Kern County Museum, Bakersfield

About Kern County Museum

Kern County Museum displays thousands of historic and cultural artifacts across more than 56 historic buildings on 16 landscaped areas in Bakersfield, California. Visitors walk through California's Gold Rush era, settlement and development, and the oil and agriculture industries that shaped the state's heritage. The museum grounds and collection span from the region's earliest history through its crucial role in California's development. Families explore interpretive exhibits that tell significant stories about Kern County life across different periods. The museum provides a meaningful learning environment for visitors of all ages through hands-on historical objects and preserved structures. Special events and programs run throughout the year, including lecture series and a book club. The venue opens Wednesday through Sunday, with admission prices published on its website.