san jose tourist shop

25 Of The Best Things to Do in San Jose, California (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Looking for all the best attractions in Teal Town? Our guide to all the best things to do in San Jose, California is all you need!

Welcome to sunny San Jose, California, where the vibrant energy of the tech world collides with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and outdoor adventures. In this post, we’re giving you a taste of what makes this city a hidden gem in the Golden State . 

San Jose has something for everyone, and we’re about to uncover its diverse treasures one adventure at a time. So, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Visit The Tech Interactive

Explore the winchester mystery house, browse the san jose flea market, explore downtown san jose, find entertainment at the sap center, stroll through santana row, enjoy san pedro square market, visit the san jose museum of art, relax at the japanese friendship garden, get outside on the los gatos creek trail, enjoy a day at vasona lake county park, take your leisure at the guadalupe river park, visit the happy hollow park & zoo, sip your way across the santa clara valley wine trail, stroll through the plaza de cesar chavez, explore history park at kelley park, discover the past in the rosicrucian egyptian museum, tinker at the children’s discovery museum, learn more at the computer history museum, stand in awe at the cathedral basilica of st. joseph, laugh the night away at the san jose improv, hike in the almaden quicksilver county park, have a thrilling day at california’s great america, relax in the municipal rose garden, hike in alum rock park, high-end luxury hotel: hotel valencia santana row, mid-range family accommodation: doubletree by hilton hotel san jose, budget hostel or hotel: pacific motor inn, wrapping up, 25 top things to do in san jose, california.

With lots of great activities in San Jose, these are the top 25 tourist attractions we’d recommend that you consider adding to your San Jose travel itinerary!

Tech Interactive is a captivating destination in San Jose, where the worlds of science and technology come to life. This hands-on museum provides an interactive and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Whether you’re fascinated by robotics, virtual reality, or the latest advancements in science, Tech Interactive has something to pique your curiosity. With engaging exhibits, live demonstrations, and opportunities to explore cutting-edge innovations, it’s a place where you can dive into the exciting world of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) while having loads of fun.

The museum’s commitment to inspiring curiosity and fostering a deeper understanding of technology makes it a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the ever-evolving world of science and innovation.

Read Next: Check out our list of other great things to do in Northern California .

The enigmatic Winchester Mystery House is one of San Jose’s most unique and intriguing attractions. This sprawling mansion, with its maze-like design and countless architectural oddities, is steeped in mystery and folklore.

Visitors can explore its bewildering corridors, secret passages, and staircases that lead to nowhere while learning about the eccentric history of its owner, Sarah Winchester. The house’s peculiar features and the legend of its never-ending construction make it a fascinating historical and architectural curiosity.

For travelers looking to delve into the city’s quirky side, the Winchester Mystery House offers an experience like no other, blending history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural into a captivating journey through the heart of San Jose.

The San Jose Flea Market is a vibrant and eclectic shopping destination that offers a treasure trove of unique finds and cultural experiences in the heart of San Jose. Covering a sprawling 120 acres, this massive market hosts hundreds of vendors selling everything from antiques, collectibles, and vintage clothing to fresh produce, international foods, and handmade crafts.

It’s a lively melting pot of cultures and cuisines, reflecting the diverse community of San Jose. Visitors can spend hours exploring the maze-like aisles, hunting for bargains, enjoying delicious street food, and immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere.

Whether you’re a dedicated bargain hunter, a food enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun day out, the San Jose Flea Market offers a unique and quintessentially Californian experience among the array of things to do in San Jose.

Read More: Check out this post on fun things to do in San Francisco .

Whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, art, history, or entertainment, downtown San Jose provides a vibrant and ever-evolving scene that’s integral to the city’s identity and a must-visit for travelers seeking an authentic San Jose experience.

Downtown San Jose serves as the vibrant urban core of the city and is a bustling hub of activity and culture. This dynamic district offers a plethora of things to do and see, from shopping at boutique stores and dining at diverse restaurants to enjoying the city’s nightlife and exploring cultural institutions.

Art enthusiasts can visit galleries, theaters, and museums, while history buffs can wander through historic neighborhoods like Hensley, Naglee Park, and Willow Glen. The bustling streets are also home to numerous festivals and events, showcasing the city’s rich cultural diversity and lively atmosphere.

The SAP Center, located in downtown San Jose, is a premier entertainment venue that hosts a wide array of events, making it a cultural hub and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city.

This state-of-the-art arena is home to the NHL’s San Jose Sharks, but it also hosts concerts featuring top artists, thrilling sports events, family shows, and other live performances. The arena’s modern amenities and excellent acoustics ensure a memorable experience for attendees, whether you’re a sports enthusiast or a music lover.

From cheering on the Sharks to catching a live concert by your favorite band, SAP Center offers an electric atmosphere where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant entertainment scene that San Jose has to offer.

Santana Row stands as a vibrant and stylish destination in San Jose, California, offering a delightful fusion of shopping, dining, and entertainment. With its European-inspired architecture and lush landscaping, this upscale retail district provides a charming atmosphere for both locals and visitors.

Whether you’re seeking high-end fashion boutiques, unique specialty shops, or world-class restaurants, Santana Row has it all.

After a satisfying shopping spree, you can unwind at one of the chic cafes or enjoy an evening of live music on the outdoor stage. It’s a place where luxury and leisure meet, making it a must-visit for those looking to experience the finer side of San Jose’s lifestyle and culture.

San Pedro Square Market is a bustling and dynamic destination in the heart of downtown San Jose, offering a vibrant tapestry of dining, entertainment, and social experiences.

This bustling marketplace features a diverse selection of eateries, ranging from gourmet food stalls and artisanal bakeries to international cuisine and craft breweries. It’s the ideal place to savor an array of flavors, gather with friends, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere.

Beyond its culinary offerings, San Pedro Square Market often hosts live music performances, events, and art exhibitions, making it a cultural hotspot in the city.

Whether you’re in search of delicious food, a lively ambiance, or a place to unwind, this lively market is a must-visit for travelers and locals alike, offering a taste of San Jose’s diverse culinary and cultural scene.

Read Next: Consider exploring San Jose as one of many day trips from San Francisco .

The San Jose Museum of Art stands as a cultural gem in the heart of San Jose, California, showcasing an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art.

You can explore a diverse range of artistic expressions, from paintings and sculptures to photography and multimedia installations. The museum’s rotating exhibitions highlight both established and emerging artists, providing a dynamic and thought-provoking experience for art enthusiasts.

In addition to its stunning visual displays, the museum hosts engaging events, workshops, and lectures that foster a deeper appreciation of the arts. For those seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural scene of San Jose, a visit to the San Jose Museum of Art is a captivating journey into the world of creativity and expression.

The Japanese Friendship Garden nestled within San Jose’s Kelley Park is a serene oasis that invites visitors to experience the beauty of Japanese culture and nature. This meticulously designed garden captures the essence of traditional Japanese landscaping with its koi-filled ponds, winding paths, charming bridges, and vibrant plant life.

Strolling through this peaceful retreat allows you to appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings and provides an opportunity for reflection and relaxation. The garden often hosts cultural events and activities, such as tea ceremonies and cherry blossom festivals, allowing you to further immerse yourself in Japanese traditions.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of San Jose, the Japanese Friendship Garden offers a tranquil escape where you can unwind and find inspiration in the beauty of nature. It’s a must-visit destination for those seeking a moment of calm and cultural enrichment in the heart of the city.

The Los Gatos Creek Trail is a scenic gem in San Jose, offering a peaceful escape into nature within the bustling city. This multi-use trail stretches for over nine miles, winding its way through lush greenery and providing a fantastic opportunity for hiking, jogging, biking, and even horseback riding.

Along the way, you’ll pass by the serene waters of the Los Gatos Creek and enjoy glimpses of local wildlife. The trail connects several city parks, including Campbell Park and Vasona Lake County Park, providing ample opportunities for picnicking, birdwatching, and outdoor recreation.

If you are looking to appreciate San Jose’s natural beauty while staying active, the Los Gatos Creek Trail is a fantastic choice amidst the diverse range of things to do in San Jose. 

Vasona Lake County Park , nestled in the scenic town of Los Gatos, a stone’s throw from San Jose, offers a serene and picturesque escape for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. This expansive park surrounds the tranquil Vasona Reservoir and features lush greenery, shaded picnic areas, and a network of walking and biking trails.

You can rent paddle boats and kayaks to explore the serene waters, or simply relax by the lake’s edge and take in the stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

With its family-friendly atmosphere, playgrounds, and seasonal events like the Fantasy of Lights during the holiday season, Vasona Lake County Park provides a peaceful retreat and a perfect destination for those looking to unwind and reconnect with nature amidst the many activities available in the San Jose area.

Related: Read about why San Jose makes the list of best places to visit in California .

Guadalupe River Park provides a picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life right in the heart of San Jose, California. This beautiful urban park offers a tranquil respite with its meandering trails, lush greenery, and scenic views along the banks of the Guadalupe River.

Here, you can enjoy leisurely walks, bike rides, or picnics while taking in the natural beauty and the serenity of the water. The park is also home to the Discovery Meadow, a popular spot for family gatherings and outdoor events.

For nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat, Guadalupe River Park offers a delightful opportunity to connect with nature and find solace amidst the city’s vibrant cultural offerings, making it one of the many wonderful things to do in San Jose.

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo , nestled in the heart of San Jose, offers an enchanting escape for families and nature enthusiasts alike. This delightful destination seamlessly combines the excitement of an amusement park with the charm of a zoo, making it one of the top things to do in San Jose.

Kids can thrill in rides like the carousel and roller coaster, while also getting up close with a wide array of animals, including lemurs, meerkats, and jaguars. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and education is evident through engaging exhibits and interactive encounters.

With its lush gardens, playful animals, and a commitment to both entertainment and education, Happy Hollow Park & Zoo provides an unforgettable experience in the heart of Silicon Valley, making it a must-visit attraction for families visiting San Jose.

Related: Don’t miss out on all of the best things to do in Santa Cruz !

Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail offers a delightful journey through the region’s burgeoning wine culture, inviting visitors to savor the fruits of its fertile vineyards. This scenic trail winds its way through picturesque vineyards and wineries, providing wine enthusiasts with the perfect opportunity to explore and sample the diverse flavors of the area.

From boutique wineries crafting small-batch varietals to more established estates producing classic California wines, the trail showcases the terroir of the Santa Clara Valley.

It’s an immersive experience where visitors can learn about the winemaking process, indulge in tastings, and often meet the passionate vintners behind each label, all while surrounded by the stunning landscapes that make this wine trail a hidden gem in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Plaza de Cesar Chavez, nestled in the heart of downtown San Jose, serves as a vibrant cultural hub and a central gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

This beautifully landscaped square is surrounded by iconic landmarks, including the Tech Museum of Innovation, the San Jose Museum of Art, and the Fairmont Hotel. Throughout the year, the plaza hosts a myriad of events and festivals, from outdoor concerts and art exhibitions to holiday celebrations.

Its lush greenery, picturesque fountains, and public art installations create a tranquil urban oasis, inviting visitors to relax and soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Whether you’re seeking a moment of serenity amidst the city’s hustle and bustle or looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, Plaza de Cesar Chavez offers a delightful escape and a taste of the city’s diverse cultural scene amidst the numerous things to do in San Jose. 

Read Next: Consider making a short trip to experience Monterey .

History Park at Kelley Park is a captivating open-air museum that allows visitors to step back in time and explore the rich history of San Jose and the Santa Clara Valley. Located within the expansive Kelley Park, this unique attraction features a collection of beautifully preserved historic buildings, each representing a different era and aspect of the region’s past.

Visitors can wander through a 19th-century farmhouse, visit a blacksmith’s shop, and even explore a one-room schoolhouse. The park frequently hosts special events and reenactments, offering a hands-on and immersive experience for all ages.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern San Jose, History Park provides a charming and educational retreat that showcases the area’s fascinating history and is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and those looking to delve into the city’s past while exploring the various things to do in San Jose.

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum in San Jose, California, offers a captivating journey back in time to the world of ancient Egypt. As the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in the western United States, this museum is a treasure trove of history and culture.

Here, you can marvel at an extensive collection of mummies, statues, jewelry, and other artifacts, all housed within a stunning Egyptian-style building surrounded by peaceful gardens. The museum’s educational exhibits and interactive displays provide valuable insights into the fascinating civilization of ancient Egypt, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone eager to explore the mysteries of the past.

A visit to the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is not just a trip through time; it’s an immersive and enlightening experience that allows you to connect with the rich heritage of one of the world’s most captivating ancient civilizations.

The Children’s Discovery Museum is a captivating and educational destination in San Jose, California, designed to ignite the curiosity and creativity of young minds. This interactive museum offers a wide array of exhibits and activities tailored for children of all ages, making it an ideal family-friendly attraction.

From hands-on science experiments and interactive displays to outdoor play areas and a mini-labyrinth, the museum provides a dynamic and engaging environment for kids to learn and explore. It also hosts special programs and workshops that cater to various interests and ages.

For families visiting San Jose, the Children’s Discovery Museum is a fantastic place to foster a love of learning and spark children’s imaginations while having fun together.

The Computer History Museum in Mountain View, located just a short drive from San Jose, is a captivating journey through the evolution of computing technology, making it a must-visit destination for tech enthusiasts and history buffs exploring the San Jose area.

This exceptional museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that chronicle the digital revolution from its early days to the present. Visitors can marvel at iconic machines like the ENIAC, learn about the pioneers who shaped the computer industry, and gain insights into the transformative impact of computing on society.

The museum’s engaging exhibits and immersive storytelling offer a deep dive into the history of computers, making it a perfect complement to the wealth of technology-related activities and attractions found in Silicon Valley and the broader array of things to do in San Jose.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph, located in the heart of downtown San Jose, is a magnificent architectural gem and a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage. This stunning Catholic cathedral, constructed in the 19th century, features a Neo-Gothic design with soaring spires and intricate stained glass windows that bathe the interior in colorful light.

Here, you can explore the serene ambiance, admire the intricate craftsmanship, and, if you time it right, attend a mass or simply sit in quiet contemplation. The cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a historical landmark that stands out amidst the modernity of San Jose’s urban landscape.

For those looking to appreciate both the spiritual and architectural aspects of the city, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph is a must-visit destination amidst the diverse range of things to do in San Jose.

The San Jose Improv Comedy Club is a fantastic spot for those seeking laughter and entertainment in the heart of San Jose.

Located downtown, this comedy club hosts a diverse lineup of comedians, from established stars to up-and-coming talents, guaranteeing a night of hilarity and fun. The club’s intimate setting and energetic atmosphere create the perfect environment for enjoying stand-up comedy, making it a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Whether you’re looking for a memorable date night or simply a great time with friends, the San Jose Improv Comedy Club is the place to be for a dose of humor and an unforgettable evening in the city.

Almaden Quicksilver County Park , nestled in the scenic hills of San Jose, offers a serene escape into nature’s beauty and a fascinating journey into the region’s history. This sprawling park was once the site of the largest mercury mining operation in the world, and remnants of this industrial past can still be explored through its extensive network of hiking and biking trails.

Beyond the historical intrigue, the park provides opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings, with picnic areas, wildlife viewing, and panoramic vistas of Santa Clara County.

As one of the many outdoor gems in San Jose, Almaden Quicksilver County Park perfectly complements the city’s vibrant urban offerings, providing a peaceful retreat for those seeking both historical insight and natural tranquility in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Read Next: Check out this post for all the great things to do in nearby Napa Valley .

California’s Great America is a thrilling amusement park that promises an unforgettable day of excitement and entertainment in the heart of Santa Clara, a short drive from San Jose.

This expansive park offers a wide range of attractions for visitors of all ages, from heart-pounding roller coasters like the iconic “Gold Striker” to family-friendly rides and a refreshing water park known as “Boomerang Bay.” Live entertainment, delicious dining options, and seasonal events, including Halloween Haunt and WinterFest, make California’s Great America a year-round destination.

For adrenaline junkies and those looking for a day of fun with friends and family, this amusement park is an essential stop when exploring the San Jose area, promising an adrenaline rush and memorable experiences that will last a lifetime amidst the myriad of things to do in San Jose.

The Municipal Rose Garden in San Jose is a blooming testament to the city’s beauty and love for horticulture. Spanning over five acres, this enchanting garden boasts thousands of rose bushes in various colors and varieties, creating a stunning, fragrant display during the peak bloom season in late spring and early summer.

Visitors can stroll along meandering paths, admire the meticulously maintained roses, and find a peaceful spot to relax. The garden also provides a lovely backdrop for picnics, photography, or simply basking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

For nature enthusiasts and anyone seeking a serene and picturesque experience in San Jose, the Municipal Rose Garden is a tranquil oasis amidst the city’s vibrant array of attractions and activities.

Alum Rock Park offers a serene escape into nature right in the heart of San Jose, California. This urban oasis is a hiker’s paradise, boasting a network of scenic trails that wind through the Santa Clara Valley foothills.

Whether you’re a novice looking for an easy stroll or an experienced hiker seeking a more challenging adventure, the park has trails to suit every level. Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the valley, lush greenery, and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Picnic areas, serene ponds, and historical sites like the mineral springs add to the park’s charm. Alum Rock Park is a peaceful retreat for those yearning to reconnect with nature without venturing far from the city.

Where to Stay in San Jose, California

With lots of different options for places to stay in San Jose, here are a few of our top recommendations for every budget.

Hotel Valencia Santana Row is a stylish and upscale boutique hotel situated within Santana Row, a premier shopping and dining district in San Jose. The hotel features chic rooms with modern amenities, a rooftop bar and lounge with fantastic views, and an on-site restaurant serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Guests can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Santana Row, known for its upscale shopping and vibrant nightlife.

The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel San Jose provides a comfortable and family-friendly stay without breaking the bank. This mid-range hotel offers well-appointed rooms, a fitness center, and a pool.

Its central location is perfect for exploring the city’s attractions, including nearby family-friendly destinations like Happy Hollow Park & Zoo and the Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose.

Pacific Motor Inn is a budget-friendly hotel located within walking distance of downtown San Jose attractions, including the San Jose Convention Center. Guests often praise the hotel for its value, cleanliness, and convenient location.

It’s a suitable option for those looking for affordable accommodations with easy access to the city’s downtown area

It’s clear that San Jose has more layers than a Silicon Valley startup’s code. From the mysterious allure of the Winchester Mystery House, where you can explore the quirks of architectural genius, to the tranquil escape along the Los Gatos Creek Trail, offering a breath of fresh air right in the heart of the city, and finally to the stylish avenues of Santana Row, where shopping, dining, and people-watching reach a whole new level of chic. San Jose truly offers a dynamic blend of experiences that caters to all tastes and preferences.

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a dedicated foodie, San Jose has something that will leave you with lasting memories. So, the next time you’re in the area, make sure to check out these top-notch attractions and soak in the unique vibe of this hidden gem in the heart of the Bay Area.

