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27 Best Things to Do in San Jose, California  

San Jose, California, is a large city in Silicon Valley’s heart that I loved visiting. The area is known for its technology and innovation, but there is much more to discover in San Jose! From fantastic food and drink to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, there is something there for everyone.

So, if you’re planning a San Jose vacation, you’ll likely wonder what there is to do. I find that heading to San Jose without a plan is an excellent way to miss out on some of its key experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. Therefore, it’s best to know what destinations San Jose offers before going.

Now, I know what you’re thinking.

What are the absolute best places to visit in San Jose?

Well, I’ve taken the stress out of finding the perfect vacation spots. All you have to do is continue to read, and you’ll have a full explanation of each destination and why it’s worth visiting!

Planning the perfect vacation is always stressful, but you don’t have to worry. I’ve found the best places to visit while you’re in San Jose, California. Below, are some of the best San Jose attractions you can go to for food, wine, history, culture, and more!

Big Sur Monterey California Coast McWay Falls One Day Tour from San Jose
1. Big Sur Monterey California Coast McWay Falls One Day Tour from San Jose Top Recommendation

Big Sur is one of the most popular tourist attractions in California, and for good reason. It boasts a long coastline and miles of stunning Pacific Ocean views. The area also offers an abundance of flora and fauna, making it a perfect place for nature-lovers to explore.

San Jose Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Trip
2. San Jose: Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Trip

Take an unforgettable Yosemite National Park Tour from San Jose and immerse yourself in the wilderness at Yosemite. Appreciate the beauty of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, Half Dome, and more by spending as many hours as you want exploring this national park. Learn about the history of its monuments and waterfalls while hiking or biking on your own. Enjoy free WiFi during your trip to share photos with family and friends.

San Jose Brew Bike Bar Tour
3. San Jose Brew Bike Bar Tour

San Jose Brew Bike is the ultimate party-bike bar tour in downtown San Jose. Your knowledgeable and entertaining guide ensures a great experience in the Silicon Valley as you pedal around Downtown and sample the best bites and drinks San Jose has to offer with 2 stops at some of the hottest bars in town.

TL;DR

If you’re looking for San Jose, California, tourist attractions or want to skip to just one area, this TL;DR guide can help save you some time.

  • Most significant landmarkWinchester Mystery House
  • Best parkJapanese Friendship Garden
  • Best free activity – Municipal Rose Garden
  • Best activity for kids – Children’s Discovery Museum
  • Best activity for adults – Gordon Biersch Brewery
  • Best Museum – Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
  • Best food – San Pedro Square Market
  • Best nightlife – The California Theatre
  • Best all-around accommodation Hyatt Place San Jose, Downtown

Best & Fun Things to do in San Jose, CA

1. Visit the Tech Museum of Innovation

Tech Museum of Innovation Building
image by The Tech Museum of Innovation is licensed under CC BY 2.0

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

One of the best things to do when you visit San Jose, California, is to visit the Tech Museum of Innovation. The Tech Museum is a hands-on museum that is perfect for visitors of all ages. Interactive exhibits focus on technology’s past, present, and future impact on our lives.

The Tech Museum of Innovation was founded in 1990 as the Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology.

The museum’s original mission was to inspire creativity and innovative thinking. However, after a few years, the museum’s mission shifted to providing educational opportunities for children and adults about science and technology.

The Tech Museum of Innovation has many interactive exhibits focusing on different aspects of science and technology.

Some of the most popular exhibits include The Hackery, which is an exhibit that teaches visitors about computer programming, and The Workshop, which is an exhibit that allows visitors to build and experiment with different types of technologies.

Other popular exhibits at the museum include The Lab, which is a hands-on exhibit that allows visitors to experiment with different scientific principles, and The Studio, which is an exhibit that allows visitors to create their own art using technology.

This destination is great for the family or young children as there is something here sure to fascinate everyone.

