The Best Hotels to Book in Bakersfield, California

Soak up the sun and swim some laps at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bakersfield
Soak up the sun and swim some laps at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bakersfield | Courtesy of DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bakersfield / Expedia
Nick Dauk

Bakersfield has a little something for everyone and is worth more than an overnight stop. Country and rock venues sit out among the wide-open countryside, full of its own rocks and stars. Wildlife and history museums fill the gaps. A couple of hours from Los Angeles and a short drive into the Sequoia National Forest, this city is a fantastic base for Cali cruisers. Drop your bags for a few nights in the best hotels in Bakersfield – bookable on Culture Trip – and try to prove us wrong.

1. The Padre Hotel, for burning the midnight oil

Hotel

A stylish room with one bed at the Padre Hotel
Courtesy of The Padre Hotel / Expedia

The Padre Hotel is one of the best hotels in Bakersfield for not sleeping. As crazy as it sounds, this western-chic hotel has a rooftop patio that hosts live music. You’ll push your bedtime as late as possible while tapping your toes, sipping cocktails and laughing with new friends. Turn in but not to bed; hop in the jacuzzi in the Head Honcho suite, allowing the warm water to cascade over you from above before getting in your 40 winks.

2. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bakersfield, for a desert oasis

Chain Hotel

A spacious two-bed room with a balcony at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bakersfield
Courtesy of DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bakersfield / Expedia

Despite being right off the Golden State Highway, this DoubleTree feels like a tranquil oasis. It’s right across the Kern River, making it one of the best hotels in Bakersfield to stay in for days spent under the sun at Beach and Yokuts Parks. You don’t need to cross the river for fun in the sun; you can hop in the outdoor pool at the hotel instead. Whenever you need some shade, there’s a cold beer waiting for you in the hotel lounge.

3. Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center, for heavy metal magic

Chain Hotel

The luxurious presidential suite at the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center
Courtesy of Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center / Expedia

In the heart of downtown Bakersfield, this Marriott is connected to the Mechanics Bank Arena, Theater and Convention Center. From hockey games to stand-up comedy, you can look down at the evening’s event from your top-floor suite. And for the metal fans out there getting ready to rock out, this hotel is right around the corner from KoRn Row, the official street sign celebrating the famous hometown quintet.

5. Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites Bakersfield, for fussy families

Chain Hotel

A warm guest room at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites Bakersfield
Courtesy of Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites Bakersfield / Expedia

The Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites knows that traveling with picky eaters can be tricky (and costly). That’s why children under 11 eat for free at this hotel – those under 18 get to stay for free. Save the hassle and expense of restaurant hopping; Joe’s Restaurant and Lounge will give the tots whatever they desire. Meanwhile, you’re free to order what you want with no need to share. And that goes double for dessert.

6. TownePlace Suites by Marriott Bakersfield West, for covering all bases

Chain Hotel

A relaxing outdoor grill area at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott Bakersfield West
Courtesy of TownePlace Suites by Marriott Bakersfield West / Expedia

TownePlace Suites tries so hard to make you feel right at home while in Bakersfield. Your room has it all – separate living and sleeping areas, a work desk and a fantastic closet for your clothing. The hotel will even make you a hot breakfast for free if you don’t want to dirty up your kitchen. You might even consider sticking to your workout routine in the on-site fitness center – until you spy In-N-Out Burger across the street, that is.

7. Hyatt Place Bakersfield, for sunning it up

Chain Hotel

A comfy outdoor sitting area with a firepit at Hyatt Place Bakersfield
Courtesy of Hyatt Place Bakersfield / Expedia

With the city receiving 300 days of sunshine per year, Hyatt Place is one of the best hotels in Bakersfield for sunseekers. So, throw on a pair of trunks and hit the outdoor pool until your T-shirt tan is gone. The Placery is open nearly all hours of the day, so don’t think you’ll miss a meal if you nod off by the water. However, if you need a fast snack, the Market has grab-and-go bites perfect for the poolside.

8. Residence Inn by Marriott Bakersfield West, for Buck n’ Roll

Chain Hotel

A homey one-bedroom suite at the Residence Inn by Marriott Bakersfield West
Courtesy of Residence Inn by Marriott Bakersfield West / Expedia

Act naturally when you arrive at Residence Inn by Marriott. You’ll be within a mile (1.6km) of Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, so feel free to walk the streets of Bakersfield singing like a truck drivin’ man. If it’s only you checking in, you should consider mingling with other fans at the evening reception. When the sauce has you singing hello trouble, retire to your one-bedroom suite and let yourself drift away on the couch.

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