Fun Things To Do In Antioch, CA

Antioch Has Fun Things To Do Every Day, All-Year-Long!

Lots of Waterfront Fun, Viewing Big Ships, Fishing and Boating

Antioch: A City with Something for Everyone

Antioch is a city on the San Joaquin River surrounded by 1,100 miles of waterway. There is something fun for everyone. There are outdoor activities and cultural attractions, Antioch is a fun place to spend the day.

Scenic Trails and Waterfront Views

Antioch is home to several scenic trails that are perfect for people of all fitness levels. The Contra Loma Park Trail is a popular option for walkers, runners, and bikers. It offers stunning views of the San Joaquin River and is relatively flat, making it a great choice for families.

Downtown Antioch offers great waterfront views. You can walk along the waterfront park or rent a kayak to get a closer look to the cargo ships as they pass by.

Cultural Attractions

Antioch is home to a museum, the Antioch Historical Museum which is open most Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1 pm to 4 pm. The city has a performing arts center, the El Campanil Theatre, which hosts a variety of plays, concerts, and other events on weekends.

A City For Foodies and Shoppers

Antioch has a diverse dining scene, with over 70 restaurants,  you can choose a casual meal or a fine dining experience including American, Mexican, Italian, Chinese, Seafood, and Japanese.

Antioch offers a diverse range of shopping options, from major department stores to quaint antique shops and stylish boutiques. Visitors can browse historic downtown, and find specialty local stores that offer unique gifts, art, and clothing. Whether you are looking for major retail, charming antiques, classy boutiques, or localized shops, Antioch has something for everyone.

Antioch: A Year-Round Destination

In the summer, you can enjoy the city’s many outdoor activities. In the winter, you can visit the museum, art gallery, and performing arts center. No matter what time of year you visit, you’re sure to have a great time in Antioch.

Hungry? Visit our BEST RESTAURANTS.

Overhead view of Antioch Marina from the Northwest

Antioch Marina

#5 Marina Plaza
Antioch, CA 94509

Along the San Joaquin River, you’ll find the Antioch Marina. It’s a popular spot for boating, watersports, and fishing. The marina has a launch ramp, boat slips, equipment rentals, a bait shop, and a fueling station. You can easily spend a relaxing day picnicking, walking along the promenade, or enjoying a meal with a waterfront view.

Open Dusk til Dawn | website

Photo Courtesy of Facebook


shows outside of Smith's Landing Restaurant and Antioch Marina at sunset

Enjoy Seafood at Smith's Landing

1 Marina Plaza, Antioch, CA 94509

Phn: (925) 775-4862

For delicious fresh seafood with a waterfront view, head to Smith’s Landing Seafood Grill at the marina. Their extensive menu features oysters, salmon, crab, and other seafood alongside steaks and burgers. Relax on the patio for a memorable meal. Open for lunch, dinner, and cocktails.

Open 7 days 11 am to 10 pm. | website

Photo Courtesy Smith’s Landing Seafood Grill


kayaks on the delta

Kayak Adventures on the Delta

#5 Marina Plaza, Antioch, Ca 94509
(925) 642-5764

For a unique outdoor experience, go kayaking in the Delta waters around Antioch. Guided kayak tours allow you to paddle through scenic waterways and catch glimpses of wildlife. Rent a kayak and explore on your own or join a group tour for a fun day on the water.

Rental rates are from $28 per hour. Reservations required. website

Photo Courtesy of DeltaKayakAdventures.com


footprints in the sand

Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge

501 Fulton Shipyard Rd, Antioch, CA 94509 (707) 769-4200

The Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge features rare sand dunes along the river. Hike along the sandy trails and keep an eye out for unique plants and birds found only in this habitat. It’s a great place to admire the natural landscape.

Monarch Butterfly and Antioch Primrose are being protected here.

FREE Tours on the 2nd Sat of the month @ 10 am. | website

Photo Courtesy of ContraCostaLive.com


Antioch Fishing Pier see the Antioch Bridge

Fishing on the Antioch Bridge Pier

Bridgehead Rd @ Wilbur Ave., Antioch CA (888) 327-2757

The Antioch Bridge Pier extends nearly a half mile into the San Joaquin River and is a popular fishing destination. Fish for striped bass, sturgeon, catfish, and more from this ideal spot with beautiful river views.

There are actually three public fishing piers in Antioch (1) Antioch Marina by Smith’s Landing (2) “I” St by Monica’s (3) Bridgehead Rd by the bridge (photo shown)

Open Daily, FREE. | If the fish aren’t biting you may get lucky and SEE THIS  always exciting when it happens.

Photos Courtesy of ContraCostaLive.com


corteva wetlands reserve formerly known as dow wetlands reserve

Spot Birds and Wildlife at Corteva Wetlands

1200 W 4h St, Antioch, CA 94509 (925) 432-5576

Open dawn until dusk. Formerly known as Dow Wetlands Reserve. Entry from the Antioch Marina and 10th St. Bird watchers and wildlife lovers will enjoy exploring the Dow Wetlands. This restored wetlands area is home to over 200 species of birds as well as other animals like river otters, beavers, and deer. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture views of the diverse ecosystems and habitats.

