Discover the Rich Heritage of Kern County Museum

Explore the Kern County Museum in Bakersfield for a captivating journey through local history, culture, and heritage, perfect for tourists of all ages.

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Kern County Museum

The Kern County Museum in Bakersfield is a captivating destination for tourists, showcasing the region's rich history and diverse culture. With engaging exhibits and an expansive outdoor area, visitors can explore the stories of local pioneers, the oil industry, and Native American heritage, making it a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts and families alike.

A brief summary to Kern County Museum

Kern County Chamber of Commerce Building, 3801 Chester Ave, Bakersfield, California, 93301, US
+1661-437-3330
Visit website

Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
Thursday 9 am-4 pm
Friday 9 am-4 pm
Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

Plan your visit during the weekdays to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
Take advantage of guided tours for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
Check the museum's calendar for special events and temporary exhibits that might coincide with your visit.
Allow sufficient time to explore the outdoor exhibits, as they provide a unique perspective on the area's history.

Getting There

Public Transit

If you are in downtown Bakersfield, head to the nearest bus stop for Golden Empire Transit. Board bus route 2, which travels south on Chester Avenue. Stay on the bus for about 15 minutes. Get off at the stop near 3801 Chester Ave. The Kern County Museum will be on your right, just a short walk from the bus stop.
Walking

If you are near the central area of Bakersfield, you can walk to the Kern County Museum. Start at the intersection of 19th Street and Chester Avenue. Head south on Chester Avenue for about 0.5 miles. The museum is located at 3801 Chester Ave, which will be on your left. Look for the Kern County Chamber of Commerce Building, as the museum is housed there.
Bicycle

If you prefer to cycle, Bakersfield has a network of bike lanes. Start at the Bakersfield Bike Path on the Kern River. Head south towards Chester Avenue. Once you reach Chester Avenue, turn right and continue biking south for approximately 1.5 miles. The Kern County Museum will be on your right at 3801 Chester Ave.

Discover more about Kern County Museum

Nestled in the heart of Bakersfield, the Kern County Museum is a treasure trove of history that invites tourists to explore the rich tapestry of Kern County's past. This fascinating museum features a wide array of exhibits that delve into local history, from the early days of the region to its modern developments. Visitors can wander through engaging displays that highlight the lives of the area's pioneers, explorers, and the significant oil industry that shaped its economy. This immersive experience is perfect for families, history buffs, and anyone interested in understanding the cultural landscape of California. The museum is not only an indoor experience; it also boasts an expansive outdoor area with historical buildings and artifacts, allowing guests to step back in time and appreciate the architectural styles of bygone eras. Each exhibit is thoughtfully curated, making it easy to see the connections between the region's history and its present-day identity. The museum's knowledgeable staff and volunteers are always on hand to enrich your visit with stories and insights that bring the exhibits to life. With its commitment to preserving and sharing Kern County's heritage, the Kern County Museum is a must-see destination that will leave a lasting impression on every visitor.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Portrait of a Warrior Gallery Kern County

1.8 km

Explore the Portrait of a Warrior Gallery in Bakersfield, a unique art destination celebrating local talent and the spirit of community through captivating artworks.

Portrait of a Warrior Gallery Kern County

The Historic Bakersfield Californian

2.1 km

Discover the rich history of The Historic Bakersfield Californian, a landmark that encapsulates the spirit of Bakersfield's vibrant past and present.

Bakersfield Escape

2.1 km

Experience the thrill of adventure at Bakersfield Escape, where immersive escape rooms challenge your mind and teamwork skills.

Liberty Bell

2.3 km

Discover the Liberty Bell in Bakersfield, a historic landmark symbolizing freedom and independence, surrounded by vibrant city life.

Buck Owens' Crystal Palace

2.3 km

Discover Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, where live country music and American cuisine meet in a vibrant, nostalgic atmosphere in Bakersfield.

Bakersfield Sign Marker

13.4 km

Explore the historical significance of the Bakersfield Sign Marker, a charming landmark that captures the spirit and heritage of Bakersfield, California.

The Historic Sunset Camp

21.6 km

Explore the Historic Sunset Camp in Bakersfield, California – a remarkable journey through the Dust Bowl era and a vital piece of American history.

Garces Baptismal Site/ California Historical Landmark No. 631

40.2 km

Explore the Garces Baptismal Site, a significant California Historical Landmark that celebrates the intersection of culture and history amidst stunning natural beauty.