See Related: Best Day Trips from San Francisco, California

2. Stroll Through Japantown

Obon Festival in Japantown
image by Pmlydon  is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Address: 565 N 6th St, San Jose, CA

Another great thing to do in San Jose is to stroll through Japantown. This vibrant neighborhood is home to various shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions with deep ties to San Jose history.

Visitors can learn about the history of Japanese-Americans in the area and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this charming community.

Japantown is one of the oldest neighborhoods in San Jose, historically home to a large population of Japanese-Americans. The neighborhood began to decline in the 1960s as many residents moved out of the area. However, in recent years, Japantown has been revitalized and is now home to various shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

There are many great things to do in Japantown. Visitors can stroll through the neighborhood and enjoy the unique atmosphere. You can enjoy a Self-Guided Audio Tour of San Francisco’s Japantown.

There are also various shops and restaurants that visitors can enjoy. Additionally, there are several cultural attractions that visitors can experience in Japantown.

Some of the most popular things to do in Japantown include visiting the Japanese American Museum, which is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Japanese-Americans, and the Buddhist Temple of San Jose, which is a beautiful place of worship that is open to visitors of all faiths.

Additionally, visitors can enjoy the annual Cherry Blossom Festival, held each spring to celebrate Japanese culture.

See Related: California Travel Guide: Printable Guide to Travel

3. Get Lost in the Municipal Rose Garden

Municipal Rose Garden and Fountain
image by jmenard48 is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

Address: 1649 Naglee Ave, San Jose, CA 95126

For visitors who love nature, the Municipal Rose Garden (aka the Heritage Rose Garden) is a must-see. This beautiful garden is home to over 3,500 rose bushes and features walking paths, gazebos, and a scenic pond. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon enjoying the beauty of nature.

The Municipal Rose Garden was originally built in 1927. It was designed to be a place where the community could come together and enjoy the beauty of nature. The garden was built on an old landfill site and was originally home to just over 1,000 rose bushes.

Over the years, the garden has undergone several changes. In the 1970s, the city of San Jose began a major garden renovation, including adding over 2,500 rose bushes.

In the 1990s, the garden underwent another major renovation, adding several new features, including a gazebo, a scenic pond, and walking paths.

The Municipal Rose Garden is home to over 3,500 rose bushes. The roses in the garden are of various colors, including red, pink, white, and yellow.

Today, the Municipal Rose Garden is one of the most popular attractions in San Jose. Visitors can stroll through the garden and enjoy the beauty of the roses. The garden is also home to several events throughout the year, including the annual Rose Festival, which is held each spring.

Looking for a side quest? San Jose Scavenger Hunt: The Heart of Silicon Valley will keep you entertained!

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Southern California

4. Shop at the San Pedro Square Market

Cyclists at San Pedro Square Market
image by S.P.U.R. – SPUR Flickr is licensed under CC BY 2.0

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

The San Pedro Square Market is the perfect place to find unique gifts or sample some delicious food. This popular market features over 30 vendors selling everything from locally-made art to freshly-baked bread.

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir, or a bite to eat, visiting this market is one of the best things to do in San Jose, California.

The San Pedro Square Market is located in the heart of downtown San Jose and is housed in a historic building built in 1866. The market was originally built as a Southern Pacific Railroad Company warehouse. In the early 1900s, the building was converted into a marketplace where farmers could sell their produce.

The San Pedro Square Market has undergone a major transformation in recent years. The market now features over 30 vendors selling various items, including locally-made art, fresh produce, and prepared food.

The San Pedro Square Market is home to several annual events, live music performances, and cultural festivals. Some of the most popular events at the market include the Silicon Valley Wine Festival, held each summer, and the Christmas in the Square celebration, which is held each December.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Turlock, California

5. Marvel at The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph

Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph
Image by Hendrich is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

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

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph is a stunning religious landmark. This Romanesque-style cathedral features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate architecture.

