I drove by the Bakersfield sign recently while running around downtown, and of course I had to take…read morea moment to give it a shout out. It still stands strong as an amazing welcome point and iconic landmark. Cheers to all who walk the streets of Bakersfield!

I visit Bakersfield a few times a year, and for some reason, I always find myself drawn to the…read moreiconic Bakersfield sign. Maybe it's my way of saying, "I'm here" but whatever the reason, it never disappoints. The sign is massive, bold, and hard to miss. At night, it truly comes alive, lit up in bright, beautiful colors that give the whole area a pop of character. It's a surprisingly charming spot in this little town, and definitely worth checking out if you're passing through or just want a cool photo op. Bakersfield's got a gem here!

Bakersfield has a pretty extensive Chinese history. A lot of which has likely been spun into myths…read moreand legends, but the vast majority of which is true. Chinatown (the center of which is currently actually names China Alley) was home to a vibrant Chinese culture. While there were tales of hidden underground tunnels (whether this be for illegal gaming and alcohol running, or actually an easier way to get round we'll never know) but the alley itself was actually placed in the Bakersfield Register of Historic Places in 1992. The plaque can be found here.

I've always wanted to go inside of a Forest Service Fire Lookout, just to check out the view. A few…read moreyears ago I learned that you could actually rent them out and spend the night, like a hotel room but they always seem to be booked way in advance so I've never had the opportunity. Last week I found myself browsing the Recreation.Gov webpage, and came across the Oak Flat Lookout, which is less than an hour northeast of downtown Bakersfield. I happened to come across a vacancy mid last week and immediately booked it for $75. I spent the next several days excitedly reading about the place online, and looking at pictures others have taken up there. My fiancée and I set out for the site last Tuesday afternoon in my '87 4Runner loaded with supplies, beer and food. Rancheria Road north of SR178 turns to gravel about 5 miles in, and there was another 10 miles or so until we found the trail to go up to the lookout, which was secured with a locked gate. I had received the combination via email when I paid for my reservation and got right in, securing the gate behind me. There was another mile or so up a fairly steep and unimproved trail before we rounded a bend and bam! There it was. The Call Fire burning about 25 miles southeast of the lookout made for a hazy sky, but the view was nevertheless outstanding from 4,920 feet. We climbed the 40 stairs thirty feet above ground level, opened the trap door and emerged onto the catwalk to find an impeccable 360 degree view of the entire mountain range and east Bakersfield. We were pleasantly surprised to find the tower and surrounding campsite (and outhouse) in good condition. It was mostly clean, save for a bit of a stench coming from inside the tower. This was especially surprising considering there's really no one that goes up to the tower regularly to maintain it. You are basically relying on the last guest to have cleaned up after themselves. While there is no water or electricity as the site, there is a propane powered stove, heater, and lantern as well as several flashlights and LED lanterns in the tower, as well as two fairly comfortable and clean twin sized beds. There's also a firepit, bench, and picnic table on site. There's also phone service (T-Mobile) on the south side of the tower. We spent the evening preparing dinner, drinking wine and beer, and listening to music before we headed down to make S'mores before bed. All in all this was an awesome, and unique experience. I recommend it to anyone in the mood for something different on their next camping trip.

Pros - Views are awesome. Nice getaway. There's a fire pit, a picnic table and a bathroom. The…read moreactual lookout also has 2 beds, a sink and a stove. The stove is really easy to use. Packing tips: sheets for the beds, covers for the pillow cases, sandals to walk around in, water for drinking, water for washing dishes/hands/etc, food (can of soup, snacks, etc), toiletries, warm clothing (gets cold at night), bug spray for spiders and earwigs, paper toilet, paper towels Price: $75/night Note: No electricity and no running water Cons - Spiders and earwigs! In our first 6 hours we had already killed over 10 earwigs and 2 spiders. It also wasn't very clean - dusty and dirty. For $75/night they could do a better job at cleaning up.

You know you've made it in life when they name a town after you AND build a larger than life…read morestatue. Goodness knows Colonel Baker deserves it. As California Landmark #382 and dedicated in 1942, the Colonel Baker Monument stands proudly at the City of Bakersfield building on Truxtun Avenue. His motto - "Time will justify a man who means to do right" is also on the monument. A great testament to a man we owe our heritage to.

Long ago in this land we knoe , there were two Colonels, one was a Baker, the other a Sanders…read more While one Colonel was dedicated to creating a magic mix of 11 herbs and spices , the other Colonel was focused on the task of building the greatest city in America. During the great Degree Years , many bakers came into the field, Sanders moved south while Baker(s) stayed in the Field , hence Bakersfield ! We celebrate the Colonel that didn't leave with a statue, he is dressed in men's casuals ordered from the Mervins catalog. Rumor has it that Baker comes to life during lunar eclipses for which time he is known to be a very good monopoly player.

I must admit, I was previously unaware of this hidden gem in Bakersfield, but now I recognize the…read morevalue in sharing its beauty with others and inspiring a sense of community pride. This art gallery serves as a beacon of gratitude, honoring our county's veterans for their unwavering commitment and unparalleled heroism. It was a profoundly emotional experience to witness their contributions being recognized and their sacrifices being remembered in such a powerful way. We remember and honor the ultimate sacrifice of Richmond Brian, a true patriot and hero, who embodied the highest ideals of service and sacrifice. Thank you Portrait Of A Warrior Gallery for all you do.

The people here are great. The portraits are beautifully done. We took a short tour and the docent…read morewas very knowledgeable of the different veterans. The layout is beautiful. You will be moved by the descriptions of these brave soldiers.