Garces Baptismal Site/ California Historical Landmark No. 631

Cesar E. Chavez National Monument

45.9 km

Explore the legacy of Cesar E. Chavez at this inspiring national monument dedicated to labor rights and social justice in California.

Old Town State Historic Landmark

55.2 km

Experience the rich history of California at Old Town State Historic Landmark, a serene destination in Golden Hills showcasing captivating architecture and cultural heritage.

Fort Tejon State Historic Park

58.8 km

Explore the historic significance and natural beauty of Fort Tejon State Historic Park, where California's frontier history comes to life.

Allensworth Historic Town Site (California Historical Landmark #1047)

62.0 km

Explore the Allensworth Historic Town Site, a unique landmark showcasing African American history and culture in California's vibrant landscape.

Allensworth Historic Town Site (California Historical Landmark #1047)

Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park

62.1 km

Explore the unique history of Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, a testament to African American heritage and community in California.

Red Rock Canyon State Park

95.8 km

Discover the stunning landscapes and geological wonders of Red Rock Canyon State Park, a true desert paradise in California.

Unmissable attractions to see

Lori Brock Discovery Center

0.0 km

Discover, Learn, and Play at the Lori Brock Discovery Center – a unique children's museum in Bakersfield, California, that inspires curiosity and creativity.

Stramler Park

0.2 km

Experience the beauty of nature at Stramler Park, a serene escape in Bakersfield, California, perfect for family outings and peaceful retreats.

Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science

1.8 km

Discover the rich history of our planet at the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science in Bakersfield, California - a must-visit for all ages.

The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater

1.8 km

Discover the enchanting Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater, a cultural landmark showcasing diverse performances and rich history in the heart of Bakersfield, California.

Mural Alley Bakersfield

2.1 km

Explore Mural Alley in Bakersfield, where vibrant street art brings local culture to life in an unforgettable outdoor gallery experience.

Bakersfield Museum of Art

2.1 km

Explore the vibrant art scene at the Bakersfield Museum of Art, where creativity and culture come alive in an intimate setting.

The Bakersfield Sign

2.2 km

Discover the vibrant spirit of California at the iconic Bakersfield Sign, a must-visit landmark blending local culture and unforgettable memories.

Colonel Thomas Baker Memorial

2.3 km

Explore the Colonel Thomas Baker Memorial in Downtown Bakersfield, a tribute to bravery and service that honors a local hero's legacy.

Central Park at Mill Creek

2.3 km

Explore the natural beauty and recreational charm of Central Park at Mill Creek in Bakersfield, California, a perfect escape for every traveler.

Beach Park

2.4 km

Discover the charm of Beach Park in Bakersfield, a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and relaxation for all visitors.

KoRn Row

2.5 km

Discover KoRn Row in Bakersfield, a vibrant tribute to rock music and the legendary band KoRn, where art meets the spirit of music culture.

Visit Bakersfield

2.5 km

Explore the vibrant city of Bakersfield, California, where culture, history, and hospitality converge for an unforgettable travel experience.

Bakersfield Korean War Memorial

2.6 km

Explore the Bakersfield Korean War Memorial, a serene tribute to the bravery of veterans amidst beautifully landscaped grounds.

Panorama Vista Preserve

2.8 km

Experience the serene beauty and diverse wildlife of Panorama Vista Preserve in Bakersfield, California, a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Panorama Park

2.9 km

Immerse yourself in nature at Panorama Park, Bakersfield's scenic retreat with stunning views and endless outdoor activities for everyone.

Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Angry Barnyard BBQ in Bakersfield - where smoky flavors meet friendly service.

Explore a captivating collection of vintage treasures and unique antiques in the heart of Bakersfield at 19th and Eye Street Antiques and Vintage.

19th and Eye Street Antiques and Vintage

Encore! Boutique

2.0 km

Explore Encore! Boutique in Bakersfield for unique thrift finds that support local causes and promote sustainable fashion shopping.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Foxtail Lounge Bakersfield

1.7 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Foxtail Lounge in Bakersfield, where exquisite cocktails meet a lively atmosphere for a memorable evening.

Sandrini's Public House

1.8 km

Discover the best of Bakersfield nightlife at Sandrini's Public House, a lively bar and pub with craft beers and delicious bites.

