Local Area Attractions Near Bakersfield KOA Journey

Bakersfield is a gem of cultural and historical significance. While you’re in town make sure to check out the local art museums, the County Music star homes, and Bakersfield’s Brewery Trail. Check out our list below and start planning your vacation today!

California Living Museum (CALM)

California Living Museum (CALM)

Take your friends and family to the California Living Museum. This zoo offers you countless attractions for your enjoyment, like animal exhibits, a carousel, climbing tower, ropes course, children's area, and many other fun options.

10500 Alfred Harrell Hwy

661) 872-2256

Bakersfield, CA 93306

661-872-2256

Website

Kevin Harvick's Kern Raceway

Kevin Harvick's Kern Raceway

Looking for high-octane entertainment during your stay at Bakersfield KOA Journey? Don't miss the action at Kevin Harvick's Kern Raceway, one of California's premier motorsports venues! Located just a quick 20-minute drive from our campground, the raceway hosts exciting events all year long — including NASCAR Weekly Series races, wild Nights of Destruction, monster truck shows, and more. It's a must-visit destination for racing fans and families looking for unforgettable thrills.

Website

Hard Rock Casino Tejon

Hard Rock Casino Tejon

Looking for excitement just a short drive away? Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon offers a high-energy mix of entertainment, dining, and gaming in a modern, music-inspired setting. Guests can try their luck on the casino floor, enjoy live performances and special events, or choose from a variety of restaurants and bars. It is a fun option for an evening out, whether you are seeking great food, nightlife, or a little added thrill during your stay.

1777 Garone Farm Road

Mettler, CA 93313

833-793-7625

Website

Kern County Museum

Kern County Museum

The Kern County Museum is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Bakersfield if you are a history buff. It perfectly depicts and preserves the history and culture of Kern County and features more than fifty original buildings. These buildings show what life was like in the county during the 19th century.

3801 Chester Ave

Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-437-3330

Website

Downtown Bakersfield

Downtown Bakersfield

Head downtown for the densest taste of Bakersfield culture. This large downtown district lines Chester Avenue, and spans east and west several city blocks. Here, dozens of restaurants beckon with local menus and hip storefronts. This is also the best place for shopping, whether for the latest fashion trends or rare antiques.

Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science

Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science

The Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science is magnificent and features exhibits about paleontology, geology, and anthropology. It has many galleries and displays for you to view, a gift shop selling a wide array of items, and fun programs for your enjoyment.

2018 Chester Ave

Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-324-6350

Website

The Park and River Walk

The Park and River Walk

If you want to stretch your legs, enjoy the fresh air, and take in picturesque views, visit the Park at River Walk. You can have a terrific time in nature as you take advantage of its facilities, like gazebos, picnic areas, grills, well-maintained restrooms, fishing areas, and paved paths.

11298 Stockdale Hwy

Bakersfield, CA 93311

661-326-3866

Website

Hart Memorial Park

Hart Memorial Park

If you are looking for free things to do in Bakersfield to enjoy a budget-friendly getaway, spend time at Hart Memorial Park. This large, beautiful park offers a plethora of recreational possibilities and amenities for your convenience.

Hart Park

Bakersfield, CA 93308

661-872-3179

Mechanics Bank Arena, Theater & Convention Center

Mechanics Bank Arena, Theater & Convention Center

Create long-lasting memories with your partner, family, or friends at the Mechanics Bank Arena, Theater & Convention Center. Check their website ahead of time and prepare to watch entertaining shows, like concerts, symphony orchestras, theatrical productions, games like basketball and ice hockey, live recreations of your favorite movies, and much more.

1001 Truxtun Ave

Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-852-7300

Website

Bakersfield Museum of Art

Bakersfield Museum of Art

If you and your companions have an art appreciation, then a must-visit is the Bakersfield Museum of Art. There are four galleries for you to explore, each of which is jam-packed with many stunning artworks that will leave you awe-struck and captivated.

1930 R St

Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-323-7219

Website

The Fox Theater

The Fox Theater

When looking for fun things to do in Bakersfield, California, drop by the Fox Theater with your partner, friends, or loved ones. It is the best place to visit on days when it's raining or cold so that you can still have a grand time indoors as you watch entertaining shows by talented artists.

1807 Telegraph Ave

Oakland, CA 94612

510-302-2250

Website

Panorama Vista Preserve

Panorama Vista Preserve

One of the top things to do in Bakersfield for couples is spending quality time together in nature. The Panorama Vista Preserve is the perfect place for you to have a terrific time bonding as you enjoy a multitude of activities. It features various picture-perfect trails, countless plants and animals, a sparkling river, and a gorgeous forested landscape.

901 E Roberts Ln

Bakersfield, CA 93308

661-872-3569

Website

Kern River County Park

Kern River County Park

Take a break from tall buildings and large crowds by visiting the Kern River County Park. Here, you can unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life as you make use of its many facilities, like an 18-hole golf course, campgrounds, hiking trails, group picnic areas, and countless others.

Kern River County Park

Bakersfield, CA 93308

661-872-3179

Website

Sequoia National Forest

Sequoia National Forest

The Forest offers 52 developed campgrounds, hiking on more than 1,147 miles of trails including 47 miles of the PCT, over 314,448 acres of wilderness, 222 miles of Wild and Scenic Rivers, 2,617 rivers and streams, world-class whitewater rapids, 158 ponds and lakes, boating, fishing, biking, horseback riding and more.

Website

Camelot Park

Camelot Park

Bumper boats & other family amusements such as miniature golf in a festive spot good for all ages.

1251 Oak St

Bakersfield, CA 93304

661-859-1812

Website

Murray Family Farms

Murray Family Farms

Murray Family Farms is the ideal place to stop by if you want to buy farm-fresh goods, like fruits and vegetables. It also features many amenities to make your visit more fun, like picnic areas, hayrides, an animal garden, a butterfly house, mazes, and more.

6700 General Beale Rd

Bakersfield, CA 93307

661-330-0100

Website

McMurtrey Aquatic Center

McMurtrey Aquatic Center

Get a break from the scorching heat and humidity by having a fun time in the crystaline water of the McMurtrey Aquatic Center. This swimming center features an Olympic-sized pool, diving facilities, slides, shallow areas for your youngsters, lockers to store your things, showers where you can wash up, wet play equipment, and tons of other amenities.

1325 Q St Suite 200

Bakersfield, CA 93301

661-852-7430

Website

Gaslight Melodrama Theatre

Gaslight Melodrama Theatre

Take your travel companions on an enjoyable day out by visiting the Gaslight Melodrama Theatre. You can watch live shows, such as musicals, theatrical productions, entertaining melodramas, and holiday extravaganzas. As talented, world-class performers keep you and your family, friends, or significant other thoroughly entertained, you can also enjoy delicious food, craft beer, and fine wine.

12748 Jomani Dr

Bakersfield, CA 93312

661-587-3377

Website

Valley Plaza Mall

Valley Plaza Mall

Shop ‘til you drop at the Valley Plaza Mall. You can find numerous stores to explore, like Forever 21, Target, Macy's, Victoria's Secret, Hot Topics, Vans, and tons more. After shopping, strengthen up by dining at its restaurants or watch a movie at its theater.

2701 Ming Ave

Bakersfield, CA 93304

661-396-2801

Website