Tehachapi

Day Trips

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

day 1
Exploration of Tehachapi
morning
:

Begin your journey with a visit to the Tehachapi Depot Railroad Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the history of the local railroad. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh local pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming downtown area to appreciate its unique shops and art galleries.

afternoon
:

Head to the Tehachapi Mountain Park for a packed picnic lunch, surrounded by beautiful pine trees and scenic views. Spend some time hiking the various trails, finding peace in the great outdoors while enjoying the fresh mountain air. Later, visit the Tehachapi Loop, a remarkable engineering feat where trains loop over themselves, providing an excellent photo opportunity.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant known for its farm-to-table cuisine. After dining, take a scenic drive to watch the stunning sunset over the Tehachapi Valley. End your day with a visit to a local brewery, enjoying crafted beers while discussing your day's adventures.

day 2
Nature Immersion
morning
:

Start your day with a guided bird watching tour at the Brite Lake Park, where you can observe various species in a serene setting. Grab a hearty breakfast at a lakeside café, enjoying the tranquility of nature around you. Explore the nearby walking paths to connect with the surrounding environment before your afternoon activities.

afternoon
:

After your nature morning, take a drive up to the Mojave Desert to discover the stunning desert landscapes at the Jawbone Canyon. Pack a lunch and delve into some off-road adventures, exploring the unique geological formations and wildlife. Return to Tehachapi in the late afternoon to relax before dinner.

evening
:

Join a sunset photography workshop where you can learn to capture the breathtaking landscapes as the sun dips below the horizon. Savor dinner at a family-owned diner, enjoying traditional American cuisine. End the night with stargazing, taking advantage of Tehachapi’s minimal light pollution to view constellations clearly.

day 3
Cultural Discovery
morning
:

Visit the Tehachapi Museum, where you can learn about the rich history of the area through engaging exhibits. After the museum, find a local bakery for breakfast and indulge in some of the town's best doughnuts. Spend some time exploring historical landmarks as you wander the streets filled with charming architecture.

afternoon
:

Participate in an art class at a local studio to tap into your creative side and meet fellow travelers. Enjoy a light lunch at a café before heading off to a local farm, immersing yourself in the agricultural processes that sustain the community. Make sure to pick up some fresh produce to enjoy later.

evening
:

Experience an evening of local music or cultural performances at a community center or park. Visit a trendy restaurant for dinner, where farm-fresh ingredients meet creative recipes. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local ice cream shop to treat yourself to a delicious dessert.

day 4
Adventure and Thrills
morning
:

Kickstart your day with a thrilling hot air balloon ride to witness the beautiful landscapes of Tehachapi from above. Enjoy breakfast at a café known for its brunch specials upon landing, chatting with fellow adventurers about the experience. Spend some time enjoying the views from the Tehachapi Pass, known for its ample photo opportunities.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the local skydiving center for an adrenaline-packed jump, a memory you won't soon forget. Grab a quick lunch in between activities, fueling up for the excitement. Make your way to a nearby ranch for horseback riding through stunning trails in the foothills.

evening
:

After a day full of thrills, unwind at a cozy restaurant that offers a relaxed atmosphere and hearty meals. Spend the evening sharing stories of your adventures with newfound friends. If you're up for it, catch a late-night movie at a local theater for a perfect end to a thrilling day.

day 5
Relaxation Retreat
morning
:

Begin your day with a relaxing yoga session at a local studio, focusing on mindfulness as you center yourself in nature. After class, treat yourself to a wholesome breakfast at a health-focused café in town. Take a leisurely stroll through the nature trails of nearby parks to prepare for a peaceful afternoon.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon indulging in self-care at a local spa, enjoying treatments like massages or facials that will leave you rejuvenated. Afterward, enjoy a light lunch at a café that specializes in organic fare. Visit local shops to pick up artisanal products and handmade crafts to remember your trip.

evening
:

As evening approaches, reserve a table at a fine dining restaurant featuring local wine pairings to enhance your meal. Enjoy a calm conversation over dinner as you reflect on your experiences throughout the trip. Cap off your day with a walk under the stars, letting the tranquil Tehachapi night soothe your senses.

day 6
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Start the day at the Tehachapi City Park, where the kids can burn off energy at the playground while you enjoy some coffee at a nearby picnic area. After some fun, have a family breakfast at a classic diner that serves hearty American fare. Take a short hike on one of the family-friendly trails to spot local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Head to a local bowling alley for some friendly competition and family bonding time, followed by lunch at a nearby pizzeria. Visit the Tehachapi Mountain Park in the afternoon, where the entire family can explore trails and have fun together. Engage the kids with a scavenger hunt, making it an exciting adventure in nature.

evening
:

End your day with a picnic dinner at a scenic spot, watching the sunset as a family. Afterward, enjoy some ice cream from a local shop, a favorite way to treat the kids. Wrap up the evening with a movie night under the stars, bringing blankets and snacks for a cozy finish.

day 7
Scenic Drives and Views
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a beloved local café known for its extensive menu. After breakfast, set out for a scenic drive through the Tehachapi Mountains, stopping at viewpoints to soak in the panoramic vistas. Capture photos of the stunning landscapes that evolve with the changing light.

afternoon
:

Continue your drive, making your way to the famous Wind Farm, where you can get close to the giant wind turbines that power the area. Enjoy lunch at a scenic spot nearby, taking in the beautiful surroundings. Explore the area further, participating in photography or simply enjoying nature.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a local restaurant with outdoor seating to enjoy dinner with an incredible view of the mountains. Spend some time reflecting on the day over dessert while appreciating the vast sky filled with stars as night falls. Finish your night with a short drive to a lookout point for stargazing.

day 8
Heritage and History
morning
:

Begin your morning with a visit to the local farmers' market, where you can taste fresh produce and interact with local vendors. Grab breakfast from one of the stalls, enjoying the lively atmosphere full of community spirit. Take the time to learn about local crafts and traditions that define the Tehachapi area.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the area further with a visit to the nearby historic sites, particularly the historic mining towns in the region. Learn about the Gold Rush era and how it shaped the development of Tehachapi. Visit local galleries showcasing art that reflects the town's rich history.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at a restaurant that emphasizes local ingredients. Spend some time at a historical site that hosts evening tours or talks, delving deeper into the stories of Tehachapi's past. Cap off your day with a cozy fire pit experience at your accommodation, sharing stories and enjoying a night cap.

day 9
Local Tastings and Brews
morning
:

Start your day at a local bakery, savoring artisanal bread or pastries alongside a cup of locally roasted coffee. After breakfast, visit a nearby vineyard to embark on a wine-tasting tour, learning about the winemaking process in the Tehachapi region. Enjoy the beautiful vineyard views while indulging in samples.

afternoon
:

Continue your culinary adventure by visiting a local distillery for a tour and tasting of their spirits, gaining insight into the craftsmanship behind the beverages. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant that specializes in local ingredients, experiencing the flavors of the area. Spend some time chatting with chefs or owners about their passion for food.

evening
:

Choose an inviting restaurant for dinner that highlights local cuisine paired with fine wine. As the night goes on, find a local brewery where you can engage in tastings of unique brews created by local artisans. Enjoy the atmosphere mingling with locals and fellow visitors, sharing your experiences.

Discover Tehachapi

Read more in our Tehachapi 2025 Travel Guide.

Tehachapi Travel Guide