Most adults in Antioch commute to Oakland and San Francisco from larger cities, making it primarily a bedroom community.
The community has expanded over the past 30 years as the Bay Area’s population has increased, and real estate costs have compelled people to relocate to the region’s periphery.
The San Joaquin and Sacramento Rivers combine here before flowing into the Pacific Ocean, and Antioch is renowned as the entrance to the California Delta.
Some of the best and most fascinating things to do in Antioch, California, are discussed in this article.
Things to Do in Antioch, CA
1. Antioch Dunes Wildlife Preserve
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The San Joaquin River’s southern shore is home to the Antioch Dunes Wildlife Preserve, a dune environment located just outside Antioch.
The reserve is a protected piece of land home to several threatened and endangered plant and animal species and insects like native butterflies.
The refuge initially became accessible in 1980, and visitors are welcome by approved tours provided by the refuge staff.
Location: 501 Fulton Shipyard Rd, Antioch, CA 94509, United States
2. Sherman Island
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Sherman Island offers a terrific day trip if you’re searching for some laid-back island living. Sherman Island is just two kilometers to the northeast of Antioch and is situated at the junction of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers.
By crossing the Antioch Bridge, you may access the island, where you’ll discover Sherman Lake and wetlands.
Many tourists come to the island only to see the lake, which is especially well-liked since it offers a wide variety of water activities.
If you’re an adrenaline addict, you can try windsurfing here, and if you’re feeling even more daring, kiteboarding is also an option.
3. Montezuma Hills
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The Montezuma Hills, located north of Antioch across the Sacramento River, is a fantastic choice for a day trip from the city.
The hills are well known for their hiking paths, and Wildlife Companions, a refuge for lions and tigers that aids in rehabilitating ex-zoo or show animals, is located here.
If you make it out to the hills, you can go bird watching and see the incredible Shiloh Wind Power Plant wind turbines that are helping to capture the natural wind of the hills to create sustainable electricity for the area.
4. Contra Loma Regional Park
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Over 700 acres of Contra Costa County make up Contra Loma Regional Park, including an 80-acre reservoir near Antioch.
Visitors and locals come here for fishing chances in the reservoir because there are many native species.
The reservoir also has a swimming lagoon available during the summer and is completely lifeguarded so you may swim safely. Along with hiking, biking is a common activity in the park.
Location: 1200 Frederickson Ln, Antioch, CA 94509, United States
5. Lone Tree Golf Course
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The Lone Tree Golf Course in Antioch offers an 18-hole public course for anyone seeking to play golf while visiting the city.
The golf course was established in 1934 and is next to Mount Diablo State Park. There are beautiful vistas to be gained here if you arrive at sunset, in addition to regular courses and sand-based greens.
There are holes to challenge players of all skill levels, and visitors and locals are invited to play.
Location: 4800 Golf Course Rd, Antioch, CA 94531, United States
6. San Joaquin River
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The San Joaquin River passes through Antioch before emptying into the Pacific Ocean, earning it the distinction of being Central California’s longest river.
Since the river has been supplying water to people in the San Joaquin Valley for more than 8,000 years, taking a stroll along its ancient banks should not be missed while you are in Antioch.
On the river, you may engage in enjoyable activities like fishing in addition to boat trips and cruises.
7. Mangini Agricultural Museum
Given that Antioch has a long history of agriculture visiting this farm and museum is a must for anybody interested in learning more about the past.
Visitors may travel back to when Antioch and the larger Contra Costa County were made up of vast ranches and farmland at the farm and museum, which initially opened in 1998.
There are lush gardens to stroll around and a classroom where you can learn about food nutrition and the idea of living off the earth at the farm.
Since this is a real farm, you will also discover agricultural equipment on exhibit and interesting historical relics from the time period.
Location: 1201 W 10th St, Antioch, CA 94509, United States
8. Delta Discovery Cruises
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Given that Antioch is built on water, what better way to see the city than to cruise the river and take in the scenery?
Visitors are picked up by Delta Discovery Cruises from the storied port of Antioch and taken on an excursion around the bay, where they can see the marina and the city at their most beautiful.
Since these cruises are offered year-round, you may take one anytime in town and see Antioch in its most beautiful seasons.
Location: 5 Marina Plaza, Antioch, CA 94509, United States
9. Somerville Towne Center Farmers Market
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If you’re in Antioch from spring through fall, you shouldn’t miss the Somersville Towne Center Farmers Market, where you can enjoy the best local food.
A large variety of regional farms that grow fruits and vegetables provide the market housed in the Somersville Towne Center retail center.
Even though you are in the middle of the city, you may still experience Contra Costa County’s agricultural heritage.
You won’t find a fresher or more delicious farm experience in Antioch since every piece of product here has been validated and verified to come directly from regional producers.
10. El Campanil
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Campanil, which in Antioch is known as “The Tower of Bells,” is a theater in the heart of the city’s ancient district.
Since its doors opened in 1928, the theater has played host to several well-known performers, including Debbie Reynolds and The Three Stooges.
More than 1,000 people can fit in the theater, which also features a single-screen movie theater and a stage where live acts may be enjoyed.
When you are in town, check the local listings to see what events are scheduled, or walk by to view this historical treasure up close.
Location: 602 W 2nd St, Antioch, CA 94509, United States
11. Antioch Historical Society
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Visit the Antioch Historical Museum to discover more about this region of the United States’ rich history if you’re interested in learning more about how this city came to be.
The museum has informative displays that go into great depth on the various incarnations of Antioch.
There are also collections of antiquities from the time period, pictures, local anecdotes, and other interesting historical objects.
Locations: 1500 W 4th St, Antioch, CA 94509, United States
12. Lynn House Municipal Art Gallery
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If you enjoy art and are in the Antioch region, do not miss the Lynn House Municipal Art Gallery.
Since the house is committed to supporting the work of regional artists, you may anticipate finding various changing exhibitions here that cover a wide range of eras and genres.
You may take a guided tour of the gallery with a local staff member if you want to learn more about the history of art in the Antioch region.
Location: 809 W 1st St, Antioch, CA 94509, United States
13. Black Diamond Coal Mines
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Black Diamond Coal Mines is a historic site with a long, illustrious past that dates back to the 1860s.
Take a tour of the preserve that covers more than 3,000 acres of land to learn more about the history of Antioch, which once depended heavily on the mining industry.
In addition to being a location with significant historical value, you can enjoy the surrounding sceneries here by engaging in various outdoor activities, including hiking and swimming.
You may also pack a picnic and enjoy the views.
14. Prewett Water Park
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If you want to cool off in Antioch, CA, visit Prewett Water Park.
The park, which debuted in 1966, currently features five distinct pools for people of all ages and skill levels.
Slides, inflatables, and other water sports enhance the park’s enjoyment. If you’d rather stay on dry land, the same location also has a skate park.
Location: 4701 Lone Tree Way, Antioch, CA 94531, United States
15. Antioch Marina Complex
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The Antioch Marina Complex opened in 1988 and is where you must go if you want to hire a boat or have a trip to Antioch, CA.
Many different berths and boats are available here, and guests may even join for yacht excursions to enjoy the landscape in luxury.
You may hire a smaller boat and head out on the lake yourself for something a little more low-key.
Location: 066010006, Antioch, CA 94509, United States