Things to do in downtown Stockton before a Ports game

1. Haggin Museum

Simply called "The Haggin" with a soft "a" by locals, the Haggin Museum is an art and history museum in Victory Park. The museum opened back in 1931, so it's got a bit of history itself. You'll find permanent exhibits showcasing works from 20th century masters of painting and sculpture.

One of the Haggin's most popular exhibits is its collections of J.C. Leyendecker's art. Famously known for his exquisite portraits in The Saturday Evening Post and Arrow Collar & Shirts for Cluett Peabody & Company, Leyendecker's skill is unmatched and influenced scores of artists, including Norman Rockwell. You can read more about the Leyendecker exhibit here!

1201 N. Pershing Ave.
Check them out on IG: @hagginmuseum

2. Children's Museum of Stockton

You're already going to be a hero in your kids' eyes by taking them to a ball game. Why not achieve legendary status and go to the Children's Museum of Stockton as well? The museum is more than 22,000 square feet of educational fun. In fact, there are more than 40 exhibits that not only keep a child's attention for hours on end, but they'll also want to go back again and again. It's a fantastic way to get them to burn off some of that pent-up energy while doing so in a constructive manner that benefits their young minds as much as it does your sanity.

402 West Weber Ave.
Check them out on IG: @childrensmuseumofstockton

3. Grab a Bite to Eat

Stockton has a killer food scene, and downtown is right in the heart of it. There are some amazing options here to fuel up before the game. Looking for something spicy? Head over to Blazin Cajun Restaurant where you'll revel in the flavors of the bayou. The options are numerous, but the seafood is what brings people back.

For some delicious Filipino fusion, you can make a stop over at Papa Urb's Grill where the sisig fries are to die for. If it's a roll or sushi you desire, Misaki Sushi & Bar will definitely check that off for you. In need of some tacos or quesadillas? Nena's Mexican Cuisine will not let you down.

Since there are so many more options, you can check out our Restaurants page for all the dining spots in Stockton.

4. Downtown Stockton "Walk with Weber" Walking Tour

As one would imagine of a city incorporated more than 170 years ago, Stockton has a lot of history. The city has grown and changed a lot in that time, but you can see it's historic origins if you look hard enough. The Downtown Stockton "Walk with Weber" Walking Tour guides you through that history and shares the little-known stories about how the city came to be. The tour has 24 separate points of interest, so bring some comfortable walking shoes and be prepared to learn things you hadn't even imagined when it comes to the city's past.

110 N San Joaquin St., 5th Fl.
Check them out on IG: @downtownstockton

5. Arté del Café/Mexican Heritage Center

The Mexican Heritage Center gives an amazing glimpse into Mexican culture. The Heritage Center showcases the culture through art, music, and dance. Both on display and available for purchase, the works here celebrate the art and the artists who keep the rich heritage alive. Meanwhile, Arté del Café provides a taste of that culture with Mexican-styled mochas, lattes, and other drinks. Better yet, its coffee is for a cause as proceeds from sales go back to the Heritage Center.

111 S. Sutter Street.
Check them out on IG: @arte.del.cafe and @mexicanheritagecenter

6. Golden Villa Farmers' Market

The Golden Villa Farmers' Market is one of the oldest markets in all of California, once again proving the history that's alive and well here. Held every Saturday morning from 5:30 to 9:30 am, you'll find a huge selection of some of the freshest produce you can imagine; oftentimes picked just a few hours before. The only way you could get fresher is if you were literally standing in the field.

The market also has a huge selection of Asian products, making it a go-to destination for restaurant owners and home chefs who love some Asian flair in their cooking.

333 E. Washington St.
Check them out on IG: @goldenvillafarmersmarket

While you're touring through downtown, don't forget to make your way over to 146 W. Weber Avenue and stop by Visit Stockton at the historic Sperry Building. Pop in for free swag like stickers, pens, our visitors guide, some facts about the building's history, and of course Stockton merch! Choose from a variety of our different Stockton tees, long sleeves, caps, mugs, and more. Then, you'll be able to sport our city wherever you go—including the Ports game!

If you can't make it in, you can still pick up Stockton merch by going to StocktonSouvenirs.com!

Stockton is home to numerous fantastic hotels located in key parts of the city that make it easy for visiting these dog-friendly spots as well as shopping sprees and savoring delicious cuisine. Learn more about the outstanding hotels in our city by clicking here!

Looking for more suggestions? You can message us 7 days a week for assistance on shopping, dining, and things to do in Stockton.

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