
Free & Central Downtown Bakersfield Parking
Overview & Location
Our research indicates that downtown Bakersfield offers a robust mix of parking solutions for visitors, commuters, and residents. The primary off-street facility managed by the city is the 18th & Eye Parking Garage, a multi-storey car park strategically situated at the intersection of 18th Street and Eye Street. This location places it at the heart of the city’s commercial, administrative, and cultural hub, making it an ideal choice for those visiting key downtown destinations.
In addition to this structured facility, travellers will find a significant amount of on-street parking available throughout the downtown core. These spaces are well-suited for shorter visits and provide direct access to street-level businesses and offices. The combination of a central car park and ample on-street options provides flexibility for those navigating the city centre.
Pricing & How to Pay
The pricing structure at the 18th & Eye Parking Garage is designed to be highly competitive, encouraging both short-term and all-day use. A key benefit is the initial two hours of parking, which are provided completely free of charge. This makes the car park an excellent option for brief appointments or quick errands.
After the initial free period, a rate of $1 per additional hour is applied. For those planning to stay for an extended period, a daily maximum fee of $10 is in place, ensuring costs remain predictable for a full day’s visit.
For regular commuters and downtown employees, a monthly parking pass is available at a rate of $30 per space. This offers considerable savings over the daily maximum. To arrange for a monthly pass, interested parties should contact the City of Bakersfield’s Finance Department directly at 661-326-3787.
Payment at the garage is typically handled via automated pay stations, which can be expected to accept major credit and debit cards as well as cash. On-street parking throughout downtown Bakersfield is free of charge, though strict time limits are enforced.
Features & Accessibility
The 18th & Eye Parking Garage is a covered, multi-level structure, offering protection from the elements. As a city-owned facility, it is expected to comply with modern accessibility standards.
– Designated accessible parking bays are anticipated to be available, positioned conveniently near lifts and entry points.
– Lifts provide access to all levels of the car park, ensuring ease of movement for all patrons.
– The structure is likely to be well-lit and may feature security measures such as CCTV for visitor safety.
What’s Nearby
The central location of the 18th & Eye Parking Garage makes it an excellent base for exploring many of downtown Bakersfield’s most prominent attractions. From this car park, visitors are within a short walking distance of:
– The Mechanics Bank Arena, Theater and Convention Center, a major venue for concerts, sporting events, and large-scale conferences.
– The Bakersfield Museum of Art and the surrounding Arts District.
– The Kern County Superior Court and various other city and county government buildings.
– A diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, independent shops, and professional offices.
Expert Tips & Things to Know
– It is important to note that our baseline information regarding pricing and operational details dates from 2015. We strongly recommend that visitors verify current rates and policies upon arrival, as they may have been subject to revision.
– The first two hours of free parking are ideal for those attending a brief business meeting or enjoying a lunch at a nearby restaurant.
– For events at the Mechanics Bank Arena, arriving early is advisable as the car park is a popular choice and can fill up quickly.
– While on-street parking is free, time limits are strictly enforced. Pay close attention to posted signage to avoid a citation. These spaces are best used for quick, short-duration stops.
– The car park’s operating hours are from 5 am to 3 am, seven days a week. Note that it is not a 24-hour facility and closes for a two-hour period in the early morning. Patrons should confirm overnight parking policies before leaving a vehicle past the closing time.
– The monthly pass represents exceptional value for anyone who regularly works or conducts business in the downtown area.