For way too long, Richmond, California, has been that city you speed past on I-580, known more for its industrial skyline than its stunning shoreline. But let me let you in on a little secret: you’ve been missing out.
This East Bay gem is a city of stunning contrasts, where rich history meets vibrant art and some of the most jaw-dropping bay views you’ll ever see. It’s a place that’s proudly authentic, fiercely creative, and waiting to be explored.
Get ready to have your expectations completely flipped. We’re diving deep into the absolute best things to do in Richmond, CA. We’re talking world-class museums, shoreline parks that’ll make you gasp, and a food scene that’s as diverse as the city itself.
This isn’t your typical tourist checklist; this is a local’s guide to the heart and soul of a seriously underrated destination. Let’s hit the road and discover what makes Richmond so special.
1. Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park – Best For History Buffs & Inspiring Stories
Prepare to be inspired. The Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park isn’t just a museum; it’s a powerful tribute to the American spirit. This park tells the incredible story of the millions of Americans—men and women—who worked on the home front during World War II.
Richmond was the epicenter of this effort, with its shipyards churning out a victory ship in an average of just 45 days. That’s right, less than seven weeks.
At the heart of the visitor center, you’ll meet the real “Rosies,” women who stepped into factory jobs and changed the workforce forever. Their stories, told through films, exhibits, and oral histories, are downright gripping.
You can see the iconic We Can Do It! poster and stand beside a real-life victory ship, the SS Red Oak Victory.
It’s a moving, educational, and absolutely essential experience that gives you a whole new respect for this city’s place in American history. This is, without a doubt, one of the top attractions in Richmond.
2. Point Richmond Historic District – Best For A Charming Stroll & Quaint Vibes
Ever feel like you’ve stepped into a small coastal town straight out of a movie? That’s the magic of the Point Richmond Historic District.
Tucked away near the end of the peninsula, this neighborhood is a delightful maze of charming, early-20th-century buildings housing independent boutiques, cozy cafes, and inviting bookstores.
It’s the perfect place to wander without a plan, popping into unique shops and soaking up the friendly, small-town atmosphere.
The architecture alone is worth the trip, with beautifully preserved homes and buildings that tell a story of a bygone era. Grab a coffee, find a sunny bench, and just watch the world go by.
It’s a world away from the hustle of the city, offering a peaceful and picturesque escape. For anyone looking to experience the historic charm and unique character of Richmond, California, a leisurely afternoon in “The Point” is the way to go.
3. Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline – Best For Panoramic Views & Picnics
If you’re craving those iconic San Francisco Bay views without the iconic San Francisco crowds, Miller/Knox is your spot. This 295-acre regional park is a total knockout, offering a little bit of everything.
You’ve got grassy hills perfect for flying a kite, secluded beaches for skipping stones, and a sparkling lagoon. The crown jewel is the view from the top of the hill: the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, and the San Francisco skyline all laid out before you like a postcard.
It’s an incredible place for a picnic with friends or a family barbecue at one of the many designated areas. You can watch the freight trains rumble along the coast and the sailboats dart across the water.
The park also features miles of trails for easy hiking and biking. For a breathtaking and budget-friendly day out, finding the best things to do in Richmond often leads right here to this stunning shoreline park.
4. Richmond Marina – Best For A Leisurely Walk & Watching Boats
For a seriously relaxing vibe, head down to the Richmond Marina. Stretching for miles along the bay, the marina walkway is flat, paved, and perfect for a sunset stroll, a morning jog, or a bike ride with the family.
You’ll see all kinds of boats, from small sailboats to impressive yachts, bobbing gently in their slips. The air is fresh, the views are wide open, and the pace is slow and easy.
It’s a fantastic place to clear your head and get some exercise while enjoying the calm of the water. Anglers often cast a line off the pier, and you might even spot a sea lion popping its head up to say hello.
The marina is also home to several restaurants with patio seating, making it easy to turn your walk into a full outing. It’s a simple, peaceful, and utterly enjoyable way to experience the city’s connection to the bay.
5. Richmond Art Center – Best For Local Culture & Creative Inspiration
Ready to get your creative juices flowing? The Richmond Art Center is a cultural powerhouse that has been a community fixture since 1936. Housed within the stunning Richmond Civic Center, this isn’t a stuffy, quiet gallery.
It’s a vibrant, living space that showcases thought-provoking contemporary art from local and national artists across multiple galleries. The exhibits change frequently, so there’s always something new and exciting to see.
But it’s more than just a place to look. The center is deeply committed to art education, offering a huge range of classes and workshops for all ages throughout the year. You can try your hand at painting, ceramics, jewelry making, and more.
Supporting this incredible institution is a fantastic way to connect with the city’s vibrant artistic community and see the creative soul of Richmond, California, in action.
6. Keller Beach at Point Richmond – Best For Families & A Dip in the Bay
When the sun is out and the kids are bouncing off the walls, every local family knows to head to Keller Beach. Tucked into a protected cove within Miller/Knox park, this is arguably one of the best swimming beaches in the entire East Bay.
The water is calmer and warmer here than at ocean-facing beaches, making it ideal for a quick dip. The sand is soft and perfect for building castles.
