Bakersfield might not be the first city that springs to mind when you think of California train travel, but for many Amtrak passengers, it’s a critical gateway. As the southern terminus for the popular San Joaquins route, Bakersfield’s Amtrak station serves as a vibrant hub where train journeys seamlessly connect with extensive Thruway Bus services, opening up the entire Golden State.
Whether you’re starting your adventure in the Central Valley, heading to the bustling metropolises of Southern California, or making your way to the Bay Area, understanding the Bakersfield station and its connections is key. This complete guide will walk you through what to expect, and crucially, provide those essential distances to key cities and airports.
Understanding the Bakersfield Hub: Where Trains Meet Thruway Buses
The unique aspect of Amtrak Bakersfield is its role as a major transfer point. The San Joaquins train line, which travels north through the Central Valley to Sacramento and the Bay Area, ends here. For passengers wishing to continue south (to Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, and beyond), or to other destinations not directly served by the train, Amtrak’s Thruway Bus service takes over.
These aren’t just any local buses; they are comfortable, dedicated Amtrak coaches that are timed to connect directly with the trains. Your ticket covers the entire journey, making the train-to-bus transfer (or vice-versa) a smooth and integrated experience.
The Amtrak Bakersfield Station Experience
The Bakersfield Amtrak station is a functional and well-maintained facility designed to handle the frequent transfers and passenger flow.
- Location: 601 Truxtun Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301
- Hours: Generally open around train and bus schedules, typically from early morning to late evening. Check Amtrak’s website for specific daily hours.
- Amenities:
- Ticket Office: Staffed agents for purchasing tickets, making changes, or asking questions.
- Waiting Area: Comfortable seating for passengers.
- Restrooms: Available on-site.
- Vending Machines: Limited options for snacks and drinks.
- Information Boards: Displays for arrivals and departures.
- Accessibility: The station is fully ADA accessible, with accessible platforms, restrooms, and boarding assistance.
- Parking: Paid parking is usually available on-site or nearby, often managed by the city or a private operator.
- Nearby: Being just south of downtown Bakersfield, there are various food options, convenience stores, and hotels within walking or a short ride’s distance, which can be useful during layovers or delays.
Key Destinations & Distances from Amtrak Bakersfield
Here’s an overview of approximate distances and typical travel times from Bakersfield, primarily via the Amtrak Thruway Bus service for southbound routes, and via the San Joaquins train for northbound routes.
Important Note: Travel times are estimates and can vary based on traffic, weather, track conditions, and specific route connections. Always check your exact itinerary on Amtrak.com. Distances listed are road miles unless specified as rail miles.
Major Cities
- Los Angeles (Union Station):
- Distance: ~115-120 miles
- Travel Time: ~2 hours 15 minutes – 2 hours 45 minutes (via Thruway Bus)
- The most frequent and critical Thruway Bus connection.
- San Francisco (Emeryville/Oakland then BART/Bus):
- Distance: ~280-290 miles (to Emeryville/Oakland)
- Travel Time: ~5 hours 30 minutes – 6 hours 30 minutes (via San Joaquins train from Bakersfield, then transfer)
- Note: The train itself goes to Emeryville (for SF), Oakland, or Sacramento. For SF, you transfer to BART or a local bus at Emeryville.
- Sacramento (Sacramento Valley Station):
- Distance: ~240-250 miles (rail distance)
- Travel Time: ~4 hours 15 minutes – 4 hours 45 minutes (via San Joaquins train)
- A direct train journey from Bakersfield.
- Fresno (Fresno Station):
- Distance: ~110-115 miles (rail distance)
- Travel Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes – 2 hours (via San Joaquins train)
- A direct train journey north.
- San Jose (Diridon Station):
- Distance: ~240-250 miles (to San Jose via Thruway Bus from train at Martinez/Oakland)
- Travel Time: ~5 hours – 6 hours (via San Joaquins train + Thruway Bus transfer)
- Santa Barbara (Santa Barbara Station):
- Distance: ~120-125 miles
- Travel Time: ~2 hours 30 minutes – 3 hours (via Thruway Bus)
- Anaheim (ARTIC Station):
- Distance: ~145-150 miles
- Travel Time: ~2 hours 45 minutes – 3 hours 30 minutes (via Thruway Bus)
- Great for Disneyland visitors!
- San Diego (Santa Fe Depot):
- Distance: ~230-240 miles
- Travel Time: ~4 hours 30 minutes – 5 hours 30 minutes (via Thruway Bus to LA, then Surfliner train)
- This is a multi-segment journey.
Key Airports
- Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport (BFL):
- Distance: ~7 miles
- Travel Time: ~15-20 minutes (via taxi/rideshare)
- The local airport for Bakersfield.
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX):
- Distance: ~125-130 miles
- Travel Time: ~2 hours 30 minutes – 3 hours 30 minutes (via Thruway Bus, direct service available)
- A very popular Thruway Bus destination.
- Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR):
- Distance: ~105-110 miles
- Travel Time: ~2 hours – 2 hours 30 minutes (via Thruway Bus, often a faster alternative to LAX)
- Ontario International Airport (ONT):
- Distance: ~115-120 miles
- Travel Time: ~2 hours 15 minutes – 2 hours 45 minutes (via Thruway Bus)
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO):
- Distance: ~290-300 miles
- Travel Time: ~6 hours – 7 hours (via San Joaquins train to Emeryville, then BART transfer)
- Oakland International Airport (OAK):
- Distance: ~280-290 miles
- Travel Time: ~5 hours 45 minutes – 6 hours 45 minutes (via San Joaquins train to Oakland Jack London Square, then BART/AirBART transfer)
- Sacramento International Airport (SMF):
- Distance: ~250-260 miles
- Travel Time: ~5 hours – 5 hours 30 minutes (via San Joaquins train to Sacramento Valley, then local bus/taxi/rideshare)
Tips for Travelers at Bakersfield Station
- Book Your Whole Journey: Always book your entire trip (train + Thruway Bus) as one ticket through Amtrak. This ensures seamless connections and that your luggage is handled appropriately.
- Check for Delays: Use the Amtrak app or website to check the status of your train and bus. Delays can happen, and it’s good to be prepared.
- Arrive Early: Especially if you’re unfamiliar with the station or need to pick up tickets, arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
- Luggage: Be aware of Amtrak’s luggage policies, especially for checked bags vs. carry-ons, as you’ll be transferring between modes of transport.
- Stretch Your Legs: If you have a longer layover, take a walk around the station area. There’s usually a short break when transferring from train to bus (or vice-versa).
- Staff are Your Friends: Amtrak staff at Bakersfield are experienced with the transfer process. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or directions.
Bakersfield’s Amtrak station is much more than just a stop; it’s the dynamic heart of Amtrak’s California network. By understanding its role as a transfer hub and knowing the connections available, you’re well-equipped to navigate your journey across the Golden State with ease. Ready to explore? Head to Amtrak.com to plan your next adventure!
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