San Jose: Where Street Art Meets Silicon Valley
If you're planning a trip to California, don't miss the chance to explore San Jose, the capital of Silicon Valley. With a booming tech industry, world-renowned museums, and a thriving food scene, San Jose has become a cultural and economic hub in the heart of the Bay Area.
Whether you're a tech enthusiast, foodie, or culture buff, San Jose has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to experience one of California's most dynamic and exciting cities.
01 Stay cool at the Shark Tank
The NHL's San Jose Sharks have played in the SAP Center indoor arena or "Shark Tank" for over 20 years. You can join the crowds cheering for a barnburner at a match against fierce rivals like California neighbors the Anaheim Ducks or the Los Angeles Kings. The Sharks made it to the Stanley Cup finals as recently as 2016, so they're hungry for more, and you could be treated to jaw-dropping high-octane action. Be sure to check the bag size criteria before you go, or you'll have to check in your bag for a fee. You'll be fine with a light jacket, so don't worry about freezing.
02 Geek out at the Computer History Museum
Embrace your fellow nerds at this tribute to tech close to Google headquarters. You'll need at least two hours to zip through and see artifacts like the first Apple computer, the enigma machine, and Nintendo 64. The museum has an arcade section and will keep adults and kids entertained with movies, interactive video games, and engaging factoids. The focus is on the history of Silicon Valley and the evolution of IT, from calculators to exhibits on self-driving cars and AI.
03 Apply a pinch of salt at Winchester Mystery House
Don't let it spook you, but there's a slim chance this Gothic-style mansion is haunted, at least according to the folks who've made money out of spreading rumors about the late owner, Sarah "Sallie" Winchester. When Sarah's mom, dad, and husband all passed away within six months in 1880, she packed up and moved to the Golden State with a sizable sum of money she'd inherited from her spouse, firearms tycoon William Wirt Winchester. When Winchester shrugged off her own mortal coil in 1922, the mansion had thousands of doors and windows, and the escape artist Harry Houdini dubbed it Winchester Mystery House after visiting in 1924.
04 Catch a game at Levi's Stadium
If you're less of an ice enthusiast but know your Superbowl trivia in, and out, you'll definitely want to book tickets to a San Francisco 49ers game at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. The Niners' NFL reputation is first-rate, and the team has set various records over the years and cemented the legacies of multiple Hall of Famers. You'll love the atmosphere in the stadium.
05 Pretend you're eating in Ho Chi Minh
Little Saigon is spoilt when it comes to Vietnamese food offerings. Your taste buds will throw a party in your honor if you expose them to the textures and flavors at Grand Century Mall, just one of the many places selling Vietnamese cuisine in San Jose. From stuffed rice batter pancakes in the shape of half moons to savory cupcakes called bánh khọt and desserts that are like bubble tea on steroids, you'll be counting down to your next Teal Town trip.
06 Get STEAMy at the Tech Interactive
Give your STEM brain a workout at this Silicon Valley landmark. The Tech Interactive is a frequent field trip destination, so kids have plenty to do here where science and tech meet art. Interactive exhibits on dynamic themes as varied as the body, space, bioengineering, genetics, and robotics will interest grown-ups too.
07 Experience calm at Gurdwara Sahib of San Jose
This Gurdwara is the largest of its kind outside India. Thousands of people assemble in the main Diwan Hall every Sunday. The langar serves free food to anyone who'd like some—all are welcome, so if you're hungry, you can dive into a Lacto-vegetarian meal without issue and receive medical attention at the clinic while you're at it.
08 Play at the Children's Museum of San Jose
With over 150 hands-on exhibits, the Children's Museum of San Jose is the place to go to keep kids from muttering, "I'm bored!" every five minutes. Although this museum is best for toddlers and preschoolers between one and six, slightly older ones should find something to do too. Your little ones' toy fire truck comes to life with a full-size version, and you'll spot a mammoth replica too. You can relax while someone else applies face paint to cheeks flushed from running around and splashing about in the water and bubble area. YPlan to spend about 2.5 hours to get the full experience.