\Visitors can tour the cathedral or simply admire its beauty from the outside. Plus, it’s only a one-minute walk from the San Jose Museum of Art.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph was built in 1803 and is one of the oldest churches in California. The cathedral was designed by Father Junipero Serra and credited with founding several missions throughout California.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph is one of the most famous basilicas in the United States. Over the years, the cathedral has undergone several changes. In 1868, a major earthquake damaged the cathedral. It was subsequently rebuilt in Romanesque style.

Then in 1876, a fire destroyed the cathedral’s stained glass windows. These were then replaced with new windows in 1884. Today, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph is one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Jose.

This destination may not be for everyone, but it’s definitely worth the visit. We find that those looking to see glass windows or enjoy religious locations will enjoy this visit. However, it may not be the best place for young children.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Sacramento, California

6. Explore the Japanese Friendship Garden

Japanese Friendship Garden
image by HarshLight is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Address: 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118

The Japanese Friendship Garden is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. This garden features traditional Japanese landscaping, koi ponds, and a tea house. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

The Japanese Friendship Garden was first built in 1894. The garden was a gift from the people of Japan to the city of San Francisco. The garden was originally located in Golden Gate Park but was moved to its current location in San Jose in 1913.

In 1935, the garden was expanded and renamed the Japanese Tea Garden. The tea house was added at this time. During World War II, the garden was closed to the public due to mass anti-Japanese sentiment. In 1947, the garden was reopened to the public and renamed the Japanese Friendship Garden.

Today, the garden is a popular tourist attraction in San Jose. The gardens are modeled on the famous Korakuen Garden in Okayama; San Jose’s sister city in Japan.

Visitors can stroll through the gardens, relax in the tea house, or feed the koi fish in the ponds. If you’re looking for a relaxing destination, we recommend not skipping out on the Friendship Garden. While you’re in town, check out these other amazing things to do in San Francisco.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Graeagle, California

7. Visit the Children’s Discovery Museum

Children's Discovery Museum Architecture

Address: 180 Woz Way, San Jose, CA 95110

The Children’s Discovery Museum is a great place to take the kids. This hands-on museum features exhibits on science, art, and culture. Kids can explore, play, and learn in a fun and interactive environment.

The Children’s Discovery Museum was founded in 1990 by parents, educators, and community leaders. The museum first opened its doors in San Jose’s downtown district.

In 1995, the museum expanded and moved to its current location in Santana Row. The new museum featured more extensive exhibits and more hands-on activities for kids.

This is an excellent place for kids of all ages. They can explore, play, and learn in a fun and interactive environment. There are also many exhibits on science, art, and culture.

Since then, the museum has continued to grow and evolve. Today, the Children’s Discovery Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Jose.

The museum features exhibits on science, art, and culture. Kids can explore, play, and learn in a fun and interactive environment. If you need a place to stay nearby, we recommend Hyatt Place San Jose, Downtown.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Lancaster, California

8. See the Sharks Play at the SAP Center

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

For hockey fans, a visit to the SAP Center is a must for what to see in San Jose, California. This arena is home to the San Jose Sharks and features a variety of concession stands and restaurants. Visitors can watch the Sharks play or catch a concert or other event.

The SAP Center, formerly known as the San Jose Arena and the HP Pavilion, is a multi-purpose arena in San Jose, California. The arena is home to the National Hockey League’s San Jose Sharks.

The arena was first opened in 1993 under the name San Jose Arena. In 2002, the arena was renamed the Compaq Center, and then renamed the HP Pavilion in 2006. In 2013, the arena was renamed the SAP Center.

The arena has a capacity of 17,562 for hockey games and 19,190 for concerts. The stadium features a variety of concession stands and restaurants. Visitors can watch the Sharks play or catch a show or other event.

See Related: Best Things to do in Palo Alto

9. Learn About Local History at History Park

Train in History Park
image by HarshLight is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Address: 635 Phelan Avenue, San Jose, California 95112

History Park is a great place to learn about the history of San Jose and Silicon Valley. This park features a variety of historical buildings, including a schoolhouse, a fire station, and a blacksmith shop. Visitors can also take a ride on a vintage streetcar.

