Welcome to the vibrant city of San Jose, where glittering technology giants, gorgeous parks, and a rich cultural heritage meet. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful weather, and friendly locals. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a foodie, or a history buff, there is something for everyone in San Jose. In this post, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the best attractions and things to do in this amazing city. From world-class museums to popular city landmarks, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover the magic of San Jose.
The 11 Best Things To Do With Family In San Jose
- Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing and Wildlife Day Tour from San Jose
- Combo Tour Arenal Hanging Bridges Hot Springs Waterfall from San Jose
- Arenal Volcano Mega Combo Tour
- Private Full Day Tour to Mount Titlis and Lucerne
- Costa Rica Top Adventure 8d 7n Vacation Package
- Arenal Volcano Hanging Bridges and Thermal River from San Jose
- Day Trip from San Jose to San Luis Canopy Tour
- Vip City Bus Half Day Tour from San Jose
- 3 Day Arenal Volcano Monteverde Manuel Antonio National Park Tour from San Jose
- San Jose Food and Gold Museum Tour
- San Jose Night City Tour
The 11 Best Things To Do With Family In San Jose
1. Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing and Wildlife Day Tour from San Jose
Manuel Antonio National Park is a must-see destination in Costa Rica, and this guided tour from San Jose makes it easy to experience it all in just a day. With the help of an experienced guide, visitors can explore the park’s top attractions and hiking trails, timing their visit to avoid the biggest crowds. The day starts with a 6:00 a.m. pickup from centrally located hotels in San Jose, with transportation provided in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Along the way, visitors will stop at various points of interest en route to the park. Once inside the national park, the guide will lead visitors on a hike and help them spot wildlife along the way. The tour includes the entrance fee to the park, plus gratuities, and wraps up with a drop-off back at the hotel in the late afternoon. All in all, it’s a convenient and hassle-free way to visit one of Costa Rica’s most beloved national parks.
2. Combo Tour Arenal Hanging Bridges Hot Springs Waterfall from San Jose
Escape the city and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Costa Rica with this private tour from San José. You’ll embark on a journey through hidden waterfalls and lush jungles, taking in stunning views of the towering Arenal Volcano throughout the day. Your expert guide will accompany you through a unique walk over hanging bridges, sharing knowledge about the local flora and fauna. Afterward, sink into ultimate relaxation at a thermal spa with over 25 pools. Indulge in a delicious breakfast and lunch on this personalized excursion, catered to your every need. Hotel and Airbnb pickup is included, so sit back and enjoy nature’s beauty on the Combo Tour Arenal Hanging Bridges Hot Springs Waterfall.
3. Arenal Volcano Mega Combo Tour
The Arenal Volcano Mega Combo Tour is an all-inclusive day trip from San Jose that takes you to some of Costa Rica’s top attractions. With private transport included, you can avoid the hassle of navigating public transit and focus on enjoying the experience. Your guide will lead you every step of the way, sharing information and making the rain forest zipline course exciting for all. This tour covers all entrance fees and includes two meals, making it an incredible value for those looking to see as much as possible during their short trip to Costa Rica. Choose between heading directly to the meeting point or arranging a pickup from your hotel in the San Jose area.
4. Private Full Day Tour to Mount Titlis and Lucerne
This full day private tour takes you to the beautiful Mount Titlis and Lucerne. A comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle will pick you up at your hotel in San José or nearby cities. Bottled water is also provided.
You’ll start your day in La Fortuna de San Carlos, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano, and then visit the Arenal Hanging Bridges. After that, you’ll visit one more stop before heading back to your hotel. All fees and taxes are included in the tour price.
This tour is wheelchair accessible, and strollers and infant seats are available. Most travelers can participate. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
5. Costa Rica Top Adventure 8d 7n Vacation Package
The Costa Rica Top Adventure 8d 7n Vacation Package is the perfect way to explore the beautiful country of Costa Rica. Your trip will begin with a pickup from the San Jose airport by one of the company’s representatives who will explain your itinerary, answer any questions, and provide you with a package of vouchers and information about your trip.
During your vacation, you will enjoy exciting activities such as a private tour to Arenal Volcano & Fortuna Waterfall and a visit to Manuel Antonio National Park. You will also have free-style days to explore these beautiful areas on your own.
Throughout the trip, you can expect to be well-fed with breakfast and lunch provided on certain days. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking and infant seats are available upon request. However, please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime as you explore the best of Costa Rica through the Costa Rica Top Adventure 8d 7n Vacation Package!
6. Arenal Volcano Hanging Bridges and Thermal River from San Jose
Explore two popular attractions in Arenal with this full-day tour from San José. Take a tour of a nature reserve through suspension bridges located in the middle of the tropical forest and enjoy unique panoramic views. Next, relax in a thermal bath complex with more than 25 different pools heated by the nearby Arenal Volcano. This tour offers the opportunity to spend the day away from the city and see the natural attractions of Arenal while enjoying the rejuvenating properties of a thermal bath. Pickup from San Jose accommodations is provided and you’ll travel in comfort by air-conditioned van. Lunch and private transportation are included as well. The tour starts at 08:00 AM and pickup is available at all Airbnb and hotels in San José Costa Rica. If your hotel is not listed, simply add your location in the details and you’ll be picked up. Visit the Arenal Volcano and Arenal Hanging Bridges with this amazing tour.
7. Day Trip from San Jose to San Luis Canopy Tour
Head out from San Jose to the lush rain forest to take part in the San Luis Canopy Tour. This thrilling zipline adventure takes you through a beautiful natural setting with waterfalls, rivers, and verdant vegetation. With a range of different heights and lengths, the ziplines offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. After the tour, enjoy a delicious typical Costa Rican lunch before being transported back to your hotel. This family-friendly tour is suitable for children aged four and over and includes a bilingual guide, lunch, entrance fees, hotel pickup and drop-off, and souvenir photos available for purchase. Don’t miss out on this incredible adventure on your trip to San Jose!
