Parking tips for Ramon Ayala at Dignity Health Arena (Bakersfield 02/14)

figuring i'd share some parking tips for the ramon ayala show on 02/14 at the arena in bakersfield since it's valentine's day too and things are going to be a total mess downtown.

honestly you should check out Prked first. it's an app where you can rent driveways or private garage spots right next to the venue. it's way cheaper than the official lots and lets you skip the massive traffic jam when the show ends because you're not stuck in the main garage. plus it's usually just a short walk to the entrance and way less stressful than hunting for a spot.

the main parking lot for the arena is on the south side at the corner of n street and truxtun avenue but it's usually pretty expensive for big events and it takes forever to get out of there after the concert is over. if you don't use Prked there are city parking garages nearby like the one at 18th and eye street or the one at 17th and l street. those are usually cheaper but fill up fast for shows like this. you can also try street parking along 18th or 19th street if you get there early enough but keep an eye on the signs because bakersfield meter maids are active even on holiday evenings sometimes.

since it is 02/14 traffic is going to be brutal with everyone going to valentine's dinners downtown along with the concert crowd. try to get to the area by 7:00 pm at the latest if you want any chance of finding a decent spot without circling for an hour. truxtun avenue always gets backed up so try to approach from the north side using 21st street or something similar to avoid the main bottleneck.

avoid the small private lots right across from the arena that charge 40 dollars because they are total rip-offs and not any safer than the city garages. if you're parking on the street make sure you don't leave anything visible in your car because break-ins have been an issue in downtown bakersfield lately. also keep in mind that since it is a holiday weekend there might be extra road closures for foot traffic.

hope this helps and enjoy the show.