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Antioch sits on the south bank of the San Joaquin River at the eastern edge of the San Francisco Bay Area, where the river meets the wide waterways of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Founded in 1850 by twin brothers Joseph and William Smith, it was first called Smith's Landing before being renamed Antioch in 1851, and it is one of the oldest towns in California.
In the 1800s coal mines in the nearby hills drew miners from Wales and beyond, and their story is preserved at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, with mine tours, trails and a pioneer cemetery. The historic Rivertown district keeps old buildings, the 1928 El Campanil Theatre and a waterfront with a marina and fishing pier.
Today Antioch is a fast-growing city with views of Mount Diablo, parks such as Contra Loma Regional Park with a swimming lagoon, and the rare dunes of the Antioch Dunes National Wildlife Refuge.
Antioch's historic downtown along the San Joaquin River, with older brick buildings, small restaurants, antique shops and Waldie Plaza by the water. It hosts summer concerts, car shows and a farmers market. Park near the waterfront and walk the few blocks between the theater, museum and pier.
A restored 1928 theater in Rivertown with a Spanish-style tower and ornate interior. It hosts classic films, concerts, tribute bands, dance and community theater. It is one of the few surviving historic theaters in eastern Contra Costa County; check the calendar and buy tickets at the box office or online.
A local history museum in the old Riverview Union High School building, covering river trade, coal mining, farming and pioneer life. It also houses the Sports Legends exhibit on local athletes. Opening days are limited, so check hours, and allow about an hour to see the rooms.
A city marina on the San Joaquin River with a long public fishing pier, boat launch and walkways. Anglers come for striped bass, sturgeon and catfish, and the pier has views of the Antioch Bridge. A California fishing license is needed for those 16 and up; it is breezy, so bring a jacket.
A small refuge protecting the last river dunes of the area and three endangered species, including the Lange's metalmark butterfly and the Antioch Dunes evening primrose. It is mostly closed to the public, but guided walks are offered on certain days. Check the refuge site to join a tour.
A large preserve in the hills south of Antioch, once the site of California's biggest coal mining district. It has a historic cemetery, mine openings and over 60 miles of trails. Guided tours of the Hazel-Atlas sand mine run on weekends in season; bring a jacket, as it is cool underground.
A park around a reservoir in the Antioch hills, with a sandy swim lagoon in summer, fishing, non-motorized boating, picnic areas and trails connecting to Black Diamond Mines. It gets hot in summer, so come early, bring shade and water, and expect a parking fee on busy days.
A shaded neighborhood park near downtown with mature trees, playgrounds, sports courts, a gazebo and picnic tables. It is a common spot for community events and family gatherings. It works well as a picnic stop while exploring Rivertown, and restrooms are available in the park.
A city water park in Prewett Family Park in southeast Antioch, with water slides, a lazy river, a lap pool and splash areas for small children. It is open in summer and very popular on hot days. Buy tickets early in the day, bring sunscreen and towels, and check the city site for current season hours.
A paved multi-use trail running east to west across Antioch and neighboring towns along a canal right-of-way. It is good for walking, running and cycling, with mostly flat stretches and views of the hills. Use it for a long bike ride; there is little shade, so go in the morning in summer.
A tall steel girder bridge on Highway 160 crossing the San Joaquin River from Antioch to Sherman Island in the Delta. The drive gives wide views of the river, farmland and wind turbines, and leads to Delta towns such as Rio Vista and Isleton. A toll is charged northbound only.
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California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
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