In the heart of downtown Bakersfield sits the beautiful Fox Theatre. Whether you want to attend an event or simply view the theater. This building is well worth your time.
The Kern River is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking. But be warned this river has been noted to be very dangerous. However, that shouldn’t stop you from taking a nice drive through the mountains and getting a scenic view of the landscape. Make sure to stop off on the side of the road and get a few pictures for Instagram.
Relax and spend the day at Riverwalk Park near California State University, Bakersfield. This beautiful park features a gorgeous view of the Kern River and the Spectrum Amphitheatre. This park/venue has showcased performances from reggae singer Ziggy Marley and country singer Trace Adkins along with many others.
The Kern County Museum is a great place to learn some history about Bakersfield. The first view of this remarkable museum will be of the Beale Memorial Clock Tower that stands over a beautiful green lawn. This museum has multiple exhibits including Pioneer Village which is a collection of historic buildings from Kern County.
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