Things to Do in Stockton (2025)
Haggin Museum
Museum · Stockton
Stockton’s art-and-history anchor showcases Bierstadt landscapes and the nation’s largest public J.C. Leyendecker collection. Described by Sunset magazine as an undersung California gem, it also hosts first-Saturday free days and lively evening programs.
Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple
Buddhist temple · San Joaquin County
More than 90 vivid statues and a massive reclining Buddha make this active temple unforgettable. Covered by Atlas Obscura and The Stockton Record, it’s open in daylight hours and comes alive each April for Cambodian New Year.
The Bob Hope Theatre
Performing arts theater · Stockton
A lavish 1930 movie palace reborn, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and booked by Stockton Live for concerts, film nights, comedy, and touring acts. Friends of the Fox keep classic cinema and its mighty organ in rotation.
Banner Island Ballpark
Stadium · Stockton
Catch Single-A baseball on the waterfront—fireworks, theme nights, local traditions, and views of the channel. MiLB announced a full 2025 slate as the ballpark marks 20 seasons, underscoring how rooted the Ports are in city life.
Mexican Heritage Center & Gallery
Heritage museum · Stockton
A volunteer-driven gallery and gathering space that spotlights local artists and traditions like Día de los Muertos. Praised by local arts writers and Downtown Stockton advocates, it also houses Arté del Café for pan dulce and coffee.
Genova Bakery
Bakery · Stockton
Baking since 1918, this Italian deli and wholesale bakery is a city institution—celebrated by CBS Sacramento and singled out by national editors at Esquire. Line up for the hard rolls and stacked sandwiches that generations swear by.
The Fruit Bowl
Produce market · Waterloo
Family-run since 1947, this farm market and bake shop is peak Central Valley—tree-ripened fruit, Italian staples, and pies that locals plan trips around. Featured by Visit California and lauded by San Joaquin Magazine editors.
Trail Coffee Roasters
Cafe · Stockton
Female, family-run roasters serving coffee from their own Nicaraguan farm, roasted on-site. Spotlighted by San Joaquin Magazine and Downtown Stockton Alliance, Trail pairs craft drinks with house-baked goods and a bright, creative workspace.
Cast Iron Trading Co.
American restaurant · Stockton
Chef-driven pub fare with local beers, live music, and seasonal specials—documented by San Joaquin Magazine and backed by a loyal downtown crowd. Come for burger nights, tacos, or a rotating flatbread and stay for the scene.
Podesto's
Grocery store · Lincoln Village
A family-owned grocer and deli since 1982, known for over-the-counter butchers, Italian imports, and hefty sandwiches. Frequently praised in local Best Of lists, it’s a beloved stop in Lincoln Center for lunch or picnic provisions.
Market Tavern
New American restaurant · Lincoln Village
A local standby blending a farm-forward kitchen, wood-fired pizzas, and a handy market. Consistently recognized in San Joaquin Magazine’s Best Of lists, it’s as good for weekend brunch as it is for date night.
Children's Museum of Stockton
Children's museum · Stockton
A hands-on nonprofit with 40-plus exhibits—from a Delta water table to Destination Space honoring local astronaut José Hernández. Open Wednesday through Sunday, it’s a community favorite for curious kids and caregivers.