
How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Bakersfield, California, United States
1. Kern County Museum
Historical museum showcasing Kern County's rich past; avoid touristy gift shops by planning ahead and bringing souvenirs.
- Affordable Admission: Offers discounted admission for families, seniors, and active military.
- Diverse Exhibits: Features exhibits on various aspects of Kern County's history, from oil to agriculture.
- On-Site Restaurant: Has an affordable, on-site restaurant for visitors to enjoy lunch without leaving the museum.
2. Bucket O' Buckets Miner's Maze
Miniature golf course with a gold rush theme; avoid crowds by visiting during the week or early in the day.
- Unique Golf Course: Features miniature replicas of famous landmarks and historical figures related to the Gold Rush.
- Group Discounts: Offers group discounts for parties of four or more.
- Indoor and Outdoor Play: Has both indoor and outdoor miniature golf courses, allowing play rain or shine.
3. Buena Vista Museum of Natural History
Museum dedicated to the natural history of California; avoid long lines by visiting early in the day or during the week.
- Interactive Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to touch and explore.
- Dinosaur Garden: Has a outdoor dinosaur garden with life-sized dinosaur replicas.
- Fossil Preparation Lab: Offers live demonstrations of fossil preparation in the on-site lab.
4. California Oil Museum
Museum dedicated to the history and culture of the California oil industry; avoid touristy food by packing a lunch.
- Historical Artifacts: Features historical artifacts, exhibits, and vintage equipment related to the oil industry.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours of the on-site historic buildings.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs for schools and groups.
5. Hart Memorial Park
Beautiful park with a variety of amenities; avoid crowds by visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays.
- Playgrounds and Picnic Areas: Has multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields.
- Lake with Pedal Boats: Features a lake where visitors can rent pedal boats.
- Botanical Garden: Boasts a beautiful botanical garden with over 1,000 plant species.
6. Kern River Brewing Company
Brewery offering tours and tastings; avoid long lines by visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays.
- Tour and Tasting Packages: Offers tour and tasting packages for groups.
- On-Site Restaurant: Has an on-site restaurant serving a variety of food options.
- Live Music Events: Hosts live music events and food truck gatherings.
7. Bakersfield Farmers Market
Local market offering fresh produce, crafts, and more; avoid crowds by visiting early in the morning.
- Seasonal Produce: Offers a wide variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables.
- Local Crafts: Features local artisans selling handmade crafts.
- Cultural Performances: Offers cultural performances and music during special events.
8. Balch Park
Beautiful park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a lake; avoid crowds by visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays.
- Scenic Trails: Features scenic hiking trails with views of the surrounding hills.
- Picnic Areas: Offers multiple picnic areas with tables and grills.
- Lake with Fishing Dock: Has a lake where visitors can fish from the dock or rent boats.
9. Pennine Pines Golf Course
Golf course with beautiful views of the hills; avoid crowds by visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays.
- Challenging Course: Provides a challenging golf experience for players of all skill levels.
- Affordable Rates: Offers affordable green fees and discounted rates for seniors, military, and juniors.
- Pro Shop and Club Rentals: Has a pro shop selling golf equipment and offering club rentals.
10. Peggy Sue's Diner
Retro diner with a vast menu; avoid touristy atmosphere by visiting during off-peak hours.
- Extensive Menu: Features an extensive menu of classic American dishes.
- Retro Atmosphere: Has a retro atmosphere with vintage decor and memorabilia.
- Large Portions: Serves large portions, perfect for sharing or taking home leftovers.
11. Kern County Star Theatre
Independent movie theater showing a mix of new releases and classics; avoid crowds by visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays.
- Variety of Films: Shows a mix of new releases, independent films, and classic movies.
- Affordable Prices: Offers affordable ticket prices, especially during matinee showings.
- Comfy Seating: Has comfortable seating and a clean, well-maintained theater.
12. Farm Girl Vineyards
Winery offering tastings and tours; avoid crowds by visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays.
- Wine Tastings: Offers wine tastings of their award-winning wines.
- Tours and Events: Provides tours of the vineyard and hosts events, such as concerts and food truck gatherings.
- On-Site Restaurant: Has an on-site restaurant serving a variety of foods to pair with their wines.
13. Casa de Frito's Mexican Restaurant
Authentic Mexican restaurant; avoid touristy atmosphere by visiting during off-peak hours.
- Homemade Food: Prepares homemade Mexican dishes using traditional recipes.
- Affordable Prices: Offers affordable prices, making it a great value for delicious food.
- Friendly Service: Provides friendly and attentive service to all guests.
14. Meadowlark Park
Park with a lake, picnic areas, and hiking trails; avoid crowds by visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays.
- Lake Activities: Has a lake where visitors can fish, swim, or rent boats.
- Hiking Trails: Offers scenic hiking trails with views of the surrounding hills.
- Picnic Areas: Provides multiple picnic areas with tables and grills.
15. Panorama Park
Park with a variety of amenities, including sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas; avoid crowds by visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays.
- Sports Facilities: Has multiple sports fields for soccer, softball, and other activities.
- Playgrounds: Offers several playgrounds for children of all ages.
- Picnic Areas: Provides multiple picnic areas with tables and grills.