12 Best Things to Do in Antioch, California

June 12, 2020 - Updated

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Located along the San Joaquin-Sacramento River Delta, Antioch is one of the oldest towns in California. The city’s motto, “gateway to the Delta” is quite accurate as many of the activities available, such as kayak fishing with Delta Kayak Adventures, will take you out on to the waters. Several of their attractions like Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve reflect the area’s history as a prosperous mining town.

1.Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve

The Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve is a historic site that has been identified as a California Historical Landmark while also being listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. The preserve comprises former coal and sand mines as well as the relics of three mining towns. Visitors are invited to go on a guided tour of the ruins so that they can get an understanding of what life was like when the mines were prosperous. There are over sixty miles of trails which you can explore by hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking. Some of the wildlife you may come across during your adventure are golden eagles, mountain lions, and foxes.

5175 Somersville Road, Antioch, CA 94509, Phone: 510-544-2750

2.Contra Loma Regional Park

Spanning over 780 acres, Contra Loma Regional Park is a wonderful place to spend the day outdoors while in Antioch. Contra Loma is a part of the East Bay Regional Parks system and allows for several adventurous like hiking, mountain biking, and camping. Within the park you’ll find an 80-acre reservoir which has a swim lagoon complete with a sandy beach to sunbathe on. The swim lagoon is extremely popular with residents and visitors, and offers several facilities such active lifeguards on duty, swim lessons, and a boat launch. Anglers can spend the day fishing in the reservoir for catfish, trout, and several species of bass.

1200 Frederickson Lane, Antioch, CA 94509, Phone: 888-327-2757

3.Dow Wetlands Wildlife Habitat Preserve

The Dow Wetlands Wildlife Habitat Preserve was established in 1989 and can be found along a scenic stretch of land by the San Joaquin River. The 470-acre preserve plays a vital role in Antioch by providing a tidal and upland marsh habitat for over 120 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. You can explore the preserve via their extensive walking trails; there are several viewing decks and benches along the way to rest and watch the turtles, otters, and birds you’re sure to run into. Other aspects that are worth checking out while you’re there include a 30-acre beaver pond and the picturesque stretch of grasslands.

4th Street, Antioch, CA 94509

4.The Antioch Historical Museum

The Antioch Historical Museum is a great place for visitors of all ages to learn about the area’s past and the people who lived there. The museum is currently housed in what was the first high school in Contra Costa County, and now a listing on the National Register of Historical Places. There are several permanent and visiting exhibits which you’ll come across during your visit; the Native Peoples Display and the Lower Level Theater which is filled with artwork inspired by movie posters are popular exhibits. Experienced curators and professionals at the museum are more than happy to talk to you about various artifacts to ensure you have a fun and educational visit.

1500 W. 4th Street, Antioch, CA 94509, Phone: 925-757-1326

5.Antioch Speedway

The Antioch Speedway is a great place to have some good old-fashioned family fun. The speedway comprises an oval dirt track where you can watch cars race against each other as they run into tires lining the track, spin out on the curve, and barely avoid crashing into each other in this fast-paced, thrilling experience. The speedway runs under the All Stars Racing Series which means you’ll be able to see races of late models, limited editions, A modifieds, B modifieds, and hobby stocks while you’re there. The one-of-a-kind experience will leave you on the edge of your seat as you cheer for your favorite racer.

Contra Costa County Fair Grounds: 1201 W. 10th Street, Antioch, CA 94509, Phone: 925-779-9220

6.Paradise Skate Roller Rink

The Paradise Skate Roller Rink offers families an opportunity to have some clean, safe, fun while also getting them active and away from their smart phones and televisions. Sessions that are open to the public are accompanied by disco lights, music, and a snack bar to guarantee that you have a good time. There is an on-site arcade fitted with both classic and modern video games which is perfect for visitors of all ages. Their Super Skater Program last six weeks and is for all ages; it is a great way to learn how to skate or to improve your skills if you already know the basics.

