How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Bakersfield, California, United States

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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.