Photo: Central Valley Tourism Association
Photo: Juan Luevano
Photo: Richard Boyd
Bakersfield Museum of Art
★4.5(237 reviews)$Museum
🕑 1.5-2.5 hours👶 Best for ages 4-14. Younger children (4-7) enjoy the interactive installations and tactile art experiences, while older kids and tweens appreciate the rotating exhibitions and more sophisticated creative workshops that encourage artistic expression.🧡 Saved by 25 families
About
The Bakersfield Museum of Art offers a welcoming cultural experience for families with rotating exhibitions and interactive art installations designed to spark creativity in young minds. With highly-rated family-friendly programs and hands-on activities, this museum makes art appreciation accessible and fun for children while giving parents a quality educational outing in downtown Bakersfield.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive art installations that children can touch and engage with directly
- ✓Rotating exhibitions featuring diverse artistic styles and mediums
- ✓Family-friendly creative workshops and hands-on art programs
- ✓Youth art displays that inspire young artists
- ✓Engaging educational programming designed specifically for children
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on opening at 11 AM on Wednesdays or Thursdays for the quietest experience with more one-on-one time with interactive exhibits.
- 2.Check the museum's calendar before visiting as they offer special family workshops and kids' art programs on select weekends.
- 3.The museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly,Saturdays tend to be busiest with families.
- 4.Bring a sketchbook and pencils; the museum encourages kids to sketch what they see, and quiet drawing areas are available.
- 5.Street parking is available on R Street, but arrive early on Saturdays when downtown can get busy.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons (Wednesday-Friday, 2-4 PM) offer the calmest environment for families. Saturday mornings right at opening (11 AM) work well if weekdays aren't possible, giving you time before the lunch rush brings more visitors.
What to Know
Admission is typically free or low-cost (check their website for current pricing and special exhibitions). Street parking is available nearby, and the museum is stroller-accessible with family restrooms on-site.
Seasonal Notes
The museum is open year-round, making it a perfect rainy day or hot summer afternoon activity. Check their schedule for special holiday-themed art workshops and summer camp programs for kids.
Nearby Eats
Head to Locale Farm to Table (5 minutes away) for fresh, locally-sourced meals with kids' options, or try The Mark Restaurant for upscale comfort food in a family-friendly atmosphere just blocks from the museum.
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