Bakersfield, a fast-growing community in the southern Central Valley, offers a mix of history, culture, and modern entertainment. Once known primarily for oil and agriculture, it has evolved into a hub for arts, sports, and music while still preserving its rich past.
Whether you’re visiting or planning to move here, Bakersfield has plenty of things to do. From outdoor adventures to live music and family-friendly attractions, here’s a list of activities to help you make the most of your time in the city.
Bakersfield is even more exciting when you live in a community that makes everyday life enjoyable. Riverdale Village is more than just a place to live—it’s where your Bakersfield adventures begin.
Visit the California Living Museum
The California Living Museum (CALM) is a zoo and botanical garden featuring over 250 species, including mountain lions, barn owls, and reptiles.
Visitors can:
- Ride a carousel or climb the ropes course
- Watch holiday lights during the Christmas season
- Take a train ride through the park
This is a great place for families, especially those with young kids.
Admission: Adults $10, seniors (60+) $7, children (3-12) $6, kids under 3 enter free.
Go to Hart Memorial Park
Hart Memorial Park, located along the Kern River, covers 370 acres and is free to enter. It offers plenty of outdoor activities, including:
- Wild peacocks roaming the area
- Fishing lakes stocked with rainbow trout, bluegill, and bass
- Picnic areas, playgrounds, and disc golf courses
It’s a great place for a weekend outing with family and friends.
Experience Live Music at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace
Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is a restaurant and live music venue dedicated to Bakersfield’s country music legacy. Here, you can:
- Enjoy live performances from local and national country artists
- Dine on steaks, salads, and classic comfort food
- Explore a mini-museum showcasing Buck Owens’ memorabilia
For a fun night out, this is one of the best spots in town.
Explore the Kern County Museum
The Kern County Museum highlights Bakersfield’s history through exhibits and preserved buildings. The museum features:
- Over 56 historic structures, including a one-room schoolhouse and an oil derrick
- Interactive displays on agriculture, Native American culture, and the Bakersfield Sound
- A railroad exhibit and a shop preserved from the early 1900s
Admission: Adults $10, seniors/military $9, kids (3-12) $5, kids under 2 enter free.
Cool Off at McMurtrey Aquatic Center
McMurtrey Aquatic Center is a great place to beat the heat. The facility includes:
- An Olympic-sized swimming pool
- Diving boards and water slides
- Shallow play areas for kids
Perfect for families looking for a fun and active day.
Catch a Show at the Fox Theater
The Fox Theater is Bakersfield’s top venue for live entertainment. It hosts:
- Concerts, ballets, and Broadway shows
- Classic film screenings and comedy acts
- Special events featuring world-class performers
Built in 1930, the theater maintains its vintage charm, making it a great place for a night out.
Visit the Mechanics Bank Arena, Theater & Convention Center
Previously known as Rabobank Arena, this venue is the heart of Bakersfield’s entertainment scene. It hosts:
- Concerts from top artists
- Broadway performances
- Hockey games, monster truck rallies, and Disney on Ice
If you’re in town for an event, check the schedule to see what’s happening.
Shop at Valley Plaza Mall
Valley Plaza Mall is the largest retail center in Bakersfield, featuring:
- Popular stores like Apple, Macy’s, Forever 21, and H&M
- A variety of dining options
- A movie theater for a fun day out
Opened in 1967, it remains a top shopping destination.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Bakersfield
Bakersfield has something for everyone, from outdoor parks and live music to museums and shopping centers. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning to stay longer, there’s always something to explore.
If you’re considering moving to the area, Riverdale Village offers a welcoming, family-friendly community. As a well-maintained mobile home park in Bakersfield, it provides convenient access to the city’s top attractions while offering a comfortable and affordable lifestyle.
Looking to buy? Explore our mobile homes for sale in Bakersfield and make your move today.
