Parks
56 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Gleason Park0.7 mi from downtown
- Victory Park1.3 mi from downtown
- Stribley Park1.5 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Stockton
5 kinds of free outings in and around Stockton.
Good days out in Stockton don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- Cesar Chavez Central Library605 N. El Dorado St.
- San Joaquin County Law Library20 N. Sutter St.
- Stribley Micro Library1760 E. Sonora St.
Historic places
17 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- Hotel Stockton
- Stockton Savings and Loan Society Bank
- United States Post Office (Stockton, California)
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Coyote Point24 mi east
- San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge25 mi south
- Stanislaus River Parks27 mi southeast
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Cosumnes River23 mi north
- San Joaquin River National Wildlife Refuge25 mi south
- Stanislaus River Parks27 mi southeast
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
The Brick City Bucket List!
An activity Short shared by Visit Stockton.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Pixie Woods in Stockton CA
An activity Short shared by Carola.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Stockton?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Stockton this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.