Well I have been wanting to come here for the Longest time, but I never come to Bakersfield. If I…read morego to LA or Las Vegas, I usually fly. So when I had work down here, I thought knows my chance. Our server was exceptional with service, I ordered the Don Rich 10oz cooked to perfection, the Green Beans were delicious with the bacon. The Mash Potatoes and Gravy were phenomenal. The gravy tasted just like it was made from the Chicken Fried Steak Oil, and not some run of the Mill Powder Pack. What I did have an issue with is that my server came back and said my card was declined and she said she ran it twice. I told her impossible, so she went to the bar and ran it again.. Declined.. She went to the Gift Shop and it went through.. I woke up the next day to check my finances and I had 4 charges on my bill well over $100 a piece. Now I am a tad disappointed because I really been wanting to come here for years, really excited to experience it, the music, the dancing, the Statues and The History of someone who I grew up watching on TV, and finding out more about him through music. So Food and Music Excellent Server Excellent Ambiance Excellent Experience Dissapointment

So much cool history here. Especially for country fans. We've been coming here for over 25 years…read more The entertainment, food & drinks are always stellar. The service is always great. It's family friendly & also adult friendly. There's something here for everyone to enjoy. Especially all the historical memorabilia throughout.

Me and the my wife came to the Holiday lights at C.A.L.M. It was a Thursday evening, not packed at…read moreall. Tickets were 16.00 no discount. We rode the train, treated ourselves to some churros, and hot cocoa. They had wonderful Christmas music, meeting with Santa, Christmas trees for sale, and other goodies. If you're from Bakersfield this place is a must for the Christmas season.

Been coming to CALM Holiday Lights for well over a decade and always such a special visit to have…read morememories! Went yesterday evening and the lights were stunning and loved the Tree light show! All the employees and staff were incredibly kind and helpful! Lots of photo op's and a cute photo op with Santa and his sleigh! The Candy Cane Train is a must and I love the lights and decorations set up for this attraction! Great for families or a date night! Recommend the kettle popcorn and hot cocoa from Teen Challenge!

I came here for an event today so really my review is tailored more towards the events that Casa is…read moreholding but also to acknowledge the fabulous grounds and building though I admit I don't have full context for the history or background. I would definitely come back here to learn about the house and to take the guided tour. This wasn't the purpose for me coming today but the gentleman who works here noted that it's a great tour and I know friends who have enjoyed learning about the family and the history of the house, getting a deeper dive of information. I came here with some friends for their first hosted event Sound Bath. A wellness day if you will. From start to finish everything was very organized and thoughtful. The staff hosting the event and the spiritual wellness guide and sound healer was wonderful. Everyone was nice and you felt welcomed. Not pretentious and just very positive and good vibes. We had a nice group and everyone was respectful and on time for the sound bath so it went off without issue. It was a relaxing experience and the grounds were very nice to hold this outdoor event. The birds were chirping, the sun was shining, we found an area with shade, very nice. Very faint sounds of cars in the distance here and there which wasn't ideal but out of their control and once things settled in you really couldn't hear much external noise. After the relaxing sound bath we were offered tea and light pastry snacks. I opted for a water and began exploring the grounds instead of partaking in the refreshments. The grounds are lush and lovely, very zen. Loved the beautiful trees and walkways with small fountains and running water. It was green and pretty all around from the recent rains. Definitely a great location for events and to learn a little SB history. I will definitely do my research and come back again soon.

Yikes, this is an expensive tour but it is a rarity to see a period house with most of the original…read moreoccupants furnishings etc. The tours are docent led and very informative. If you like these types of tours, this one is quite worth it.

Holy cow(s)! I guess that's where they get the beef for these burgers, because I had absolutely no…read moreidea what kind of heavenly experience I was in for the first time I took a bite of one. Hands down, without a doubt, some of the best burgers I've ever had. I don't throw around compliments like that very often, but Ethel's has earned it. I've been back countless times since my first visit over a year ago, and somehow the food is just as good every single time. The chicken is crispy, the wings are packed with flavor, and the burgers are ridiculously juicy. Service is awesome, staff is very friendly and accommodating. Seriously, Ethel's, please never go anywhere. I don't know what I'd do without your burgers. Sincerely, One of your biggest fans

This Good Ol Bakersfield Spot is the place to grab a delicious burger, ice cold beer, and meet new…read morefriends of different ages! Ashley the bartender is a doll, she is attentive to the newbys while remembering the regulars orders! I loved watching that! My burger came out amazing,it was very filling! The fresh homemade patty made me dance! The crinkle fries were golden and crispy! I also ordered the deep pit tacos. It has a nice lightly fried taco shell. Filled with deep pit, lettuce,tomatoes, and cheese! Lil salsa cup on the side Those tacos are very filling, they are not stingy with the meat! Live Music on Sundays

The Hay Building has had quite the facelift in the 19th and 20th centuries. Between fires and…read moreearthquakes, she's been through a lot. The Hay Building is the OLDEST building in downtown Bakersfield to survive both the great fire of 1898 and the 1952 earthquake. She's like the unsinkable Molly Brown, if Molly Brown was a building. Originally constructed in Victorian architecture in 1893, it was built by the Dinkelspiel family of San Francisco who wanted to operate a general merch store on the ground level and boarding on the others. For some reason, five years later the Hay family purchased the building from the Dinkelspiel's and remodeled it in the Federalist architecture... which is kind of plain compared to the ornate Victorian structure. In 2010, The building was again remodeled to accomodate art galleries, retail businesses, and third-floor condos (which I'm not sure ever came to fruition).