And who knows, maybe there’s even more to discover in this ever-evolving city – that’s the beauty of San Jose, where innovation meets tradition, and adventure awaits around every corner.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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The best things to do in San Jose to make your California dreams come true

Jan 3, 2022 • 7 min read

From a lively art scene to trendy foodie spots and historic sites, these are the top things to do in San Jose © Adam Hester / Getty Images

Known as the capital of Silicon Valley, San Jose is a forward-thinking city surrounded by creative innovation on a daily basis. As one of the major hubs in the  Bay Area – the city has the third-largest population in California  – tech is far from the only attraction on offer, though.

From its lively art scene to themed bars, trendy foodie spots , professional sports teams, kid-friendly attractions and a love for ancient history, these are the top things to do in San Jose to get to know the city in the best way. 

High-end shopping and dining in Santana Row 

Take your time as you walk down the wide streets of Santana Row , lined with palm trees and Lamborghinis juxtaposed with Tuscan-style architecture, striped awnings and umbrella-covered patios. This is where the rich tech scene of Silicon Valley meets European-inspired architecture for a unique and upscale dining and shopping atmosphere. 

For two decades, Santana Row has been the bustling go-to hub for shopping, people watching and catching up with friends over dinner or a drink. And with 70 shops, 20 restaurants and nine spas and salons, you can rest assured that there’s a little something for everyone. If your budget won't stretch to Santana Row's heights, there are plenty of free things to get up to in San Jose too .

Travel the world on one table in San Pedro Square Market 

On sunny weekends (there are a lot of those in San Jose), you’ll find the patios at San Pedro Square Market filled with friends sipping iced coffees and digging into tasty dishes from one of the many food vendors from inside. 

With the backdrop of busy downtown San Jose, this is where you can feel the vibrancy of the city, appreciate dog-friendly outdoor dining and taste test your way through a wide assortment of different cuisines. From craft beer to cocktails and hipster-approved coffee, to food inspired from Peru, Mexico, Japan, Italy, Nepal, Vietnam and the US, you won’t find a more diverse place to eat in the city.   

Live like a local in Willow Glen 

If you want to get to know a more local side to San Jose, head to Willow Glen, where you can grab brunch from a sidewalk cafe, peruse antique stores and admire the Victorian architecture. 

Snag a seat at The Table for the neighborhood’s most noteworthy brunch, pick up some delectable chocolates from Powell’s and explore the local boutiques along Lincoln Avenue to get the full Willow Glen experience. On Saturdays, don’t miss the neighborhood’s small farmer’s market, where you can rub shoulders with locals while devouring fresh pastries and vegan food. If you have the luxury of spending a little longer in the city, get to know a few more of the local San Jose neighborhoods .

Come face-to-face with a sphinx at Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum 

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is by far the coolest museum in San Jose, featuring the most extensive collection of Egyptian artifacts in Western North America. 

As you approach, you’ll be welcomed by ram-headed sphinxes and Karnak-style architecture in the form of impressive white and blue columns and golden doors.

Inside is just as impressive. You’ll be whisked away to another time, with exhibits that span from mummies and tomb replicas to a look at alchemy and ancient Egypt’s version of daily life.  

Must-dos for thrill-seekers are California’s Great America & Raging Waters

Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, if you love your thrills, there’s no better place to get your adrenaline pumping than at California’s Great America and Raging Waters . Operating since 1976, California’s Great America is a 112-acre wonderland where you can test your stomach on upside-down rollercoasters, stop to smell the funnel cakes, enjoy live music, and watch fireworks on summer weekends.

Looking to cool off during one of those stifling hot days of summer in San Jose instead? Make the 20-minute drive across town to Raging Waters, where you can cannonball into pools and zip down high-speed waterslides. 

Teach the kids about conservation at Happy Hollow Park and Zoo 

Located in Kelley Park, the 16-acre Happy Hollow Park and Zoo has been thrilling kids since 1961 with its assortment of rides and over 150 exotic, endangered and rescued animals. With a portion of proceeds from ticket sales going towards conservation efforts for threatened and endangered species and comfortably sized enclosures, this is a zoo that your conscience can feel good about supporting. 

Other features, like a repurposed broken glass entry walkway, one of California’s oldest puppet theaters, a dedicated nursing room and an eco-friendly cafe with locally sourced food, make you quickly realize this isn’t your average zoo. 

Spend a day exploring the SoFA district 

Once San Jose’s red-light district up until the 1980s, SoFA (South First Arts) has blossomed into a trendy, Instagram-famous neighborhood to experience art, unique cocktail bars and several creative festivals throughout the year.  

During the day, enjoy a cup of craft coffee from a knowledgeable barista, explore the Institute of Contemporary Art, visit an art gallery and discover colorful street murals. After hours, grab tickets for a show at the California Theatre  featuring artists like Symphony Silicon Valley, listen to live jazz, grab a drink at a 1920s-themed speakeasy, or dance the night away at a neon nightclub. 

The possibilities are endless as long as you’re up for art, culture and fun. Once a month, you have the chance to experience South First Fridays, a popular, free art gallery walk that features local artists and live music. 

Look out for high spirits at Winchester Mystery House

Who doesn’t love a creepy mansion full of ghost stories, mystery and odd design choices? Located next to Santana Row, the Winchester Mystery House was once the home of Sarah Winchester, heiress to the Winchester Rifle Company’s massive fortune in the 19th century.

Sarah lived in the house for over 50 years, a period during which the sprawling 160-room mansion received a series of never-ending renovations. A hundred years later and there are still plenty of questions and legends as to why Sarah never stopped incessantly building onto the maze-like manor. Today, you can sign up for a tour of the mansion to discover secret rooms, doors that open to walls and stairways that lead to nowhere to try and unravel the mystery for yourself.  

Get your cheer on at a San Jose Sharks game 

Around town, you’ll probably see at least a few San Jose Sharks bumper stickers on random cars zooming by. However, you won’t truly know how deeply San Joseans love their sports teams until you’re in a raucous crowd of cheering fans at the SAP Center during a Sharks game .

If hockey isn’t your thing, Santa Clara County is home to plenty of other stadiums and parks where professional and minor league sports teams play. Most notably, you can catch a San Francisco 49ers game at Levi’s Stadium or a San Jose Earthquakes game at PayPal Park. 

Get experimental at Tech Interactive 

There’s no better place to learn about how technology and science impact our world than in San Jose and, more specifically, one of the city’s most popular museums, the Tech Interactive . 

At this future-focused hub, you’ll be treated to hands-on exhibits geared for kids and adults alike that will make you feel like the next innovator of your time. Before calling it a day, experience complete immersion with the Birdly VR simulator that lets you fly like a bird and an educational flick at the IMAX theater.

Find some treasure at the San Jose Flea Market 

As the old proverb goes, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” and nowhere is that more true than at the extensive San Jose Flea Market, also known as the Berryessa Flea Market. Come here to ride the carousel, shop for fresh produce, enjoy live music and entertainment, grab ready-to-eat food from local vendors, or look through the many antiques and collectibles from another era. 

You may also like: Best time to visit San Jose  These San Jose city parks feel miles away from city hustle Let the sun shine in with a visit to one of these beaches near San Jose

This article was first published October 2021 and updated January 2022

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55 Things to do in San Jose, California (From a Bay Area Local)

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

TL;DR: The best things to do in San Jose include visting the Winchester Mystery House, wandering around Santana Row, and exploring the Tech museum. Here are some more details:

• Explore the enigmatic and historic Winchester Mystery House, a local icon, or visit other attractions like the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph for its stunning architecture or Municipal Rose Garden for its beauty.
• Indulge in upscale shopping and dining at the vibrant Santana Row or head to Downtown San Jose or Campbell for a more lively night out.
• Get hands on experience at the Tech Interactive museum, a science and technology museum in the heart of Sillicon Valley, or visit other great museums like the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum or Children’s Discovery Museum.

Often neglected in favor of San Francisco and other Bay Area cities like Oakland or Napa, you may be surprised to know that San Jose actually has a larger population than any other city in Northern California. 

In fact, it’s California’s 3rd largest city after Los Angeles and San Diego . 

San Jose may not have the underground art culture or the trendiness assigned to other spots around the Bay , but there are plenty of interesting and fun things to do in the city if you know where to look.

After living in the Bay Area for the last few years and making more than a dozen trips down to San Jose in that time, these are my recommendations for the top things to do in San Jose, California to really explore what this South Bay city has to offer. 

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55 Best Things to do in San Jose, California

Top things to do in san jose, california, walk around santana row.

As the best shopping and dining destination in the city, Santana Row is one of the best places to visit in San Jose if you enjoy poking your head into interesting stores.

This is the ritzy upscale part of town and even if you don’t have the cash to spend, it’s a fun place to simply walk around, window shop, people watch, and look at nice cars.

Think of it as the equivalent of what Beverly Hills is to LA or Nob Hill is to San Francisco.

In addition to the shopping, there are quite a few bars and restaurants in Santana Row, such as El Jardin, which is perfect to visit for a margarita on a hot summer night. Just note that most bars in the area close up by 11 pm.

Get Your Sugar Fix at Psycho Donuts

Although not as good as Bob’s Donuts in San Francisco, Psycho Donuts is a fun and tasty donut shop in San Jose, if only for their originality. 

They specialize in wacky and over-the-top unique donut flavors. When I was there last I tried their donut with peanut butter drizzle and cereal bits on top.

They also have flavors such as the Canadian Morning Squeal with maple icing and bacon bits, and the Dead Elvis with bananas, bacon, peanut butter, jelly, and a cream filling.

Their donuts are really  rich, so you probably only need one or you might want to share depending on what you order.

Update: Psycho Donuts used to be located in downtown San Jose but they’ve since moved to Campbell (not too far from downtown) and the Westfield Valleyfair Mall. 

Grab a Bite to Eat at San Pedro Square Market

One of the best things to do in downtown San Jose, San Pedro Square Market is the marketplace that just keeps on giving. 

There are so many eateries to choose from here that you’ll probably have trouble deciding what to try first.

This is also a good place to sample craft beer at either Market Beer Co. or the Market Bar. 

Some vendors validate parking so ask for validation with purchases so you can enjoy free parking.

If you’re after more of a caffeine buzz to start off a day in San Jose, B2 Coffee has some of the tastiest coffee in the city!

Get Spooked at the Winchester Mystery House

If you’re looking for unusual things to do in San Jose, the Winchester Mystery House is an odd mansion that exists right next to Santana Row.

The house was built by Sarah Winchester, the spouse of William Winchester, from the family that created the popular Winchester Rifle Company.

After Sarah lost both her child and her husband, she was convinced that the spirits of all the people killed by Winchester rifles were coming back to haunt and punish her.

She started building the Winchester House to confuse the spirits and continuously built and remodeled the house until her death. 

She kept carpenters on a rotating shift so there was always work being done on the house at any given time while she was living in it.

It’s an eccentric and interesting stop in San Jose and worth visiting at least once if you’re in the area…as long as you’re not easily spooked. 😉

Do a Self-Guided Tour of San Jose Craft Beer

The craft beer culture in San Jose is becoming more of a thing, as it is for the rest of the Bay Area. 

There are a few craft breweries to check out in the San Jose area now, and a few pubs for taste-testing a variety of craft beers.

One of my favorite beer spots is   Original Gravity , which offers enough tasty beers to last you for days.

With 15 rotating taps, you can pretty much find any style and a multitude of breweries on tap from around the West Coast and beyond. 

I was happy to find my favorite beer, Ballast Point Sculpin pouring on nitro. A craft beer girl’s dream come true.

There are a few breweries in the San Jose area that are a must-visit as well, including Hermitage Brewing , Strike Brewing , Clandestine Brewing , and Faultline Brewing in Sunnyvale.

And, if you’re as into craft beer as I am, other bars to find a crafty pint around San Jose besides Original Gravity are ISOBeers and Good Karma .

Another option, if you want a fun way to explore San Jose’s craft beer scene is to hop on the San Jose Brew Bike.

They offer private and group tours that take you around to two bars/restaurants in town to sample the beer. The catch is that you have to pedal the “brew bike” to get to your stops.

Cheer on One of the Local Sports Teams

If there’s one thing San Jose locals take seriously it’s their sports teams.

If you’ve never seen a professional hockey game before, catching a San Jose Sharks game at the SAP Center is a unique experience.  

Not a fan of hockey? San Jose also has a professional soccer team called the San Jose Earthquakes that play at Avaya Stadium. 

And lastly, even though the 49ers are technically San Francisco’s professional football team, they actually play in San Jose. 

So if you’re looking to experience an NFL game, head over to Levi Stadium. 

San Jose is a great city for sports enthusiasts since locals are loyal fans and there’s bound to be at least one professional sporting event going on at any given time of the year.

Have a Night of Opera at the California Theatre

If you’re looking for a fancy night out in San Jose, there’s nothing that says classy like the opera. 

The San Jose Opera is unique in that it maintains a resident company of principal artists and it features a lot of talented young performers. 

And besides the stellar opera performances, shows are put on in the historic California Theatre, which is one of the most beautiful performing arts venues in San Jose. 

It was built in the 1920s as a movie theater before being turned into the performing arts venue it is today. 

The California Theatre only makes San Jose opera shows that much more special, with its unique acoustics and ornate interior.

Grab Dinner in Japantown

In San Jose’s Japantown , you’ll find art galleries, souvenir shops, local boutiques, karaoke bars, and tons of delicious restaurants.  It’s also one of the last three authentic Japantowns in the US. 

And in terms of this Japantown, it’s unsurprisingly one of the best places to find good Japanese food in San Jose.

If you have a craving for sushi, regional Japanese fare, or unpretentious Japanese-American diners, spend at least one night eating out in Japantown. 

A few of the best places to eat in the neighborhood include: 

• Okayama Sushi 
• Minato Japanese Cuisine
• Kumako Ramen
• Mizu Sushi Bar & Grill

Enjoy a Night of Laughs at San Jose Improv

If you want to enjoy a night of laughs, one of the best comedy spots in the city is San Jose Improv . 

You won’t find as big of names as you might at Cobb’s Comedy Club and the Punchline in San Francisco, but there are a good dose of regional comedians and some lesser-known national comedians that grace the San Jose Improv stage every night.

Tickets are relatively affordable, usually starting at around $15-$20 for the cheap seats. 

San Jose Improv also has a full dinner menu, so if you want to make it a proper night out you can reserve a spot for dinner before the show. 

Plus, dinner can be used for the two-item minimum that’s required for every show.

Eat to Your Heart’s Content at the San Jose Farmers Market

San Jose is situated in an ideal location that’s not too far from prime agricultural areas in California. 

This means that the city has a solid weekly farmers market that features several regional growers and fresh produce. 

The San Jose Farmers Market happens every Friday, and besides the regional growers selling different types of fresh produce, you’ll find hot lunches and prepackaged food options as well. 

It’s a great way to experience the San Jose community, shop local, and support local businesses and farmers. 

Plus, it’s easy to get to. The San Jose Farmers Market is conveniently located in downtown San Jose in San Pedro Square between Santa Clara Street and St. John Street. Parking is free at the market and the San Pedro Garage.

Shop ’til You Drop at Westfield Valley Fair

Unlike Santana Row, which features a lot of upscale chains, Westfield Valley Fair is where you’ll find mostly budget and mid-range international and national chains, with a handful of luxury brands thrown in. 

I used to visit Valley Fair for my back-to-school shopping when I was growing up because they had such a good selection compared to anything you could find in Santa Cruz.

In fact, it’s one of the largest malls in the US – you could literally spend hours here and feel like you’ve barely scratched the surface.

If you want to see just how many stores there are at Valley Fair, you can view the full mall directory here .

Slip Down a Water Slide at Raging Waters

It gets hot in San Jose in the summer and early fall, and a fun way to cool off is to make a visit to Raging Waters.  

Established in 1985, this 23-acre park is the largest water park in Northern California and features various slides and different types of water activities.

Don’t miss the Endless River, the Family Raft Ride, the wave pool, and the many water slides on offer for thrill-seekers like Bombs Away, Dragon’s Den, and Barracuda Blaster.

Best Free Things to do in San Jose, California

Admire the architecture at the cathedral basilica of st. joseph.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph is one of the prettier fixtures in downtown San Jose.

It was built for the Roman Catholic Diocese in San Jose, and it’s the oldest non-mission parish in the state of California, having been consecrated in 1877.

Regardless of your religious beliefs, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph one of the best things to see in San Jose if you appreciate architecture and lofty interiors. 

Cathedrals are such calm places and usually have a lot of thought and beauty put into their construction.

This is the perfect place to take a break while exploring downtown San Jose.

Smell the Flowers at the Municipal Rose Garden

Touted as “America’s Best Rose Garden,” the Municipal Rose Garden is a peaceful place to take a break from San Jose sightseeing, read a book, and smell the flowers . 

This historic rose garden was founded in 1927 and exclusively features roses – a total of 189 rose varieties to be exact.  

May and the springtime as a whole is the best time to visit the gardens for the most blooms. 

However, because there are so many different types of roses, there’s almost always at least some roses blooming at any time of the year. 

And if you’re looking to explore more gardens, San Jose has a lot of options. I’d recommend adding the Japanese Friendship Garden, Heritage Rose Garden, and Overfelt Gardens to your garden itinerary.

Step Back in Time at History Park

If you’re looking to experience what life was like in the Santa Clara Valley in the early 1900s, head over to the San Jose Historic Park (located in Kelley Park). 

At the park, you’ll find 14 acres of historic (and rebuilt) buildings, landmarks, and old-fashioned ice cream parlors and trolleys. 

While walking around the park, don’t miss the Trolley Barn, the Associated Oil Service Station, the Print Shop, the Pacific Hotel, and the historic houses that give you a glimpse into life in California in the early 20th century.

Enjoy a Day Around Willow Glen

Willow Glen has become the hipster and trendy neighborhood of San Jose in recent years. 

Spend a day exploring the historic downtown, checking out the local boutiques that line Lincoln Avenue, and poking your head into independent bookstores.

Don’t leave without trying a scoop at Willow Glen Creamery or a drink at The Table .  

This is where many of the city’s annual cultural and art events happen and there’s a Saturday farmers market in the neighborhood as well.

Learn About the California Missions at Mission Santa Clara

California has a total of 21 Spanish missions that were built by the Franciscan Order in the late 1700s and early 1800s when the Spanish took over what is now present-day California.  

Mission Santa Clara was built in 1777 and was the eighth mission built in the string of 21 missions.

Located on Santa Clara University’s campus, Mission Santa Clara was also the first Mission to honor a female saint – Saint Claire of Assisi. 

Although the original mission burned down, the current mission (rebuilt in 1929) is a replica of the original one and is still a good place to learn about Spanish history in California. 

Mission Santa Clara is an operating church of the university, but visitors are welcome to visit the historical mission and spend time in the rose garden next door. 

If you have time after touring the mission, spend an hour exploring Santa Clara University, which was founded in 1851 and is the oldest university in California.

