Bakersfield

A short history of Bakersfield

Bakersfield, located in the southern part of California's San Joaquin Valley, has a fascinating history. Originally inhabited by the Yokuts and Kawaiisu Native American tribes, the area was later explored by Spanish missionaries in the 18th century. The city's growth accelerated with the discovery of gold in the nearby Kern River in 1851. Bakersfield became an important hub for agriculture, oil production, and transportation, shaping its identity as a thriving city.

FAQ for Bakersfield

What is the best way to get there?

By air: Bakersfield is served by Meadows Field Airport, located just north of the city.

By car: Bakersfield is easily accessible via major highways, including Interstate 5 and State Route 99.

What is this city famous for?

Bakersfield is renowned for its rich agricultural heritage, particularly in the production of crops like almonds, grapes, and citrus fruits.

The city is also known as the birthplace of the Bakersfield Sound, a genre of country music that emerged in the 1950s.

What are five interesting facts about the city?

Bakersfield is the ninth-largest city in California.

The city experiences over 300 days of sunshine each year.

Bakersfield is home to the largest Basque community in the United States.

The Kern River, which runs through Bakersfield, offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and rafting.

Bakersfield is a popular filming location for movies and TV shows.

How did this city get its name?

Bakersfield was named after Colonel Thomas Baker, a local politician and lawyer who played a significant role in the city's early development.

What are some travel tips for the city?

Make sure to try some authentic Basque cuisine at one of the local restaurants.

Visit the Kern County Museum to learn more about the city's history and culture.

Explore the nearby Sequoia National Forest for breathtaking natural beauty.

Do I need a visa?

If you are a U.S. citizen, no visa is required for domestic travel within the United States.

International visitors should check the visa requirements based on their country of origin.

When is the best time to visit the city?

The best time to visit Bakersfield is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant.

Are there local customs I should know for i.e. Drinking, Greetings, Public transit?

When greeting someone, a handshake is the most common form of greeting in Bakersfield.

Public transit options include buses and taxis, with Uber and Lyft also available.

What is the time zone for the city?

Bakersfield operates on Pacific Standard Time (PST, UTC-8) during standard time and Pacific Daylight Time (PDT, UTC-7) during daylight saving time.

What are the voltage/plug types?

The voltage in Bakersfield is 120V, and the plug type is Type A and Type B, which are the standard plugs used in the United States.

What is the currency?

The currency used in Bakersfield, as well as throughout the United States, is the United States Dollar (USD).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

ATMs are readily available throughout the city, including at banks, convenience stores, and shopping centers.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Bakersfield, including at most hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Can you use ApplePay and Google Pay?

Yes, many businesses in Bakersfield accept ApplePay and Google Pay as convenient payment options.

How much do I tip in Restaurants/bars, Hotels, Taxis, Tour guides etc.?

In restaurants and bars, it is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill.

For hotel staff, a tip of $1-2 per bag for bellhops and $2-5 per night for housekeeping is customary.

For taxis, a tip of 10-15% of the fare is typical.

For tour guides, a tip of $5-10 per person for a half-day tour and $10-20 per person for a full-day tour is customary.

City Information for Bakersfield

Founded	Population	Elevation
1869	410,647 Source	400 feet

Average temperatures for Bakersfield

Season/Month	Temperature (Celsius)	Temperature (Fahrenheit)
Winter (December-February)	10-18°C	50-64°F
Spring (March-May)	18-26°C	64-79°F
Summer (June-August)	27-36°C	81-97°F
Fall (September-November)	20-28°C	68-82°F