History Park is located on the site of the former Agnews State Hospital. The hospital was built in 1889 and was originally used as an asylum for the mentally ill. In 1906, the hospital was destroyed by an earthquake.

In 1976, the City of San Jose purchased the property to turn it into a historical park. The park opened to the public in 1980.

The park is excellent for learning about San Jose’s and Silicon Valley’s history.

See Related: Best Museums in the US you Need to Visit

10. Taste Some Wine at a Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard

Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard Tables
Image by Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard/Facebook

Address: 334 Ingalls St Suite A, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

A visit to a Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard is a must for wine lovers. This region is home to some of the best wines in California. Visitors can tour the vineyards, taste the wines, and learn about the winemaking process.

The Santa Cruz Mountain vineyard region was first planted in the mid-19th Century. At that time, the region was known for its production of brandy. In 1876, a devastating phylloxera infestation destroyed many of the vineyards in the region.

In the early 20th Century, the region began to recover. New vineyards were planted, and the region began producing wine again. Today, the Santa Cruz Mountain region is home to some of the best wines in California. Visitors can tour the vineyards, taste the wines, and learn about the winemaking process.

11. Take a Hike Through Almaden Quicksilver County Park

Almaden Sunset in Quicksilver County Park
image by FASTILY is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Address: 21785 Almaden Rd, San Jose, CA 95120

Almaden Quicksilver County Park is a great place to get fresh air and exercise. This park features over 50 miles of hiking trails, as well as a variety of other outdoor activities. Visitors can go camping, fishing, picnicking, and more.

Almaden Quicksilver County Park is located in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The park was first established in 1976. The park is named after the quicksilver mines that were once located here.

The park covers over 4,000 acres of land. It features over 50 miles of hiking trails, as well as a variety of other outdoor activities. Visitors can go camping, fishing, picnicking, and more.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Three Rivers, California

12. Attend a Show at the Historic California Theatre

California Theatre Building
image by Cristiano Tomás is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Address: 345 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113

The historic California Theatre is a great place to see a show. This theatre has been home to various performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and ballets. Visitors can also tour the theatre or simply enjoy the architecture.

The California Theatre was built in 1927. It was originally designed as a movie palace. The theatre hosted its first movie premiere in 1928.

Over the years, the theatre has been home to various performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and ballets. To book tickets, you must call the phone number on their main webpage.

13. Browse the Exhibits at the San Jose Museum of Art

San Jose Museum of Art Building

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

Located in the city center the San Jose Museum of Art is a great place to see some of the best art in the Bay Area. This museum features a variety of exhibits, including both contemporary and traditional art. The San Jose Museum of Art was founded in 1969.

The San Jose Museum of Art features a variety of exhibits, including both contemporary and traditional art. Visitors can also take a break in the museum’s cafe or shop in the bookstore.

Popular Exhibits at San Jose Museum of Art:

  • “California Dreaming: Mid-Century Modern Art from the San Jose Museum of Art Collection”
  • “Stanton Macdonald-Wright and the Synchromist Movement”
  • “The Art of Seeing: Photographs from the collection of The San Jose Museum of Art.”

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Long Beach, California

14. Relax in Kelley Park

Kelley Park Streetcar Line and Train
image by Victor Solanoy is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Address: 1300 Senter Rd, San Jose, CA 95112

Kelley Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.This park features a variety of amenities, including picnic areas, a playground, and a pond. Visitors can also take a walk or bike ride through the park.

Kelley Park was established in the early 20th Century. The park was named after Timothy Kelley, the mayor of San Jose. If you need a nice green space to relax on a self-guided San Jose heritage tour, look no further.

15. Soak Up the Sun at Santa Cruz Beach

Santa Cruz Beach

Address: 400 Beach Street Santa Cruz, California 95060

Spending the day at Santa Cruz Beach is one of the best things to do on a day trip from San Jose, California. This beach features various activities, including swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and more. Visitors can also enjoy the beach’s restaurants, shops, and attractions.