Peruse the Unique Finds at the San Jose Flea Market

Happening multiple times a week on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, the San Jose Flea Market (also known as the Berryessa Flea Market), is one of the largest outdoor markets in the United States.

At 120 acres, you could easily spend the whole day perusing the rows of hidden finds and trinkets.

From clothing to fresh produce, antiques, furniture, electronics, and more, there’s a little something for everyone at the flea market. 

There’s also usually live music in the form of mariachi bands, a mini Ferris wheel, arcade, and various local food and drink vendors to keep you happy and full throughout the day. 

Especially with the good weather that San Jose usually enjoys, this is one of the best things to do in San Jose on a sunny day. 

Since the flea market is only an 11-minute drive from the airport, it’s also one of the best things to do near San Jose airport before you hop on a flight if you’re looking for unique souvenirs to take home.

Go on an Art Crawl at SoFA District First Fridays

If you happen to be in San Jose on the first Friday of the month, you won’t want to miss South First Fridays in the SoFA District of San Jose. 

This monthly self-guided art walk consists of an evening enjoying the best art galleries in the neighborhood.  

It’s an ideal way to support local creatives and businesses each month and to enjoy a cultured evening full of community, art, and performances. 

And even if your trip doesn’t line up with being in San Jose on the first Friday of the month, the SoFA district is a fun spot to explore for an afternoon or evening. 

Around the neighborhood, you’ll not only find art galleries, but trendy restaurants, museums, and a decent nightlife scene as well.

It’s one of the best things to do around San Jose if you’re looking to get an art fix, grab a drink, and immerse yourself in San Jose culture.

Walk Along the Los Gatos Creek Trail or the Guadalupe River Trail

Spanning over 11 miles, the Los Gatos Creek Trail is an urban path for walkers, joggers, and cyclists looking to stretch their legs and enjoy a different side to Santa Clara County.

If you want to just focus on the San Jose section of the trail, you can start from Dupont Street (Off San Carlos Street) and start walking south or from Meridian Avenue.

The full trail goes all the way down to Los Gatos and beyond, passing through scenic spots like Los Gatos Creek County Park and the Lexington Reservoir along the way. 

Another urban trail that is worth checking out is the Guadalupe River Trail . This 12-mile trail heads north instead of south and starts just south of where the Los Gatos Creek meets the Guadalupe River. 

Even if you just do only parts of either of these trails, it’s a nice way to spend a sunny afternoon, maybe with an iced coffee in hand.

Visit Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library

Part of the San Jose State University campus and San Jose’s main public library, if you love cool architecture and being surrounded by books, a visit to the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library is a must.

Built in 2003, this eight-story library is fun just to walk around with its unique interior and endless supply of books. There are a number of exhibits and pieces of art throughout the library as well.

One of the best ways to take the Martin Luther King, Jr. Library in fully is to hop on a docent-led tour. They have a Thursday drop-in tour at 11:30 am and an art and library history tour that can be scheduled online.

People Watch at Plaza de Cesar Chavez

One of the best places to people watch or simply relax between all of the sightseeing is Plaza de Cesar Chavez . 

This two-acre plaza and park is a popular spot for San Jose events throughout the year and a main hangout spot and thoroughfair in downtown San Jose. 

With the Plaze de Cesar Chavez’s history going all the way back to 1797, it’s also the oldest public space in Northern California.  

Local Things to do in San Jose

Catch a flick at the west wind capitol drive-in.

Drive-ins have started making a comeback since 2020 and  San Jose has one of the best drive-in options in the Bay Area. 

The West Wind Capitol Drive-In is actually a chain that has survived the test of time.

The franchise can be found around the Western US, including four locations in California. 

West Wind Drive-In in San Jose tends to feature a mix of recently released movies and popular classics in a variety of genres. 

And as a bonus, it’s an inexpensive night out at only $8.25 for general admission and $1.75 for kids under 12.

On Tuesdays, they do Family Fun Night where general admission drops down to $5.50 for general admission. 

This is one of the best things to do in San Jose at night if you don’t want to hit the bars and want to go to a good ol’ retro drive-in.

Experience a Speakeasy at Haberdasher

There are various places to go in San Jose to experience the city’s nightlife, but one of the best bars in the city if you’re looking for a 1920s speakeasy theme is Haberdasher . 

As soon as you walk into the bar, you’ll find yourself stepping back in time to the 1920s with plush red sofas and bartenders in themed uniforms. 

And it’s not just the atmosphere that makes this bar such a special place, the cocktails are delicious and some of the best in the city. 

You can either order a drink from the menu or ask the bartender to make their own concoction based on the flavors you want and the liquor base you prefer. 

If you only have time to go to one bar in San Jose, this one should be it.

Test Your Escape Skills at OMESCAPE San Jose

Escape rooms have popped up in most major cities around the world in recent years, but San Jose’s OMESCAPE is one of the best ones you’ll come across in California. 

In fact, it’s been voted the #1 escape room in the Bay Area.

OMESCAPE is actually a Bay Area chain, with a total of three locations, including two others in Richmond and Sunnyvale. 

At their San Jose location, they offer five themed experiences that go further than your average escape room. 

From Kingdom of Cats to Sorcerer’s Sanctum, and Pandemic Zero, the alternate realities you’re thrown into are creative and one-of-a-kind.  

And most importantly, they’re a lot of fun.  

If you’re a fan of non-generic escape rooms, OMESCAPE is a good option for a fun place to visit in San Jose with friends.

Do a Couple Rounds of Mini Golf at Emerald Hills Golfland

Although San Jose has its fair share of actual golf courses, if you’re looking for something a little more colorful and family-friendly doing some rounds of mini golf at Emerald Hills Golfland is a fun afternoon or evening activity. 

At Golfland, you’ll find two mini golf courses, an arcade, a snack bar, and even a few water slides if you bring your bathing suit.

Play Some Games at Miniboss

If you’re looking for something a little more adult but still in the vein of a game night, you won’t want to miss Miniboss – San Jose’s best barcade option.

At Miniboss you can grab a pint or cocktail while you play Killer Queen, pinball, or a number of other vintage arade games.

I absolutely love barcades and Miniboss has a lot to offer with its 26 arcade games, 10 different pinball machines, and a full bar and restaurants.

Catch a Show at the SAP Center

What used to be known as the HP Pavillion when I was growing up in the 90s, has since become the SAP Center – aka the place to go for large events, such as concerts or San Jose Sharks games.

I’ve gone to a variety of concerts here (including seeing John Mayer in his prime right after his Continuum album came out!), as well as Disney on Ice when I was a kid and it’s always been such a fun experience. 

If there’s anything happening at the SAP Center when you’re in town, you should definitely experience this huge venue for yourself. It’s conveniently located right outside of downtown San Jose, next to Diridon Station.

Gear Up and Declare War at Santa Clara Paintball

If you’re looking for fun things to do in San Jose with friends, look no further than Santa Clara Paintball . Running since 2003, this is the best place to challenge your friends to a paintball war in San Jose, whether you’re an experienced paintballer or a newbie. 

Santa Clara Paintball features 12 playing fields with plenty of obstacles to hide behind, plus a laser tag course for anyone who wants the no-contact version of paintball.

If you’re doing paintball, just make sure to cover yourself in thick clothing because those paintball welts can hurt!

Try Not to Get a Gutter Ball at one of San Jose’s Many Bowling Alleys

With four bowling alleys within San Jose city limits and plenty more outside of it, there are a lot of options for hitting the lanes and putting on some of those snazzy bowling shoes.

These are three bowling alleys you’ll find in the city: 

• 4th Street Bowl – The most conveniently located bowling alley near downtown, 4th Street Bowl has 32 lanes, a lounge with a full bar, pool tables, karaoke, and a coffee shop. This one definitely has a more local feel. 
• Bowlero San Jose – The largest of the bowling alleys in San Jose, Bowlero is a national chain and has 50 lanes where you can do blacklight bowling, a full bar and restaurant, and arcade. And even though it’s a chain, Bowlero feels more like a boutique place to bowl. 
• Round 1 Eastridge – Another chain bowling spot (but one that’s not as fancy as Bowlero), Round 1 is located in the Eastridge Mall and offers bowling, an arcade, pool, darts, ping pong, and a bar and restaurant.

Spend the Day Golfing

One of the benefits of having such a spread out area and so much space (at least compared to other parts of the Bay Area) is that there are a number of quality golf courses in San Jose.

If you’re looking for a day out on the green, I’d recommend checking out Cinnabar Hills Golf Club , Los Lagos Golf Course , Rancho Del Pueblo Golf Course , San Jose Municipal Golf Course , or Santa Teresa Golf Club .

Lace Up and Hit the Ice at Solar4America Ice Rink

California isn’t exactly known for its cold weather activities, but in San Jose you can go ice skating year round at the Solar4America Ice Rink .

This is multi-use rink that is used by everyone from the San Jose Sharks to new skaters taking group classes. For those who are looking to drop in to experience the rink for themselves, they also offer public skate sessions.

It’s best to check their website for current schedules since it’s constantly changing these days, but it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon while trying not to fall on your butt.  

Also, don’t miss getting some poutine from Stanley’s before you leave!

See a Show at City Lights Theater Company

Looking for a unique night out in San Jose? The City Lights Theater Company is a small non-profit theater that produces six creative shows per year that are usually written by local writers.  

Many of their productions focus on relevant modern-day topics or put a spin on a classic storyline. Recent productions have included stories about internet trolls, classist entitlement, and Vietnamese refugees.

Best San Jose Museums

Rosicrucian egyptian museum.

San Jose has a few unique museums and one of the most interesting ones in the city is the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum . 

If you’ve ever been interested in life in ancient Egypt, this is a good introduction to all things Egyptian. 

The museum is home to the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in the Western US and includes exhibits that span from the predynastic period to the early Islamic era in Egypt. 

Exhibits go into depth about everything from Egyptian history to the beginnings of mummification and home life in ancient Egypt.

And don’t be fooled by how small it looks when you walk in. 

As you go through the exhibits, you’ll realize just how much there is to read and see. 

It could easily take a whole afternoon to go through the museum. 

If you only have time for one museum in San Jose, this is the one I would recommend visiting.

San Jose Museum of Art

If you want to get cultured during a day in San Jose, the San Jose Museum of Art is the ideal place to go look at classic and modern artwork from local, regional, and international artists.

The main draw to this museum is its large permanent collection of West Coast artists from the 20th and 21st centuries. 

This is San Jose’s main art museum, but it’s relatively small and manageable enough to walk through all of the exhibits within an hour or two.

San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art

One of the few free museums in San Jose, the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art is where you’ll find unique local and regional artists on display in a minimalist space. 

This art museum is on the smaller side with only three galleries, but the variety of thought-provoking pieces means it’s well worth stopping in for 30 minutes to an hour.  

And all of their exhibits are constantly rotating so you’ll always find something new to appreciate with each visit.

San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles

It may not have the most interesting name, but the San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles is a quirky museum that houses artwork made from, you guessed it, quilts and textiles. 

Founded in 1977, the museum features a number of rotating exhibits and hosts various workshops, talks, and events throughout the year. If you’re into different patterns and fabrics at all, make this a stop on your San Jose itinerary.

Japanese American Museum of San Jose

In the middle of Japantown, you’ll find the Japanese American Museum of San Jose .

At the museum, you can learn more about Japanese culture through art, historical artifacts, photographs, and a discussion about what it means to identify as Japanese-American in this country.

Best Things to do in San Jose With Kids

Bring your kids to the children’s discovery museum.

If you’re wondering what to do in San Jose if you’re traveling with kids, the Children’s Discovery Museum is another highly ranked attraction in the city and one of the best things to do in downtown San Jose.

It’s ranked as one of the top 10 children’s museums in the US and has various interactive science exhibits geared towards the younger ones.

Enjoy a Sunny Afternoon at Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

A popular 16-acre zoo and amusement park, Happy Hollow is one of the best San Jose tourist attractions to visit if you’re traveling to the city with kids under the age of eight.

Operating since 1961, the park features kids’ rides, puppet shows, animal exhibits, a petting zoo, and educational programs that put an emphasis on conservation and sustainability.

Have a Day on the Farm at Emma Prusch Farm Park

If you’re looking for a full day of animals and fun for the whole family, Emma Prusch Farm Park is another great option for a San Jose activity with kids. 

This 47-acre park was once a working dairy farm in the San Jose area. 

Today, it offers a glimpse into San Jose’s agricultural past.  

At the park, you’ll find fruit orchards, community gardens, small animal areas, a plant science center, butterfly gardens, and plenty of open spaces for picnics. 

One of the best ways to experience the park is by visiting on the first Saturday of the month when they have their farmers market event that features food from the gardens and live music.

Get Nerdy at the Tech Interactive

If you want to learn about Tech, there’s really no better place to do that than the Capital of Silicon Valley. 

One of the more popular San Jose attractions, the Tech Interactive is located in downtown San Jose and features hands-on science and technology exhibits.  

The museum is more geared for children than it is for adults and there tends to be a lot of school field trips that take place here. 

Because of this, it’s the perfect interactive museum to visit if you have school-age kids in tow. 

There’s also an IMAX theater inside that features educational films about science, animals, and the Earth. 

Best Outdoor Things to do in San Jose

Alum rock park.

Alum Rock Park is one of the best historic parks and outdoor places to visit near San Jose. 

It has roots that go back to 1777 when it was a pueblo.

And it’s California’s oldest municipal park, having been established in 1872. 

Besides its layered history, Alum Rock Park is an ideal place to have a day in nature that’s not too far from the city. 

The park features 720 acres of hiking trails, picnic areas, bike paths, as well as a few scenic views. 

Don’t miss walking the South Rim Trail (4.3 miles) or the lookouts from Eagle Rock, Inspiration Point, or Canyon View.

Almaden Quicksilver County Park

An even better place to go for a hike near San Jose is Almaden Quicksilver County Park . 

The park covers over 4,000 acres and includes the historic remnants of 135 years of mining, including various former mercury mines.  

At the park, you’ll find over 35 miles of hiking trails, 30 miles of equestrian trails, and 16 miles of bike trails with scenery that varies from open meadows to oak woodland.  

If you’re looking to hike for a few hours, a good trail to start with is the Quicksilver Trail (5 miles).

Otherwise, the Senador-Guadalupe and Guadalupe-Mine Hill Loops are short and easy trails to tackle. 

If you’re able to visit the park during the spring, do it.

This is where you’ll find some of the most impressive wildflower displays in the San Jose area.

Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve

If you’re more interested in wide-open spaces and valley views than long hikes, the Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve is a good spot to visit near San Jose. 

Located in the Eastern foothills of Santa Clara County, just above Alum Rock Park, Sierra Vista is 1,611 acres of panoramic views, peaceful walks, and grassland. 

It’s also home to various protected wildlife species and only a 25-minute drive from downtown San Jose. 

A good hike to start with that provides some of the best views in the park is the two-mile Aquila Loop Trail. 

For more hiking ideas, check out our list of the best hikes in San Jose .

Best Seasonal Events in San Jose

• SubZERO Festival (June)
• Santa Clara County Fair (July)
• Obon Festival (July)
• Viva Fest: Mexican Heritage & Mariachi Festival (July-Oct)
• C2SV (September)
• Christmas in the Park (last week of November to January 1st)

Best Things to do Near San Jose, California

Wine tasting around the santa cruz mountains.

One of the best things to do in the South Bay, and just outside of San Jose, is wine tasting.

I don’t know why I never realized how many great wineries there are just outside the city, but there are a ton in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

With the sometimes pretentiousness of Napa Valley, the Santa Cruz Mountains is the perfect alternative to trying some tasty local wines with the backdrop of rolling hills and forested vistas.

When I did my own tour, I was impressed at how beautiful some of these wineries are.

They convinced me just how gorgeous the South Bay can be. 

If you want to do your own self-guided winery tour around the Santa Cruz Mountains, a few that shouldn’t be missed include Regale, Loma Prieta, and Picchetti.

Read my full guide to doing a winery road trip in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Lick Observatory

About a one-hour drive east of San Jose, you’ll find the Lick Observatory perched atop Mount Hamilton. 

The observatory was built in 1888 and is an active research facility owned and operated by the University of California. 

If you’re into astronomy or you just want a stunning view of the Santa Clara Valley, this is a great option for a day trip from San Jose. 

At the observatory, you can view exhibits, hear talks about the history of the observatory and James Lick, take a look at the Great Lick Refractor in the 36-inch telescope dome, and view the 120-inch Reflector in the Shane Dome. 

During the summer, they usually have a concert and lecture series in the evenings by renowned scientists – it’s one of the best ways to experience the observatory to its fullest. 

Just note that the road up to the observatory is winding and remote so drive safely and fill up on gas ahead of time.

Explore Downtown Los Gatos

Ranked the 33rd wealthiest city in the US, Los Gatos is an upscale hideaway and one of the best day trips from San Jose. 

Not everyone can afford to live there, but it has a beautiful little downtown area that’s fun to visit for an afternoon if you’re looking for a different pace from San Jose.

Incorporated as a town in 1887, it’s also one of Santa Clara County’s oldest communities.

Spend the afternoon walking along N Santa Cruz Avenue, poking your head into the boutiques and local shops that line the main downtown thoroughfare. 

You really can’t go wrong with the food in downtown Los Gatos, but I’d recommend lunch from Campo di Bocce , Los Gatos Cafe Uptown , or Oak & Rye . 

Afterward, you can go for a tasting at one of the many Los Gatos wine bars to try the delicious wine varieties found in the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains. 

A couple favorites include Rootstock Wine Bar or Cin-Cin Wine Bar .

If you have more than just an afternoon, there are plenty of things to see just outside of the downtown area as well. 

Vasona Lake County Park , Castle Rock State Park , or wine tasting around the vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains are just a few options.

Get Your Thrills at California’s Great America

If rollercoasters are your thing, then California’s Great America is a good day trip to include if you have more than one day in San Jose.

Only a 15-20 minute drive from downtown San Jose, t his 100-acre amusement park , has eight rollercoasters in addition to its many other thrill rides.

It’s something to experience at least once if you’re in the area and perfect to visit if you’re traveling with older kids. 

Related:   101 Things to do in California

Where to Eat & Drink in San Jose

• Nirvana Soul 
• Voyager Craft Coffee 
• Academic Coffee 

Breakfast/Brunch  

• House of Bagels
• Mimosas of Willow Glen
• The Table 
• LUNA Mexican Kitchen 
• Bertucelli’s La Villa 
• Falafel’s Drive In 
• Firehouse No.1 Gastropub
• SJ Omogari Korean Restaurant
• Sweet Mango 

Bars & Live Music  

• Paper Plane
• Haberdasher 
• Original Gravity Public House 
• Cafe Stritch 

Where to Stay in San Jose

Once you’re done checking out the many things to do in San Jose, California, these would be my recommendations for where to stay in San Jose for any budget.

If you’re looking for a decent hotel, expect to shell out at least $150 – $250 a night. If you have more of a cushy budget, I would highly recommend staying at one of the classy hotels on Santana Row.