There’s a large grassy area with picnic tables and barbecues right behind the beach, so you can make a whole day of it. The views of the bay and the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge are fantastic.
It does get busy on weekends, so arriving early to snag a prime spot is a pro move. For a classic, fun-in-the-sun family day trip, this beloved beach is a must on any list of Richmond activities.
7. Bay Trail – Best For Biking, Running & Waterfront Exploration
Lace up your sneakers or pump up your bike tires because the San Francisco Bay Trail is calling your name. This massive network of trails will eventually circle the entire bay, and Richmond boasts some of its very best sections.
The paved path runs along the shoreline, offering uninterrupted, flat, and incredibly scenic routes for walkers, runners, rollerbladers, and cyclists of all skill levels.
You can hop on at various points, like the Marina or Miller/Knox, and just go for miles. The feeling of freedom is incredible, with the wind at your back and stunning water views the entire way.
You’ll pass by marshes teeming with birdlife, historic sites, and peaceful parks. Exploring the Bay Trail is one of the healthiest and most rewarding ways to experience the natural beauty of the Richmond coastline.
8. Craneway Pavilion & Ford Point – Best For Architecture & Events
You haven’t really seen industrial cool until you’ve seen the Craneway Pavilion. This massive event venue is housed in a former Ford Assembly Plant, a historic art deco building that has been stunningly renovated with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing million-dollar views of the bay.
The sheer scale of the place is awe-inspiring. While it hosts concerts, festivals, and private events, it’s worth just driving by to admire the architecture.
The surrounding area, Ford Point, is also evolving with new businesses and restaurants moving into other renovated historic buildings. It’s a powerful symbol of Richmond’s transformation, blending its industrial past with a dynamic future.
Checking their public events calendar is a must, as catching a show here is a uniquely Richmond experience.
9. Wildcat Canyon Regional Park – Best For Hiking & Getting Lost in Nature
Okay, adventure seekers, this one’s for you. Just minutes from the urban core, Wildcat Canyon Regional Park feels like a different universe. This is over 2,400 acres of pure, unspoiled East Bay wilderness with rolling grassy hills, steep canyons, and groves of oak and eucalyptus trees.
The network of trails is extensive, offering everything from easy, family-friendly walks to challenging, heart-pumping hikes with epic payoff views.
On a clear day, you can see for miles across the bay to San Francisco and beyond. It’s a popular spot for mountain biking and horseback riding, too. The park is home to coyotes, deer, and a huge variety of birds.
For anyone asking what to do in Richmond for outdoor adventure, the answer is right here. Just remember to bring water, good shoes, and a camera.
10. Richmond Greenway – Best For Community Art & Urban Walks
The Richmond Greenway is so much more than just a path; it’s a testament to the power of community. What was once an abandoned railroad corridor is now a thriving 3-mile-long ribbon of green space that connects neighborhoods. It’s a place for people to walk, bike, and play.
But the real magic is the art. The entire length is dotted with vibrant murals and mosaics created by local residents.
As you stroll along, you’re treated to an open-air gallery that tells the story of Richmond—its people, its culture, and its hopes.
Community gardens line the path, and you’ll often see families and friends out enjoying their city. It’s a beautiful example of urban renewal and a fantastic place to feel the city’s present-day heartbeat and creative energy.
11. East Brother Light Station – Best For A Unique Overnight Getaway
Here’s one for the bucket list. Just off the coast of Richmond sits the East Brother Light Station, a historic lighthouse and bed-and-breakfast perched on a small island. This is one of the most unique and romantic getaways in the entire Bay Area.
Accessible only by a quick boat ride, the experience feels like a true escape from the modern world. You can tour the beautifully preserved lighthouse and spend the night in one of just a few quaint rooms.
The stay includes a multi-course gourmet dinner and breakfast, making it incredibly special. Day trips are also available for those who just want to tour the island.
It’s an unforgettable way to experience the history and beauty of the bay. Reservations book up months in advance, so plan ahead for this incredible Richmond attraction.
12. Unity Park & The Richmond Museum of History – Best For Local Lore
To truly understand a city, you have to know its story. For a deep dive into Richmond’s past, a visit to the Richmond Museum of History is a must.
Located next to the lovely Unity Park, this small but packed museum offers a fascinating look at the city’s evolution, from its early days as a ranching center to its industrial boom and beyond.
The exhibits are well-curated and full of artifacts and photographs that bring history to life.
Afterward, you can relax in Unity Park, a peaceful green space that often hosts local community events and farmers’ markets. It’s a quiet corner of the city that offers both reflection and recreation.
Combining a museum visit with some time in the park makes for a perfect, low-key afternoon exploring the rich history of Richmond, California.
Conclusion
See? We told you Richmond was full of surprises. From its world-changing history to its breathtaking shorelines and vibrant art scenes, this city has a depth and character that’s all its own.
It’s a place that rewards the curious traveler, offering authentic experiences you just won’t find anywhere else in the Bay Area.
So what are you waiting for? Pick a weekend, grab your sense of adventure, and go see it for yourself.
Explore the trails, be inspired by the Rosies, and soak in those killer bay views. Your unforgettable Richmond experience is just around the corner.