Delano

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Delano's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Afterward, stroll through the historic center of Delano, taking in the charming architecture and learning about the city's rich agricultural history. Visit the Delano Historical Society Museum to see exhibits that showcase the town's past and its role in the farming community.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at one of the family-owned restaurants in the area, where you can savor authentic Californian cuisine. Post-lunch, head to the Delano Farmers Market, open on Wednesdays, to browse fresh produce, artisanal goods, and crafts made by local vendors. Engage with the friendly locals and perhaps pick up some fresh ingredients for a picnic.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way to the Delano Community Center for a free outdoor movie night, where families gather to enjoy films under the stars. Bring a blanket and some snacks to share while connecting with the community. After the movie, wind down with a stroll through the nearby park, reflecting on the day's adventures.

day 2
Wine Tasting Tour
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of exploration. After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive to the nearby wineries in the Kern County area, where you can enjoy the picturesque landscapes of vineyards and rolling hills. Your first stop will be a vineyard known for its award-winning Zinfandel and Chardonnay varieties.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a guided wine tasting experience, learning about the winemaking process and savoring the unique flavors of each wine. Afterward, indulge in a delightful lunch at the vineyard bistro, featuring farm-to-table dishes that pair perfectly with your wine selections. Take some time to stroll through the vineyard, capturing beautiful photos and soaking in the serene atmosphere.

evening
:

Return to Delano and freshen up before heading to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy a fusion of Californian and Mexican cuisine. Try the house special margarita alongside your meal for a refreshing finish to your culinary day. After dinner, relax at a local lounge with live music, immersing yourself in the vibrant community vibe.

day 3
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

Start your morning with breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café, then prepare for an outdoor adventure. Head to the nearby Kern National Wildlife Refuge, where you can explore scenic trails and observe diverse wildlife. Bring binoculars to spot migratory birds and other animals in their natural habitat.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the designated areas within the refuge, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon hiking the trails, taking photographs, and appreciating the tranquility of the environment. Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the ecosystem and its conservation efforts.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, return to Delano and unwind at a local eatery, savoring comfort food that reflects the region's agricultural bounty. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the town square, enjoying the evening breeze and the local shops. Conclude your day by visiting a local café for dessert, indulging in a sweet treat to cap off your nature-filled adventure.

day 4
Cultural Heritage Day
morning
:

Enjoy breakfast at a local bakery, delighting in fresh bread and pastries while sipping on a cup of locally roasted coffee. After your meal, visit the Delano Cultural Arts Center, where you can explore exhibits that celebrate the diverse heritage of the community. Engage with local artists and craftsmen, learning about their techniques and inspirations.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Cesar Chavez National Monument, where you can learn about the labor leader's significant contributions to farmworkers' rights and social justice. Enjoy a guided tour of the site, followed by a picnic lunch in the beautiful gardens. Take your time exploring the various monuments and reflecting on the important history surrounding the area.

evening
:

Return to Delano and participate in a community event or cultural performance at the local theater. Enjoy a dinner featuring dishes inspired by the diverse cultures represented in Delano. Wrap up your evening by meeting locals at a nearby café, sharing stories and experiences over a warm cup of coffee.

day 5
Adventure at the Lake
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast at a lakeside café, enjoying views of the tranquil waters of Lake Woollomes. Afterward, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene lake, keeping an eye out for local wildlife along the shores. The gentle morning breeze makes for a perfect time to enjoy the water activities.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a picnic area by the lake, relishing a packed meal while taking in the scenic views. Afterward, continue your adventure by hiking one of the nearby trails, where you can discover hidden gems and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Keep your camera ready for picturesque spots along the way.

evening
:

As the day winds down, head back to Delano and freshen up for dinner at a local steakhouse, where you can indulge in a hearty meal. After dinner, head to a local bar or pub for a night of socializing, enjoying live music or trivia night with locals. Reflect on your day of adventure while mingling with friendly faces.

day 6
A Day of Relaxation and Spa
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café, enjoying fresh fruit and pastries to set a relaxing tone. Afterward, head to a local spa where you can indulge in a massage or facial, rejuvenating your body and mind. Spend some time in a sauna or hot tub to unwind completely before diving into your afternoon activities.

afternoon
:

After your spa treatment, enjoy a light lunch at a health-conscious café, focusing on fresh and nutritious options. Spend your afternoon at a local park, finding a quiet spot to read or practice yoga amidst nature. Alternatively, you could visit a nearby art gallery to appreciate local artists' work and gain inspiration.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy a serene dinner at a restaurant known for its peaceful ambiance and farm-to-table menu. Afterward, take a calming walk around the town, perhaps stopping at a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat. End your day with a relaxing night in, reflecting on the beauty and tranquility experienced throughout the day.

day 7
Exploring Local Cuisine
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a popular local diner, where you can enjoy hearty portions of classic American fare. After breakfast, visit a local farm or orchard to learn about agricultural practices in the region and perhaps pick some fresh fruits. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper appreciation for the local produce that influences the cuisine.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. After your meal, participate in a cooking class where you can learn how to prepare traditional dishes using the ingredients you've picked. This interactive experience will enhance your culinary skills and introduce you to the flavors of the region.

evening
:

For dinner, head to a local restaurant renowned for its innovative dishes that showcase the best of Delano's agricultural bounty. Enjoy a multi-course meal paired with local wines, celebrating the flavors of California's Central Valley. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local brewery, sampling craft beers while mingling with the friendly locals.

day 8
Shopping and Local Markets
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a charming café, fueling up for a day of shopping and exploration. Afterward, visit the local boutiques and shops in Delano, where you can find unique gifts, handmade crafts, and local art. Engage with shop owners and learn about the stories behind their products.

afternoon
:

Head to a nearby flea market or artisan market, where you can browse through a variety of stalls offering everything from vintage items to artisanal foods. Take a break for lunch at a food truck or stall within the market, sampling local delicacies that reflect the region's vibrant culinary scene. Continue shopping and exploring, picking up souvenirs and items that capture the essence of your trip.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to Delano for dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights local ingredients. Enjoy a relaxed meal while sharing stories about your shopping adventures. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local bakery for dessert, indulging in a sweet treat before heading back to your accommodation.

Discover Delano

Read more in our Delano 2025 Travel Guide.

Delano Travel Guide