Hotel Valencia Santana Row

I had the chance to stay here once on a trip to San Jose and could not recommend it enough.

Hotel Valencia not only offers great customer service, but it’s also from one of my Mediterranean daydreams – with a rooftop and balcony rooms that feature grand views looking out over Santana Row and the valley.

Find updated prices & availability here

Pavilion Inn 

An affordable option for those who don’t want to go completely budget.

Pavilion Inn is located a little bit outside the city center (about an eight-minute drive), but offers a clean, quiet, and comfortable stay with a quality continental breakfast (including waffles!).

The Flamingo Motel 

If you’re looking for an inexpensive stay right in the heart of downtown, this motel is right next to the SAP Center (formerly the HP Pavilion) and offers free parking.

The motel is 100% nonsmoking and features basic amenities, as well as kitchens in some rooms.

What to Pack for San Jose

• Sunglasses  
• Beanie  
• Good walking shoes
• Nice pair of shoes (for going out at night)
• Sunscreen  
• Daypack  
• Reusable water bottle
• Portable charger
• Travel insurance for San Jose

Best Time to Visit San Jose

Like most of California, San Jose has a temperate climate that stays within a fairly comfortable range year round.

It’s generally a few degrees warmer than San Francisco on any given day and the city enjoys hot summers and winters that rarely get below freezing. 

My favorite seasons for nice weather and fewer crowds are spring and fall. Summer, especially July and August, can be very busy so you might want to avoid those months if you don’t want to deal with crowds.

FAQs About San Jose, CA

What is san jose known for.

San Jose is the third-largest city in California by population (larger than San Francisco). 

It’s part of Silicon Valley, and even considered the “Capital of Silicon Valley,” which is where many large tech companies are based. 

Although the cost of living is slightly less than San Francisco, it’s still one of the most expensive cities to live in California. 

San Jose is also known for its temperate and Mediterranean-like climate. 

How Many Days Do I Need in San Jose?

Give yourself at least a day in San Jose. 

If you want to tackle everything on this list or add on a day trip, I’d give yourself up to a week to see a good chunk of the San Jose area . 

In general, 1-3 days is usually a good timeframe for exploring San Jose.

How Far is San Jose From San Francisco?

San Jose is 48 miles from San Francisco.  It usually takes around an hour to drive from San Francisco to San Jose. 

Or you can take the Caltrain from San Francisco to Diridon Station in San Jose.  The journey on Caltrain is around an hour and a half. 

Related: Best Weekend Trips from San Francisco

PRACTICAL INFO FOR SAN JOSE

Find accommodation ,  book your rental car , or  sign up for a local tour .

Book a vacation rental on Airbnb  (and get $20 off your first booking).

Buy your Northern California Travel Guide .

Get travel insurance for your trip here .

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mimi McFadden Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Mimi McFadden initially started The Atlas Heart in 2013 to write about her adventures abroad. But since 2019, The Atlas Heart has become a love letter to the Golden State. Mimi enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge and expertise with the places she knows so well and making the most comprehensive travel guides possible. When she’s not hiking and exploring new places in California, she loves to travel abroad, read in her cozy chaise lounge, play basketball, and connect with friends and family over board games. Over her 28 years in California, she has lived in Santa Cruz (18 years), San Diego (5 years), and the San Francisco Bay Area (5 years), where she currently resides.

Looking for more Northern California travel inspiration? Check out these related posts below!

Best Hikes in San Francisco

Things to do in San Francisco  

The Best Things to do in Lake Tahoe (For Every Season)

Things to do in San Francisco at Night

Best Restaurants in Sausalito

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Where to See the Redwoods Near San Francisco

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

4 thoughts on “55 Things to do in San Jose, California (From a Bay Area Local)”

Hi! I live in San Jose. Where is that beautiful old yellow building?

I’m a local here in San Jose, and my favorite is San Pedro Square. I have recommended this to my friends and family who comes and visit, and not once that it has disappointed them. So if you happen to have time don’t forget to drop down this place!

I know I was surprised too! It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the Bay Area, I feel like San Jose is one of those underrated destinations 🙂

What a beautiful city. I had no idea that San Jose was bigger than San Francisco. It is certainly architecturally very lovely and has a great history as well.

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30 Best & Fun Things To Do In San Jose (California)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 21, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

San Jose is the largest city in Northern California both by population and by area.

Located on the southern shore of San Francisco Bay, there is no shortage of fun things to do in San Jose.

Surrounded by the beauty of Wine Country, San Jose is at the center of Silicon Valley.

Considered by many to be the true birthplace of modern technology, Silicon Valley is home to Apple Computer, PayPal, eBay, IBM, Adobe Systems, Samsung, Hewlett Packard, Cisco Systems, and Western Digital to name a few.

The Silicon Valley area has the third highest GDP per capita in the world, preceded only by Zurich, Switzerland and Oslo, Norway.

San Jose, California is ranked the fourth most affluent city in the United States.

Whether it is for a week, a weekend or longer, there are plenty of fun things to do, things to see, and places to visit in San Jose.

We take the guesswork out of how to plan a trip by presenting you with the top places to visit when you’re in San Jose, California.

There are a number of attractions to see, fun to be had, places to go, and stuff to do that could make your trip to San Jose, California one to remember.

Out of the numerous potential places to visit in San Jose, California, we have narrowed down the absolute best of the parks, attractions, and historical landmarks located there.

This guide should help you answer the question of what to do in San Jose.

Table of Contents

1. Winchester Mystery House

Winchester Mystery House

San Jose’s Winchester Mystery House was built in 1884 by Sarah Winchester, the widow of the Winchester Rifle magnate William Winchester.

Originally, it reached seven stories in height; however, the 1906 San Francisco earthquake did some damage. The house now stands at four stories.

During a total of the home’s 38 years of construction, Sarah’s belief that the house was haunted by those who had been killed by a Winchester rifle led her to have her house built without the direction of an architect.

As such, there are numerous peculiarities in the construction such as stairways and doors leading nowhere.

The house has 40 bedrooms, but only one working bathroom. She believed that these steps she was taking during construction served to confuse the spirits.

The house now serves as a popular San Jose’s tourist attraction.

On the premises of the Winchester compound sits the American Fire Arms Museum.

Learn the history of the Winchester rifle through exhibits and displays of the rifles throughout history.

Address:  525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128, USA

2. Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

San Jose’s Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is a magnificent museum that is constructed in the architectural style favored by the ancient Egyptians to give you an immersion in their culture.

It also houses the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the western United States.

There is also a planetarium on the premises that has shows on the weekends.

You shouldn’t visit San Jose without spending some time in Ancient Egypt.

Address:  1660 Park Ave, San Jose, CA 95191, USA

3. San Jose Museum of Art

San Jose Museum of Art

The San Jose Museum of Art has an impressive permanent collection of works from West Coast artists of the 20th and 21st centuries.

There is a historic wing that was originally built in 1892 for the San Jose Post Office which was used for until 1937.

From 1937 to 1969, the building was used as the City of San Jose Public Library.

It was acquired by the Fine Arts Gallery Association and the new wing of the museum opened in 1991.

This is one of the only museums to focus on West Coast artists.

Address:  110 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

4. Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph

Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph

Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph was originally a small adobe church built for the benefit of the settlers as opposed to the native Indians.

Construction began in 1803 in the town originally called El Pueblo de San Jose de Guadalupe.

Earthquakes in 1818 and 1822 damaged the original structure beyond repair, and a second adobe church was built to replace it beginning in 1835.

The second church was also damaged by a major earthquake in the 1868 Hayward Earthquake.

The third church was built in 1869 only to be destroyed by a fire in 1875.

A fourth temporary structure was built a few blocks away.

The fifth and final building is the magnificent Basilica that stands today.

Construction began in 1876 and the church was finally granted Basilica status by the Vatican in 1997.

The stained glass windows alone make this one of the most beautiful places in California .

Address:  80 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

5. Tech Museum of Innovation

Tech Museum of Innovation

The Tech Museum of Innovation is great for the entire family.

It is meant to give the visitor a taste of computing technology being brought to life within the walls of the various Silicon Valley companies.

It is also meant to inspire future generations to meet and exceed today’s technology.

This museum used to be housed in a garage before relocating to it’s current 132,000 square foot home due to its popularity.

The interactive nature of the museum makes this attraction one of the top places to visit while you’re in San Jose.

While you are there, make sure you pop into the IMAX theater to watch their current offering.

The view-screen is eight stories high for a truly unique experience, and one of your best activities in San Jose, California.

Address:  201 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

Planning to visit other areas of California? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Orange County  & things to do in San Diego !

6. Alum Rock Park

Alum Rock Park

Alum Rock Park is the oldest municipal park in California. It has 13 miles of biking and walking trails of varying difficulty.

From 1891 to 1901, access to the park came in the form of a Narrow Gauge Railroad that originated in downtown San Jose.

The park boasts scenic views of Silicon Valley, a visitor’s center, a small museum, and picnic and play areas.

Parking access is free and is the perfect destination for a relaxing family day with plenty of stuff to do.

Address:  15350 Penitencia Creek Rd, San Jose, CA 95127, USA

7. Children’s Discovery Museum

Children’s Discovery Museum

The Children’s Discovery Museum  is one of the top ten children’s museums in the United States.

Since it’s doors opened in 1990, it has provided interactive educational entertainment to over 6 million visitors.

It is one of the most popular places to go in San Jose, California.

The museum’s unique BioSITE program provides action-science education focused on environmental responsibility.

The museum’s Discovery Youth program provides fifth through twelfth graders a sampling of technology from the neighboring Silicon Valley.

The museum was primarily funded by the generous donations of Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple Computer.

Address:  180 Woz Way, San Jose, CA 95110, USA

8. Kelley Park

Kelley Park

You can spend an entire day at Kelley Park . With 156 acres of stuff to do, you can enjoy gardens, the park’s trails, the zoo, and museums.

Kelley Park is the home of the Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, Japanese Friendship Garden, San Jose History Park, Viet Museum, and Portuguese Historical Museum among other historical societies.

Planning a road trip around California? You’re going to love our lists detailing out the best things to do in Santa Barbara  & the top things to do in Monterey !

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo sits on 16 acres within Kelley Park, and encompasses a zoo and amusement park providing your family with plenty of things to see.

The amusement park attractions are geared towards younger children and toddlers, and the puppet theater is a unique addition.

A petting zoo and education center round out the offerings.

The Happy Hollow Zoo is a fully accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and holds a special place in the heart of California.

Japanese Friendship Garden

The Japanese Friendship Garden is spread out over six acres, and is symbolic of the friendship between San Jose and its sister city of Okayama, Japan.

The gardens include three ponds fully stocked with koi, a traditional tea house, cherry trees, and a Pagoda.

This peaceful retreat is hidden behind walls on the Kelley Park property and is intended to be a mirror image of the famous Korakuen Gardens in Okayama, Japan.

History Park

History Park / Anna Fox / flickr

The San Jose History Park is a park within a park. San Jose history is depicted throughout this indoor/outdoor museum via the replica buildings of old San Jose.

Included are:

• replica firehouse
• blacksmith shed
• migrant cabins
• Santa Ana One Room School House
• replica homes of early Santa Clara Valley Settlers
• post office
• the Viet Museum
• the Portuguese Historical Museum
• Pelham Collection of Early Electronics
• Hellenic Heritage museum
• and other historical buildings

For a true taste of San Jose history and one of the best things to do in San Jose, make a visit to Kelley Park.

Address:  1300 Senter Rd, San Jose, CA 95112, USA

Planning a road trip around California? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Sacramento ! & things to do in Los Angeles !

9. San Jose Heritage Rose Garden

San Jose Heritage Rose Garden / Malcolm Manners / flickr

No trip to San Jose would be complete without a visit to the San Jose Heritage Rose Garden .

A Heritage Rose is one that has been bred for many years, sometimes centuries.

At the San Jose Heritage Rose Garden, you will encounter over 3,600 different rose bushes representing more than 2,700 different varieties.

While most of these varieties originated in Europe, there are many here that were discovered in the gardens of older homes, old cemeteries, and some actually discovered alongside a dirt road.

The San Jose Heritage Rose Garden is maintained by a loyal army of volunteers with all gardening materials financed by the City of San Jose.

Public admission to the garden is free, but donations are always welcome, and if you want to volunteer, they can always use the help.

Address:  438 Coleman Ave, San Jose, CA 95110, USA

10. San Jose Flea Market

San Jose Flea Market

The San Jose Flea Market has been a local hotspot for the past 59 years.

It has a number of restaurants and alleys and aisles of everything you could possibly imagine. From jewelry to stereo equipment to books.

There are pony rides, a carousel, and a small Ferris wheel to keep the kids busy while you wander around and view the substantial offerings.

There is something for the entire family, complete with free live music on the weekends. Admission is free with paid parking.

Address:  1590 Berryessa Rd, San Jose, CA 95133, USA

Going on a road trip around California soon? Be sure to read our awesome lists of things to do in Palm Springs  & things to do in Long Beach !

11. New Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum

New Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum

The Almaden Quicksilver Mine is the oldest and most productive mercury mine in history.

The mining operations of 135 years are chronicled at this museum.

While the mine itself is closed down, there are many historical structures left at the site.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the rich history of mercury mining.

Address:  21350 Almaden Rd, San Jose, CA 95120, USA

12. Japantown

Japantown , San Jose is one of the last three Japantown cultural communities in the United States.

It is also one of the best, and definitely worth spending a whole day there.

This 125-year-old community offers some of the best authentic Japanese restaurants, theaters, art galleries, and shops in the country.

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture for the day.

Address: Japantown, San Jose, CA 95112, USA

13. Hayes Mansion

Hayes Mansion

Whether you go just for the beautiful architecture or if you are lucky enough to score a room there, the Hayes Mansion should not be missed.

This historic mansion is actually built in 1906 in the general layout of a Maltese Cross with a long center section that houses a solarium.

The architecture is that of a Mediterranean Villa and is 41,000 sq ft. The property used to boast its own Post Office, Railway station, and power plant.

Today, it is a luxury hotel with over 200 guest rooms.

Address:  200 Edenvale Ave, San Jose, CA 95136, USA

14. Great America Amusement Park

Great America Amusement Park

San Jose’s Great America Amusement Park was first established in 1976.

Currently under the control of Cedar Fair, the park sits on 100-acres and is considered the premier amusement park for Northern California.

The roller coasters range from the Gold Striker that is considered the new standard when it comes to wooden coasters, to the newest addition, the Rail Blazer which has an innovative design unlike any other coaster in the world.

Thrill rides, family rides, carnival games and Boomerang Bay, a water park, give the family lots to do.

For the littlest visitors, Planet Snoopy offers rides, shows, playgrounds, and a meet and greet with all your favorite Charlie Brown characters.

The park is only open seasonally, so plan accordingly if a Great America day fits into your travel itinerary.

Great America Amusement Park is located adjacent to Levi Stadium, home of the San Francisco 49ers football team.

Address:  4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, CA 95054, USA

15. Museum of Quilts & Textiles

Museum of Quilts & Textiles / Ali Eminov / flickr

A loving celebration of the art of quilting and textiles can be found at San Jose’s Museum of Quilts & Textiles .

Exhibitions are both historic and contemporary and are changed every six to twelve weeks.

This San Jose museum celebrates the art of quilting with a collection of over 800 quilts, and celebrates textiles through the various innovative uses of cloth fibers throughout cultures and history.

There is also a research library with more than 500 books on quilting and textiles throughout history.

The first Friday of every month offers free admission from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm giving you the perfect excuse to go spend a fun and educational couple of hours while you’re visiting San Jose.

Address:  520 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

16. Bigfoot Discovery Museum

Bigfoot Discovery Museum

Located 32 miles southwest of San Jose, the Bigfoot Discovery Museum is a must on your things to see list for believers of all ages.

There have been numerous sightings in the Santa Cruz Mountains over the years, and the Big Foot Research Project wants to hear all about it.

Stories, interviews, photos, and investigations are all kept in this two-room museum near the entrance to the Redwood National Forest.

Admission is free and owner Mike has stories to tell.

Address:  5497 Hwy 9, Felton, CA 95018, USA

17. Mount Hermon Adventures

Mount Hermon Adventures

For a truly unique outdoor adventure, Mount Hermon Adventures is most definitely one of the fun things to do in San Jose.

Located under the canopy of magnificent and ancient Redwood Trees, they are famous for their aerial courses and zip lining.

The park is well known in the area for team building, and a day spent at Mount Hermon Adventures will prove both fun and educational.

Mount Hermon Adventures is an important part of the Redwood Forest along the Santa Clara coast.

They are just a few miles outside of San Jose and the minimum age to participate is 10-years-old. Their zip line is considered the best in the state.

Address:  17 Conference Dr, Felton, CA 95018, USA

18. Mountain Winery

Mountain Winery / rocor / flickr

Formerly known as the Paul Masson Wineries, the Mountain Winery is well known for its wine tasting and for its outdoor theater that hosts numerous concerts throughout the year.

The winery itself is a historical site. They are now best known for their summer concert series.

Enjoy a night out with dinner at a show. Starting with a 3-course gourmet meal at La Cresta Restaurant followed by music provided by both classic bands and modern superstars.

For something different, you can experience the Wine Deck and enjoy wine selections paired with a selection of cheese and charcuterie or upgrade that selection to a seafood feast.

Both the restaurant and the wine deck are only open on concert nights and reservations are recommended. Truly one of the best things to do.

Address:  14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga, CA 95070, USA

19. Villa Montalvo

Villa Montalvo

Also just outside San Jose in the Santa Cruz Mountains lies the Montalvo Arts Center . This cultural center and park surround the mansion, which is a historic landmark.

There are a number of hiking trails as well as a number of gardens filled with elaborate marble statues and several different garden structures.

The mansion itself is primarily used for weddings and other events but the property as a whole is definitely worth the trip and should make its way on to your list of places to visit.

Address:  15400 Montalvo Rd, Saratoga, CA 95071, USA

20. San Jose McEnery Convention Center

San Jose McEnery Convention Center / Marc Kubischta / flickr

Located in the center of downtown, the San Jose McEnery Convention Center sponsors numerous events throughout the year.

From Auto shows to ComiCon, there is always something going on there.

This 550,000 square foot structure has resident art displays outside the entrance on San Carlos Street including the tile mural project and the interactive sculpture called The Idea Tree.

If there doesn’t happen to be a convention or show that piques your interest, a short visit to the mural and Idea Tree should be a part of the trip.

Address:  408 Almaden Blvd, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

21. Los Gatos Creek Trail

Los Gatos Creek Trail

Many visitors believe that no trip is complete without enjoying some of the trails at local parks.

One of the favorite destinations for mountain biking is the Los Gatos Creek Trail .

There is even a trail in the works in downtown San Jose which will take the biking enthusiast directly to the Los Gatos Creek Trail as well as other local trails.

Los Gatos Creek Trail offers 9.7 miles of biking and pedestrian trails for hours of family fun.

