Looking for the best summer things to do in Bakersfield, CA? This Central Valley city delivers a sun-soaked mix of outdoor fun, live music, and local flavor. Spend your days rafting the Kern River, hiking scenic trails, or browsing farmers markets, then cool off with evening concerts and food festivals. Whether you’re renting an apartment, a house, or buying a home, this Redfin guide covers the top summer activities that make Bakersfield a great place to live — or visit — when the weather heats up.
Bakersfield, California, has plenty of fun things to do in summer. Ahmad Qureshi, creative director at EventsInCalifornia, describes a variety of summer activities that will help anyone to have a perfect summer day in Bakersfield:
- In the summer, one of the top things to do is float down the Kern River — just be sure to go with a local guide for a safe and scenic adventure.
- A night at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is a must, offering dinner, live country music, and a slice of the city’s rich musical heritage.
- For a relaxing day, locals head to Hart Park to picnic, paddle boat, or spot peacocks roaming the grounds.
- If you’re looking for something unique, Wind Wolves Preserve offers sunset hikes and wildlife tours where you might catch sight of blooming wildflowers and Tule elk.
- No visit is complete without a hearty, family-style Basque meal at Wool Growers or Benji’s, where tradition and flavor meet in every bite.
Panorama Vista Preserve
“Panorama Vista Preserve is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape into nature right in the middle of the city. In the summer, it’s the perfect place for a morning walk among native plants, birdwatching along the bluff, or even dipping your feet in the cool water where the Kern River still flows. Even on hot summer days, the first few hours of the morning can be lovely in the preserve, especially with shade from the big riparian trees. It’s a reminder of the wild beauty Bakersfield has to offer — often just a few minutes from home,” says Bring Back the Kern, a local nonprofit movement focused on restoring the flow of the Kern River through Bakersfield. This organization focuses on connecting residents to their river and advocating for a healthier, more vibrant waterway.
Catch a show at the Bakersfield Fox Theater
Summer nights in Bakersfield are perfect for catching live music, comedy shows, or indie films at the historic Fox Theater. This beautifully restored 1930s landmark is a local favorite and offers an eclectic mix of entertainment that draws a loyal crowd. It’s a great way to cool off indoors while enjoying a night out downtown – making it a top pick among summer things to do in Bakersfield.
The Park at River Walk
“Summer in Bakersfield invites you to slow down and soak in the simple joys of the season. A must-visit spot is The Park at River Walk. Pack a picnic, enjoy the lively concerts under the stars, or stroll along the peaceful trails by the river. It’s a local favorite that captures the warmth, connection, and laid-back charm that makes summer here so special,” says Diane Scott, venue manager at El Tango Reception Hall, a family-owned wedding and event venue in Bakersfield, CA.
Explore the Bakersfield Museum of Art and Mill Creek Park
For a blend of culture and outdoor relaxation, locals often spend a summer afternoon at the Bakersfield Museum of Art, located right next to Mill Creek Park. The museum features rotating exhibits from regional and national artists, while the adjacent park offers shaded walking paths, a charming canal, and plenty of space for a picnic. It’s a peaceful, art-filled way to beat the heat.
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