1201 W. 10th Street, Antioch, CA 94509, Phone: 925-779-0200

7.Mac's Old House

Mac’s Old House is an old-school roadhouse that serves classic cocktails and traditional, family-style American food. The restaurant, which has been around for nearly a hundred years, is beloved by residents - many of which come there day after day to enjoy the good food and friendly atmosphere. Some of the popular entrees from their menu are the prime rib, ribeye steak, and the Red Snapper served Cajun style. All of the meals come with Mac’s fresh soup, salad, bread, pasta, and sautéed vegetables. Definitely an Antioch landmark, no visit to the city is complete without a meal at Mac’s Old House.

3100 E. 18th Street, Antioch, CA 94509, Phone: 925-757-9908

8.Cocina Medina

Cocina Medina is a family owned and operated Mexican restaurant which caters to you with fine foods and a festive atmosphere. All of their food is made to order and uses only fresh quality ingredients to bring out the flavors of each dish. There are so many mouthwatering selections on their menu including popular favorites like the shredded chicken quesadilla, carnitas pork burrito, and the grilled steak and shrimp fajitas which come with rice, beans, and tortillas. No trip to the Mexican hacienda-style restaurant is complete without one of their great margaritas or a chilled beer imported from Mexico.

5005 Lone Tree Way, Antioch, CA 94531, Phone: 925-753-1968

9.Lone Tree Golf Course

Nestled along the San Joaquin River, the Lone Tree Golf Course is one of the most scenic and picturesque greens in Northern California. The par-72 layout is impeccably maintained, and the course comprises rolling fairways which give golfers the opportunity to demonstrate their skills. There are several events held at the Lone Tree Golf Course annually including four different NCGA point events. Weekly events and programs which you can participate vary from their Senior Men’s Group and Ladies Group to Couples Golf Night, which has proven to be extremely popular. Other aspects include a large driving range, a golf pro shop, beverage cart services, and their renowned grille restaurant.

4800 Golf Course Road, Antioch, CA 94531, Phone: 925-706-4220

10.El Campanil Theatre

El Campanil is an iconic 1928 theater that is located along Antioch’s downtown waterfront. There are many stories circulating the theater about the famous celebrities who performed there, many of whom left their autograph on the dressing room walls. Today, the theatre offers a wide variety of entertainment from concerts and ballet performances to comedy shows and live theatre. Popular shows include Hotel California: A Salute to The Eagles, performances by the Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra, and Motown with Top Shelf Classics. There are several international films showcased at the theater as well, making it the perfect location for a romantic night out or a lovely evening with friends.

602 W. 2nd Street, Antioch, CA 94509, Phone: 925-757-9500

11.NorCal Destinations Private Day Tours

NorCal Destinations Private Day Tours is a small sightseeing tour company that specializes in showcasing all of the lovely aspects of Monterey, San Francisco, Yosemite, and several other places. All of the tours are conducted by Alberto, who loves being a guide and has spent a majority of his life traveling. As a member of the San Francisco Tour Guide Guild, Alberto has also been certified by the International Tour Management Institute of San Francisco as a tour director and guide. He is full of interesting tidbits and knows all the best places in Antioch so be sure to start your trip with NorCal Destinations Private Day Tours.

Phone: 925-238-8690

12.Delta Kayak Adventures

Kayaking is such a fun sport and with Delta Kayak Adventures, you can head out on to the waters of Antioch recreationally, on a specific tour, or even go kayak fishing. All of the tours are conducted by avid kayaker, Kathy Bunton, and Delta Kayak Adventures will provide you with boat, gear, and anything else you may need to enjoy yourself. Some of the places you can kayak to in Antioch are Browns Island, Tinsley Island, the Dow Wetlands, and Mokelumne River. Add a bit of excitement and paddle out to the Delta with nothing but the moonlight to guide you, or during the day to catch some of the Delta’s finest fish.

Phone: 925-642-5764