22. San Pedro Square Market

San Pedro Square Market / Dion Hinchcliffe / flickr

San Jose’s San Pedro Square Market has a great selection of restaurants for a long leisurely lunch outdoors or a gourmet dinner.

There is live music 6 nights a week, and most restaurants are open until 9:00 pm.

San Pedro Square is also home to an important piece of San Jose history.

El Pueblo de San Jose de Guadalupe was the first city founded in the Californias in 1777.

The Peralta Adobe House , built in 1797, is the last remaining structure from the original Pueblo.

The Peralta House can be toured by appointment only.

The Fallon House is another historic landmark in San Jose.

Thomas Fallon and his wife Carmel first moved to San Jose in 1855 and built their home shortly thereafter.

Their goal was to build the “grandest home in the county.” The house became the Italia hotel in 1900, and was acquired by the City of San Jose in 1990.

Like the Peralta House, the Fallon House can be toured by appointment only.

With the food, shopping, music, and history, the San Pedro Square Market is one of the best things to do in the downtown area of San Jose.

Address:  87 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA

23. Santana Row

Santana Row

Santana Row is an exclusive area of West San Jose that is an upscale shopping, dining, and residential area.

This 42-acre area is called the “Village within a City,” and is home to 50 shops, 30 restaurants, and residential areas.

The architecture of the area is influenced by various European neighborhoods nicely complimented by beautifully appointed landscaping.

An important part of Santana Row is Park Valencia where live music and public events take place.

Whether you are after a burger from a chain or a gourmet dinner at one of the concept restaurants, Santana Row should be on your list.

Address:  377 Santana Row, San Jose, CA 95128, USA

24. Overfelt Gardens Park

Overfelt Gardens Park

Another day of fun things to do in San Jose includes a visit to Overfelt Gardens Park .

This 33-acre park includes trails, a fountain and a fragrance garden populated with various aromatic plants.

Three lakes provide habituate for various birds, reptiles, mammals, fish, and amphibians year around.

The California Wild Area of the park is covered in native wildflowers, brush, trees, and grasses.

In the southeast area of the park is the Chinese Cultural Garden complete with a Statue of Confucius.

Address:  2145 McKee Rd, San Jose, CA 95116, USA

25. Shoreline Lake Park

Shoreline Lake Park

Located just off the scenic Skyline Blvd, Shoreline Lake Park should definitely be on your places to visit in San Jose.

Take the family for a day of fun that includes an 18-hole golf course, miles of both paved and unpaved trails, a wildlife refuge, and a fun aquatic center that offers rentals of sailboats, windsurfers, kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, and rowboats.

There is also a wildlife refuge on the site.

Address:  3160 N Shoreline Blvd, Mountain View, CA 94043, USA

26. Skyline Boulevard

Skyline Boulevard

Skyline Boulevard is one of the most scenic drives in Northern California and possibly the entire state.

Also known as State Route 35, this two-lane highway runs along the ridge by the Santa Cruz Mountains from San Francisco south.

It goes through Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Jose, and San Mateo. It offers incredible views of the Redwoods, the Pacific Ocean, and San Francisco Bay.

During the winter, snow at the higher elevations draws families out for fun in the snow.

There are numerous protected open space areas that can be accessed along the way. Skyline Boulevard is also a favorite for Mountain Bikers and offers trails of all sizes.

It is truly another one of those free and fun things to do in California .

Planning a road trip around California soon? You need to check out our lists of things to do in Santa Cruz  & the best things to do in Santa Monica !

27. Computer History Museum

Computer History Museum

What would a visit to San Jose and the Silicon Valley region be if there wasn’t a Computer History Museum ?

Originally a part of the now defunct Digital Equipment Corporation, the museum moved to the Silicon Valley area in 1996.

This San Jose icon is one of the great places to visit is said to have the largest collection of computer artifacts in the world.

The exhibits and collections are updated regularly as additions such as the IBM exhibit and most recently the donations of source code by Adobe and Microsoft.

The museum is open daily, and there are family tours available every Saturday.

Make sure you check to make sure they are open because private events will close the museum to the public.

Address:  1401 N Shoreline Blvd, Mountain View, CA 94043, USA

28. San Jose City Hall

San Jose City Hall

The current San Jose City Hall is the sixth building to carry that title throughout history.

It is a masterpiece of postmodern architecture, and definitely should be one of your chosen places to visit while you are in San Jose.

Address:  200 E Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

29. SAP Center

Home of the San Jose Sharks NHL Hockey Team, the SAP Center is considered one of the best places to attend an event.

The SAP Center in San Jose is also home to numerous other concerts and events. In 2012 and 2016, the USA Olympic Gymnastics Trials took place there.

There are several Mixed Martial Arts events that take place there regularly. Make sure you check the calendar to see which blockbuster concerts are scheduled there.

There is almost always something happening at the SAP Center, and your trip to San Jose, California could well include one of these events.

Address:  525 W Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

30. Raging Waters Water Park

Raging Waters Water Park / DebMomOf3 / flickr

Everyone turns into a kid for the day when there is a big beautiful Water Park around.

Raging Waters is the largest water park in Northern California, and offers 23 acres of family fun.

If you visit San Jose, California during the summer, cooling off for the day at Raging Waters should be part of your plans.

Address:  2333 S White Rd, San Jose, CA 95148, USA

Travel Tips

When traveling in the San Jose area, you will be best off with access to a rental car.

While most of the attractions are within the city itself, there are several important attractions that will require you to drive.

While in the area, it would be a shame not to venture out to visit parts of San Francisco , the Redwood Forest, or Yosemite National Park.

San Jose can be a convenient starting point for these excursions.

Several of the things to do in San Jose are reliant on what season you choose to visit.

While the climate is similar to that found in the Mediterranean, if you choose to travel in the Santa Cruz Mountains or into Yosemite, you will most likely run into snow.

If you are flying into the area, one of the travel hacks of note is that you can actually find better deals flying into San Jose Airport than you would flying into either San Francisco or Oakland .

Hotels in this area can get expensive. There are 492 hotels in San Jose and prices can be found for $68 a night if you look carefully.

If you are looking for luxury, there are a number of hotels that can accommodate you in that as well.

Start Planning Your Trip To San Jose

It is said that in order to truly appreciate San Jose, you need to view it as a local would.

As such, many of the top itinerary selections include locations that are important to the history, important to the area and places where the locals like to go.

No matter how short or long of a time spent visiting San Jose, your time will not be wasted.

This historical city offers attractions, education, and fun to children and adults alike.

After learning all about the West Coast, if you choose to make your next vacation destination on the East Coast, you might want to consider Gainesville in Florida .

San Pedro Square San Jose Guide: Where To Eat, Shop, And Stroll

This post is all about San Pedro Square, a San Jose market known for its unique dining options and boutiques. In this San Pedro Square travel guide, you will find a Bay Area local’s list of San Pedro Square restaurants, bars, and shops!

It’s hard to miss San Pedro Square, partially because of the large arch with its name enticing visitors to come and visit. San Pedro Square and San Pedro Square Market (two separate spaces) are likely some of the biggest attractions in San Jose rain or shine.

I’m glad to say that post revitalization of San Pedro Square (with the addition of the market in October 2011), downtown San Jose is back in business. After coming here several times specifically to write this San Pedro Square travel guide, I can’t believe I haven’t been a more frequent visitor!

Here’s my ultimate guide to San Pedro Square featuring where to eat, shop, and stroll in San Pedro Square San Jose.

Disclosure:   Heads up, this post contains affiliate links, which means Passport To Eden may get a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make an online purchase. Don’t feel pressured to buy anything. We still love that you’re here, reading our content (side note: we suggest getting a coffee or tea first because our blog posts tend to be long). You can read our full affiliate disclosure here to find out more.

Table of Contents

San Pedro Square History

San Pedro Square was once the home to the Peralta Adobe , one of Spanish California’s oldest establishments, built in 1797; it is the last structure standing from El Pueblo de San Jose de Guadalupe [ source ]. The first restaurant in San Pedro Square didn’t open until almost two centuries later, in 1972.

A lot has changed in the past 50 years , including the creation of San Pedro Square Market, and many continue to be surprised to learn former mayor of San Jose, Tom McEnery, is part-owner and developer of the most recent addition [ source ].

San Pedro Square Parking

Two-hour parking meters surround San Pedro until 6 p.m. on weekdays (don’t put in quarters, they get lost, use a card instead). The San Pedro Parking Garage is another great option, accessible from Market Street. It’s free for the first 90 minutes weekdays (no validation required), $1 each 15 minutes after, $10 flat fee weekday evenings and all day on weekends.

San Pedro Square Market

Many restaurants and bars have come and gone in San Pedro, but the addition of San Pedro Square Market (featuring two buildings best described as indoor food halls) has attracted a wider audience from its debut more than ten years ago: foodies looking for modern eateries and a place to hang out with friends, nearby workers searching for a lunch spot or a bar to grab a drink for a business meeting, college students walking just a few blocks from campus on a quest to find a nearby coffee house or outside space where they can study.

Whether someone is searching for a cup of coffee, bar-hopping, a work lunch or a quiet dinner out in town , everyone can gather at San Pedro Square (and San Pedro Square Market) for any or all of those things.

Travel Tip: There’s live music in the evenings, five days a week!

San Pedro Square Market Restaurants

Anchors Fish & Chips

Anchors Fish & Chips will exceed any expectations you might have if you enjoy seafood. Although Anchors is pricey, most locals agree that Anchors’ quality rivals fine-dining restaurants. Go during lunch or happy hour for a value meal. My sister and I ordered the one-piece fish and chips and two tempura fish tacos ; it was plenty for the two of us (especially considering that the one-piece crunchy battered cod was about three times as long as what you would normally receive)! The fries also had delicious cajun seasoning on them, and the fish tacos were (all-caps) amazing with a chipotle-like dressing drizzled on top.

General Info

LOCATED IN: San Pedro Building COST: $$

Jora Peruvian Food

It’s not easy to find an authentic Peruvian restaurant in San Jose. A small handful come up in a GPS search, but after stumbling upon Jora Peruvian Food , I didn’t have to look any further. Jora had me at plantains , but I stayed for the Aji De Pollo , shredded chicken with Peruvian rice served with a curry-like mustard-colored sauce with a hard boiled egg and olive on top. Large pieces of potato were an unexpected but pleasant surprise.

LOCATED IN: Almaden Building COST: $$

Looking for Pad Thai? Or maybe Bahn Mi? You can get either, both, or a number of other items at On A Roll. Hong Kong style noodles, dumplings and wontons are also possibilities, along with boba tea and Vietnamese coffee. The food portions are generous and the food doesn’t take long to be prepped, great if you just stopped in for a quick bite for lunch before heading back to work.  

LOCATED IN: San Pedro Building COST: $

Pizza Bocca Lupo

Pizza Heaven? No, it’s called Pizza Bocca Lupo , but you’ll think you floated up to cloud nine after tasting any of the divine 12-inch wood fried pizzas offered here. Served on a thin, light crust and heavy on the cheese, the menu is simple with three vegetarian and four meat pie choices. My favorite? The pesto . Although the restaurant refers to the size as a personal pan, my fiancé and I split it, and it was the perfect amount. Authentic Neapolitan pizza deliciousness at its finest.

Here’s what you’ll find on the vast menu of Urban Momo : appetizers, soups and salads, rice and breads, and Momo (various types of Nepali dumplings served fried or steamed with dipping sauce). The menu is sub-categorized by cuisines like Manchurian and Schezwan . You’ll also find tandoori meats, chow mein, fried rice, and curries that round out the menu. Leave plenty of time when visiting – you’ll need half of it to decide what you’ll want order and the other half to enjoy the aromatic taste .

Voyager Craft Coffee

When the coffee is so pretty you don’t want to drink it , you know you’re at Voyager Craft Coffee . Voyager excels at their craft. It’s not just that their coffee is amazing or that they can imprint rainbow graphics on top, the overall atmosphere at Voyager is welcoming; the colors surrounding the ordering aisle, ranging from pastels (they have a pink espresso machine) to bright orange and yellow hand-painted flowers on one of its columns, give it an artistic vibe. My recommendation? Their oat milk latte (my new favorite caffeinated beverage) and the Lexington (espresso, reduced bourbon, vanilla and brown sugar).

Love coffee? We do too! We recently sent Tina on a mission to try every coffee shop in San Jose. Here’s a full list of her favorites .

San Pedro Square Market Bars

Three Sisters

If I were going to transform my living room into a bar, I would want it to look just like Three Sisters . Hence, it’s no surprise why my award for the most lavish-looking bar in San Pedro Square goes to Three Sisters, a combination of HGTV meets Drink TV. Upon entering, I was immediately taken by the partial mosaic tile floors and their deep teal backsplash behind the bar, the three large oval pictures, and the luxurious-looking quilted-patterned stools that match the beautiful wall color. It reminded me of walking into Anthropologie, where you fantasize that every section you walk into is your own (sorry, I digress). Their signature drink is the Raspberry Hang Glider , a mixture of vodka, simple syrup, raspberries and lemon juice. It’s on my bucket list to come back here and spend the day daydreaming about their interior design and drinking my way through every one of their Sex And The City-type cocktails. A girl can dream…

LOCATED IN : San Pedro Building COST : $$

San Pedro Square Market Bar

This bar is connected by building and by menu to Three Sisters (they share the same drink menu), but is low-key in terms of ambiance. This industrial-loft environment offers customers a choice of craft beers, local wines and a selection of classic cocktails. Busiest on Friday and Saturday evenings , the market’s courtyard still usually have lower volume and less crowds.

LOCATED IN : San Pedro Building COST: $$

Market Beer Co.

For those who love beer, you’ll love it here. No matter whether you’re craving beer or cider on tap, or you just want to head to their large fridge behind the counter to grab a cold one in a bottle or can, Market Beer Co. has you covered. Tip: They have Lindeman’s Frambroise , a sweet and refreshing raspberry beer. The setup feels half like a regular bar and half like a 7-11. Simplistic and genius.

LOCATED IN : Almaden Building COST : $

San Pedro Square Market Dessert

If you have a sweet tooth like me, you’ll definitely want to pop into Mochinut . The donuts are all the same cake flavor, but it’s the unique selection of flavored icing on top that makes each so different and delicious. From Cotton Candy and Horchata to Churro and Matcha (to name a few), you’ll want to try them all (which can be easily done since you can order in threes).

LOCATED IN : Almaden Building COST : $$

Urban Ritual

If you’ve never heard of craft teas and boba cocktails, Urban Ritual is a sweet treat. The Asian-inspired drink spot is situated next to the Almaden entrance. Their menu is posted on the wall, use the self-order tablet to pick from confectionary choices like Mango Sticky Rice (mango with rice milk and coconut milk) or Crème Brulee Milk Tea (milk tea, crème brulee pudding, boba and torched sugar). It could be the hardest decision of the day.

San Pedro Square Market Shops

The Source Zero

This enchanting boutique is as aesthetically pleasing to the eye as the nose upon entering. A distinctive gem in the middle of downtown, there aren’t many shops in the vicinity, especially ones promoting zero waste . They’re a small business, but also support other local businesses’ merchandise. Featuring a refill bar (bring your own containers), this sustainable store sells everything from soaps, shampoos and conditioners to all-purpose cleaners, laundry goods, personal hygiene products and sunscreens, even items like metal straws and bamboo utensils. If you are trying to be more green, you’ll love the wide arrangement of environmentally friendly products here .

Ashy Aromas

Handmade candles? Candle-making workshops? Sign me up! Whether you’re stopping by for a luxurious and delightfully fragrant candle or you are looking for a fun activity to do with your spouse, group of friends, or co-workers, Ashy Aromas offers patrons an opportunity to shop or attend a workshop on candle-making . A variety of candles are available to buy such as Island Romance (self-described as tropical fruits and rum blended into an irresistible summer drink) or Summer Breeze (the scent of waves with a touch of lavender and amber).

Things To Do In San Pedro Square

The Old Wagon Saloon & Grill

My favorite place to check out (besides Spaghetti Factory) in San Pedro Square prior to the market opening is Old Wagon Saloon & Grill .  Featuring a large indoor and front and side outdoor space (before parklets were a thing), I remember heading here and barely being able to move on a Friday or Saturday evening. This saloon with its western theme even has a stagecoach attached to the front of the building. It’s still a popular place to be, and if you’re eating here, there’s an extensive menu – one page for food, and another one full of beer, cider, cocktails and wine choices.

ADDRESS: 73 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110 COST: $$

Gonzales Peralta Adobe House

The Gonzales/Peralta Adobe House sits between the two San Pedro Square Market buildings. The courtyard surrounding it has plenty of seating where you can enjoy your food or beverages from one of the many eateries. Tours of the interior can be arranged by appointment only ( reserve a tour here ).

ADDRESS: 175 W St John St, San Jose, CA 95110

What recommendations do you have for San Pedro Square? Where are your favorite places to eat, shop, and stroll in San Pedro Square Market?

San Jose Trip Resources

🛏️ Willow Glen Bungalow — cute little guest suite in Willow Glen with a kitchen and washer/dryer

🛏️ Hotel Valencia — our favorite San Jose hotel for the location alone (the rooms are dated but the Santana Row location is hard to beat)

🛏️ Rosewood Sand Hill — palatial property (best for a honeymoon or celebratory trip) where rooms and service are immaculate and NorCal sophistication reaches its peak

🥾 Merrell Moab 2 — you’ll want comfy walking shoes for your San Jose trip and this is the pair our Editor-In-Chief swears by (it’s durable, sturdy, and lightweight and has lasted her 4000+ miles of walking)

💧 Hydroflask — our favorite stainless steel water bottle (the water stays refreshingly cold even on hot days)

☂️ Umbrella — San Jose rainy season is usually between November to March. Summer months are dry, so you can skip the umbrella in June, July, and August!

👜 Travel Purse — think a small black crossbody bag with room for your Kindle and a secure space for your cards

👚 Blouse — a simple blouse and jeans combo that can be layered (with a jacket) in the cold (most people in San Jose dress casually and just wear clothes they find comfy)

🕶️ Sunglasses — stylish recycled plastic sunglasses from one of our favorite Indigenous-owned design shops in the Northwest

Contributing Writer

Tina Casalino is a published writer with 20 + years experience. A graduate of San Jose State University, she received her B.A. in English with a minor in journalism. An avid traveler, she loves to explore new places, and her favorite country to visit is Saint Raphael, France. She lives in San Jose, California with her fiancé and 3 cats (but wishes she lived in France).

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 55 Best Things to Do in San Jose (CA)

55 Best Things to Do in San Jose (CA)

Two hundred and forty years after it was founded by the Spanish, the first city in the California is the diverse, futuristic and prosperous “Capital of Silicon Valley”. Tech giants like PayPal, Cisco Systems, eBay and Acer are all part of the scenery, and the likes of Apple, Intel, Microsoft and Amazon aren’t far away.

