Things to do with the family around Stockton, California
Fun and exciting things to do as a family in Stockton!
Do you have kids? How about a family that enjoys the whole day together? No way. Is that even possible? Well, in Stockton, it’s not only possible—it’s happening every day. The city is a playground for kids, with more than 60 parks and a never-ending playlist of fun activities that will let you enjoy a day without the pain of having to answer the question, “Are we there yet?”
We’re making it easy for you to make that family outing count in Stockton, California!
Children’s Museum of Stockton
There’s no place like a children’s museum, and the Children’s Museum of Stockton sparks creativity as soon as you walk through the doors. At every turn, little learners ask brave questions and seek out inspired answers. From the Magical Mirrors to the Conservation Cottage, the Shadow Room, and the Fire Station, kids’ curiosity reaches new heights. The galaxy room is a quiet space that adults will enjoy, while the art studio will inspire young children.
Admission for the day is $10 (children under 1 are free). And don’t forget to bring your cameras. A day at the museum is a day rich in memories.
Oak Grove Regional Park and Nature Center
The 180-acre Oak Grove Regional Park is a public park open year-round that includes two nature trails (a 1.5-mile walk among old grove trees and a quarter-mile handicapped-accessible trail) and the 10-acre Oak Grove Lake, which is open from April to October for paddle boating, aqua cycling, and fishing.
Kids enjoy the playgrounds and campgrounds, while the whole family loves the barbecues and picnics—that is, after a competitive game of 18-hole disc golf.
For educational exhibits, head over to the Oak Grove Nature Center (open on weekends from noon to 4 pm), where special events—such as Astronomy in the Park—and this learning center offer visitors a unique perspective on the natural space and wildlife around them.
Pixie Woods Children’s Park
Pixie Woods has been delighting generations of kids for nearly 70 years. This "fairyland" themed amusement park is fun for kids and those who still think they're kids, too. Rides like the Pixie Express Train and the Pixie Queen paddle-wheeler are perfect for families with kids of all ages. They also have a vintage carousel, the Dragon Water Play Area, and the Yum Yum Shack to refuel when you've built up an appetite. They've also recently added to their offerings with the new Galaxy Quest Play Feature.
General weekday admission is $5, while weekend admission is $6. Children under two years of age are admitted free of charge.
Please note that the park is only open seasonally from May to October every year.
Racing
The Stockton 99 Speedway is the oldest and fastest quarter-mile banked asphalt NASCAR track west of the Mississippi, and has brought spectators from all over the world here to enjoy the fast and furious roar of NASCAR drivers. Kids love cars, and the speedway is a family-friendly environment that promotes sportsman-like behavior and encourages lots of audience participation. Who would have thought going in circles could be so thrilling?
Admission prices are $20 (ages 16-64), $15 (for juniors ages 11-15, seniors 65+, and service members with a military ID), and children 10 & under are free.
Check out this blog about Stockton's racing scene, featuring the 99 Speedway as well as Races at the Delta Speedway and the Races at the Stockton Dirt Track!
San Joaquin Historical Society & Museum
Take the family for some historical fun over at the San Joaquin Historical Society & Museum. Inside the main building are in-depth and well-researched archives regarding the foundation of the area, dating back to the indigenous tribes that lived here well before the arrival of colonists and European immigrants. Then, go outside and experience life in the mid-1800s by checking four historical buildings on the property, including the Charles Weber cottage and Calaveras School. This spot is a favorite for local school field trips and is perfect for a family outing, whether on a weekend or during school break.
General admission prices are $7 for adults, $6 for youth (ages 6 - 17), seniors (65+), & military members, and children 5 & under are free. Also, payment is required to enter Micke Grove park itself: $5 on weekdays and $6 on weekends.
Signing up for a museum membership also grants free access to the museum.
Micke Grove Zoo
If you do check out the San Joaquin Historical Society & Museum, you can also add visiting Micke Grove Zoo to your itinerary, as you are already on the property. This zoo offers a whole day's worth of fun. The five-acre zoo lets kids get acquainted with all sorts of amphibians, reptiles, and other creatures that you don't see in different places. The zoo adopts a "quality versus quantity" approach, specializing in a few rare animals rather than maintaining numerous common creatures. The result is a fascinating array of exotic creatures from around the world in an environment that prioritizes the welfare of animals. Be sure to stop by the gift shop for a fun souvenir to keep the memories alive.
Go to a Stockton Ports game
What could be more wholesome than going to the old ballgame? The Stockton Ports are back in action at the Stockton Ballpark over on Banner Island this season. Check out the Oakland A's affiliate's promo schedule for 2025 and plan your family fun around Stockton Ballpark.
Bowling
Pacific Avenue Bowl is no ordinary bowling alley. For over 60 years, it has kept people coming back for more than just the love of the game. Maybe it's the cosmic bowling every Friday night. Or perhaps it's the PAB Lounge. Or maybe it's the seven flat-screen TVs. Whatever your family's looking for in a bowling alley, Pacific Avenue Bowl has it covered.
Or, if you head east, West Lane Bowl is happy to welcome you. From high-tech lanes to an abundance of food and entertainment, you're definitely in store for a great family experience.
If you're planning an event for the whole extended family, both locations have banquet facilities that can easily accommodate birthday parties and other special gatherings.
Why not make it a weekend visit with the family and check in somewhere? Stockton is home to numerous fantastic hotels located in key parts of the city, making it easy to take the family to these spots, enjoy shopping sprees, and savor delicious cuisine. Discover the outstanding hotels in our city by clicking here!
Need more recommendations throughout Stockton? You can message us 7 days a week for assistance on shopping, dining, and things to do in Stockton.
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