The world’s most inland natural port, Stockton lies on the San Joaquin River in California’s Central Valley. It’s home to picturesque parks and an impressive history and art museum, as well as a traditional Japanese garden and interactive children’s museum.

Things to do

Stroll through the green oasis of Victory Park, which includes large expanses of grassy lawns, shaded palm trees and ponds teeming with ducks. It’s renowned for its beautiful rose garden that features stately columns, as well as being home to the Haggin Museum, which boasts a large collection of works by landscape painter Albert Bierstadt.

The Haggin Museum is also a great place to learn about the history of Stockton, with galleries dedicated to the early pioneer years, as well as the Spanish and Mexican heritage of the Central Valley. Admire beautifully restored vintage agricultural equipment in the Holt Memorial Hall and an elegant collection of Victorian-era furnishings in the Jennie Hunter Rooms.

Make a day trip to nearby Lodi and the Micke Grove Regional Park, which features a stunning Japanese Garden designed by landscape architect Nagao Sakurai. Its atmospheric grounds include a five-storey pagoda lantern donated by the Japanese city of Kofu, as well as tranquil Koi fish ponds and a red arched bridge.

Travelling with the family? Spend an afternoon at the Children’s Museum of Stockton exploring its interactive exhibits. Learn about local astronaut Jose Hernandez in the Galaxy Room, be entertained with a Puppet Show and get up close to bearded dragons and turtles in the Reptile Display.

Getting around

Stockton is just over two hours’ drive from San Francisco International Airport and around one hour from Sacramento International Airport. Buses travel throughout Stockton and trolleys service the downtown area.