It was oil and agricultural production along with Bakersfield's rich country music heritage that first put this inland city on the map as a Southern California travel destination. While working hard to maintain its homespun atmosphere, today, Bakersfield has emerged as a leader of industry as well as a center for arts and entertainment.

The city has something for everyone. The local music scene has produced popular performers such as Merle Haggard, the alternative band, Korn, and Buck Owens. At Rabobank Arena, visitors can catch more name entertainers and some of the best in professional sports including basketball's L.A. Lakers and the wrestler's of WWF Smackdown. Most weekends also bring topnotch auto racing to local speedways. Every spring and fall the National Street Rod Association and National Hot Rod Association bring hot rods to Bakersfield.

The city's downtown area is an inviting place to enjoy a day of shopping, experience the award-winning streetscape and historic architecture, dine at one of many eateries and browse through antique and specialty stores. If the arts appeal, there are three different galleries featuring local artists and evening concerts in the park liven up the summer scene. The downtown theater district offers visitors an opportunity to view live performances, vintage movies and experience productions by touring theatrical companies and performers.

When spring arrives, residents and visitors turn to the Kern River for some of the best white water rafting in the country. The surrounding countryside also offers many hiking trails, lakes and the famous Spring Kern Wildflower Tours. Kern River Parkway extends nearly 20 miles through town along the banks of the Kern River, starting at the California Living Museum northeast of town and ending near Cal State Bakersfield and providing pathways for bicycling, in-lineskating, jogging and walking.