San Jose’s buying power is hard to miss in its soaring rents, luxury malls, sports venues, dining scene and burgeoning cultural choice.

Here on the South Bay you can also set a course for the Diablo and Santa Cruz ranges, for stargazing at the Lick Observatory and to watch the ocean of twinkling lights as the sun sets on the Santa Clara Valley.

Life in San Jose is infused with technology, on the ultramodern VTA light rail, at interactive museums, on the campuses of tech giants and even the city’s movie festival, Cinequest, championing virtual reality.

1. Downtown San Jose

San Jose condenses a whole city’s worth of culture, entertainment, dining, sightseeing and nightlife into just a few blocks bookended by the Guadalupe River and San Jose State University.

It would take you minutes to get across this dynamic district on foot, but there are more places to eat and drink (250+) than you could squeeze into a whole month, and a big chunk of the attractions listed below, from the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library to the San Jose Improv, are downtown .

The geographical center is Plaza de César Chávez, a meeting place with public art, flowerbeds and fountains, and the main stage for one of country’s top jazz festivals in August.

2. Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

Looking like an Ancient Egyptian settlement, with a Moorish-style planetarium thrown in, Rosicrucian Park is on a whole city block in San Jose’s Rose Garden neighborhood.

The complex goes back to the 1920s and now has a temple for the Rosicrucian order, a Rosicrucian labyrinth, a research library, alchemy exhibit and alchemy garden.

But what pulls in more than 100,000 people a year is the Egyptian museum, in a building modeled on Karnak’s Temple of Amon.

It holds the largest array of Ancient Egyptian artifacts in Western North America, starting in pre-dynastic times more than 5000 years ago and running to the start of the Islamic era.

The museum has gathered some 4,000 pieces, and as you’d guess the mummies arouse the most fascination, but there’s also jewelery, sculpture, ritual objects, writing materials, toiletries, textiles, tools and vessels, and some absorbing pieces from Assyria and Babylonia.

3. Winchester Mystery House

When the gun magnate William Wirt Winchester passed away in 1881, he left a hefty fortune to his widow Sarah Winchester (1839-1922), which over the next 40 years she ploughed into one of the most peculiar buildings in the United States.

In a Late Victorian and Queen Anne styles, the Winchester Mystery House is an ornate, tile-clad muddle of gables, chimneys, conical towers and finials, with no logical plan.

This sense of disorder, and the countless deaths at the barrels of Winchester repeating rifles, may be the source of ghost stories going back to the earliest days of construction.

When Sarah died work stopped forever, but there are 161 rooms at the Winchester Mystery House, with 40 bedrooms, two ballrooms and more than 10,000 individual panes of glass.

In the Escher-esque interior, doors open onto walls and stairways lead to sealed ceilings.

The estate has been open for tours since 1923, amazing visitors with its blend of beautiful and just plain bizarre.

Book online : Winchester Mystery House Tour

4. The Tech Interactive

Silicon Valley is the place to be if you’re curious about how technology is changing our daily lives.

And just as you’d want from an attraction in San Jose, The Tech Interactive is kitted out with gadgets, gizmos, robots, virtual reality and innovative hands-on craziness.

For a quick summary, you can compose your own digital world at Reboot Reality, get clued up about Internet safety at Cyber Detectives and learn about the latest advances in biotechnology at the BioDesign Studio.

In 2019 Body Worlds Decoded began a long-term exhibition at the museum, using augmented reality and other emerging technologies to show real human bodies in a new light.

And always a show-stopper is the IMAX Dome Theater for the latest immersive presentations.

5. Children’s Discovery Museum

Technology also plays a part at this attraction for kids up to the age of ten.

Children’s Discovery Museum was inaugurated in 1990 and part funded by the Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak for whom the street, Wozniak Way is named.

Exhibits and programs here all help children understand the world through experience, interaction and inquiry.

They’ll get to dig for mammoth fossils, make gigantic bubbles, solve engineering problems with circles, role-play a healthy lifestyle at the Rainbow Market and investigate the textures, sights, sounds of an urban environment at the “Streets” exhibit.

Bill’s Backyard is a new outdoor playground, letting kids climb, build and dig as they learn about the natural world and where food comes from.

6. California’s Great America

Open from the end of March to December, California’s Great America has been around since 1976 and mixes thrill rides with the slides and pools of a waterpark at Boomerang Bay.

By 2019 there were nine rollercoasters at the park, and the headline was the wooden Gold Striker, opened in 2013. This reaches speeds of more than 50 mph on a 31.5-meter first drop that shoots you in to a tunnel more than 50 meters long.

Flight Deck meanwhile has zero-gravity barrel rolls, and the stalwart Demon, here since the park opened, is a steel coaster with four inversions.

The park caters to younger visitors at the Peanuts-themed Planet Snoopy, which opened in 2010 and has spinners, carousel, dodgems and the light Woodstock Express rollercoaster.

7. Santana Row

To come to terms with Silicon Valley in the 21st century you could swing by this ever-growing mixed-use development south of the mammoth Westfield Valley Fair mall.

With its palms, oaks, fountains, musicians, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and restaurant terraces, Santana Row does feel like an organic neighborhood.

But none of this existed before the early-2000s, when it was all conceived as a “village within a city”, on more than 40 acres.

For shoppers there are boutiques, galleries and more than a few well-known retailers like Ted Baker, Sephora and H&M.

In between are some 30 restaurants, bars and cafes, and the six-screen CinéArts Santana Row, playing arthouse, foreign movies and documentaries in high-tech auditoriums.

8. Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

A complete day out for kids, Happy Hollow Park and Zoo has animal enclosures, rides, a puppet theater and a fully-equipped animal hospital.

The attraction dates back to 1961, but came through a modern refit just over a decade ago.

Space is limited, so the zoo mostly keeps smaller animals like meerkats, fossas, capybaras, guinea pigs, lemurs, macaws, owls and turtles.

A lot of research has gone into the zoo’s habitats to make them as humane and stimulating as possible, providing areas where animals can go “off exhibit” if they want.

Smaller kids will be thrilled by the puppet show and there’s a choice of amusement rides and attractions, such as the Pacific Fruit Express rollercoaster and Mini Putt-Putt.

And as for food, the Picnic Basket serves healthy options made with local and sustainable ingredients and using environmentally-friendly utensils.

9. Intel Museum

Out of all of Silicon Valley’s tech behemoths, the best visitor experience is offered by this preeminent semiconductor chip manufacturer.

It’s a must if you’ve ever wondered what goes on under the hood of your phone, laptop, tablet or desktop.

On a self-guided tour through the futuristic visitor center you get to explore technologies that give us new ways to communicate, work, learn and play.

You’ll see how Intel’s chips are made at an ultra-clean and fully-automated silicon factory, and find out about the evolution of the semi-conductor, and just how this technology works.

Plentiful interactive exhibits allow you to write your name in binary and try coding, and there are plenty of displays of early components and chips to show you how far we’ve come.

10. Municipal Rose Garden

San Jose’s award-winning rose garden was dedicated in 1937 on what used to be a prune orchard.

If you need an idea of just how pretty this spot is, it’s the prime location for many a graduation or wedding shoot.

In a formal arrangement around a circular fountain and basin are around 3,500 individual bushes from almost 200 different species.

The colors in spring are a delight, and if you’re here in the hotter months there are tall redwoods on the margins for shade.

This is an All-America Rose Selections (AARS) test garden, the only one of its kind in North America, and receives award-winning roses from the organization before they’re released to the public.

11. Alum Rock Park

Embedded in the Alum Rock Canyon at the foothills of the Diablo Range is the oldest municipal park in California, established back in 1872. Alum Rock Park is in 720 acres, with a beautiful mix of vegetation on the steep slopes of the valley.

The south-facing slopes bathed in the sun grow fragrant sagebrush, while on the cooler north sides are California bay laurel, and coast live oak, with white alder, western sycamore and big-leaf maple growing on the damper valley floor.

The terrain, granting heart-lifting vistas of the North Silicon Valley, can be traversed on foot, by bike or on horseback.

The valley is riddled with mineral springs (27 in all) rich in sulfur and magnesium, and drawing health tourists from the late-19th century to the 1930s.

Today’s visitors come for the rugged terrain, seasonal creek, far-off views, birding, picnic sites and barbecue puts.

12. Levi’s Stadium

Humorously dubbed the Field of Jeans, the Levi’s Stadium has been home field for the San Francisco 49ers since its inaugural season in 2014. This 68,500-capacity stadium cost an estimated $1.3 billion, replacing the 49ers fog-shrouded Candlestick Park, and was the venue for Superbowl 50 when the Denver Broncos defeated the Carolina Panthers.

In keeping with its location in Silicon Valley, the Levi’s Stadium became the first new stadium to receive a Gold LEED certificate for sustainability and even the wood fittings in its luxury suites are made from responsibly sourced bamboo.

There’s also a free Wi-Fi connection for every seat, and the mandatory globetrotting concessions, from curry to high-class steaks to fancy cocktails.

You can join a public tour if you want to go behind the scenes, while the 49ers Museum is open all day Friday to Sunday.

13. Los Gatos Creek Trail

Setting off from Meridian Avenue on the edge of Downtown San Jose you can hike or cycle for almost ten miles south to the Lexington Reservoir in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains in Los Gatos.

The path is paved and easy to negotiate on foot or by bike, threading through a calm natural corridor mostly next to the Los Gatos Creek.

Traveling south from Downtown San Jose you’ll pass through the City of Campbell, land managed by the County of Santa Clara and the Town of Los Gatos.

A nice place to stop in Los Gatos, especially if you’re walking with children is the Vasona Lake County Park.

This offers mountain views, pedal-boating, kayaking, paddleboarding and the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad, a miniature railway that runs on weekends and during the school summer break.

14. History Park

On the south end of Kelley Park you could be forgiven for wondering if you’ve stepped into a time warp.

History Park is presented like a town from the beginning of the 20th century, with 32 historic buildings and other landmarks that have been relocated to this free outdoor museum since it was set up in 1971. Together with houses raised for early settlers in the Santa Clara Valley, old-time amenities in History Park include a dentist’s office (with foot-powered drill!), a blacksmith shed, a functioning print shop, a post office, O’Brien’s Ice Cream Parlor, the Pacific Hotel, the trolley barn (with restored electric and horse-drawn trolley) and the Bank of Italy.

There’s a bit more life to the museum on weekends, when several of the buildings are staffed, and you can take a ride on an antique trolley.

15. Almaden Quicksilver County Park

This rambling hilly landscape in the south of San Jose is on the site of the New Almaden Mines, exploited for mercury from the early days of the Gold Rush in 1847 until as recently as 1976. Mercury was used to process gold ore, and, after 130 years, some 37,388 tons of the metal had been extracted from this ground.

What was once a town for more than 1,800 miners and their families is now 4,163 acres of hills climbing more than 500 meters above sea level and rich with wildflowers in early spring.

The county park is also strewn with subtle clues to its industrial history like crumbling housing and sealed adits.

There are 37 miles of hiking trails and picnic tables dotted at scenic spots.

Fishing is permitted at the Almaden and Guadalupe Reservoirs, but given the land’s mercury mining history, this fish is not to be eaten.

16. San Jose Center for the Performing Arts

Still an eye-catching sight on Almaden Boulevard nearly 50 years after it was completed, the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts is the stage for two big local companies: Broadway San Jose and the San Jose Dance Theatre.

So there’s an enticing menu of performances by these resident companies at this 2,677 seat venue year-round.

In 2019-20 Broadway San Jose put on Les Misérables, Miss Saigon, Riverdance and Waitress, while the pinnacle of the San Jose Dance Theatre’s calendar is the annual Christmas performances of The Nutcracker.

In between there are shows by Symphony Silicon Valley, touring musicals, famous comedians, major recording artists and children’s entertainment.

17. Japantown

One of three surviving Japantowns in the United States sits a little way north of Downtown San Jose.

This can be traced back to a neighborhood of boarding houses for Japanese migrant men in the 1880s.

By the early 20th century they were joined by “Picture Brides” (selected by matchmakers) and dozens of businesses were opened to serve the growing community.

Japantown was resettled following internment in World War II, and in the 21st century nearly a quarter of the people within a three mile radius of this neighborhood have Asian heritage.

You can swing by for spots like Shuei-Do Manju Shop, which sold manjū (sweet pastry) to Emperor Akihito in 1994. The Japanese American Museum chronicles Japanese immigration to America and the dark days of internment and there’s wonderful homemade tofu at the San Jose Tofu Company.

For a bite, one of the long-term residents is Kazoo, making sushi combos, katsu curry and noodles.

18. Avaya Stadium

Major League Soccer’s San Jose Earthquakes have a fantastic home stadium set next to the airport.

Compact but perfectly planned, the Avaya Stadium (2015) seats 18,000 with a main tier that wraps around three sides of the field.

Like a classic European stadium this is extra steep, for better views and a ferocious atmosphere on game-days.

The north-east side has been left without a stand, and instead has the largest outdoor bar in the whole of North America, as well as a two-acre fanzone and a massive double video scoreboard.

The Earthquakes play 17 regular season games here from March to October, not including playoffs, exhibitions and U.S. Open Cup fixtures.

The franchise’s best years came in the early 2000s when they twice won the MLS Cup (2001 and 2003) and twice reached the quarter finals of the CONCACAF Champions’ League (2002 and 2004).

19. Cathedral Basilica of St Joseph

A bold Renaissance Revival church in Downtown San Jose, the cathedral for the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Jose in California was consecrated in 1877. This is the fifth St Joseph’s Church, going back to 1803 when it was the site of the first parish in California built for the Spanish population rather than to convert Ohlone Indians.

On the Market Street facade is the impressive portico with fluted Corinthian columns and the Deo Optimo Maximo inscription in the frieze.

The interior is a marvel for its dome, the coffering on its vaults and the brilliant stained glass depicting saints, the Agony in the Garden, the Crucifixion, Resurrection and Ascension.

In the 12 days before Christmas the basilica hosts the Season of Hope concert series, with important ensembles like the San Jose Symphonic Choir, San Jose Jazz All-Star Big Band and the California Philharmonic Youth Orchestra performing.

20. Willow Glen

This walkable neighborhood of one-of-a-kind shops, picture perfect houses and sycamore-lined streets grew up independently of San Jose.

Willow Glen was first incorporated as a city in the 1920s to avoid the Southern Pacific Trunk Line being rerouted along its main drag, Lincoln Avenue, and was then annexed by San Jose in the 30s.

Even though it’s locked in a sprawling conurbation Willow Glen’s small-town feel is undeniable, shining through in its boutiques, vintage clothing stores, bookshops and specialty food shops.

In the space of a few blocks on Lincoln and Meridian Avenues you’ve got an inordinate amount of dining choices from pho to pizza, tacos, burgers, sushi and contemporary French (Black Sheep Brasserie) or Italian (Bertucelli’s La Villa Gourmet). If you’re around in mid-June Lincoln Avenue is in party mode for the one-day Dancin’ On the Avenue festival, taking over the main stretch between Willow Street and Minnesota Avenue.

21. Stanford University

The city-like campus (8,180- acres) of one of the most prestigious universities in the world is inside half an hour of downtown San Jose.

Stanford University hardly needs introduction, but has produced 83 Nobel laureates, scores of members of congress, 17 astronauts and a president, Herbert Hoover.

The founders of Google, Nike, Sun Systems, Electronic Arts and Hewlett-Packard all came through this august institution.

You can grab a map and tour the campus as you please, or join a student-led tour at 11:30 or 15:30. There’s much to see, like the Mission Revival and Romanesque Revival architecture of the Main Quad, the 87-meter Hoover Tower (1941) for a complete view of the campus and the first-rate Cantor Arts Center, which we’ll talk about next.

You can also see what’s on at one of Stanford’s performance venues, while the Anderson Collection deals with modern art.

Meanwhile and you can learn about Stanford’s most decorated teams and athletes at the Home of Champions.

22. Cantor Arts Center

Set up in 1891 at the same time as the university, the Cantor Arts Center reached its current scale in 1999 after a program of renovations and extensions in response to the Loma Prieta Earthquake ten years earlier.

It adopted the name of its main donors, Iris and B. Gerald Cantor and mixes contemporary architecture with its Neoclassical original building from 1891. More importantly, the Cantor Arts Center has collections that wouldn’t be out of place at the world’s top museums.

Comprising almost 40,000 objects, these come from a wealth of world regions and periods.

There’s photography by Warhol, decorative arts by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Mesoamerican ceramics and Native American, African and Oceanic/Indonesian artefacts.

But the museum’s greatest feature is the largest assemblage of sculpture by Auguste Rodin, outside of the Musée Rodin in Paris, running to more than 400 works, displayed inside and at the museum’s exceptional Rodin Sculpture Garden.

23. Computer History Museum

Since you’re in the world’s high technology hub you can go back to the dawn of the Information Age at this first-rate museum near the Googleplex in Mountain View.

The Computer History Museum has gathered more than 90,000 pieces – claimed to be the largest collection of computing artifacts in the world, counting hardware, source code, patent documents and even lab notebooks.

The fantastic “Revolution: The First 2000 Years of Computing” has firsthand accounts from world-changing innovators, together with early calculators, punched cards, analog computers, robots, mainframe computers and game consoles and much more.

When we wrote this list in November 2019 there were also exhibitions on the history of autonomous vehicles, the story behind world-changing applications like texting, car crash simulators and Wikipedia.

Finally the IBM 1401 Demo Lab (Wednesdays and Saturdays) brings the bustle of a business computer center from the late-1950s back to life.

Book online : Computer History Museum General Admission Ticket

24. SoFa District

This culture, arts and entertainment enclave within downtown San Jose touts itself as “Silicon Valley’s Creative District”. The name means “South First Area” and along with chic cocktail bars and ultra-hip cafes is home to big venues and institutions like the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art and the Silicon Valley Symphony and Opera San José, based at the California Theatre.

On the first Friday of the month, the district’s shops, galleries, restaurants, museums and nightclubs participate in the South First Fridays art walk.

On the first Friday in June, South First Street is closed off to road traffic for the Subzero Festival, with live music, a beer garden and art vendors.

A long-term resident, pre-dating Silicon Valley is the Original Joe’s Italian restaurant, dating to 1956 and staffed with waiters in tuxedos.

25. California Theatre

The main stage for the Silicon Valley Symphony and Opera San José is a beguiling landmark in the SoFa District.

It was completed in 1927 as a movie palace and vaudeville stage, and from the 70s was left abandoned for more than 30 years until a $75m restoration project by the Packard Humanities Institute in the early 2000s.

The theatre’s exuberant Jazz Age decor was brought back to life, with its profuse plateresque mouldings, stained glass chandeliers and Solomonic columns.

The venue is boutique in size, seating 1,119, which puts it among the world’s smallest opera houses.

Productions of Il Trovatore, The Magic Flute, Hansel and Gretel (Opera San José) and movie scores and works by Brahms, Mozart, Beethoven and Schumann (Symphony Silicon Valley) were on the menu in 2019-20. In March the California Theatre also hosts the annual Cinequest film festival, which we’ll bring up below.

