Cultural & Historical Destinations in Bakersfield, California, United States

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1. Kern County Museum

Explore Kern County's rich history with over 25 historic structures and artifacts.

Historical Artifacts: Discover a collection of items from Native American culture, ranching, oil industry, and more.
Pioneer Memorial Building: See the largest structure moved piece by piece to its current location.
Living History Farm: Step back in time and witness rural life from the 1860s-1920s.

Learn about local geology, paleontology, and ecology in the heart of Bakersfield.

Fossil Collection: See a vast collection of fossils, including many unique to Kern County.
Mammal Gallery: Discover the diverse wildlife of California and its prehistoric counterparts.
Planetarium: Enjoy star shows on a 20-foot domed ceiling for an immersive experience.

Discover the role oil played in shaping Bakersfield and California's history.

Petroleum History: Explore the history, tools, and technology of the oil industry.
Antique Equipment: See a collection of antique drilling equipment and trucks.
Dino the Derrick: Meet a 105-foot tall dinosaur made from oil derricks, a local icon.

Learn about the Native American cultures and their history in Kern County.

Tribal Artifacts: Explore artifacts, tools, and clothing from various native tribes.
Chumash Exhibits: Understand the Chumash people's way of life before European contact.
Yokuts Exhibits: Discover the Yokuts tribe's unique traditions and history.

Step back in time to the era of steam locomotives at this outdoor museum.

Locomotive Collection: See restored steam, diesel, and electric locomotives from various eras.
Historical Cars: Explore vintage passenger coaches, cabooses, and freight cars.
Train Rides: Experience a short ride on a historic train during special events.

Learn about the life and work of Bakersfield founder Colonel Thomas Baker.

Colonel Thomas Baker's Life: Discover his military, political, and personal achievements.
Baker Mansion: Tour the restored mansion that served as his home and office.
Local History Exhibits: Explore exhibits on local history, including early agriculture and oil production.

Experience a piece of Bakersfield's cinematic past at this historic theatre.

Art Deco Architecture: Admire the stunning art deco design from the 1930s.
Classic Films: Enjoy classic films during special events and screenings.
Live Performances: Attend concerts, plays, and other live performances throughout the year.

Experience a diverse range of performing arts in an intimate setting.

Performing Arts: Attend concerts, plays, dance performances, and more throughout the year.
Art Gallery: Enjoy local and traveling art exhibits in the adjacent gallery space.
Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, classes, and camps for all ages.

Discover the history of Bakersfield's performing arts scene at this historic venue.

Architectural Heritage: Admire the art deco architecture, a rare example in Bakersfield.
Performing Arts: Attend concerts, plays, and dance performances throughout the year.
Historical Artifacts: Learn about Bakersfield's performing arts history through displays.

Experience an iconic piece of Bakersfield's architectural and cultural history.

Art Deco Architecture: Admire the stunning art deco design from the 1930s.
Historic Restoration: Learn about the theatre's restoration and its impact on the community.
Live Performances: Attend concerts, plays, and other live performances throughout the year.

Relax in a picturesque park with stunning views of Bakersfield and its historic sites.

Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the city, including the Kern County Museum.
Garden Tours: Participate in guided tours to learn about the park's diverse flora.
Historic Structures: Explore historic structures, including the Old Spanish Trail Marker.

Pay your respects to California's first governor, Peter Hardin Burnett, at his gravesite.

California History: Learn about Governor Burnett and his contributions to California's early history.
Gravesite Design: Admire the simple yet beautiful design of the gravesite.
Historic Context: Understand the significance of the gravesite in California's history.

Hike to the top of Mount Milla for stunning views of Bakersfield and its surroundings.

Scenic Hiking Trails: Enjoy hiking trails with varying difficulty levels.
Nature Appreciation: Admire the local flora and fauna during your hike.
Historic Context: Understand the importance of Mount Milla in Native American history.

Discover Bakersfield's oil industry history and its impact on the city's growth.

Oil Industry Artifacts: Explore a collection of oil industry artifacts, tools, and equipment.
Historic Films: Watch historic films about the development of the oil industry in Bakersfield.
Interactive Exhibits: Participate in interactive exhibits to learn more about the oil industry.

Respect and honor the indigenous people of Kern County at this sacred site.

Native American History: Learn about the history and culture of the Native American tribes in the area.
Cemetery Design: Understand the significance and symbolism of the cemetery's layout.
Respectful Visit: Visit with respect, understanding the importance of this site to local tribes.