Santa Cruz Beach first opened in 1909. The beach was originally named after the nearby city of Santa Cruz. In the early 20th Century, the beach became a popular destination for locals and tourists.

See Related: Best Places to Travel in Your 20s in the US

16. Watch the Sun Set at Mt. Diablo State Park

Mt. Diablo Summit
image by Annette Teng is licensed under CC BY 3.0

Address: Summit Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94598

Mt. Diablo State Park is a great place to watch the sunset. This park offers a variety of hiking trails with beautiful views of the Bay Area.

Mt. Diablo State Park was established in 1931. The park was originally named after Mt. Diablo, the highest point in the Bay Area. In 1978, the park was designated as a state wilderness area.

Today, Mt. Diablo State Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists. The park offers a variety of hiking trails with beautiful views of the Bay Area. Visitors can also camp, picnic, and stargaze in the park.

17. Explore the Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley Aerial View
image by Nouhailler is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

Silicon Valley is a great place to learn about the history of technology. This region in the western United States is famous for, parks, contemporary art, museums, cuisine, several historic sites, and a wide variety of tech companies.

Some notable tech-y attractions include The Computer History Museum, the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve, and The Hiller Aviation Museum.

This region is notably home to high-profile companies such as NASA and Apple. This includes NASA’s Ames Research Center, which hosts exhibits and events. It also includes Apple Park Visitor Center, which requires an appointment for visitors.

Other major Silicon Valley cities include Palo Alto, Santa Clara, Mountain View, and Sunnyvale. Book a Silicon Valley Tech Tour From San Francisco and learn about technology.

Need a place to call base while you’re touring the valley? The Shashi Hotel Mountain View or Dinah’s Garden Hotel are good places to stay around this area if you’re looking to explore multiple Silicone Valley attractions.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Bakersfield, California

18. Explore Santa Cruz Boardwalk

Santa Cruz Boardwalk Aerial View

Address: 400 Beach Street Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Escape the city on a day trip and head to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. Located just an hour south on the West Coast, this historical landmark has been open since 1907. Today, the boardwalk has become an amusement park with plenty to do. With over 40 rides, there’s always a ride, no matter your tastes.

However, there are two rides that you shouldn’t skip. This includes the world-famous Giant Dipper, which was built in 1924. Additionally, you should also try the Looff Carousel, which was built in 1911.

The Santa Cruz Boardwalk has more to offer than just rides. Close by, there are hundreds of top-rated restaurants that have exceptional food. The Picnic Basket, Ideal Bar & Grill, and Firefish Grill are just some to name. If you’re looking for a place to stay, we recommend the

19. Visit the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum Architecture
image by Cristiano Tomás is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Address: 1660 Park Ave, San Jose, CA 95191

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is a great place to learn about ancient Egyptian artifacts. This museum features a variety of exhibits, including mummies, and hieroglyphics. Visitors can also tour the museum or participate in one of the many workshops.

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum was founded in 1928. The museum was originally created to display artifacts collected by the Ancient and Mystical Order of the Rosae Crucis.

In the years since, the museum has expanded its collection and now features a variety of exhibits, including mummies, sculptures, and hieroglyphics from ancient Egypt.

Today, it has the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in western North America.

See Related: Best Holiday Destinations for Couples

20. Explore the Winchester Mystery House

Winchester Mystery House and Garden

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

The Winchester Mystery House is a great place to explore a unique piece of history. This house was built by Sarah Winchester in 1884, the wife of the man who created the Winchester rifle.

She continued to add to the home for over three decades. By the time she died, the house had over 160 rooms. It was full of oddities, including secret passages and staircases that led nowhere.

Sarah was convinced that her family was cursed due to creating the Winchester gun. She thought spirits were out to get her and her family to seek revenge for being killed by her husband’s successful gun design. Since then, she built the house to appease the spirits who had fallen to the Winchester rifle.

The Winchester Mystery House has many oddities, including secret passages and staircases leading nowhere. Visitors can book a tour of this historic and creepy home or participate in various other activities.

