Pittsburg Travel Guide

Read this comprehensive travel guide to explore Pittsburg's top attractions, dining scene, and cultural customs. Find tips on transportation, safety and health, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Pittsburg

Pittsburg is a city located in Contra Costa County, in the East Bay region of California. Sitting at the confluence of the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers, Pittsburg is known for its diverse cultural history, outdoor recreation opportunities, and vibrant community spirit. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in Pittsburg.

List of Places to Visit in Pittsburg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve: This 5,000-acre park features historic coal mines, hiking trails, and picnicking areas. The park is also home to a visitor center, which offers exhibits on local mining history.
  • Pittsburg Historical Society and Museum: Located in downtown Pittsburg, this museum showcases the city’s history through photos, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.
  • El Campanil Theatre: This historic theatre was built in 1928 and has since been restored. Today, it hosts various performing arts events, from music concerts to theatrical productions.

Natural Attractions of Pittsburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kirker Creek: This popular fishing spot offers tranquil views of the surrounding hills and is home to a variety of fish species, including catfish, bass, and trout.
  • Pittsburg Marina: The marina is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking. It also features a scenic promenade that offers stunning views of the Carquinez Strait.
  • Delta View Golf Course: This 18-hole golf course offers scenic views of the Delta region and is a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pittsburg

  • Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve: This park offers over 65 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry hikes.
  • Delta de Anza Regional Trail: This trail is a 15-mile paved path that spans from Pittsburg to Martinez. The path is open to both hiking and biking and offers scenic views of the Delta region.
  • Maude Fife Creek Trail: This 1.5-mile trail is a great option for a short nature hike. It follows Maude Fife Creek through a wooded area, offering a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Best Things to Do in Pittsburg: Activities and Tours

  • Go on a Kayaking Tour: Pittsburg Kayak Tours offers guided kayak tours of the Delta region, allowing visitors to explore the river’s many channels and sloughs.
  • Take a Wine Tasting Tour: The nearby Livermore Valley Wine Country offers excellent wine tasting opportunities and is a perfect day trip from Pittsburg.
  • Visit the Antioch Speedway: This historic dirt track offers exciting races and events throughout the racing season.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pittsburg

Day Activity
1 Explore the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve
2 Kayak tour of the Delta region
3 Visit the Pittsburg Historical Society and Museum
4 Wine tasting in Livermore Valley
5 Hiking the Delta de Anza Regional Trail
6 Golfing at Delta View Golf Course
7 Antioch Speedway race or event

Food and Drink Scene of Pittsburg

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rock Shrimp: These deep-fried shrimp are a local favorite and are often served with a spicy dipping sauce.
  • Cioppino: This classic seafood stew is popular in the Bay Area and can be found in many Pittsburg restaurants.
  • Garlic Fries: These crispy, garlicky fries are a delicious side dish that pairs well with any meal.

Local Beverages

  • Anchor Steam Beer: This San Francisco classic has been brewed since 1896 and is a favorite among locals.
  • Livermore Valley Wine: The nearby Livermore Valley Wine Country offers over 50 wineries, producing a variety of excellent wines.

Where to Stay in Pittsburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburg: This hotel is located near Highway 4 and offers easy access to the city’s top attractions and amenities.
  • Best Western Heritage Inn: This hotel offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast.
  • Motel 6 Pittsburg: Budget-friendly option with clean, comfortable rooms and easy access to Highway 4.

What to Buy in Pittsburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Black Diamond Brand Hot Sauce: This local brand of hot sauce is made in Pittsburg and features a unique blend of flavors.
  • Delta Breeze Honey: This locally produced honey is a great gift for friends and family back home.
  • Pittsburg State Flag: Show your Pittsburg pride with this locally designed state flag.

Local Culture and Customs of Pittsburg

Pittsburg is a vibrant city that celebrates diversity and community spirit. The city has a strong cultural heritage, with a significant Asian American population and many historic landmarks that reflect the area’s mining history. Visitors should take the time to learn about the city’s history and culture, and be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Pittsburg

The best time to visit Pittsburg is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are in full swing. Summers can be hot and crowded, while winters are mild but can be rainy. No matter the season, Pittsburg always has something exciting to offer visitors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pittsburg

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine, including rock shrimp and cioppino.
  • Do take advantage of the Delta region’s outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Do learn about the city’s history and culture at the Pittsburg Historical Society and Museum.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage natural areas when hiking or exploring the outdoors.
  • Don’t ignore local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations and tips on things to do and see in Pittsburg.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pittsburg

Pittsburg is generally a safe city, but visitors should take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of theft or other crimes. It’s recommended to keep valuables out of sight and locked in a safe place, and to be aware of your surroundings when walking alone at night.

Health in Pittsburg

Pittsburg has several clinics, urgent care facilities, and hospitals for emergency and non-emergency medical care. Visitors should also be aware of the risks of sun exposure and take care to protect themselves from the sun’s rays when exploring the outdoors.

Getting to Pittsburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pittsburg

  • Oakland International Airport: Approximately 45 minutes away from Pittsburg by car.
  • San Francisco International Airport: Approximately 75 minutes away from Pittsburg by car.
  • Sacramento International Airport: Approximately 90 minutes away from Pittsburg by car.

Bus Stations Near Pittsburg

  • Pittsburg/Bay Point Station: Served by BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) and local bus lines.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: The nearest Amtrak stations are located in Martinez and Antioch.
  • Ridesharing: Services such as Uber and Lyft are available in the area.

How to Get Around in Pittsburg

Pittsburg is a pedestrian-friendly city, with many attractions located within walking distance of each other. Local bus and shuttle services are also available, as well as taxi and ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft. Visitors can also rent a car to explore the surrounding area and nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Pittsburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • San Francisco: The City by the Bay is just a short drive away from Pittsburg and offers endless sightseeing opportunities, from the Golden Gate Bridge to Alcatraz Island.
  • Napa Valley: This world-famous wine region is just over an hour away from Pittsburg and is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
  • Mt. Diablo State Park: This park is located just east of Pittsburg and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Conclusion

Pittsburg is a hidden gem in the East Bay region of California, offering visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Whether you’re exploring the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve or enjoying a wine tasting tour of the Livermore Valley, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and welcoming city.