The Ultimate Guide to Road Tripping from Bakersfield to Dallas

Are you ready for a road trip adventure? If so, join us as we explore the top places to see when driving from Bakersfield, California to Dallas, Texas. This 1,306-mile journey can take 18-20 hours if driven straight through, but why rush? Follow our guide as we take you through some of the best sights and experiences along the way.

Starting From Bakersfield

Before we hit the road, let's take a quick look at what Bakersfield has to offer. Located in the southern part of the San Joaquin Valley, it is a hub for agriculture, oil production, and music. Bakersfield's excellent location makes it the perfect starting point for a road trip. Whether you are a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or a music lover, Bakersfield has something for everyone.

Buck Owens' Crystal Palace

Start your day by visiting Buck Owens' Crystal Palace. A must-see for fans of country music, it is a tribute to the legendary country singer-songwriter Buck Owens. Inside, you'll find a museum showcasing his life's work, thousands of country music memorabilia, and a concert venue, where you can enjoy live music performances. Don't forget to have a bite to eat at the Crystal Palace Restaurant. Try their famous "chicken fried steak" while enjoying the ambiance of a classic honky-tonk.

Sequoia National Forest

After a long day of driving, escape to the natural beauty of Sequoia National Forest. Home to the largest trees in the world, the giant sequoias, it's a perfect place to plan a picnic or hike through nature. Experience the breathtaking scenery, wildlife sightings, and crystal-clear waterfalls. One of the must-see trails is the "Congress Trail," where you will find giant sequoias that are over 2,000 years old.

Top Places to Visit Along the Way

Let's hit the road and see what's in store between Bakersfield and Dallas. Here are our top picks for places to see during your scenic drive.

Meteor Crater Natural Landmark (Winslow, Arizona)

A stop at the Meteor Crater Natural Landmark is like landing on a different planet. The crater was formed 50,000 years ago by a meteorite that slammed into the earth's surface. It's an awe-inspiring sight that will make you think about the power of nature. Visitors can walk around the crater's rim and learn about the meteorite impact. A museum nearby showcases the history of the crater's formation and the scientific discoveries made in the area.

El Malpais National Monument (Grants, New Mexico)

Stop by El Malpais National Monument, where you can explore one of the most unusual landscapes in America. The park has miles of lava tubes, caves, and other volcanic formations that will make you feel like you're on another planet. The area's unique geology has created a desert-like environment with a stark beauty that's not to be missed. Visitors can take a hike on one of the several trails, including the Narrows Rim Trail, which has excellent views of the lava fields.

Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas)

Cadillac Ranch is a public art installation that's quirky and fun. It's a series of ten Cadillac cars that are buried nose-first in the ground, artwork created by a group of artists in 1974. Over the years, visitors have added their own modifications to the cars, so now they're all brightly colored and decked out. It's a fun place to stretch your legs, take some photos, and leave your mark by adding your own spray-painted message.

Fort Worth Stockyards (Fort Worth, Texas)

The Fort Worth Stockyards offer a glimpse into the days of the Old West, with its cattle drives, rodeos, and historical reenactments. Visitors can watch a cattle drive or bull riding, and explore the area's authentic cowboy culture. Don't miss out on the daily Fort Worth Herd cattle drive, where you can watch cowboys and cowgirls drive a herd of longhorn cattle down Exchange Street.

Conclusion

We hope that this guide has given you some inspiration for your next road trip adventure. There's no denying that driving from Bakersfield to Dallas can be a long journey, but with so much to see and explore along the way, it's a trip that's worth taking. With stops at Buck Owens' Crystal Palace, Sequoia National Forest, and many more unique places, you'll have an unforgettable adventure that you'll be talking about for years to come. So, gas up your car, grab your favorite snacks, and let's hit the road!