09 Sip and dip at Saratoga Mountain Winery
No appointment is necessary at this winery with excellent views of Silicon Valley. The drive up to the venue may test your nerves, so go mentally prepared for a challenge, and it might seem alright. Saratoga Mountain Winery also hosts concerts in its amphitheater—the acoustics are fab, and it's hard to find better scenery for a live performance.
10 Compare apples and oranges at Apple Park Visitor Center
No, this is not a plea for you to enjoy fall in Cali and go apple picking. Instead, this is a suggestion for you to go Apple product picking any time of year. The Apple Park Visitor Center at Apple HQ is a store unlike any other, with modern minimalist architecture and design and items on sale that you'd be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. Apple loyalists will struggle to contain their excitement.
11 Take a break at the Plaza de Cesar Chavez
Located in the heart of downtown, this public park is named after the famous civil rights activist Cesar Chavez and features a beautiful fountain, sprawling green lawns, and a variety of art installations and sculptures.
Not only is the Plaza de Cesar Chavez a tranquil oasis in the midst of the city's hustle and bustle, but it also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the San Jose Jazz Festival and the Christmas in the Park holiday celebration.
12 Explore the Ancient Treasures of Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
An Egyptian Museum might seem like an unusual destination in a western city like San Jose, but this is a fun attraction for all ages. The museum is home to the largest Ancient Egypt artifacts in the Western United States. The exhibits change regularly, and the fun architecture of the building and surroundings brings visitors right to Egypt.
13 Behold the Marvels of Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph
For any visitor to San Jose that loves architecture, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph is a destination not to be missed. This Roman Catholic church stands impressively in the city's downtown. The history of this church is unique because it is one of five churches that have been constructed on this site—the others had been previously destroyed in fires and earthquakes. The church as it stands now has been restored in 1990 and stands firm, filled with beautiful detail and artwork.
14 Uncover the Hidden Gems of Alum Rock Park
Nestled in the Diablo Mountain Range foothills, Alum Rock Park is one of the oldest parks in California. Mountain lions, deer, and bobcats call the 740-acre wilderness space home. The walkways throughout the terrain make this a great location for hiking, jogging, biking, or just a stroll. With an active mineral spring and multiple barbeque pits, picnicking can be a fun outing for all.
15 Roam wild at Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
Visitors looking for a nice afternoon out might find Happy Hollow Park and Zoo to be just the right spot. The 16-acre zoo is home to over 150 animals and has lots of amusement rides, such as a carousel and roller coaster. With an educational center providing exhibits about the animals and puppet shows, there's plenty for kids of all ages to do.
16 Get lost in a treasure trove of finds at San Jose Flea Market
Travelers that love a bargain won't want to miss the San Jose Flea Market! A shopping destination since 1950, this sprawling market of antiques, fashion, food, and much more is well worth the trip. A vintage carousel and mini-Ferris wheel bring a little fun to the day for the kids. The flea market is a mix of old and new products and designs for all ages.
17 Unveil your creativity at San Jose Museum of Art
The San Jose Museum of Art has been bringing the art world to San Jose for over 50 years. The architecture of the museum alone is something to look at, with rock-like walls and turrets. The museum provides exhibits that reflect the times that the artwork was created. One of their most admired exhibits is that of post 9/11. With art from all over the world, the destination is a great way to spend an afternoon.
18 Step back in time at History Park
Those looking to step back in time will find History Park in San Jose to be the right place. This museum mimics a small town in the early 1900s West. The museum has a livery, packing shed, doctor, dentist, and general store. The Paulson House, located on the property, is a former house and museum from the 1890s designed to show Greek heritage. The park is an exploration of the West over 100 years ago.
19 Delve into the depths of Japantown's cultural treasures
Located in the heart of the Western city of San Jose is Japantown. Visiting this community is like stepping into another country with the food, architecture, and lifestyle of Japan. There is excellent shopping for trinkets and clothing of Japan as well as restaurants and groceries sporting the best in Japanese food. Take a break from the West and become immersed in Japanese culture.
20 Thread your way through the Museum of Quilts & Textiles
One of the most unique museums in all of San Jose is the Museum of Quilts & Textiles. The museum shows off a wide variety of quilts and textiles from all eras. The exhibits provide an interesting look at how the process of creating quilts has changed through the years. The eras are reflected in the different designs that came about over time. This is a good stroll through history in an unusual way.
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