Bakersfield, California, is a great place to visit and have fun with the family! There are many wonderful activities to explore – from educational museums and hands-on farms to thrilling race tracks and rafting adventures. Whether you’re looking for something low-key or high-energy, your family can find something entertaining in Bakersfield that everyone will enjoy. Here are some of the fun things to do in Bakersfield with the family that you won’t miss out on.
California Living Museum (CALM)
The California Living Museum (CALM) is an amazing family-friendly destination in Bakersfield. Located on a sprawling 80-acre property, this unique zoo offers visitors the chance to interact with various animal species native to California, including coyotes, elk and foxes. Kids can also explore exhibits that feature rare species like pacific pocket mice and arctic wolves. Plus, there’s a petting zoo where they can get up close and personal with bunnies, chicks and goats. And if you’re looking for something educational to do, check out the interactive exhibits that teach kids about the natural world around them. For something different, try taking a guided nature walk or joining one of their special events like “Bring Your Own Backyard Animal Day” or “Wildlife Photography Walks.” With so much to explore at CALM, your family will surely have a great time!
Kern County Museum
Kern County Museum is ideal for a family day in Bakersfield. Located in the heart of the city, this museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage and diverse history of Kern County. Visitors can gain insight into the area’s early settlers, Native American culture, and industries such as oil and agriculture. The museum also houses various historical artifacts, including photographs, artworks, documents, and tools highlighting significant local historical moments.
The museum features two permanent galleries – the Kern County Gallery and the Cultural Heritage Gallery – plus rotating exhibits from other regional museums that showcase different aspects of life in Kern County. The permanent galleries feature interactive displays and activities that are fun for all ages, such as self-guided tours with audio recordings and videos. Additionally, guided tours and educational programs are available throughout the year.
Kern County Museum also hosts special events throughout the year, including lectures and workshops related to local history topics; music performances; art shows; movies in the courtyard; holiday celebrations; festivals; antique shows; farmer’s markets; flea markets; quilt shows; craft fairs; and more! So if you’re looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon with your family in Bakersfield, make sure to stop by Kern County Museum!
Murray Family Farms, The Big Red Barn
Take the family for a fun day trip to Murray Family Farms, The Big Red Barn in Bakersfield. From apple picking and a petting zoo to hay rides and roaming peacocks, the farm offers plenty of ways to enjoy time together.
Apple picking is always a great way to spend a few hours together, and Murray Family Farms has acres of apple trees that you can pick from. Several varieties of apples are available throughout the season so that you can take home lots of fresh fruit for later.
At the petting zoo, your little ones can get up close and personal with some furry friends. They’ll love meeting all sorts of animals, like goats, sheep, rabbits, chickens and even miniature horses! You can also take a wagon ride or hop on one of their hay rides around the farm.
If you’d like to get outside and explore, head to Hart Park, where you’ll find free-roaming peacocks. The park is also home to lush lawns, plenty of shade trees, and lots of small walking paths that will lead you through beautiful scenery.
Finally, remember Murray Family Farms’ famous Big Red Barn! This popular attraction is filled with old antiques, games and toys for everyone in the family to enjoy – there’s even a full kitchen complete with an old-fashioned cooking stove!
Buena Vista Museum of Natural History
The Buena Vista Museum of Natural History is an exciting destination for families visiting Bakersfield. Located downtown, this museum offers a unique experience to explore and learn about the natural environment. The museum includes displays that show off the area’s native wildlife and habitats and interactive exhibits that help children understand more about their local environment. Kids can also participate in activities such as fossil excavation and insect collecting. Adults will appreciate the various exhibits on California history and culture, including information about Native Americans, archaeological sites, and early pioneers. The Museum of Natural History also hosts special events throughout the year featuring guest speakers, film screenings, and lectures from experts in the field. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon or learn more about the area’s rich history and ecology, check out the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History – it’s sure to be a memorable family adventure!
Rabobank Arena, Theater & Convention Center
Rabobank Arena, Theater & Convention Center is the largest entertainment facility in Bakersfield. Located in downtown Bakersfield, this facility offers a variety of activities and events for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a concert, theater show, or large-scale convention, Rabobank Arena has something to offer everyone.
The arena can house up to 10,000 spectators, making it a great fit for larger events like concerts and sporting competitions. The seating areas are designed to provide an enjoyable experience with plenty of legroom and excellent sightlines from any angle. With its large capacity, Rabobank Arena is also an ideal venue for conventions, such as conventions featuring the latest cars and technology.
The theater at Rabobank Arena offers a more intimate setting for shows and performances. It can seat up to 2,500 people in comfortable seats that offer exceptional views of the stage from every angle. Productions featuring everything from musicals to comedians have been held here over the years, giving locals plenty of options for nightlife entertainment.
The convention center portion of Rabobank Arena allows businesses and other organizations to host large-scale meetings or events without worrying about renting out space elsewhere in town. With its ample seating space and top-notch amenities, it’s easy to see why so many groups choose this location when they need a place to hold their event or special gathering.
Whether looking for a night out with friends or an exciting event that the whole family can enjoy, Rabobank Arena has something everyone will love!