Tiki-Ko

1.9 km

Discover the enchanting Tiki-Ko Cocktail Bar in Downtown Bakersfield, where exotic drinks and vibrant ambiance create the perfect nightlife escape.

Mc Murphys Irish Pub

2.0 km

Discover the charm of Mc Murphys Irish Pub in Bakersfield, where traditional Irish ambiance meets lively entertainment and delicious pub fare.

The Mint Bar

2.0 km

Discover the lively spirit of Downtown Bakersfield at The Mint Bar, where eclectic cocktails and a vibrant crowd create unforgettable nights.

Guthrie's Alley Cat

2.0 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Downtown Bakersfield at Guthrie's Alley Cat, a cocktail bar that offers a unique blend of flavor and atmosphere.

Crash Lounge

2.0 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bakersfield at Crash Lounge, where craft cocktails and live music create an unforgettable experience.

The Botanist

2.1 km

Discover a vibrant cocktail bar in Downtown Bakersfield, where artisanal drinks and a lively atmosphere await.

18th Street Bar and Grill

2.1 km

Experience the vibrant dining atmosphere at 18th Street Bar and Grill in Bakersfield, where delicious food and refreshing drinks await every visitor.

The Silver Fox Starlite Lounge

2.2 km

Discover the vibrant charm of The Silver Fox Starlite Lounge, Bakersfield's favorite cocktail bar, where delicious drinks and a cozy ambiance await.

Boss Cocktail Lounge

2.3 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bakersfield at Boss Cocktail Lounge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a friendly atmosphere await.

Grenadier Cocktail Lounge

4.3 km

Experience the art of mixology at Grenadier Cocktail Lounge, Bakersfield's premier destination for exquisite cocktails and vibrant nightlife.

Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge

4.7 km

Discover Bakersfield's vibrant nightlife at Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge, the ultimate blend of cocktails, karaoke, and live music.

Pour House Bar and Grill

5.0 km

Experience the lively atmosphere of Pour House Bar and Grill, where delicious cocktails and karaoke create unforgettable memories in Bakersfield.

VIP Lounge

5.5 km

Discover the vibrant ambiance of VIP Lounge in Bakersfield, where innovative cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere await your arrival.

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Discover the Rich Heritage of Kern County Museum

A brief summary to Kern County Museum

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transit

Walking

Bicycle

Unlock the Best of Kern County Museum

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Kern County Museum

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Portrait of a Warrior Gallery Kern County

The Historic Bakersfield Californian

Bakersfield Escape

Liberty Bell

Buck Owens' Crystal Palace

Bakersfield Sign Marker

The Historic Sunset Camp

Garces Baptismal Site/ California Historical Landmark No. 631

Cesar E. Chavez National Monument

Old Town State Historic Landmark

Fort Tejon State Historic Park

Allensworth Historic Town Site (California Historical Landmark #1047)

Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park

Red Rock Canyon State Park

Unmissable attractions to see

Lori Brock Discovery Center

Stramler Park

Buena Vista Museum of Natural History & Science

The Historic Bakersfield Fox Theater

Mural Alley Bakersfield

Bakersfield Museum of Art

The Bakersfield Sign

Colonel Thomas Baker Memorial

Central Park at Mill Creek

Beach Park

KoRn Row

Visit Bakersfield

Bakersfield Korean War Memorial

Panorama Vista Preserve

Panorama Park

Essential places to dine

La Costa Mariscos Fine Mexican Food

Village Grill

Flame & Skewers Mediterranean Restaurant

Happy Jack's Pie 'n Burger

Nuestro Mexico Restaurant

Zama Latin American Cuisine

TWO GOATS & THE GOOSE

Mama Roomba

Brimestone

Mamma Mia Italian Restaurant

The 18hundred

Locale Farm to Table Eatery

Guild House Gourmet Luncheons

Horse in the Alley

Angry Barnyard BBQ

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Deja Vu Love Boutique Bakersfield

In Your Wildest Dreams Consignments

Timeless Furnishings

Vintage Art Lady

Bakersfield Vintage

Stage Fright Clothing

The Vintage Home Antique Gallery

The She Shed by The Peachy Pig

Peter Pan Shop

A&J Home Décor & Antiques

19th Street Antique Mall

Merry Go Round Antique Mall

House of Talula

19th and Eye Street Antiques and Vintage

Encore! Boutique

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Foxtail Lounge Bakersfield

Sandrini's Public House

Tiki-Ko

Mc Murphys Irish Pub