The Perfect Getaway: Spring in Bakersfield, California
Explore this unique California city with a spring weekend itinerary geared toward history, outdoor exploration, and natural wonders.
Edited by Kaitlyn Dreyling | November 14, 2025
Spring in Bakersfield is a season of vibrant contrasts. The city’s rich history and open landscapes set the stage for a weekend that blends cultural discovery with outdoor adventure. From exhibits exploring the oil heritage of Kern County to neon signs, scenic river walks, and wildflower superblooms, there’s so much to see in California’s southern Central Valley. For travelers seeking flexibility convenience and comfort, Hilton Garden Inn Bakersfield is the ideal stay — close to downtown with spacious guest rooms, an on-site restaurant, and easy access to the city’s top sites. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a couple’s getaway, or a solo escape, this itinerary offers a thoughtful blend of heritage, nature, and practical planning.
Friday
Morning
Arrive in Bakersfield and drop your bags at the Hilton Garden Inn Bakersfield. The location is ideal for exploring downtown and offers complimentary parking for guests. Grab brunch at the nearby Scrambled breakfast café before setting out for the day.
Afternoon
Start your Bakersfield exploration at the Kern County Museum, featuring thousands of historical and cultural artifacts displayed on a complex of more than 50 buildings, including a one room school, a general store, and a jail. Black Gold: The Oil Experience is a permanent, interactive science and history display that brings Bakersfield’s oil-rich story to life. Wander through Pioneer Village to see restored buildings and vintage artifacts, then stroll over to the museum’s Neon Plaza, an outdoor installation featuring restored neon signs from Bakersfield’s eateries, retail stores, and service shops. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 am to 4 pm; check ahead for holiday closures and special events.
Evening
Head back to the hotel to settle in and take a quick swim in the indoor pool, grab a snack at the lobby market, or stop by the bar for a drink. When it’s time for dinner, Bakersfield’s downtown dining scene offers a range of options from the city’s signature family-style Basque cuisine to American comfort food and date night-worthy Italian — just ask the hotel team for recommendations.
Saturday
Morning
Rise early for a sunrise adventure along the Kern River Parkway, a multi-use path stretching 30 miles (48 kilometers) through the city. Pick your pace — bike, walk, or run — and keep an eye out for the protected local wildlife like rabbits, roadrunners, native birds, and more. The trail is popular with locals and visitors; remember to follow trail etiquette and bring water, sunscreen, and layers for changing temperatures. Enjoy a relaxed post-walk breakfast or brunch at the hotel’s Garden Grille & Bar.
Afternoon
Continue your outdoor itinerary with a day trip to the foothills of the Tehachapi Mountains, about a 40-minute drive southeast. Marvel over the wind farms and the Tehachapi Loop, a nearly 3,800-foot-long (1,158-meter) spiral railroad track that allows trains to gain elevation by looping over themselves. Nearby, you’ll also find one of the highest-elevation wine regions in the country for a late afternoon sip.
Evening
After your adventure, unwind with a sunset stroll and a dinner picnic at the Park at River Walk. Bakersfield’s evening temperatures are typically mild in spring, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities.
Sunday
Morning
Set out early for Wind Wolves Preserve, about a 45-minute drive south of the hotel. The preserve’s rolling grasslands and vibrant wildflowers make it a prime spot for spring superbloom viewing. The preserve is open daily with varying seasonal hours; check their website for seasonal programming and trail updates. Bring water, snacks, and layers, as weather can shift quickly in the foothills.
Afternoon
If you’re lucky, you’ll be visiting during the Wind Wolves Preserve’s annual Spring Nature Festival, often held at the end of March, featuring guided hikes, animal presentations, food vendors, and more. After hiking and a picnic lunch, head back to Bakersfield to pack up and get ready to go home.
Until next time!
Spring in Bakersfield is a celebration of color, history, and open skies. Whether you’re chasing wildflowers or neon lights, you’ll find a warm welcome and memorable moments waiting for you time after time.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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