Kern County Raceway Park
Kern County Raceway Park is the perfect destination for family fun in Bakersfield. With an array of activities, from exciting stock car races to thrilling drag racing events, there’s something for everyone. The track also features a unique “playground” area for kids with bounce houses, slides and other rides that keep them entertained all day long. As if that wasn’t enough, you can also find plenty of food and beverage options to enjoy while you watch the races or relax in the stands. For those looking for a more hands-on experience, Kern County Raceway Park offers driving experiences and go-kart rentals so you can get behind the wheel and feel the excitement of being a driver. Whether you want to spend the afternoon watching a race or take part in some fun family activities, Kern County Raceway Park is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Peacocks at Hart Park
Head to Hart Park in Bakersfield for a unique family experience! This park is an aviary paradise home to peacocks, ducks and geese. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beauty of its flora and fauna. Look out for the free-roaming peacocks that roam the grounds—they’re sure to provide some entertainment. Bring your cameras along because it’s always photo-op time with these beautiful birds! You can also take part in activities such as bird watching or wildlife photography. A picnic by the pond is a great way to relax and enjoy all that nature offers while enjoying time with your family. It’s a guaranteed good time!
The Park at River Walk
The Park at River Walk is a great spot for families to enjoy quality time together in Bakersfield. Located along the Kern River, this park offers a variety of fun activities like kayaking, fishing, and biking. The park also has several picnic spots with plenty of tables and grills, making it a great place to host an outdoor family gathering. With its lush green landscape and tranquil river setting, The Park at River Walk is a perfect spot for families to relax and spend quality time together. In addition to the many recreational options available, there’s also an abundance of wildlife that can be observed up close. Families can observe nature in its full glory here, from ducks and geese to turtles and frogs.
The Park at River Walk is also home to several historic sites, such as the Rotary Lookout Tower, which provides panoramic views of Bakersfield from above. With so much to do, The Park at River Walk will delight visitors of all ages!
Bakersfield Museum of Art
The Bakersfield Museum of Art is a great spot for families to visit in Bakersfield. With over 10,000 pieces of contemporary art, there’s something for everyone. From classic artworks to modern sculptures and installations, this museum has a little bit of everything. Visitors can explore the galleries and view the many different works of renowned artists from around the world. The museum also hosts special exhibitions throughout the year, including kid-friendly ones like Lego exhibits and interactive activities. Families can also participate in workshops or take one-on-one classes taught by experienced staff members. Take a break from sightseeing and enjoy some culture at the Bakersfield Museum of Art!
Weedpatch Camp
Located on the outskirts of Bakersfield, Weedpatch Camp was once home to migrant workers who traveled from all over California during the Great Depression. Today, it reminds visitors of a difficult time in history and provides an opportunity to explore this unique piece of Americana.
The camp has eight buildings, including a church, schoolhouse, gymnasium, and bathroom facilities. Each building has been restored to its original condition so visitors can get a real sense of what life would have been like in the 1930s. Visitors can also explore the camp’s two ponds and walk through its expansive grounds filled with native plants and trees. There is also an interpretive trail that explains the history of Weedpatch Camp and its important role in California‘s agricultural past.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours of Weedpatch Camp offered by knowledgeable docents or take a self-guided tour using an interactive map for more information about each building. The camp also hosts events throughout the year, such as dances, concerts, and movie nights. Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or want to gain insight into California’s past, Weedpatch Camp is an enjoyable experience!
California Fruit Depot
California Fruit Depot is a great place to visit for family fun in Bakersfield. Located in the heart of downtown, this unique local market specializes in fresh produce from farms throughout California and beyond. With an ever-changing selection of fruits and vegetables, you can find something new every time you visit. The friendly staff will help you pick out the perfect product for your meal or snack and can even provide recipes on how to prepare it. California Fruit Depot also offers home delivery so families can enjoy their delicious produce without leaving the comfort of their homes. Plus, they host regular events throughout the year, such as cooking classes, tastings, and more! So if you’re looking for a fun family outing in Bakersfield, check out California Fruit Depot!
River’s End Rafting
River’s End Rafting provides an exciting way to explore Bakersfield and its beautiful surroundings! Located in the Kern River Canyon, River’s End is a great place for families to get out and enjoy the outdoors while having fun. Rafters of all ages can take on the rapids and float peacefully through tranquil waters, taking in breathtaking views along the way. Whether looking for a leisurely float or a more daring ride, River’s End has something for everyone.
The experienced guides at River’s End will ensure your family enjoys the experience safely by providing top-of-the-line rafts and life jackets and a thorough safety briefing before departure. The rafts also have dry bags for your belongings, so you don’t have to worry about getting wet.
Once you’re out on the river, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure along the way—from fishing from your raft to swimming and exploring side channels. You can even choose one of their special packages, including lunch or dinner and an overnight camping trip. No matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for, River’s End Rafting has something that your family can enjoy together.
To wrap up, there are plenty of fun things for families to do in Bakersfield! From visiting the California Living Museum (CALM) to exploring the Kern County Museum, Murray Family Farms’ Big Red Barn, and Buena Vista Museum of Natural History; from attending events at Rabobank Arena, Theater & Convention Center or Kern County Raceway Park; to enjoying the peacocks at Hart Park, taking a stroll along The Park at River Walk, admiring artwork at the Bakersfield Museum of Art, learning about history at Weedpatch Camp and California Fruit Depot, or rafting down the river with River’s End Rafting – there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. So plan your trip and enjoy exploring all that Bakersfield has to offer!
