Why You Should Go...
The Central Valley city of Bakersfield, about two hours north of Los Angeles along Highway 99, is full of pleasant surprises. Once known only for oil and agriculture, Bakersfield—or Bako, as the locals affectionately call it—has become a hub for arts and culture while still retaining the richness of the region’s past.
While Buck Owens’ music-filled Crystal Palace closed in 2025, you can still hear the Bakersfield Sound and country music in general around Bakersfield. Check out the live acts at downtown bars and venues such as Bakersfield Music Hall of Fame, Rooster’s Honky Tonk, and The Stockyard Whiskey Bar.
There are plenty of ways to play outdoors in Bakersfield, too. Bike or walk along the Kern River Parkway Trail or book a river rafting trip along the Kern River.
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Why You Should Go...
The Central Valley city of Bakersfield, about two hours north of Los Angeles along Highway 99, is full of pleasant surprises. Once known only for oil and agriculture, Bakersfield—or Bako, as the locals affectionately call it—has become a hub for arts and culture while still retaining the richness of the region’s past.
While Buck Owens’ music-filled Crystal Palace closed in 2025, you can still hear the Bakersfield Sound and country music in general around Bakersfield. Check out the live acts at downtown bars and venues such as Bakersfield Music Hall of Fame, Rooster’s Honky Tonk, and The Stockyard Whiskey Bar.
There are plenty of ways to play outdoors in Bakersfield, too. Bike or walk along the Kern River Parkway Trail or book a river rafting trip along the Kern River.
What You Should Know...
Open:
Year-Round
Payment: Cash, MC, Visa, AMEX, Discover
Available: Café, Restaurant, Bar, Gift Shop, Souvenirs
How You Can Follow...