Stockton, CA: The Ultimate Long Weekend Guide

Discover the charm of Stockton, where nature meets city life.

03 May 2023

Stockton is a charming California city that offers plenty of attractions for tourists. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, and take in the local arts scene at galleries and theaters. With a booming food scene and friendly locals, Stockton is a great destination for travelers looking for an authentic California experience.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Downtown Stockton

  • Check into University Plaza Waterfront Hotel, located in the heart of downtown
  • Visit the Haggin Museum to learn about Stockton's history and art scene
  • Take a stroll through Weber Point Events Center for beautiful waterfront views
  • Grab lunch at Empresso Coffeehouse, a local favorite with delicious sandwiches and coffee
  • Spend the evening at the Bob Hope Theatre, a beautifully restored theater hosting concerts and shows
Day 2

A Day Outdoors

  • Start the day with breakfast at Delta Bistro, located on the beautiful University of the Pacific campus
  • Head to Oak Grove Regional Park for hiking, bird watching, and fishing
  • Rent a bike and explore the miles of trails at the Calaveras River Bike Trail
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch at Micke Grove Regional Park, which also includes a zoo and Japanese Garden
  • Catch a Ports baseball game in the evening at the Banner Island Ballpark
Day 3

Wine Tasting in Lodi

  • Drive to nearby Lodi, known for its many wineries and vineyards
  • Visit the Lodi Wine and Visitor Center to learn about the local wines and get recommendations for tastings
  • Spend the day touring wineries and vineyards, such as Klinker Brick Winery and Oak Farm Vineyards
  • Have lunch at the Wine & Roses Hotel Restaurant, a beautiful garden setting with farm-to-table cuisine
  • End the day with a sunset cruise on the Delta River, taking in the scenic views of the Delta coastline

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Stockton by plane is to fly into Stockton Metropolitan Airport (SCK) which is located approximately 7 miles southeast of downtown Stockton.

Car

Driving to Stockton is easy with Interstate 5 running through the city. Take I-5 from the north or south and exit at one of Stockton's multiple exits to get to your desired location in the city.

Train

While there is no direct train service to Stockton, travelers can take Amtrak's San Joaquin Train which stops at the Stockton's downtown station located at 735 S San Joaquin St.

Boat

Although there is no direct way to get to Stockton by boat, travelers can take a river cruise along the San Joaquin Delta from the nearby city of Sacramento which is located about 45 miles north of Stockton.

Bus

One of the best ways to get to Stockton by bus is to take Greyhound which has a bus station located at 1050 W Charter Way in Stockton.

More travel plans

Stockton's Fun-Filled Weekend Itinerary

Stockton, situated in California's Central Valley, is a city that offers a mix of natural and cultural attractions. A tourist can explore the vast San Joaquin River Delta or visit the Haggin Museum, which houses art and artifacts. The city also has a thriving dining scene with restaurants serving Mexican, Japanese, and American cuisine.

Stockton on a Budget: 2 Days of Fun

Discovering Stockton on a limited budget is feasible; visitors can enjoy a plethora of free attractions such as the Haggin Museum or the Weber Point Events Center. Accommodation options are varied, with affordable motels, inns and hotels in the city center. For cheap eats, the downtown street vendors and local food trucks offer flavorful meals at reasonable prices.

3 Days of Adventure in Downtown Stockton

Stockton, located in California, has plenty of free or low-cost attractions for travelers on a tight budget, like the Stockton Cambodian Buddhist Temple, Haggin Museum, Lodi Lake Park and the Pixie Woods Amusement Park. Cheap eats can be had at popular spots like Taqueria La Pirata and Chipotle Mexican Grill, while affordable accommodation can be found at budget-friendly options like the Comfort Inn Stockton. With its many modest pleasures, Stockton is a great destination for visitors traveling on a limited budget.

Discover Romantic Stockton: One-day Itinerary

Stockton is a hidden gem for a romantic trip in the United States with scenic views and plenty of activities to enjoy as a couple. A visit to the Haggin Museum or the Michael-David Winery offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about the local culture and indulge in delicious wine tasting. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the nearby Delta waterways where they can rent a kayak or take a sunset cruise to witness the stunning sunsets.