One Museum at a Time: A Bakersfield Day Tripper’s Delight

As we strolled through the lush, shaded paths of the Huntington Gardens recently, my friend turned to me with a grin and said, “This is one of the best things about living in Bakersfield.”

A passerby might have raised an eyebrow at his comment, considering we were clearly in Pasadena, not Bakersfield. But I knew exactly what he meant. If you know, you know!

Living in Bakersfield offers a unique advantage: the ability to visit some of California’s most brilliant gems within just a day’s drive. This accessibility makes exploring the state’s rich cultural and natural offerings not only convenient but also affordable.

While I love my community for a multitude of reasons, Bakersfield’s central location is truly one of its biggest selling points. Some might think this sounds like a backhanded compliment, but the city’s proximity to so many amazing destinations is a genuine advantage.

I have to credit my good friend and former boss, Richard Chapman, for putting The Huntington on my radar. When he and his family relocated from Seattle to Bakersfield years ago, they raved about the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Gardens. I can't believe I waited so long to take his advice and visit! Shame on me for delaying such a terrific experience.

It's true—I’m a creature of habit, often revisiting my favorite destinations time and again. When I venture out, it's usually to the coast or another outdoor retreat where I can hike and immerse myself in nature. However, as I embrace my new mantra of "seize the day," I find myself increasingly open to trying new activities, whether they're over the Grapevine or across the Atlantic.?

As we wandered through the gardens at The Huntington and approached the family’s spectacular former residence, now home to the European art collection, I couldn’t help but quietly chastise myself for not fully appreciating of all that is offered in our area.? I’ve spent a fair amount of time over the past few years exploring gardens and palaces in Germany, where my son lives.? I have to admit, California’s Mr. Huntington just might rival Germany’s King Ludwig II.?

Henry E. Huntington, a railroad magnate, established The Huntington in 1919 alongside his wife Arabella.? Spanning 207 acres, the property boasts 130 acres of impressive botanical gardens, one of the world’s most esteemed independent research libraries, and an impressive array of American, European, and Asian art collections. There’s truly a lot to explore!

You don’t have to be an art aficionado or a horticulture expert to appreciate the talent, creativity, and gardens (“living works of art”) available within just a two-hour drive.? For example, Getty Center, located in Brentwood, is a great day-trip destination.? After talking with friends about other choices, I’m adding the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena to my day-trip bucket list.? The Norton Simon features paintings by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Degas, plus sculptures and gardens inspired by Claude Monet’s beloved Giverny.?

Two museums that have become favorites among the guys in my life—and to my surprise, me as well—are the Petersen Automotive Museum and the Nethercutt Museum. Both feature stunning displays of meticulously restored automobiles, and the Nethercutt offers even more with its impressive collection of rare mechanical musical instruments and antique furniture. There’s something for everyone!

Finally, let’s not forget the jewel that truly is in our own backyard, the Bakersfield Museum of Art! This fall, the museum will feature Bakersfield Built: Architecture of the 1950s. The exhibition surveys Bakersfield's resurrection from the 1952 earthquake, the influx of post-World War II veterans, the birth of the middle class, and the architects who redesigned the city into a mid century modern mecca.?I look forward to checking it out!

There’s not enough space here to cover all the great museum day trips available from Bakersfield, and I’m sure there are dozens that I’ve never even heard about.? Drop me a note and share your favorite…I’d love to add more to my list!