Free & Open dawn to dusk | Info

Photo Courtesy ContraCostaLive.com


Exterior photo of Antioch Museum

Learn History at the Antioch Historical Museum

1500 W. Fourth St., Antioch, CA 94509 (925) 757-1326

For those looking to learn all about Antioch’s unique history, spend some time at the Antioch Historical Museum. Fascinating exhibits detail what life was like for early settlers in the 1800s. An old schoolhouse and other historic buildings have also been moved to the museum grounds. Make sure to see the antique doll collection too!

Open most Weds & Sats 1-4 pm. | website

Photo Courtesy Antioch Historical Museum


gallery painting

Admire Art at the Lynn House Gallery

809 W. First St., Antioch, CA 94509 (925) 284-5143

The Lynn House Gallery features artwork from local Contra Costa County artists. Browse the rotating exhibits showing paintings, photography, jewelry, ceramics, and more. It’s a great place to discover talented regional artists.

Open Fri-Sun, Art classes available | website

Photo Courtesy ContraCostaLive.com


interior of the campanil theatre from the stage

See a Show at El Campanil Theatre

602 W. 2nd St., Antioch, CA 94509 (925) 757-9500

El Campanil Theatre opened in 1928 and still hosts entertainment in downtown Antioch today. From movies to live music and comedy, there are always great shows and performances happening at this historic theater. Enjoy a play put on by the Rivertown Theatre Company or see a concert by talented local musicians.

Performances most weekends | website

Photo Courtesy ContraCostaLive.com


Photo from the dirt track

Catch Auto Racing at Antioch Speedway

1201 W. 10th, Antioch, CA 94509 (925) 779-9220

If you’re a fan of auto racing, head to Antioch Speedway on Saturday nights from April to September. You can catch exciting races from stock cars, modifieds, sprints, and dwarf cars. The speeds can reach over 100 mph on the fast 3/8 mile clay oval track. Tickets $20.

Racing season Mar-Oct mostly on Saturdays 5:30 pm. | website

Graphic Courtesy of ContraCostaLive.com


young kid playing in pool

Cool Off at Prewett Water Park

4701 Lone Tree Wy, Antioch, CA 94531 (925) 776-3070

Open May to Sep 11-6 pm. On hot summer days, head to Prewett Water Park to cool off. This family-friendly water park has swimming pools, water slides, splash pads, and shaded cabanas. Enjoy a fun day in the sun going down the slides or relaxing in the lazy river.

Tickets start @ $8. | website

Photo Courtesy ContraCostaLive.com


cemetery at Black Diamond Mines

Enjoy the Outdoors at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve

5175 Somersville Rd, Antioch, CA 94509 (510) 544-2750

One of the best attractions in Antioch is the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve. This beautiful park covers over 5,000 acres and includes scenic hiking trails, a visitor center, and tours of the historic coal mines. You can explore the rose garden and picnic areas or go fishing, biking, or horseback riding on the trails. Don’t miss touring the Hazel-Atlas silica sand mine and wandering through the mining artifacts and locomotives on display.

Park is open 8 am to dusk and charges a $5 parking fee. | website

Photo Courtesy of ContraCostaLive.com


photo of the walking bridge at Contra Loma in the fall

Spend a Day at Contra Loma Reservoir

1200 Frederickson Lane, Antioch, CA 94509 (510) 562-7275

Contra Loma Regional Park is centered around the Contra Loma Reservoir, which is great for swimming, boating, and fishing. There are also picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails around the reservoir. It’s a beautiful setting to enjoy the outdoors.

Open dusk until dawn. Parking fee $5. Swimming is closed for repairs. | website

Photo Courtesy of ContraCostaLive.com


Lone Tree Golf Course, Antioch

Tee Off at Lone Tree Golf Course

4800 GOLF COURSE RD, ANTIOCH, CA 94531 (925) 706-4220

Golfers will love teeing off at the scenic Lone Tree Golf Course. This 18-hole public course offers fun and challenging play for golfers of all skill levels. The peaceful setting with views of Mount Diablo makes for an enjoyable day on the links.

Lighted driving range, good food and service in the restaurant. Popular event venue (more than 300 events last year).

Open 7 Days & Holidays | website

Photo courtesy Lone Tree Golf Course


Mac's Old House popular Antioch restaurant

Enjoy Dining at Mac's Old House

3100 E. 18th St., Antioch, CA 94509 (925) 757-9908

Mac’s Old House Restaurant offers a fine dining experience in a historical building from the 1860s. Their menu features tasty entrees like prime rib, ribeye steak, Salmon and Trout. Enjoy a romantic meal in one of Antioch’s longest-running restaurants.

Cheap drinks. Busy at dinner time. Sit on the patio and enjoy a cocktail. They’ll call you when your table is ready. Great minestrone soup!

Open 7 Days 4-10pm | Menu

Photo Courtesy ContraCostaLive.com


With its small-town vibe yet plenty of amenities, Antioch is a great place for outdoor adventures, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Take advantage of the mild year-round weather and enjoy all that this Bay Area town has to offer.

Don’t Miss Any Contra Costa Fun…

Signup FREE ContraCostaLive.com newsletter

see CURRENT ISSUE

party-fun-photo

 

Have a question or a comment?

Call or Email

Frank MacCallister

(925) 325-0934

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *