Silver City Ghost Town: A Step Back in Time
Explore California's Gold Rush history at Silver City Ghost Town, a meticulously preserved open-air museum featuring original buildings and artifacts from Kern Valley's mining past, near Lake Isabella.
Silver City Ghost Town, nestled in Bodfish, California, offers a captivating glimpse into the Old West and the region's gold mining past. This unique open-air museum features over twenty historic buildings rescued from decaying settlements across Kern Valley, meticulously preserved to capture the grit and spirit of the Gold Rush era. Visitors can explore a saloon, jailhouse, church, and miner's cabins, filled with thousands of artifacts that bring the 19th century to life. With self-guided tours and occasional film shoots, Silver City provides an immersive, hands-on experience, inviting guests to wander through history and imagine life in a bygone era. It's a perfect destination for families, history buffs, and anyone seeking a taste of California's colorful past.
A brief summary to Silver City Ghost Town
- 3829 Lake Isabella Blvd, Bodfish, California, 93205, US
- +1760-379-5146
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is uneven and involves walking on dirt paths.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, as shade is limited, especially during the summer months.
- Check the town's website or call ahead for information on special events or film shoots that may be taking place during your visit.
- Consider visiting during the cooler months (spring or fall) for a more comfortable experience.
- Take your time exploring each building and reading the informational plaques to fully appreciate the history and stories behind Silver City.
Getting There
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Driving
Silver City Ghost Town is located on Lake Isabella Blvd (Highway 178). From Lake Isabella, head west on Highway 178. The ghost town will be on your right-hand side, approximately 8 miles from the town of Lake Isabella. Look for the signs; it's hard to miss. There is a free dirt parking lot directly in front of the entrance.
Discover more about Silver City Ghost Town
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cesar E. Chavez National Monument
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Garces Baptismal Site/ California Historical Landmark No. 631
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Old Town State Historic Landmark
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Freeman Junction/California Historical Landmark No. 766
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Red Rock Canyon State Park
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Bakersfield Escape
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Portrait of a Warrior Gallery Kern County
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Liberty Bell
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The Historic Bakersfield Californian
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Buck Owens' Crystal Palace
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Allensworth Historic Town Site (California Historical Landmark #1047)
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Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park
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Fort Tejon State Historic Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
California Living Museum
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Kern River County Park
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The Ernst Quarries
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Hart Memorial Park
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Trail of 100 Giants Trailhead
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Tehachapi Loop
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Chimney Peak Wilderness
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Gordon's Ferry Historic Landmark
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Panorama Park
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Panorama Vista Preserve
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Stramler Park
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Bakersfield Museum of Art
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Lori Brock Discovery Center
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Kern County Museum
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Essential places to dine
Ewings on the Kern
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Deer Creek Lodge Restaurant
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Johnny McNally's Fairview Lodge- Restaurant
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The Big Red Barn, Murray Family Farms
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Renegade Room
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Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen
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Pyrenees Cafe
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Wool Growers Restaurant
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Crab in a Bag
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Nuestro Mexico Restaurant
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La Costa Mariscos Fine Mexican Food
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Mango Haus
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Great Castle Chinese Restaurant
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Angry Barnyard BBQ
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Aguilera's Creations Inc
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Junk-Atique Outlet Thrift Store
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Central Park Antique Mall
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Farm Girl's Vintage Finds
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Mill Creek Antique Mall
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19th Street Antique Mall
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Foxtail Lounge Bakersfield
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Sandrini's Public House
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Crash Lounge
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Boss Cocktail Lounge
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Bellvedere Cocktail Lounge
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Pour House Bar and Grill
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VIP Lounge
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