You can also book a Winchester Mystery House, Muir Woods and Sausalito Day Trip.

21. Sample the Local Craft Beer at Gordon Biersch Brewery

Gordon Biersch Brewery Entrance
image by Natalie B/TripAdvisor

Address: 357 E Taylor St, San Jose, CA 95112

Gordon Biersch Brewery is a great place to sample the local craft beer. This brewery offers a variety of beers, as well as a full menu of food. Visitors can tour the brewery or participate in many other activities. These activities include beer tastings, brewing classes, and live music.

Gordon Biersch Brewery was founded in 1988. The brewery was originally created to brew German-style lagers. In the years since the brewery has expanded its offerings to include a variety of beers and a full menu of food. 

The food menu at Gordon Biersch Brewery features a variety of items, including appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and pizzas. There are also several vegetarian and vegan options. The most popular beers at Gordon Biersch Brewery include the Golden Export, the Hefeweizen, and the Munich Lager.

See Related: Best Places to Travel Alone in the World

22. Get up close to animals at the Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo Landscape
image by Lululu007/TripAdvisor

Address: 748 Story Rd, San Jose, CA 95112

The Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is a great place to see various animals and was founded in 1961. Initially, the zoo only had a few animals to start. However, it expanded to include many different kinds, including lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!)

Visitors can tour the enclosures, visit the petting zoo, or participate in one of the many workshops. The Happy Hollow Park & Zoo workshops include various activities, such as animal feedings, keeper talks, and behind-the-scenes care. 

The Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is great for kids. Some of the more unique animals kept here are Jaguars, Red Pandas, and the cute Fennec Fox. Aside from that, reptiles such as the American Alligator have also appeared in the zoo. It’s a family-friendly activity and is perfect for all ages!

If you’re looking for a quick side tour, book a Monterey and Carmel Tour.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to do in Monterey

23. Hike through Alum Rock Park

Alum Rock Park Trail
image by /TripAdvisor

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

Alum Rock Park is a great place to hike and explore nature. This park features a variety of trails, as well as several different plant and animal species.

Alum Rock Park was founded in 1872. The park was originally created to provide a place for people to hike and explore nature. In the years since, the park has expanded its offerings to include a variety of trails, as well as some different plant and animal species.

There are many different animals that you can see at Alum Rock Park. Some animals you might see include deer, squirrels, and birds. You might see some different trees, such as oak trees and redwoods. You might also see some bushes and flowers.

In addition to hiking and exploring, visitors can tour the park or participate in one of the many workshops. These workshops include bird watching, plant identification, and Leave No Trace principles.

You can tour the park. Alum Rock Park offers a variety of tours, including a self-guided tour, an audio tour, and a guided tour. The best time of year to visit Alum Rock Park is in the spring or fall. This is because the weather is usually mild and there are fewer crowds.

See Related: Best Tropical Vacation Spots in the World

24. Take a tour of the HP Garage

HP Garage Items
image by Joel C/TripAdvisor

Address: 367 Addison Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301

The HP Garage was founded in 1939. The garage was originally just a simple garage, but it has since been turned into a museum. Visitors can tour the garage or participate in one of the many workshops.

The HP Garage is a great place to learn about the history of Silicon Valley. This garage is where the company Hewlett-Packard was founded. Visitors can tour the garage or participate in one of the many workshops.

The HP Garage offers a variety of workshops, including tours, classes, and events. Visitors can tour the garage or participate in one of the many workshops. Some popular workshops include the History of Silicon Valley Tour, the HP Garage Class, and the HP Garage Event.

The HP Garage is designated a California Historical Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

You won’t be disappointed if you’re looking to feel immersed at the beginning of Silicone Valley. It’s also a fun activity in the San Jose area that the whole family can enjoy together!

25. Learn about science at the Los Alamitos Creek Reserve

Sunset in Los Alamitos Creek
image by donjd2 is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

The Los Alamitos Creek Reserve is a great place to learn about science. This reserve features a variety of different plant and animal species. Visitors can also tour the reserve or participate in one of the many workshops.

