Buttonwillow Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Buttonwillow with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking routes, food scene, where to stay, and more.


Buttonwillow is a charming small town located in Kern County, in the heart of San Joaquin Valley, California. Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of California. In this ultimate travel guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, hiking routes, food scene, where to stay, and more, so you can make the most of your trip to Buttonwillow.

Introduction to Buttonwillow

Buttonwillow is a small town located on the historic U.S. Route 99, the “Main Street of California,” and is known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including rolling hills, vineyards, and orchards, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

List of Places to Visit in Buttonwillow

If you’re planning to visit Buttonwillow, here are the top places you should visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Buttonwillow Union School: A historic school that served as the center of the community for over a century.
  • Kern County Museum: A museum that showcases the history and culture of Kern County, including exhibits on agriculture, oil, and Native American culture.
  • McKittrick Oil Museum: A museum that celebrates the oil industry and its impact on the region.

Natural Attractions of Buttonwillow: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Buttonwillow Recreation Area: A beautiful park filled with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a small lake.
  • San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge: A refuge that protects wildlife such as waterfowl, shorebirds, and songbirds.
  • Tejon Ranch Conservancy: A privately-owned nature reserve that offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and mountain biking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Buttonwillow

Buttonwillow has a range of hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top routes:

  • Buttonwillow Recreation Area Trail: A 1.5-mile trail that winds through the park and is suitable for all skill levels.
  • Tejon Ranch Conservancy Trail: A 6.5-mile trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Kern River Parkway Trail: A 30-mile trail that runs along the Kern River and is perfect for biking and hiking.

Best Things to Do in Buttonwillow: Activities and Tours

  • Winery Tours: Buttonwillow is home to several world-class wineries, including Ficklin Vineyards and Chateau Lettau Winery.
  • Horseback Riding: Buttonwillow has several ranches that offer horseback riding tours through the beautiful countryside.
  • Fishing: Buttonwillow is home to several lakes and rivers that offer great fishing opportunities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Buttonwillow

Day 1-2: Explore the cultural attractions of Buttonwillow, including the Kern County Museum and the McKittrick Oil Museum.

Day 3-4: Hike through Buttonwillow Recreation Area and San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge.

Day 5-6: Take a winery tour and enjoy some wine tasting, followed by a horseback riding tour through the countryside.

Food and Drink Scene of Buttonwillow

When it comes to food and drink, Buttonwillow is known for its farm-to-table cuisine and world-class wineries. Here are some of the top dishes and local beverages you should try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tri-tip Sandwich
  • Zucchini Bread
  • Bing Cherry Pie

Local Beverages

  • Ficklin Vineyards Port
  • Chateau Lettau Zinfandel
  • Kern River Brewing Co.

Where to Stay in Buttonwillow: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Buttonwillow has a range of accommodation options for every traveler’s budget and needs. Here are some of the top places to stay:

  • Motel 6 Buttonwillow, CA: A budget-friendly option with clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Buttonwillow Inn: A mid-range hotel with modern amenities, including an outdoor pool and free breakfast.
  • Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center: A high-end hotel with luxurious rooms, a fitness center, and an onsite restaurant.

What to Buy in Buttonwillow: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home, here are some of the top options:

  • Kern County Almonds and Pistachios: Buttonwillow is known for its delicious almonds and pistachios, which make for a great gift.
  • Kern County Wine: Bring home a bottle of local wine from one of Buttonwillow’s world-class wineries.
  • Artisanal Gifts: Buttonwillow has several artisanal shops that offer handmade gifts, including pottery, jewelry, and home decor.

Local Culture and Customs of Buttonwillow

Buttonwillow has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from several different cultures, including Native American, Hispanic, and European. The town is known for its friendly locals who are always happy to share their culture and heritage with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Buttonwillow

The best time to visit Buttonwillow is from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. Summers can be hot and crowded, making it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities. Winters can be chilly, but snow is rare in the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Buttonwillow

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Explore the outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
  • Try the local cuisine and wines.

Don’t:

  • litter in natural areas.
  • engage in activities that harm animals or the environment.
  • disrespect locals or their culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Buttonwillow

Buttonwillow is a safe town for tourists, but it’s important to take standard precautions, such as locking your car and not leaving any valuable items in plain sight.

Health in Buttonwillow

Buttonwillow has a range of medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. It’s essential to have adequate travel insurance when visiting the area.

Getting to Buttonwillow: Transportation Options and Logistics

Buttonwillow is easily accessible by car, located on historic U.S. Route 99, a major highway in California. The nearest major airport is the Meadows Field Airport in Bakersfield, located approximately 25 miles away. The town is also accessible by bus, with several companies offering routes to and from Buttonwillow.

Airports Near Buttonwillow

  • Meadows Field Airport: Located in Bakersfield, approximately 25 miles away from Buttonwillow.

Bus Stations Near Buttonwillow

  • Greyhound: Located in Bakersfield, approximately 25 miles away from Buttonwillow.

Other Options

  • Car rentals are available from several companies at the Meadows Field Airport and in Bakersfield.

How to Get Around in Buttonwillow

The best way to get around Buttonwillow is by car. You can also rent a bicycle or take a walking tour of the town.

Where to Go Next from Buttonwillow: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bakersfield: A vibrant city located approximately 25 miles away from Buttonwillow.
  • Sequoia National Forest: A stunning national forest located approximately 70 miles away from Buttonwillow.
  • Kernville: A charming town located approximately 70 miles away from Buttonwillow, known for its beautiful hiking trails and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Buttonwillow is a hidden gem in California, offering stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a range of outdoor activities and attractions. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Buttonwillow with ease, ensuring that you make the most of your time in this charming town.

The old buttonwillow tree that the town is named for The old buttonwillow tree that the town is named for