Why Martinez Feels Like Home: A Local’s Guide to Downtown

Martinez is one of my favorite little towns in the Bay Area, and a lot of people drive right past it on the way to somewhere else. That’s a mistake.

It’s one of the oldest towns in California. It was a stop during the Gold Rush, and it even claims to be the birthplace of the martini. That history is still everywhere you look downtown, in the old buildings, the Victorians and the Craftsman homes. Here’s my local’s guide to what makes Martinez worth a closer look.

Start with a walk downtown

Park once and walk. Downtown Martinez is compact, with tree-lined blocks along Main Street, Escobar and Ward. You’ll find local cafes, restaurants, art galleries, antique shops and boutiques. Not a lot of big chains, which is part of the charm.

A few spots to put on your list:

• Campbell Theater on Ward Street for live theater and shows
• Del Cielo Brewing and The Firehouse Brew and Grill for a casual bite and a beer
• The Martinez Museum if you want the town’s history up close
• The Sunday farmers market downtown

If you like wine, William Welch Winery and Bhachu Vineyards are a short drive from downtown.

My favorite stop: Front Porch Swing

If you only make one stop, make it Front Porch Swing at 867 Berrellesa Street. It’s my favorite furniture and home decor store in Martinez, hands down.

It’s a collective of vendors offering curated vintage furniture and one-of-a-kind decor, the kind of pieces you won’t see at the big box stores. I’ve seen her furniture in clients’ homes, and it always stands out. The owner, Deborah Foley, is actually one of my clients, so I’m a little biased!

As a Realtor, I love it for another reason too. Those vintage pieces fit right in with the older homes around downtown. If you just bought a Craftsman or a Victorian and want it to feel like home, this is where I’d send you first.

Support local, and go say hi to owner Deborah Foley and her vendors.

Head to the water

The waterfront is just a few minutes from Main Street. The Martinez Marina has a fishing pier and boat launch, and Waterfront Park has room to spread out.

Right next door is Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline, run by East Bay Regional Parks. It has picnic areas, bocce courts, ball fields, ponds, a marsh and flat trails that connect to the Bay Trail. It’s a great spot to walk the dog or bring the grandkids.

History buffs can also visit the John Muir National Historic Site on Alhambra Avenue.

Coming up this fall 2026

Downtown Martinez & Co. keeps the calendar full. Here’s what’s coming up:

• October 10: Zombie Brew Crawl
• October 24: Halloween Spooktacular
• November 20: Pink Friday Fest holiday kickoff
• November 28: Small Business Saturday
• December 12: Santa Beer Crawl

Small Business Saturday is the perfect excuse to stop by Front Porch Swing and the other local shops. Check downtownmartinez.org for times and details.

What it’s like to live here

Martinez has real character. Around downtown you’ll find older Craftsman bungalows and restored Victorians. Some have views of the Carquinez Strait and the Benicia Bridge. You can walk to the farmers market, the marina, restaurants and the Amtrak station.

Farther out, there are quieter neighborhoods with bigger yards and views of the hills and Mt. Diablo. Whether you want walkable small-town living or more space, Martinez has options.

Thinking about Martinez?

I’ve helped buyers and sellers across the Bay Area for over 20 years, and I’d love to show you around Martinez. Whether you’re just curious or ready to make a move, give me a call.

Melissa Case
Realtor, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate
(925) 382-5222 | DRE #01380570

See Martinez homes for sale and recent sales