The Los Alamitos Creek Reserve was founded in 1974. The reserve was originally created to protect various plant and animal species. In the years since the reserve has expanded its offerings to include various plant and animal species.

The Los Alamitos Creek Reserve offers a variety of workshops, including tours, classes, and events. Visitors can tour the reserve or participate in one of the many workshops.

Some of the most popular workshops include the Nature Discovery Tour, the Bird Watching Class, and the Leave No Trace principles.

The Los Alamitos Creek Reserve features various plant and animal species. Some animals you might see include deer, squirrels, and birds. You might see some different trees, such as oak trees and redwoods.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Eureka, California

26. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Lake and Mountain Range

You’d be mad to be in this neck of the woods and NOT visit Yosemite National Park. If you’re visiting San Jose in need of an extended adventure, you’ll find the city is one of the best hubs to strike out at this magnificent national park.

As one of the first parks of its kind in the US, Yosemite National Park is known the world over for its stunning landscapes of thick forests and immense cliffs.

It’s one of our favorite national parks, and frankly, I could talk about this place for days. Book a Yosemite National Park Full-Day Trip now.

See Related: Best National Parks to Visit in November

27. San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art

San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art Exhibit
image by An0nyMs/TripAdvisor

Address: 560 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113

Looking to scratch that art itch?

The Institute of Contemporary Art San Jose (aka ICA San Jose) is a small contemporary art museum comprising 3 galleries.

The majority of the works on display here are rotating examples of art created by West Coast artists. The exhibits rotate quite frequently, so you’re likely to see something new every time you visit this brilliant little museum.

FAQ

What are the best tourist attractions in San Jose, California?

San Jose, California, things to do include the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph, California’s Great America Theme Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden, the Children’s Discovery Museum, Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, and the SAP Center.

What are some fun things to do in San Jose, California?

Some San Jose California attractions include visiting the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph, exploring the Japanese Friendship Garden, taking the kids to the Children’s Discovery Museum, Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, catching a Sharks game at the SAP Center, and learning about local history at The History Park.

These are some of the best things to see in San Jose, California, and we don’t want you to skip them!

Where can I find the best wine in San Jose, California?

The best wine in San Jose, California, can be found at a Santa Cruz Mountain vineyard. This region is home to some of the best wines and is one of the fun things to do in San Jose, California. Visitors can tour the vineyards, taste the wines, and learn about the winemaking process.

What are some of the best hiking trails in San Jose, California?

Some of the best hiking trails in San Jose, California, can be found at Almaden Quicksilver County Park. This park features over 50 miles of hiking trails, as well as a variety of other outdoor activities. Visitors can go camping, fishing, picnicking, and more. Plus, it’s one of the cheat things to do in San Jose, California.

What is there to do at night in San Jose, California?

There are various things to do at night in San Jose, California, including attending a show at the Historic California Theatre, browsing the exhibits at the San Jose Museum of Art, and relaxing in Kelley Park.

However, if you’re looking for things to do in San Jose, California, this weekend, you can guarantee plenty of nightlife bars, clubs, and adult activities.

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Use Skyscanner to find flight deals. As my personal favorite flight search engine, Skyscanner scours websites and airlines across the globe, leaving no stone unturned to help you find the best deal possible. And if you really want to take your savings to new heights, pair Skyscanner with Going (Formerly Scott's Cheap Flights). With access to exclusive mistake fares delivered straight to your inbox, you'll be packing your bags and jetting off on your next adventure before you know it.

Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a low cost way to ensure your travel plans go smooth no matter what's thrown at it. Cover yourself against illness, injury and theft, and protect the arrangements you've made with our flexible travel cancellation insurance. My favorite options for travel insurance are:

Book Your Accommodation
In order to capture the widest selection of properties and the best price, use Booking.com as they have the cheapest rates for guesthouses, hotels, luxury condos, B&Bs and so much more.

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Discover the Best Travel Tools
Be sure to visit our page on our favorite travel resources to learn how you too can visit over 10 countries in year.