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Discover Martinez: A Vibrant Gateway to History and Culture

Martinez, steeped in history dating back to the 1840s, stands proudly as the county seat of Contra Costa County. This vibrant city, once home to notable figures like naturalist John Muir and baseball legend Joe DiMaggio, boasts a bustling downtown scene with a myriad of craft beer taprooms, eateries, and artisanal shops. Explore the city’s rich heritage through historical museums, public parks, and engaging outdoor activities, all while enjoying convenient access to major freeways and nearby Bay Area attractions.

Experience our local History and Culture:

  • John Muir National Historic Site: John Muir was America’s most famous naturalist and advocate for nature and conservation. He fought to protect the wild places he loved that we can still visit today. Muir’s writings convinced the U.S. government to protect many national parks such as Yosemite, Sequoia, Grand Canyon and Mt. Rainier.
  • Martinez Museum: Established in 1973 by the Historical Society and is located in the downtown inside an 1890’s cottage. A repository where documents, photographs and artifacts are housed and displayed for public viewing.

Embrace the Outdoors:

  • Martinez Marina / Almar Marina: Martinez Marina and wildlife habitat area has supported wildlife, boating and fishing enthusiast for over 40 years. Only minutes away from the downtown.
  • Mount Wanda Trailhead : Named after John Muir’s eldest daughter, Mt. Wanda is a popular 1-2 hour hiking excursion for locals. Approximately 326 acres of wooded oaks, grasslands and hiking trails.
  • Alhambra Creek Staging Area: Alhambra Creek Staging Area is one of five trailhead access points to Briones Regional Park, with over 6,000 acres of scenic trails and open space. Activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, bird watching and picnicking.
  • Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline Park: There are nearly three miles of trails that offer peaceful walks through the marsh and along the shoreline. The eastern section offers group picnic areas, baseball and softball fields, bocce ball courts, soccer field and a skate park.

Indulge in Culinary Delights:

  • States Coffee: Popular with the locals, it can be busy during peak times. If you’re a coffee enthusiast, you must give this place a try. Friendly staff, comfortable modern industrial decor with outdoor seating to boot!
  • Martinez Farmers’ Market: Open Sunday’s 9am – 1pm year-round. Located on main street in the downtown. A community hub for fresh, local produce and artisanal goods. This market is the perfect destination to explore the flavors of the region and support local farmers and producers.
  • Roxx’s On Main: A local favorite located in the downtown with indoor and outdoor dining. Features fresh locally sourced and organic ingredients with live music on the weekends.
  • Del Cielo Brewing Co.: A brewery and taproom with a variety of live music and entertainment offering delicious food choices. Owners Luis and Cielomar have created an amazing venue that’s contributed to the revitalization of downtown Martinez. My personal favorite? Mental Haze IPA with the Fish Tacos.
  • Five Suns Brewing: A brewery and taproom established in 2017 by five friends who grew up together in Martinez. Amazing craft beer choices in a unique and laid back outdoor atmosphere complete with food trucks and live entertainment on weekends.
  • Slow Hand BBQ – Martinez: Family owned and operated locally, they got their start serving Farmers Markets in the area. Serving local craft beers and BBQ…no better combination! If you’re ready to try something completely unique, order the Big Daddy Beef Rib (on Sunday’s only). Perfectly seasoned and smoked for hours, they simply melt in your mouth.
  • Troy: This is one of our favorite casual dining choices. An excellent variety of food and drink selections with indoor and outdoor seating available. Located on main street in the heart of the bustling downtown.
  • Vic’s: A terrific not-so-hidden gem located just a few blocks from the downtown. Overall a great place for brunch, with lots of seating both indoor and outdoor. Quick and friendly service as well. It fills up quickly on weekends, so plan accordingly.

A Stage for Entertainment:

  • Martinez Campbell Theater : A community theater located in the downtown providing live entertainment in a 99 seat intimate setting, at a very affordable price. Featuring works from local writers, artists and entertainers. Also, check out the Open Mic events taking place monthly.
  • California Magic Club: Good food and entertainment in a relaxed setting that seats approximately 35 guests. Enjoy a three course meal all while close-up magic is performed at your table in between courses. This is then followed by an hour-long stage show. I’ve been to two of these events and it’s such a fun time for small or large groups looking for food and entertainment in a single venue.

Test Your Golf Skills on our Local Courses:

  • Diablo Creek Golf Course: 18 Hold Championship Golf Course with full service Pro Shop and lighted Driving Range. A flat walkable course. Front nine is somewhat wide open with some water hazards, back nine has narrower tree-lined fairways. I really enjoy this course when I want to get my steps in.
  • Franklin Canyon Golf Course: 18 Hole Championship Course with lighted Driving Range and Pro Shop. Located among gently rolling hillsides and mature oaks. This course requires a little more exertion for the golfer who choses walking over riding. It does provide some good challenges for golfers of all skill levels. One of my favorite local public courses.
  • Lone Tree Golf & Event Center: 18 Hole Championship Golf Course with lighted Driving Range and Pro Shop. A really nice, well maintained and operated public course. Worth the 30 minute drive from our location. Wide open fairways on many holes, walkable and not too challenging for the average golfer. Pro Tip: Don’t leave without trying out Champions Bar & Grill. Hang out on the outdoor patio and finish out a perfect day on the course.