26. San Jose Museum of Art

The oldest wing of this museum off Plaza de César Chávez is a grand Romanesque Revival edifice, built as the San Jose post office in 1892 and serving as the city library between 1937 and 1969. Founded that year, the San Jose Museum of Art added a new wing in 1991. The focus here is on modern and contemporary West Coast artists, and the museum has put together a strong permanent collection of installation art, paintings, sculpture, drawing, photography and graphic art, by Dale Chuhuly, Milton Avery, Deborah Butterfield, Joan Brown, Richard Diebenkorn, Jim Dine, Robert Arneson and Frederick Spatt.

At any time there will be five concurrent temporary exhibitions, and on a formidable list of past shows are names like Catherine Wagner, Dinh Q.Lê, Woody de Othello, Diana al-Hadid and Robert Henri.

27. Excite Ballpark (San Jose Municipal Stadium)

Known until 2019 as the San Jose Municipal Stadium, this 4,200-capacity sports venue has been here since 1942. In its 80 or so years, the stadium has had 11 different tenants, the current being the Class A – Advanced team, the San Jose Giants.

The shared name with their more famous neighbors in San Francisco is no coincidence as this is a farm team for the MLB franchise.

The San Jose Giants have a history to be proud of, having lifted five Minor League titles between 2001 and 2010. And as a farm team, more than 190 MLB players have cut their teeth right here, including a few members of the SF Giants’ World Series-winning roster, like Madison Bumgarner, Tim Lincecum, Buster Posey and Jonathan Sánchez.

When it comes to food, you choose from churros, BBQ, nachos, funnel cake and of course hot dogs.

28. Rancho San Antonio Preserve

You can hike out into the Santa Cruz Mountains at this 3990-acre preserve and the 290-acre County Park attached to it.

Your walk will take you through a variety of ecosystems, all shaped by their orientation towards the sun or position on the range’s slopes.

Growing along creeks are willows and cottonwoods, and the shaded canyons have groves of big-leaf maples and bay trees.

Sunny south-facing slopes are scrubby and blanketed with manzanita, chamise and mountain mahogany, while oaks and bays grow in deep woodland on the north slopes.

Mountain lions (take sensible precautions), deer and bobcats all inhabit the preserve, in one of the last patches of Silicon Valley where native animals are free to roam.

For humans there are almost 30 miles of walking trails, with an elevation difference of more than 700 meters.

For an interesting break from hiking there’s the 150-year-old Deer Hollow Farm, which now has an educational role but continues to produce and sell eggs and fresh fruit.

29. Apple Park Visitor Center

Apple’s new landscaped campus in Cupertino was dreamed up by Steve Jobs, designed by Norman Foster and opened to its 12,000 employees in April 2017. Almost all of this workforce is employed in one ring-shaped solar-powered structure, larger than the Pentagon and praised as one of the most energy-efficient buildings in the world.

And while that strange edifice is off-limits for the public, there is a specially designed visitor center opposite.

As stylish as you’d imagine, the visitor center, couched in olive groves, has a 3D model of Apple Park using augmented reality to show off its design philosophy and many innovations.

Needless to say there’s an Apple store with exclusive merchandise, along with a cafe and roof terrace with the best view of Apple Park and its rolling woodland.

30. Mount Umunhum

The fourth-highest peak in the Santa Cruz Range stands at more than 1,060 meters and is a convenient excursion from San Jose, for hikers craving a bit more of a challenge or drivers as the Mt Umunhum Road leads right to the top.

The summit had been closed to the public because of hazardous materials left over from the defunct Almaden Air Force Station, but the road and hiking trail were officially opened in 2017. Like its accompanying peaks, Mount Umunhum is a piece of oceanic crust and mantle from the Middle Jurassic period (up to 203 million years ago), converted into metamorphic serpentinite.

At the peak is a radar surveillance post, known as The Cube, built in 1962 to detect hostile aircraft in the Cold War.

Panoramas extend as far as Mount Hamilton and the Lick Observatory in the Diablo Range to the north-east and Mount Tamalpais, north of San Francisco.

There are interpretive displays informing you about these visible landmarks, as well as Mount Umunhum’s historic ties to the Ohlone Native American tribe.

31. San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles

Unique in the United States when it opened in 1977, this museum celebrates the art, craft, creators and history of quilts and textiles.

The inventory exceeds 1,000 pieces, including quilts, textile-based art and clothing.

Some outstanding exhibits are a c.1830 mosaic quilt top made by Mary Taylor Lloyd Key (married to poet composer of the Star Spangled Banner, Francis Scott Key), scores of molas by the Kuna people of Panama’s San Blas Islands, quilts by notable 20th-century designers like Ernest Haight and Ruby McKim and a rare linsey-wooley whole cloth quilt from c.1820. The museum holds three short-term exhibitions at any time, and in late-2019 the standout was Know Your Meme.

This crowdsourced show explored the concept of Internet memes as a means of communication, translating them to media like quilting, cross-stitching, knitting, crocheting, embroidery, basketry and weaving.

32. Sikh Gurdwara Sahib

After a second phase was completed in 2011, this Gurdwara, right where eastern San Jose borders the Diablo Range, became the largest Sikh place of worship in North America.

In fact there’s no larger Gurdwara than this outside of Amritsar’s Harmandir Sahib in India.

Catering to Santa Clara Valley’s large and growing Sikh minority, the Gurdwara San Jose was first founded in 1984, moving onto this 40-acre property on the Evergreen Hills in 2004. From the fountain outside you can see right across the Silicon Valley, and the view is awesome at night.

In accordance with Sikh beliefs, everyone is welcome at the Gurdwara, which has translations in several languages throughout, explaining the temple (head-coverings are also provided). There’s also a langar (Sikh community kitchen), serving daily free meals to people from all walks of life in a shared space where everyone eats together.

33. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library

The City of San Jose and the San Jose State University teamed up in the early-2000s to build an eight-story library to serve the city’s public and SJSU students.

As of 2010 this is still the largest library built in one phase in the entire Western United States.

During planning, the Houston conceptual artist Mel Chin was recruited to produce a series of artworks for the interior, titled “Recolecciones”. Entering the atrium, a digital display shows how many hundreds of millions of items the library system has loaned out since 2000. For families, the children’s section is a revelation, with LEGO, video games, movie screenings, storytimes and tons of other programs.

Serious academics will have access to the university’s research collections on floors 6 to 8, while on the first three floors you can make use of one of the public computer terminals.

34. Mission Santa Clara de Asís

This Spanish mission in Santa Clara goes back to the roots of European settlement in the Bay Area.

The expeditionary leader and future governor of the Province of Mexico Juan Bautista de Anza (1735-1788) was sent to this region by King Carlos III to lay down future settlements.

He set up a military enclave and mission in San Francisco, as well as a mission on the west bank of the Guadalupe River and the civilian settlement of San Jose on the east bank.

Dating to January 1777, Santa Clara de Asís was the eighth mission in California and is the only one to now be found on a university campus (Santa Clara University), which evolved from a college dating back to 1851. Given the short lifespan of adobe structures the church has been rebuilt a few times, most recently in 1929 following a fire.

Beside it are gardens on the site of the original cemetery (since relocated to 490 Lincoln Street), with an intact 18th-century adobe wall.

Captivating artifacts from this and other Californian missions are on display at the university’s de Saisset Museum opposite.

35. San Jose Improv

This historic theater in Downtown was taken over by The Improv chain in 2002, for wall-to-wall laughs Tuesday to Sunday.

There’s a busy schedule of A-list and upcoming stand-ups, sketch groups, open mics and live podcast recordings.

Combine that with an intimate ambience, great food and snazzy cocktails and you’re sure to have a good time.

Some picks from late-2019 were Cristela Alonso, Nicole Byer, Jay Mohr and Michael Blackson.

And as well as being the go-to for side-splitting humor, the building has a lot of history.

This is the oldest theater in the city, starting out in 1904 as the Jose Theater for vaudeville acts and stock companies.

In its early days it had a four-man orchestra, and its plush interior dates from an Art Deco makeover in 1933.

36. Moffett Field Historical Society Museum

On the San Francisco Bay and traced by Silicon Valley giants like Yahoo!, Amazon and Google, is Moffett Federal Airfield, a civil-military airport that started out as a naval air station in 1931. From 1942 until the station closed in 1994 untold anti-submarine weapons and maritime patrol aircraft were developed at this site.

One early monument is Hangar One, built to house airships, and measuring a colossal 345 by 95 meters, while Hangars Two and Three, from the WWII era, are two of the largest freestanding wooden structures in the United States.

If you want the lowdown on this interesting place the historical society’s museum is open Wednesday to Saturday.

Awaiting you are black and white photos going back 90 years, detailed exhibits about Hangar One, silverware from the officers’ mess, Cold War anti-submarine technology, artifacts from blimps, aircraft electronics, aircraft cockpits, uniforms and much more than we can list here.

37. Japanese Friendship Garden

In November 2019 this symbol of American-Japanese relations in Kelley Park was open but undergoing long-term repairs after the California floods of February 2017. Landscaped in 1965, the Japanese Friendship Garden is designed after the Korakuen Garden in San Jose’s sister city of Okayama, which also supplied the koi for its three main ponds.

You can forget the city for a hushed few minutes amid the garden’s ponds, tea house, stepping stones, bridges, waterfall and fastidiously tended shrubs, lawns and trees.

When the ponds are full they’re flocked by waterfowl like ducks and geese, but also the also the occasional great egret, easily spotted for its long slender neck.

38. Ames Research Center

As of 2019, the visitor center for NASA’s research facility in Silicon Valley is essentially a gift shop, but comes with a few exhibits worth your time.

One show-stopper is the gigantic blade from the Ames Research Center’s wind tunnel, measuring 24 by 37 meters.

The Mercury Redstone capsule is a 1950s test capsule preceding the Apollo missions, while there’s a moon rock, Martian steroid and a Lunar glove box to prevent contamination of samples during moon missions.

Also on show are full-size models of the Pioneer Venus Orbiter and an array of other historic satellites.

39. Downtown Campbell Farmers’ Market

This farmers’ market is rated one of the best in the South Bay area and you can get there within ten minutes of downtown San Jose.

The market trades year-round on Sundays, 09:00-13:00, whatever the weather.

The only exceptions are mid-May and late-October for the Boogie Music Festival and Oktoberfest respectively.

Shop for eggs, honey, seasonal fruit and vegetables, cheese, fresh pasta, meat, flowers and many more organic options, right from the producer.

There will be plenty of vendors to tempt you with craft beer and Mexican food, all soundtracked by talented live musicians.

Downtown Campbell also has no lack of mom and pop, stores, cafes and restaurants to keep you around a little longer.

40. Emma Prusch Farm Park

One for families with smaller children, this farm park was donated to the city in 1962 by the farmer Emma Prusch.

It was her wish that the land where she cultivated wheat and fruit be preserved to show San Jose’s agricultural heritage.

Now swallowed by urban East San Jose, the 42-park introduces a new generation to farm life at an animal yard, the handsome Prusch farmhouse, a rare fruit orchard, a deciduous orchard and the largest freestanding barn in San Jose (used by the 4-H and Future Farmers of America). There’s also space for picnics and flying kites, and the first Saturday in October is the farm’s free Harvest Festival.

On the agenda are hayrides, multicultural dance performances, fresh pressed apple cider, a 4-H animal expo and all sorts of other family fun.

41. Lick Observatory

The University of California runs this historic mountaintop observatory 1,238 meters above sea level in the Diablo Range east of San Jose.

Completed in 1887 this was the first permanently occupied observatory of its kind in the world, and was funded by the real estate investor James Lick, the wealthiest man in California at the time of his death in 1876. Some huge discoveries have been made at this facility, including four of Jupiter’s moons, a number of extrasolar planets and the near-earth asteroid (29075) 1950 DA.

Like a mountain village of white domes, the observatory commands an almost indescribable view of Silicon Valley, all the more beautiful at night when there’s an endless lattice of lights.

But you can also drive the long, winding road to visit Thursday-Sunday, when there are five free talks a day inside the dome of the 36-inch Great Refractor.

You can also get onto the gallery of the 3-meter Shane Reflector, installed in 1959.

42. San Jose City Hall

After more than 50 years in an office park, San Jose’s City Hall returned to Downtown at the two-block San José Civic Plaza.

This complex, costing almost $400m, was completed in 2005 and designed in a Postmodern style by Pritzker Prize-winner Richard Meier, of Getty Center fame.

In a departure from the flamboyant Beaux-Arts city halls in Oakland and San Francisco, the seat of government in San Jose evokes Le Corbusier and the International Style in the clean lines of its 18-story tower and the free-standing Rotunda next to it at the center of the plaza.

Looking like an observatory with its 30-meters, this space is rented out for private events but deserves a flying visit from the outside.

43. SAP Center

It’s a given that the naming rights for San Jose’s NHL team should go to another computing giant.

The San Jose Sharks were born in 1991 and moved into the SAP Center two years later.

From fall to spring you can join 17,500 Sharks fans at the “Shark Tank” to see the team competing in the Western Conference.

The Sharks haven’t managed a Stanley Cup yet, but did take the conference and reach the final in 2015-16 with Peter DeBoer at the helm.

The SAP Center plays host to Disney on Ice, winter sports events, WWE, UFC and major artists (The Raconteurs, The 1975, Miranda Lambert and Louis Tomlinson in 2019-20). A new food concept called “Test Launch Kitchen” offers fans a constantly evolving food selection, with limited runs given to vendors for grilled cheese, chicken and waffles, fish tacos, cheesesteaks and BBQ.

44. San Pedro Square Market

An afternoon will fly by at this shopping and dining hangout in on a whole block in Downtown San Jose.

Food-wise, the advantage of a place like the San Pedro Square Market is that you can bring a group of friends and everyone can try something different, be it pasta, falafel, burgers, tacos, pho or pizza, paired with craft beer, inventive cocktails or artisanal coffee.

Sharing this space are vendors for fresh produce and handmade gifts, as well as a trendy barber shop and the Peralta Adobe, the oldest building in San Jose, dating to 1797. The market thrums with activity all week, hosting live music Thursdays to Sunday, trivia, karaoke and fun for children.

45. Westfield Valley Fair

Silicon Valley’s astronomic wealth is encapsulated by places like Westfield Valley Fair, one of the largest malls in the country and with the highest sales volume in the state.

This luxury playground, straddling the San Jose-Santa Clara city line, was formed in 1986 when two post-war malls merged to create the Valley Fair Shopping Center.

In the last 30+ years this giant has not stopped growing, and in 2019 completed a $900m expansion, leaving it with almost 240 tenants.

It’s hard to know where to start, but if you’re here to splurge then look no further than the “luxury wing”, where Prada, Giorgio Armani, Versace and Louis Vuitton are all lined up in a row.

There are also brands that you’d hope to find in any large mall, like Sephora, Nordstrom, Gap, Levi’s, J. Crew, Claire’s, Zara, Banana Republic and the like.

Food is front and center, with an inexhaustible choice that includes staples like Subway, Cheesecake Factory and Starbucks, as well as 20+ options for Asian food alone.

46. Great Mall

This mall, the largest indoor outlet center in Northern California, is on what used to be Ford’s San Jose assembly plant, manufacturing Mustangs and the like from 1955 to 1983. The expansive Great Mall opened for business a decade later and has just shy of 180 stores and services.

Not every tenant is an outlet, but there are factory stores for many big brands including Gap, Polo Ralph Lauren, Timberland, New Balance, Abercrombie & Fitch, Adidas, Guess, Banana Republic, Bose, J. Crew, Old Navy and many more.

These are alongside regular branches of chains like GameStop, H&M and Foot Locker, a varied food court and a 20-screen Century Theatres multiplex.

47. Heritage Rose Garden

There’s a pocket of greenery at the north end of downtown, by the Guadalupe River opposite branches of Trader Joe’s and Target.

This is made up of several distinct spaces like the Guadalupe River Park, the Rotary PlayGarden, Guadalupe Gardens and Columbus Park.

But if you time your visit right (March-May), the best bit is the formal rose garden, growing 2,800 varieties of modern, heritage and miniature roses.

The Heritage Rose Garden was planted in 1995 and is maintained by dedicated volunteers.

If you stop by in January and February you’ll be in time for pruning season.

On Wednesday and Saturday mornings there will be an expert pruner teaching skills that you can put into practice at home.

Shears and leather gloves are provided.

48. Ed R. Levin County Park

Barely ten minutes on the road from Great Mall you’ll find yourself in the scenic Chaparral foothills of the Diablo Range.

What’s special about the Ed R. Levin County Park is the way it combines the facilities of an urban park, like fishing ponds, play areas and picnic sites, with the network of trails and panoramic scenery of California’s wilderness.

In more than 1,500 acres, the undulating grasslands and oak forest of this park aren’t difficult to hike, but give you spellbinding views over Silicon Valley and the bay.

With its high ridges grass exposed to the prevailing wind, Ed R. County Park is a literal jumping off point for hanggliders and paragliders.

There are also a couple of ranches in Milpitas, like the Chaparral Ranch for horseback treks into the park and the Diablo Range.

49. Triton Museum of Art

A place to go to take the pulse of the Greater Bay Area’s contemporary art scene, the free Triton Museum of Art was established in 1965 as the first non-university museum in Santa Clara.

It was founded by the art patron, rancher and lawyer Robert W. Morgan and in 1987 moved into its current home, with lofty ceiling and pyramidal skylights.

Exhibitions at Triton are all temporary, showcasing talent from Northern California.

At the end of 2019 there were two engaging shows, “Fight”, by photo montage artist Deborah Oropallo, and drawings by Judy Shintani in remembrance of Japanese-American incarceration in World War II.

50. J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines

You don’t need to travel out into the Central Coast Wine Country for some wine-tasting, as one of the biggest names in the business, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, has a “Wine Center” at 1000 Lenzen Avenue near downtown San Jose.

For $15 you’ll get to sample six of the company’s limited-production and club-only wines.

If you sign up for membership that fee will be waived, and the same applies if you purchase two or more of the wines that are on the tasting menu.

51. The San Jose Flea Market

What claims to be the largest outdoor market in the United States, encompassing 120 acres, is a shock to the system.

The San Jose Flea Market, around since 1960, is a bazaar on a grid of alleys or streets, labelled with numbers running east to west and names like Nut Street and Produce Row north to south.

The choice of vendors is mind-boggling, whether you’re out for clothing, electronics, fruit and vegetables, accessories, fabrics, homewares, handmade gifts, antiques or food made on the spot, from BBQ to Mexican, pizza, breakfast food or sweet treats.

You’ll shop to the strains of mariachi bands, and on hot days the soft drink and beer carts floating around the market do a roaring trade.

52. Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Each year more than 280 bird species pause or nest at this wildlife refuge in the south-easternmost pocket of the San Francisco Bay.

The refuge is enormous, spreading out over more than 30,000 acres of open water, mudflats, salt marsh, vernal pools and dry upland areas.

