Things To Do
in Lamont

Lamont is a small agricultural community in Kern County, California, located in the southern San Joaquin Valley. Its surroundings are dominated by flat farmlands, riparian canals, and a strong sense of rural life. The town serves as a quiet gateway to Bakersfield and the wider Central Valley, offering a straightforward slice of California farming culture.

Expect warm hospitality, seasonal markets, and a pace governed by harvest cycles.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploration of Lamont
morning
:

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Afterward, head out for a leisurely stroll around downtown Lamont, taking in the charming architecture and local shops. Don't forget to stop by the farmer's market to grab some fresh produce and handmade crafts.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon visiting the Lamont Historical Museum, where you can learn about the town's rich heritage and the stories of its early settlers. Following the museum, take a relaxing walk in the nearby park, enjoying the scenic views and perhaps having a picnic on the grass. Finish the afternoon with a visit to a local art gallery showcasing works by local artists.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at one of Lamont's cozy restaurants featuring regional cuisine. Afterwards, catch a performance at the local theater, where you can enjoy live music or a community play. End your day with a leisurely stroll under the stars, savoring the tranquility of the Lamont night.

day 2
Nature Day
morning
:

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore the stunning vistas of nearby natural reserves. Pack a picnic and set off for a hike along one of the beautiful trails that offer breathtaking views and a chance to see local wildlife. Take time to capture the beauty of nature with your camera.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, please consider bringing your lunch to enjoy it amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of birds and rustling leaves. After eating, continue your hike or try an exciting outdoor activity such as bird watching or photography. If you're lucky, you might spot some deer or other wildlife as you explore.

evening
:

As the day winds down, find a scenic spot to watch the sunset and unwind after your active day. Return to Lamont for dinner at a delightful bistro and share stories from your day’s adventure. Conclude the day with some stargazing if it’s clear out, experiencing the serenity of a night in nature.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🧃Soft drink / coffee$2-4
🛏️Hotel room (per night)$90-150
🧺Grocery staple$3-6
🚗Gasoline per gallon$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm, small-town atmosphere with rural charm
  • Proximity to Bakersfield offers culture and amenities
  • Strong agricultural heritage and fresh produce
  • Limited nightlife and services in Lamont itself
  • Hot summers and long drives to some attractions
  • Public transit is limited; relies on car travel

Places to Visit in Lamont

Visit one of these nice places.

Lamont Canal and Farmland Edges

Classic flat-valley scenery with rows of crops, reflective canals, and expansive skies.

Downtown Bakersfield Old Town

Historic storefronts and the Bella-style courthouse area offering charm and neon at night.

Kern National Wildlife Refuge (seasonal)

Open landscapes, wetlands, and birdlife; early morning light is best.

Kern River Parkway Trail

Scenic river corridor with trails, bridges, and opportunities for sunset shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lamont

The Central Valley’s farming heritage shapes Lamont’s food scene, with fresh produce, hearty Mexican-influenced dishes, and casual eateries that celebrate big, simple flavors.

Lamont Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carne Asada Tacos

Grilled beef in corn tortillas with onions, cilantro, salsa, and lime; widely available at taquerias across Bakersfield and nearby towns.

Must-Try!

Tamales

Steamed or boiled corn husk-wrapped tamales filled with pork or chicken, popular at local markets and family gatherings.

Birria de Res

Slow-cooked beef stew served as a flavorful consommé for dipping, commonly found at Mexican eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bakersfield Farmers Market (Old Town)

Weekly market offering seasonal produce, tamales, salsas, and street food vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lamont experiences a hot, dry continental climate with very warm to hot summers and mild winters. Spring brings comfortable temperatures and occasional rainfall, while autumn cools gradually. Rainfall is scarce and mostly confined to winter months. The area is sunny most days of the year, with strong summer sun requiring sunscreen and hydration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Hospitality and greetings

A friendly, direct greeting is common. Say hello with a nod or small talk about the weather or crops.

Tipping and generosity

Show appreciation with a tip in service settings; be respectful of local farm workers' schedules.

Safety Guide

Safety

As a rural area, stay aware of heat, dehydration, and traffic from city corridors. Be mindful of animals near farmland when driving, and carry water on longer drives. In Bakersfield, exercise normal street-smarts for urban areas; avoid isolated spots at night. Emergency numbers: 911 for urgent situations; Kern County Sheriff for non-emergencies.

Tipping in Lamont

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In casual dining and fast-food settings, tipping 15-20% is common; for larger meals or quality service, 20% is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept major credit cards, debit, contactless payments, and cash. ATMs are common in Bakersfield; some rural spots may require cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and dry, temperatures can reach into the 90s–100s°F. Hydrate, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings.

Autumn

Mild days with cooler nights; great for outdoor photography and market strolls; variable wind.

Winter

Mild to cool, possible chilly mornings; expect low rainfall. Perfect for indoor museums and canyon photography.

Spring

Blooming crops and vibrant markets; comfortable temperatures and longer days—great for hiking and outdoor meals.

Nightlife Guide

Lamont at Night

Lamont itself has a quiet, small-town vibe, with most nightlife focused in nearby Bakersfield. In Bakersfield you’ll find casual bars, live music venues, and farmer’s-market evenings; options range from country bars to lively cantinas. Expect later-night crowds in certain neighborhoods, while Lamont remains tranquil after dark. For a more festive night, join locals in Bakersfield for a concert or a relaxed lounge scene.

Hiking in Lamont

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Foothill Trail near Bakersfield

Easy-to-moderate hiking with desert and canyon views; suitable for a half-day trip.

Kern River Gorge Loop

Scenic river canyon hiking near the Kern River; check water levels and weather.

Airports

How to reach Lamont by plane.

Meadows Field (KBFL) - Bakersfield Municipal Airport

Regional airport offering domestic flights; about 25-35 miles from Lamont.

Inyokern Airport

Smaller regional airport further north; useful for private flights.

Los Angeles International (LAX)

Major international hub about 120 miles south; convenient for international connections.

Bob Hope Airport (BUR) - Burbank

Another option for regional flights; around 95 miles southwest.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lamont is largely car-centric with limited sidewalks in some areas; walking within town is feasible but not ideal for reaching destinations far away. For longer trips, a car is recommended. In Bakersfield, you can walk more in certain districts like Old Town, but overall plan for driving.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hispanic/Latino community

A significant portion of the population; bilingual communication common; family-centered culture.

Agricultural workers and families

Communities tied to farms; seasonal work influences local rhythms.

Retirees and long-time residents

Many families have deep roots in the valley; stable, close-knit neighborhoods.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

High school and community football

Popular in fall, with local teams and marching bands.

Baseball and softball

Common recreation and youth sports in the region.

Rodeo and western events

Rural communities often host rodeos or community events.

Transportation

Traffic

Lamont has light traffic; Bakersfield becomes busy on CA-99 during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation is limited; most travelers rely on cars. Traffic can slow near highway interchanges and agricultural traffic during harvest seasons.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lamont.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose veggie tacos, bean-based dishes, and vegetable sides; many spots offer cheese and avocado as hearty alternates. When ordering, ask for no lard in refried beans and request oil-based cooking for vegetables.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access is primarily through Bakersfield hospitals and clinics. For emergencies, Kern Medical Center and Mercy Hospital Bakersfield provide trauma and general care. Local clinics in Lamont may offer basic services and urgent care; most residents rely on Bakersfield facilities for extensive care.

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