Bakersfield is a vibrant Central Valley city known for its rich agricultural heritage, country music scene, and diverse cultural attractions. Whether you have a short connection or a longer layover at Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport (BFL), you can explore local museums, enjoy authentic cuisine, or relax in nearby parks. This guide helps you maximize your time in Bakersfield.
Before You Leave the Airport
- Language: English is the primary language; Spanish is widely spoken
- Currency: US Dollars (USD). Use ATMs for the best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters
- Getting Around: Rent a car, use rideshare (Uber/Lyft), or take local transit. Downtown Bakersfield is about 15 minutes from the airport
Getting to Downtown Bakersfield from BFL
Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport (BFL) is located approximately 10 miles northeast of downtown Bakersfield. Here are your main transportation options:
| Option | Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | 15-20 min | $15-25 | Quick trips, groups |
| Car Rental | Varies | $40-80+/day | Longer layovers, exploring |
| Local Transit | 30-45 min | $2-3 | Budget travelers |
| Taxi | 15-20 min | $20-30 | Direct service |
For specific transit details, visit the Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport website.
What to Do During Your Layover
Short Layover (2-4 Hours)
Stay Near the Airport: With limited time, focus on the airport itself or grab a quick meal. Most travelers use this window to rest, eat, and prepare for their next flight.
Dining Options: Airport food courts cost 2-3x more than city restaurants. If you’re staying in the airport, budget accordingly. For quick bites, check the terminal for cafes and fast-casual restaurants.
Medium Layover (4-8 Hours)
Downtown Bakersfield Exploration: With 4-8 hours, you can venture into the city. Key attractions include:
- Bakersfield Museum of Art: Features contemporary and regional art collections
- Kern County Museum: Showcases local history, Native American artifacts, and pioneer heritage
- Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace: A legendary country music venue and museum celebrating Bakersfield’s music legacy
- Downtown Bakersfield: Walk along Chester Avenue for shops, galleries, and local restaurants
Long Layover (8+ Hours)
Full City Experience: With a longer layover, consider:
- Visiting multiple museums or attractions
- Enjoying a sit-down meal at a local restaurant
- Exploring parks like Panorama Park or Buena Vista Park
- Shopping at local markets or retail areas
- Resting at a nearby hotel if you need sleep (some offer day-use rooms)
Where to Eat
Pro Tip: Eat in the city, not the airport. Bakersfield has excellent authentic Mexican cuisine, farm-to-table restaurants, and local favorites at reasonable prices – typically 50% cheaper than airport dining.
Popular Neighborhoods:
- Downtown Bakersfield: Diverse dining, from casual to upscale
- East Bakersfield: Authentic Mexican and Central American cuisine
- Ming Avenue Corridor: Asian restaurants and international options
Quick Layover Tips
- Download Offline Maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable
- Luggage Storage: Use Bounce or Stasher for luggage storage near the airport ($5-10/bag/day) – much cheaper than airport lockers
- Stay Hydrated: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security. Staying hydrated helps manage jet lag
- Use a Wise or Revolut Card: Get the best exchange rates without airport markups
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave BFL airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave Bakersfield Airport (BFL) during a layover. However, plan carefully: factor in 1 hour for (if international), 2-3 hours to return to the airport, and time to clear security again. A layover of 6+ hours is recommended to safely leave the airport and explore the city.
What is there to do at BFL during a layover?
At the airport, you can dine, rest, or use airport amenities. If you leave the airport, visit the Bakersfield Museum of Art, Kern County Museum, Buck Owels’ Crystal Palace, or explore downtown Bakersfield’s shops and restaurants. The city is known for its country music heritage and diverse cultural attractions.
How long of a layover do I need at BFL?
For domestic connections, 60 minutes is the minimum. For international connections, 2-3 hours is standard. To leave the airport and explore Bakersfield, plan for at least 6+ hours total layover time, accounting for security, travel to the city, and return time.
Are there lounges at BFL?
Lounge availability at BFL varies by airline and membership status. Check with your airline for lounge access. Alternatively, consider purchasing a one-time day pass (typically $39-59) or using a Priority Pass membership if your credit card includes it. Contact the airport directly for current lounge information.
Make the Most of Your Layover
Whether you have a short connection or a longer layover at Bakersfield Airport, planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience. Use the Yopki layover calculator to determine exactly how much time you have and what you can realistically accomplish during your stop.
Ready to plan your layover? Use Yopki’s layover calculator to get personalized recommendations based on your flight times and preferences.