During the spring and fall migrations it plays host to a marvellous spectacle of millions of shorebirds and waterfowl, as well as kites, hawks, eagles and ospreys, pausing here to refuel.

Among the many resident birds is the endangered Ridgeway’s rail, found only on San Francisco Bay and Baja California.

The Visitor Center, open Wednesday to Saturday, is in Fremont and sits above the LaRiviere Marsh, a restored salt marsh inhabited by Ridgeway’s rails and, another endangered species, the salt marsh harvest mouse.

You can explore the trails, borrow binoculars and check out exhibits about the refuge’s ecosystem.

53. Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Trip

If you’ve come to the Bay Area from a different state or country, San Jose is tantalizingly close to one of the country’s most iconic landscapes.

Yosemite National Park can be done on a day trip, and this package advertised on GetYourGuide.com involves pickup and drop-off from and to your accommodation.

You’ll travel by luxury van (fitted with Wi-Fi) to the western Sierra Nevada to spend five hours gazing in awe at monuments like the Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Falls.

There’s more wonder in store at the park’s Tuolumne Grove, growing 25 giant sequoias of an unimaginable scale and dating back 2,000 years.

54. Cinequest

The cinematic arts and Silicon Valley’s innovative spirit collide at this independent movie festival, held across the first two weeks of March.

Over 110,000 people head to San Jose for 300 movies and virtual-augmented reality experiences, almost half of which make their premieres at the festival.

You can discover cutting-edge innovations, attend creativity forums and check out the latest in fashion, dance, comedy and art, with some 1,100 artists showing up from 50 countries each year.

Cinequest honors rule-breakers with its Maverick Awards, presented to artists (Maverick Spirit) and technologists (Maverick Innovator). In the list of famous guests over the last few years are Nicolas Cage, Neil Gaiman, Tatiana Maslany, Elle Fanning, James Franco and Harrison Ford.

55. San Jose Jazz Summer Fest

For three days in August Plaza de César Chávez, in front of the Tech Interactive, is the anchor for a leading jazz festival.

Going strong for more than 30 years, San Jose Jazz Summer Fest is loved for the amount of performances it squeezes into these three days (100+), the event’s small footprint (over just a few blocks downtown) and the sheer breadth of performers.

Every sub-genre has equal footing, be it blues, Latin, R&B, funk, soul or gospel.

Well-known names on the bill in 2019 were pianist Fred Hersch, Grammy-winning vocalist Gregory Porter, drummer Kassa Overall and R&B icons the O’Jays.

The festival partners with local bars, clubs and hotels so you can party into the night, and at the Swing Stage you’ll find teachers showing you how to do the Charleston and Lindy Hop.

55 Best Things to Do in San Jose (CA):

• Downtown San Jose
• Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
• Winchester Mystery House
• The Tech Interactive
• Children's Discovery Museum
• California's Great America
• Santana Row
• Happy Hollow Park and Zoo
• Intel Museum
• Municipal Rose Garden
• Alum Rock Park
• Levi's Stadium
• Los Gatos Creek Trail
• History Park
• Almaden Quicksilver County Park
• San Jose Center for the Performing Arts
• Avaya Stadium
• Cathedral Basilica of St Joseph
• Willow Glen
• Stanford University
• Cantor Arts Center
• Computer History Museum
• SoFa District
• California Theatre
• San Jose Museum of Art
• Excite Ballpark (San Jose Municipal Stadium)
• Rancho San Antonio Preserve
• Apple Park Visitor Center
• Mount Umunhum
• San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles
• Sikh Gurdwara Sahib
• Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library
• Mission Santa Clara de Asís
• San Jose Improv
• Moffett Field Historical Society Museum
• Japanese Friendship Garden
• Ames Research Center
• Downtown Campbell Farmers' Market
• Emma Prusch Farm Park
• Lick Observatory
• San Jose City Hall
• San Pedro Square Market
• Westfield Valley Fair
• Heritage Rose Garden
• Ed R. Levin County Park
• Triton Museum of Art
• J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines
• The San Jose Flea Market
• Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge
• Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Trip
• San Jose Jazz Summer Fest

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting San Jose, California

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose, California, offers visitors a captivating blend of technology, culture, and natural beauty. With its diverse attractions and vibrant atmosphere, planning your visit to San Jose can be an exciting adventure. In this ultimate guide to San Jose, we’ll take you through the essentials of where to stay, what to eat, how to get there, and what to do, ensuring you make the most of your time in this dynamic city.

This post contains affiliate links.  I earn a small commission for items purchased.

How to Get to San Jose

San Jose is conveniently accessible by air, road, and rail. The city has the Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) , which is located just a few miles from downtown. Several major airlines like Southwest and Alaska offer direct flights to San Jose from various domestic and international destinations.

If you prefer a scenic road trip, San Jose is easily accessible from major highways, including Interstate 280 and U.S. Route 101. San Jose is 48.4 miles from San Francisco and on a non-commute hour, takes about 54 minutes to get there.

You can also reach San Jose by Amtrak train or by .

Getting Around San Jose

Public transportation.

San Jose has a pretty good public transportation system called VTA. The light rail and bus system connects downtown San Jose with the rest of the city and surrounding areas. The light rail routes are clean, safe and efficient. You can buy day passes or clipper cards to pay your fare. This is the most affordable way to explore San Jose without a car.

Rideshare/taxi

Services like Uber and Lyft operate in San Jose, providing easy on-demand transportation. This is handy if you don’t have a car or don’t want to drive yourself around. Taxi cabs are also available for hire if you hail them on the street or call a company to dispatch one. More expensive than public transit but very convenient.

Rental cars

If you want maximum flexibility in getting around, renting a car for a day or two is an option when visiting San Jose. There are rental branches for major companies like Enterprise, Hertz and Avis located right at the airport and around the city. Driving yourself allows you to see more surrounding areas at your own pace.

Bay Wheels is San Jose’s bike share system with stations located downtown and in some neighborhoods. You can pick up a bike at any station and return it to any other. Great for short trips and sightseeing. They also have electric bikes available for extra pedal power assist!

Scooter share

Electric scooter shares like Bird and Lime are popular in downtown San Jose for quick trips. Just locate one nearby, rent it through the app and zoom around. Fun way to get around if you don’t mind looking a little goofy!

Downtown San Jose is very walkable, especially in areas like San Pedro Square, SoFA district, and around the Convention Center. The weather is nice year-round so walking allows you to easily pop into shops and restaurants without relying on transportation. Just wear comfy shoes!

Where to Stay in San Jose

San Jose has a range of accommodation options to suit every visitor’s needs and preferences. Downtown San Jose is a popular choice, offering a central location and convenient access to attractions, restaurants, and entertainment.

You’ll find a variety of hotels to choose from, including upscale options like or the Dolce Hayes Mansion or more budget-friendly choices like the Hotel De Anza .

If you prefer a more relaxed ambiance, consider staying in the surrounding neighborhoods, such as Santana Row or Willow Glen, where boutique hotels like the Sterling Inn await.

What to Eat in San Jose

San Jose’s culinary scene is a delightful fusion of flavors from around the world. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Bill’s Café , known for its mouthwatering omelets and fluffy pancakes or Mimosas San Jose for a rowdy brunch.

For lunch or dinner head to San Pedro Square Market , an urban marketplace featuring a variety of food vendors offering everything from artisanal pizzas to flavorful tacos .

Don’t miss the opportunity to savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine in the bustling Little Saigon neighborhood or indulge in the Santana Row offerings, where you’ll find Sauced BBQ or Fogo de Chao , a Brazilian churrascaria.

If Italian is more your speed, Pizza Antica and Maggianos are two solid choices at Santana Row.

If the Caribbean is more your style, Back-A-Yard is a popular choice where you can get plates of oxtail or jerk chicken.

For dessert , treat yourself to the iconic treats at CREAM , a local favorite known for its delectable ice cream sandwiches. Another favorite is Sweet Retreat , where you can get huge scoops of ice cream for an affordable price.

What to Do in San Jose

San Jose offers an abundance of affordable attractions and activities to suit every interest. Begin your visit by stopping at a museum like Tech Interactive , an interactive science and technology museum where you can engage with hands-on exhibits and learn about the latest innovations.

San Jose Museums

Immerse yourself in art and culture at the San Jose Museum of Art , home to a diverse collection of contemporary works. If you have kids in tow be sure to stop by the Children’s Discovery Museum (CDM) or Happy Hollow Park and Zoo , two places that have fun exhibits for children to explore.

Shopping in San Jose

Take a leisurely stroll through the charming Santana Row, an upscale shopping district featuring boutiques, restaurants, and several open spaces made for lounging.

Outdoor Activities

For nature enthusiasts, spend time at Alum Rock Park , a serene oasis with picturesque trails and picnic areas. If you prefer something more active the Silver Creek Sports Complex has sports classes and activities or stroll along the Guadalupe Trail in Downtown San Jose.

We have a complete roundup if you are looking for ideas for a romantic date night in San Jose !

Sports Venues

And if you’re a sports fan, catch a hockey game at the SAP Center , home to the San Jose Sharks . Here are some nearby restaurants to eat at near the SAP Center!

The minor league San Jose Giants play at the family-friendly Excite Ballpark located downtown, with tickets ranging from $8-25. The regular season runs April through early September and features evening games during the week plus some weekend day games, lasting around 2-3 hours.

Fans can enjoy typical baseball fare like hot dogs, churros, BBQ and peanuts, with fireworks on Friday and Saturday nights.

For the best views, sit along the first or third base lines, while the outfield bleachers offer a lively atmosphere.

Free parking is available in lots near the stadium, arrive early to get a spot. Between innings, enjoy in-game contests, the mascot antics, and other kid-focused entertainment.

Winchester Mystery House

Visit the iconic Winchester Mystery House , a sprawling mansion renowned for its weird history and architectural oddities.

The Winchester Mystery House offers daily guided tours of the bizarre 160+ room Victorian mansion that was once the home of Sarah Winchester, heiress to the Winchester rifle fortune.

Tours allow visitors to explore the maze-like mansion with its stairs leading to ceilings, doors opening to walls, and other oddities.

General admission ticket prices start at $37 for a Mansion Tour, $27 for a reduced-scale Explore More Tour, and $15 for a self-guided Roaming Pass.

More in-depth specialty tours like the Hidden Passages Tour or Twilight Tour range from $50-$75. Discounts are available for seniors, students, children, and the military.

Parking at the Winchester Mystery House is $15 per vehicle and allows easy self-parking in their lot. Overflow parking can also utilize the nearby Santana Row parking garages. Tour tickets include parking.

J. Lohr Winery

Wine lovers will have a great time at the J. Lohr Tasting Room in South San Jose! J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines is one of the most prominent wineries actually based in San Jose . Founded by Jerry Lohr back in 1972, J. Lohr operates tasting rooms and vineyards in both the Arroyo Seco and Paso Robles areas.

The San Jose tasting room is located right off Blossom Hill Road in the southeast part of the city. It offers wine flights and pours of J. Lohr’s extensive collection including chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and sauvignon blanc.

The venue has an upscale yet welcoming vibe with a full bar and charcuterie menu.

You can stop by daily for a tasting or attend one of their special food and wine pairing events hosted throughout the year.

In addition to the San Jose tasting room, J. Lohr has a large production facility and visitor center in Paso Robles where guests can tour the vineyards and winery operations. As one of the most well-known wineries actually headquartered in San Jose, J. Lohr is a great option for learning about local wines.

Day Trips from San Jose

Venture beyond the city limits and explore nearby attractions. Drive to Santa Cruz and enjoy the stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, and the nostalgic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk .

Livermore Wine Trail

For wine lovers, take a day trip to the nearby Livermore wine region, where you can sample exceptional wines and enjoy vineyard tours.

With its diverse attractions, vibrant culture, and convenient access, a visit to San Jose is should be enjoyable for people of all ages.

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Itineraries

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San José Shopping Guide

Costa Rica is world-renowned for its flavourful coffee beans, organic cacao, and commitment to sustainability, making it a retail treat for shopping enthusiasts. Our San José Shopping Guide will lead you through the highlights, with eclectic markets selling fresh produce, galleries showcasing hand-crafted masks and baskets, and contemporary malls retailing designer clothing that you won’t be able to resist bringing home with you.

Avenida Central

This mile-long pedestrian walkway divides San José’s northern and southern neighbourhoods. Home to central banks, Democracy Plaza, Gold and Jade Museums and several government buildings, it’s the beating heart of the Costa Rican capital. The tree-lined shopping boulevard boasts high-street stores and restaurants where you can find souvenirs, clothing and even a good meal. Street entertainers dance to live marimba music and bronze statues and murals line the boulevard with scenes depicting the national identity and vibrancy of Costa Rica.

Feria Verde de Aranjuez

Located close to San José Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Green Fair market was one of the first organic gourmet markets in the country. It’s open on Saturday mornings and specializes in artisanal cheeses, pastries, goat’s milk products, and handmade pasta. It offers a wonderful atmosphere with live musicians, yoga sessions, and entertainers. You can also pick up traditional souvenirs for family and friends back home!

Mercado Nacional de Artesanias

This is a must-visit market for travelers seeking products handcrafted in Central America. The bustling artisan market, near the Metropolitan Cathedral of San José retails sculptures, ceramic goods, leather items, woodwork, and textiles, all while supporting the livelihood of countrywide creatives. It’s the perfect stop for unique souvenir shopping and you may even be able to source a miniature hand-painted oxcart synonymous with Costa Rica’s Central Valley.

Mercado Central

No San José Shopping Guide is complete without this gem. Mercado Central (Central Market) has existed in San José since the late 1800s and it’s still as popular today. This bustling retail bazaar is a crazy labyrinth of narrow alleyways dotted with vendors vying to attract attention with their wares. With delicious food and drink on offer, it’s easy to get distracted, but delve a little deeper and you’ll discover a treasure trove of gems. Seek out hand-crafted Costa Rican coffee makers called chorreadores and source unusual gifts like plantain presses or cheese in a bottle! Don’t leave without procuring some Costa Rican coffee beans from locally sourced fair-trade plantations. Mercado Central can be hectic, therefore, it’s a great idea to hire a guide for a few hours to help you navigate the maze of stalls.

Multiplaza Mall

Situated along Santa Ana Highway, 15 minutes from central San José, this modern shopping mall caters to Costa Rica’s affluent society. With a whole host of designers and upscale boutiques such as Michael Kors, Carolina Herrera, Tommy Hilfiger, and Swarovski, you can easily find high-quality goods at competitive prices. In addition, international chain stores such as MAC, Nike and Zara, multiplex cinemas, and a handful of good quality restaurants reside in the complex.

Galeria Namu 

If you wish to purchase authentic Costa Rican artwork, head for Galeria Namu – a fair trade art and gift gallery within a short stroll of Jardin de Paz. All their items are handcrafted by talented local artists and indigenous tribes across Central America. With unusual carved tagua figurines, pre-Columbian pottery, Brunka masks and jewellery in-store, there is much to browse. Don’t leave without seeking out their woven basket collection, decorated with vibrant tribal designs, created by the Wounaan people. For interested parties, the gallery can also arrange for visitors to meet indigenous artisan groups in the local area.

Sibú Chocolate Shop Escazú

Chocaholics will adore a visit to the Sibú Chocolate Shop in Escazú. This gourmet, organic chocolatier isn’t just a shop, it also features a small café, a gift store, and tours of its chocolate production facility along with delicious tastings! The company’s owners support artisan communities of Costa Rica, the quality cacao is procured from farms throughout Central Valley and they even donate a percentage of their chocolate bar sales to the Centre for Tropical Agriculture and Higher Education (CATIE) which supports the growth of cacao and wild, rare species across Costa Rica. As if you needed an excuse to go on a chocolate shopping spree, be sure to stock up on some ‘gifts’ for your ‘friends’ back home.

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THE 10 BEST Places to Go Shopping in San Jose

Shopping in san jose.

• Gift & Specialty Shops
• Art Galleries
• Shopping Malls
• Flea & Street Markets
• Factory Outlets
• Farmers Markets
• Fashion Shows & Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Central Market (Mercado Central)

2. Galeria Namu

3. Mercado Municipal De Artesanias

4. Feria Verde

5. Lincoln Plaza

6. El Pueblo

7. Mall San Pedro

8. Octavia Design Store Costa Rica

9. Museo Dr. Rafael Calderon Guardia

10. Chieton Moren

11. Multiplaza Curridabat

12. museo de arte y deseno contemprorano.

13. Mercado Borbon

14. Galeria Ocelote

15. arte latino, 16. jeannina blanco fine art, 17. cassa duo.

18. Galería Plural, Objetos Singulares

19. retro tattoo studio, 20. f de imagen.

21. La Bodega de Chema

22. Holalola Gift Shop

23. Tienda eNe

24. Va de nuevo

25. Esmeraldas and Disenos Jewelry

26. Souvenir El Coco

27. Libreria Internacional

28. Tierra Santa Para Todos

29. Cueropapel&tijera

30. The Void Hemp Concept Store

What travelers are saying

• Central Market (Mercado Central)
• Mercado Municipal De Artesanias
• Galeria Namu
• Feria Verde
• Lincoln Plaza
• Chieton Moren
• Mall San Pedro

Things To Do In Los Cabos Tourist Corridor

Let’s get real. There’s probably not a more entertaining, exciting band of land than the span known in Los Cabos as the Tourist Corridor: the 20- mile stretch that connects San Jose del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas. The area is completely loaded and chock full of things to do, whether you want to be active or kick back and relax. For starters on the laid- back side, some luxury resorts host famous golf courses on-site to brush up your game. Try the Cabo del Sol Desert Course, designed by famous architect Tom Weiskopf, which presents fabulous views of the Sea of Cortez and Baja landscape.  Many hotels provide a list of activities that center around the beaches such as snorkeling, diving and swimming at the Blue Flag– certified safety beaches at Chileno Bay. Other attractions inland include a must-stop visit near Wild Canyon Adventures to get the adrenaline flowing with bungee jumping, zip-lining or holding on to a giant swing for a near-death experience you can always go home from and tell the story afterward. Soft exploration opportunity also abounds in the form of shopping at chi-chi boutiques mixed with genuine Mexican tiendas and sampling the myriad restaurants that invite the visitor to come wander and enjoy the tastes of local fare. When traveling to or from the airport, make sure you plan a few hours to stop along the corridor to sample the fantastic, and yet memorable mini-adventures along the way. 

There is always something happening in Los Cabos. From fresh cuisine and creative inspiration to world-class athletes and award-winning films, you won’t want to miss these events in Los Cabos. Learn More

Things To Do

In a paradise where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean, there is something for everyone: fishing, golf, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, horseback riding, relaxing in luxury spas and resorts and dancing ’til dawn. Learn More

Los Cabos Tourism Board

Carretera Transpeninsular

KM 4.3 Plaza Providencia Local no.209

El Tezal, Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S

C.P. 23454 MEXICO

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