The best things to do in Bakersfield

“If your swing's been stuck in traffic, North Kern Golf Course is the no-fuss public track that makes weekday golf actually doable. Grab a quick loop with friends this week, get just enough challenge to keep it interesting, and head home feeling reset before dinner.”

From the Tulare newsletter, September 5, 2026

“MB2 Entertainment Bakersfield is basically Bakersfield’s playground, with go-kart racing, mini golf, bumper boats, batting cages, bowling, laser tag, axe throwing, and an arcade, plus a full restaurant, beer garden, live music and sports viewing. Gather the crew this week and let the friendly chaos commence.”

From the Bakersfield newsletter, September 15, 2026

“22 rimfire and a 20-station sporting clays trail that mimics real bird hunts. Bring a friend, find a trainer or jump into a club match this week, then brag about it later.”

From the Tulare newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Famoso Dragstrip keeps the valley buzzing with Fast Friday drags, a smoky Burnout Box, and everything from purpose-built rockets to street-driven machines under the lights.”

From the Delano newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Skip the usual weekend loop and wander through vintage aircraft, artifacts, and Kern County aviation stories at Minter Field Air Museum. Their interactive exhibits, specialty presentations, and an annual aircraft and car show make it a legit local gem for anyone who’s ever looked up and wondered how it all started.”

From the Delano newsletter, August 13, 2026

“Whether your kiddo loves building, pretending, or making a glorious glitter mess, Lori Brock Discovery Center packs hands-on fun into STEAM Town, the Power Lab, Art Express, and the Makers Annex. Swing by this week for easy, screen-free play that still sneakily teaches science, creativity, and problem solving.”

From the Delano newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Seven Oaks Country Club is the private spot locals join for 27 holes of championship golf by Robert Muir Graves, seven lighted tennis courts, two pickleball courts, two pools, and a legit fitness program. Cap it with the Oak Room’s course views, the Mixed Grille, or the Grand Island Pavilion.”

From the Bakersfield newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Looking to level up your week? Stockdale Country Club is a member-owned, private spot with a tranquil golf course, active tennis scene, fitness and massage, plus dining and social events... all wrapped in beauty, serenity, and tradition that Bakersfield folks have loved since 1925.”

From the Bakersfield newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Sundale Country Club keeps it local with a semi-private 18-hole track, a handy driving range, and The Phoenix restaurant that rolls out legit jazz nights, all an easy drive from anywhere in town, so you can tee it up then linger over dinner without the trek.”

From the Bakersfield newsletter, September 7, 2026

“With wide fairways, sneaky undulations and a signature island green on 18, Links at Riverlakes Ranch Golf Course is the Bakersfield go-to when you want a legit test without leaving town. Hit the night-lit range, join a club, or snag a lesson and make those water carries less scary.”

From the Bakersfield newsletter, September 5, 2026

“After an August 21 announcement to wind down operations, Scarlet and Gray Golf Club gives Bakersfield golfers a last shot at farewell swings on the historic Rio Bravo track. If a tee time still exists this week, treat yourself to one more loop, tip your cap to the clubhouse, and soak in the memories.”

From the Bakersfield newsletter, August 29, 2026

“The Ultimate Drive pairs Toptracer shot tracking with a laid back, family friendly vibe, so you can nerd out on ball flight, get lessons dialed, or fix that battered 7 iron in their club repair shop, all at a veteran owned local range.”

From the Bakersfield newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Grab your crew this week and hit The BLVD for 22 bowling lanes, a multi-level laser tag arena, ropes course, karaoke, billiards, and 65+ arcade and VR games, plus chef-driven plates and craft cocktails. It even has the biggest sports wall in Bakersfield, so you won't miss a play between frames.”

From the Bakersfield newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Bowlero Bakersfield keeps it fun with 36 slick lanes, blacklight vibes, an arcade for between-frame bragging, and a surprisingly solid menu of pizza flatbreads and cold beers.”

From the Bakersfield newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Set in the sun-washed hills of northeast Bakersfield, Bakersfield Country Club is a private family club with a friendly tradition and all the social and recreational activities members actually use. If you’re in the BCC crew or considering it, make this your week to reconnect and unwind.”

From the Bakersfield newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Golfers enjoy well-maintained greens, lake views, and burgers at this country course.”

“Dave & Buster's Bakersfield is the move when you want to catch the big game on massive 40 ft screens, then flex those reflexes across 100+ arcade games. Rally the crew for burgers, steaks, salads, and your pick of craft cocktails or mocktails, then let friendly trash talk commence.”

From the Bakersfield newsletter, August 24, 2026