- Must visit
Kern County Museum
Open-air history museum with dozens of restored buildings, regional exhibits, and Pioneer Village showcasing Kern County heritage.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Petaluma, CA to Bakersfield, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $66. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 17m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $66, and a flight costs an average of $292.
Distance: 281 miles (453 km)
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$66 Average price Cheapest | $292 Average price | $63 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 2m Average total duration 7h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 17m Average total duration Fastest 1h 17m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Petaluma, CA to Bakersfield, CA:
A train is $226 (€185) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Petaluma, CA to Bakersfield, CA costing on average $292 (€239).
Other travel options to Bakersfield, CA take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 32m.
Tickets start at around $66 (€54) compared to roughly $63 (€52) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-3.05 (€-2.50). The journey takes 7h 32m versus 4h 43m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare train and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Trains from Petaluma, CA to Bakersfield, CA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $66 (€54) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:12, the last at 14:12. The fastest train covers the 281 miles (453 km) distance in 7h 14m.
Distance 281 miles (453 km) |
Average train duration 7h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $66 (€54) |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 7h 14m |
First train 4:12 AM |
Last train 2:12 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Discover the best of Bakersfield — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bakersfield trip today.
Open-air history museum with dozens of restored buildings, regional exhibits, and Pioneer Village showcasing Kern County heritage.
Leading local art museum featuring rotating contemporary and regional exhibitions, sculpture garden, and community programs in Mill Creek Park.
Family-friendly museum focused on geology, paleontology, fossils, and natural sciences with hands-on displays in downtown Bakersfield.
The city's main historic and cultural core with theaters, murals, civic landmarks, and a growing arts and nightlife scene.
Popular lakeside park with walking paths, bridges, and sunset views, frequently featured in local social media content.
Scenic bluff-top walking area with sweeping city and Kern River views, especially popular at sunrise and sunset.
A Bakersfield classic rooted in the city’s Basque community, usually served in boardinghouse restaurants with soup, salad, beans, pickled tongue, fries, pasta, and a grilled meat main.
Central California barbecue favorite featuring seasoned beef tri-tip grilled over red oak or similar wood. It is widely loved in Bakersfield and across the San Joaquin Valley.
Bakersfield is known for strong Mexican food culture, and simple street-style tacos with carne asada, carnitas, onion, cilantro, and salsa are a local staple.
A Bakersfield institution blending Italian American comfort food with local tradition. Known for ravioli, sandwiches, and a bustling, historic atmosphere.
Iconic Basque restaurant known for classic family-style meals, cocktails, and a historic boardinghouse atmosphere. One of Bakersfield’s signature dining experiences.
Long-running downtown Basque spot serving hearty family-style dinners and traditional specialties in a casual, old-Bakersfield setting.
Generally cheaper than major California cities. Hotels and dining are moderate, while car travel and some attractions add costs.
Tip 15-20% in restaurants; 20% for strong service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5 where helpful.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Petaluma, CA to Bakersfield, CA by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Bakersfield, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need