Nestled in California’s Central Valley, Manteca was founded in 1861, a few years before the arrival of the Central Pacific Railroad. Its station was intended to be titled “Monteca”, but a misprint resulted in the current name. Once dominated by rural farmland, Manteca has transformed into a popular commuter city for San Jose, San Francisco and Sacramento.
Things to do in Manteca
You can learn about the people, events and industries that have shaped the city at the Manteca Historical Society, which houses artefacts, documents and photographs from times gone by. Learn about the pioneer farmers who settled in the area and the wheat they once grew before almonds, walnuts and grapes made their mark. Antique spoons and vintage jewellery are also on display.
Golfers can hit the greens and fairways of the Manteca Park Golf Course, which was originally established in 1966 as a 9-hole course. It has since been expanded to include 18 holes, plus a driving range and practice greens. Lessons are available with the resident pros and the clubhouse is home to Uncle Frank’s Grill.
Travelling with kids? You can hit the ten-pin bowling lanes of Bowlero Manteca, which also includes a gaming arcade. It forms part of a large shopping and entertainment complex with a Target store and a T.J. Maxx, plus a Spirit Halloween and a Home Depot. Once you’ve built on an appetite, you can feast at Tacos Chapala, Mihana Sushi or Applebee’s Grill + Bar.
Getting around Manteca
Manteca is around an hour’s drive from Sacramento and Sacramento International Airport, which has flights to destinations across North America. Rail services connect to the Lathrop-Manteca railway station and buses travel through Manteca. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the city.