Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Delano, California

Delano is a city with a population of approximately 53,000, situated in Kern County. It is a suburb of Bakersfield, located just 31 miles away.

The city is recognized for its agricultural sector, favorable climate, and strategic location. It offers convenient access to numerous regional attractions, including natural reserves.

In Delano, visitors can find a variety of parks, dining establishments, and shopping centers, including Delano Marketplace, Delano Shopping Center, and Hot Outlet. The renowned museums and cultural venues of Bakersfield are a short drive away.

Throughout the year, Delano hosts various festivals and events, such as the Cinco De Mayo Fiesta and the Annual Philippine Weekend Festival.

Below are 15 of the most noteworthy activities to engage in while visiting Delano, California.

1. Spend a Lovely Afternoon in Cecil Park

If you seek a tranquil setting to unwind outdoors for a few hours, Cecil Park offers a pleasant urban green space with expansive areas.

Facilities include a playground, gazebo, basketball courts, picnic areas equipped with barbecue facilities, and restrooms.

2. Learn About Regional History at the Kern County Museum

The Kern County Museum, located in Bakersfield, is distinguished by its unique layout spanning 56 historical buildings.

This museum curates and exhibits artifacts that reflect the history and culture of Kern County. Visitors can explore a jail, an oil derrick, a general store, and several historic homes. The exhibitions cover an array of topics including Native American culture, railroad history, agriculture, and mining.

While traversing the site, you will encounter thousands of artifacts, photographs, and documents.

Various special events are hosted throughout the year, featuring educational opportunities for all ages.

3. Enjoy a Hearty, Traditional Meal at Charros Mexican Food

Charros Mexican Food is a vibrant family-owned restaurant that has been delivering authentic Mexican cuisine since its establishment in 1996.

The dedicated staff meticulously prepares each dish, ensuring high-quality dining experiences consistently.

The menu boasts a diverse selection of offerings including appetizers, burritos, salads, tacos, tortas, enchiladas, burgers, pasta, seafood dishes, and various combo meals.

4. Take in a Live Show at the Fox Theater

Located in downtown Bakersfield, the Fox Theater serves as the primary venue for performing arts in the region.

This historic establishment, dating back to the 1930s, showcases a stunning Spanish Colonial architectural design complemented by a contemporary and stylish interior.

Throughout the year, this venue hosts a variety of world-class performances, including ballet, concerts, comedy shows, dance performances, theatrical productions, and symphony concerts.

5. Play a Round of Golf at Delano Golf Course

Delano Golf Course is an exquisitely maintained 9-hole course situated within Memorial Park, accommodating players of all skill levels. For those wishing to enhance their skills prior to hitting the course, the facility features a driving range, putting green, chipping area, and practice bunker.

The Hole in One Restaurant provides traditional American fare and beverages in a casual setting.

6. Admire Fine Art at the Bakersfield Museum of Art

Since its inception in 1956, the Bakersfield Museum of Art has been a principal venue for fine arts, recognized as one of the city’s premier attractions.

The expansive museum features two large galleries and two smaller ones. The permanent collection showcases works from local artists, while the rotating exhibitions present a diverse range of art from various regions and periods.

The museum’s outdoor grounds feature beautiful gardens and sculptures, enhancing the cultural experience.

7. See Local Flora and Fauna at Kern National Wildlife Refuge

Approximately 20 miles from Delano lies the Kern National Wildlife Refuge, a preserved wilderness area encompassing 1,246 acres. This refuge represents one of the finest locations in the region for observing indigenous plant and animal species in their natural environments.

While exploring the area, visitors will encounter diverse habitats, including desert uplands, developed marshes, riparian zones, salt cedar forests, valley sink scrub, and grasslands.

A multitude of migratory birds can often be observed in the vicinity. Additionally, wildlife such as coyotes, squirrels, rattlesnakes, and lizards may be spotted during your visit.

The visitor center offers insights into the preserve’s history and its efforts toward local conservation.

8. Visit Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace

A visit to the Delano area would be incomplete without experiencing the museum honoring the legacy of the late country music icon, Buck Owens.

Initially inaugurated in 1996 as a live music venue, Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace has evolved into a museum celebrating the storied career of this legendary artist.

The exhibits encompass numerous artifacts from his life and career, including guitars, distinctive outfits, and an extensive collection of concert memorabilia.

A restaurant is also available on-site, offering comfort food consistent with American culinary traditions.

9. Get a History Lesson at the Delano Heritage Park Museum

The Delano Heritage Park Museum is situated within a repurposed historic building.

Inside, a variety of exhibits showcase artifacts and photographs that highlight the history and culture of Delano.

10. Have a Family Day at Murray Family Farms

Murray Family Farms, located near Bakersfield, provides visitors of all ages with the opportunity to experience the diligent efforts involved in running a large family farm while indulging in traditional farm activities.

This operational farm encompasses expansive fields where strawberries, citrus fruits, apples, melons, tomatoes, pumpkins, and much more are cultivated.

Guests can tour the property via tractor-driven wagons, engage in fruit-picking activities, and interact with friendly farm animals at the petting zoo, including goats, sheep, and horses.

Also on the premises are a butterfly house, mazes, and the Red Barn, where visitors can purchase fresh pies and jams.

11. Try Your Luck at the Aviator Casino

If an exhilarating night out is what you desire, the Aviator Casino is an entertaining destination that offers the chance of winning some money.

This casino features an array of card tables for engaging games such as blackjack, poker, and more, though it does not provide slot machines.

The on-site restaurant serves a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages.

12. Visit the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History

The Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, located in Bakersfield, serves as an excellent venue for individuals interested in geology, archaeology, paleontology, and anthropology.

While browsing through the captivating exhibits, visitors will encounter an extensive fossil collection originally curated by Bob and Mary Ernst.

Other displays include sections on The Miocene, North American Animals, Native American Lifeways, Rocks and Minerals, African Animals, and the Paleontology Collection. Guided tours are offered to enhance the experience.

13. Take the Kids to Camelot Park

For a delightful day full of fun for the entire family, Camelot Park in Bakersfield offers numerous attractions suitable for all ages.

Exciting activities available include bumper boats, miniature golf, batting cages, a rookie Jr. Grand Prix, thrilling rides, and go-karting. The park’s arcade features a broad selection of games, catering to young children as well.

Additionally, Camelot Park regularly hosts a variety of enjoyable events.

14. Get Outdoors at Lake Woollomes

Lake Woollomes, situated near Delano, is an ideal retreat from urban life. Spend a day by the serene lake, surrounded by nature and tranquility.

Facilities at the lake include picnic areas with barbecue options, playgrounds, a concession stand, and restrooms.

Fishing is a favored pastime here, with anglers having the opportunity to catch various species, including crappie, bass, and catfish. Boating is permitted on the lake, provided that the craft is non-motorized.

15. Learn About Local Wildlife at the California Living Museum

The California Living Museum, situated in Bakersfield, is best characterized as a native zoo. This 14-acre facility has been home to over 80 native species of animals since its establishment in the early 1980s, housed in environments closely resembling their natural habitats.

This institution cares for animals unable to thrive in the wild due to injury or other challenges to survival.

Notable exhibits include the black bear habitat, birds of prey, the mammal house, a duck pond, and a reptile house. Species such as owls, hawks, eagles, bobcats, foxes, and deer reside here.

Many endangered species find refuge at this facility, alongside some domestic animals available for interaction.