The César E. Chávez National Monument tells a story of César E. Chávez bringing attention to the working conditions on U.S. farmland during the 1960s. The monument is located in California, about 30 miles south of Bakersfield, and the 187 acres became a national historic landmark in 2012. On the land, you can find a visitor’s center, rose and cactus gardens, and the graves of César E. Chávez and his wife, Helen. There are a well-preserved library and office on the grounds where you can see paperwork that gives several examples of the type of housing that was common for farm workers during this time. Because of the "¡Si, se puede!" ("Yes, we can!") initiatives lead by César E. Chávez, California was the first state to pass the Agricultural Labor Relations Act in 1975. Tribute to the leadership of César E. Chávez can be found at this national monument.
With so many national parks around the César E. Chávez National Monument, traveling in an RV will make this trip optimal. You can enjoy comfort in an RV, and all of your family members will be able to sleep easily. RVshare has many RV rentals in California, so check out the site for rental options to consider before you start planning your trip.
If you are traveling in an RV, César E. Chávez National Monument is a great place to stop because there are no guided tours, so you can explore the area on your own and continue on your trip when you are ready. There is a memorial garden where César E. Chávez and his wife lie, but there is much more to explore at the memorial. The visitor center, which was rebuilt in 2003, gives you the option of watching films, exploring César E. Chávez’s office, and viewing exhibits about his story and work for human rights.
Hiking TrailsThe Tehachapi Mountain Trail features beautiful wildflowers in the spring. It is a great trail for hiking, especially if you have a dog with you. It is also a wide-open area that is great for bird watching, so bring your binoculars.
Water Canyon Rd, Tehachapi, CA 93561
4.8 Miles
Moderate
The Hart Park Trail is a loop trail that can be found right near Bakersfield. A pond runs along the trail, and boat rentals are available when the weather permits. The trail is dog friendly, so your pup can stretch its legs.
Mirror Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93308
2 Miles
Moderate
The Kern River Trail is ideal if you want to walk and enjoy the wildflowers in the area. It is a pet-friendly trail, so bring your dog. You can also explore the trail on horseback, but there is not much shade on the trail, so bring enough water.
CA-178, Bakersfield, CA 93306
6.2 Miles
Moderate
SightseeingThe Triassic Vineyards offer a break from the road to adults who would like to sample some wine. The vineyard is 7.1 acres, which is about 6,000 grapevines in total. While you are visiting, enjoy the open air, taste some wine, and learn about the vineyard's history.
24627 Cummings Valley Rd, Tehachapi, California 93561
The McMurtrey Aquatic Center is a great stop to make on a hot day, especially if you are traveling with kids. There are pools for different age groups as well as waterslides to enjoy. Before traveling to this area, check the calendar for special events.
1325 Q Street, Suite 200, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Bakersfield Speedway is a great location to enjoy a night at the races. Take a night to watch cars spin their wheels and to race on this one-third of a mile track. Go-karts also race on this track, so add your kart to an event while visiting the area if you enjoy racing.
5001 N Chester Ext, Bakersfield, CA 93308
MuseumsThe beauty of the Tehachapi Heritage Museum starts before you even walk in the door. The museum was built in 1931, so the architecture is more unique than most buildings in the area. The museum teaches about the area’s history and gives you a glimpse at life in the region through exhibits and more.
310 S Green St, Tehachapi, CA 93561
The Bakersfield Museum of Art is designed to enrich visitors' lives by giving them a glimpse at amazing art. You can learn about the artists while looking at their art, and there are even group tours available that you can enjoy. You can take part in events to give you a unique experience, so make sure to check the calendar before you arrive.
1930 R St, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Nearby Shops and RestaurantsMurray Family Farms is a location where you can get organic fresh fruit to enjoy during your RV trip. Make sure to see if any farm activities are planned during your visit.
6700 General Beale Rd, Bakersfield, CA 93307
You can purchase any clothing or other special supplies for your trip at Walmart. You can also purchase food to make over the fire at night, like hotdogs or marshmallows. Toiletries are sold in this store, so you can easily replenish them if you run out.
Type: Department store
Location: 400 Tucker Rd, Tehachapi, CA 93561
400 Tucker Rd, Tehachapi, CA 93561
The Steampunk Café and Grill serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you are getting an appetizer, the Irish nachos are a tasty option. The location also offers plenty of burgers, brats, and tacos to choose from on top of the main entrees. There is also a kids’ menu with quite a few options.
20324 W Valley Blvd, Tehachapi, CA 93561
If you like to eat Thai food, then this is a restaurant that you will want to try. The tom yum Goong soup, which is a spicy hot and sour soup, is a delightful starter. Try the traditional pad thai for a tasty noodle dish.
760 Tucker Rd # B, Tehachapi, CA 93561
From Highway 58, take exit 138 toward Keene. Turn right onto Woodford-Tehachapi Road. You will find the César E. Chávez National Monument on the left.
29700 Woodford-Tehachapi Road, Keene, CA 93531
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Person)
There is no entry fee.
If you are interested in the farmworkers movement's history, César E. Chávez National Monument is a must-see national monument location to visit. This monument has a memorial garden where you can pay your respects to César E. Chávez and his wife. There are several national parks nearby, making it an enjoyable RV road trip to take and make memories with your family.
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