8. Vip City Bus Half Day Tour from San Jose
Experience the best of San Jose’s historical landmarks, culture, and panoramic views on the VIP City Bus Half Day Tour. Departing from downtown San Jose, embark on a double-decker sightseeing bus and ride to popular attractions like Plaza de la Cultura and Teatro Nacional Costa Rica. Learn about the city’s rich history and culture through informative commentary throughout the tour. Enjoy a delicious lunch included with the package and take home souvenir photos (available for purchase). Hotel pickup and drop-off are also provided, making it convenient for first-time visitors to explore the city hassle-free. Book now and get ready to discover the beauty and culture of San Jose in style.
9. 3 Day Arenal Volcano Monteverde Manuel Antonio National Park Tour from San Jose
See the vast diversity of Costa Rica on a 3-day all-inclusive tour. Explore the highlights of Costa Rica on a private tour of the country’s top natural attractions. Your guide will share details along the way and shape the trip to meet your needs. Traveler pickup and drop-off are offered from hotels, cruise ships, and the international airport. The tour includes accommodation, meals, and transport to minimize cost and hassle. Enjoy hiking at Arenal Volcano, exploring the Monteverde cloud forest, and relaxing at the tropical white-sand beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park. The tour includes 2 nights of accommodation and dinner on one evening.
10. San Jose Food and Gold Museum Tour
Discover the vibrant food scene and the rich history of San Jose on this food and museum tour. Your adventure begins at the Banco Central De Costa Rica Garden, where you’ll meet your guide before heading to the Central Market. Explore the market’s aisles and sample local delicacies while learning about Costa Rican cuisine and its cultural significance. Afterwards, we’ll visit the Borbon Market, where the guide will give you an overview of the produce before enjoying a freshly prepared meal from the market’s vendors.
Next, we’ll head to a gold museum to learn about the region’s pre-colonial past and admire the impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold pieces, pottery, and other artifacts. After the museum visits, we’ll end up in Mr. Sloth Coffee Shop to learn how to cook Costa Rican-style drip coffee and mouth-watering banana empanadas. We’ll also take classes in making tamales and enjoy authentic soft drinks like toad water.
Throughout the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase souvenirs and shop for personal items. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in San Jose’s food and culture while tasting the best of the city’s cuisine.
11. San Jose Night City Tour
San Jose is full of incredible sights, but it can be tough to know where to start. That’s where the San Jose Night City Tour comes in. With this tour, you’ll be able to see many of the top attractions in just a couple of hours, all while traveling safely with a knowledgeable and skilled guide. Plus, dinner is included, taking the stress out of your night out. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also provided for added convenience. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to experience the beauty of San Jose at night.
Frequently Asked Questions about San Jose
San Jose is the largest city in the Silicon Valley of California and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the USA. A city that offers a perfect blend of modernization and culture, San Jose attracts visitors from all over the world. For those planning to visit the city for the first time, here are some frequently asked questions to guide you:1. When is the best time to visit San Jose?
The best time to visit San Jose is during the summer months of June, July, and August. The warm weather offers perfect outdoor activities and events, including concerts, festivals, and sporting events. The city has a Mediterranean climate, which means you can visit all year round. Just be prepared for some occasional winter rain.2. What are some of the must-visit attractions in San Jose?
San Jose is home to several tourist attractions that you shouldn’t miss. These include:a. The Tech Museum of Innovation
A science and technology-focused museum that features interactive exhibits for both the young and old. From earthquake simulations to virtual reality experiences, this museum has it all.b. Winchester Mystery House
Built by Sarah Winchester, the widow of the founder of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company, the mansion is renowned for its odd architecture, secret passageways, and corridors to nowhere.c. Children’s Discovery Museum
A place full of exciting activities for kids, kids can enjoy water play areas, learn about different cultures, and also take part in science experiments.3. How easy is it to get around in San Jose?
San Jose is a bustling city, but getting around is straightforward. The city has an excellent public transportation system consisting of buses, light-rail trains, and shuttles. If you prefer to drive, car rental services are available, with easy access to major highways.4. What are some good restaurants to try in San Jose?
San Jose has a diverse food scene, and you will find something to suit every taste bud. Some of the best restaurants to try include:a. Original Joe’s
A tri-tip steak and pasta restaurant that has been serving the city for over 60 years.b. Falafel’s Drive-In
For an excellent Mediterranean-style falafel, this restaurant is a must-visit.c. La Victoria Taqueria
A Mexican restaurant that serves some of the best burritos in the city.5. What are some of the best places to shop in San Jose?
San Jose has several excellent shopping destinations, some of which include:a. San Jose Flea Market
A perfect place to shop for nearly anything, from fresh produce to clothing and toys.b. Santana Row
An upscale shopping area featuring designer stores, stylish boutiques, and notable restaurants.c. Westfield Valley Fair
This shopping mall is home to over 366 stores and is the largest mall in Northern California.6. Where are the best places to stay in San Jose?
San Jose has several excellent hotels, ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxurious resorts. Some of the best places to stay include:a. The Westin San Jose
Located in the heart of downtown, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a vibrant nightlife.b. Hotel De Anza
A charming boutique hotel that features a classic Art Deco design.c. The Fairmont San Jose
A luxurious hotel featuring a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and excellent dining options.How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in San Jose
San Jose, officially known as the City of San Jose, is the cultural and economic heart of Silicon Valley. It is the third-largest city in California and is known for its beautiful parks, museums, and vibrant art and cultural scene. Whether you’re visiting San Jose for the first time or have been here many times before, there are always new and exciting things to see and do. In this guide, we will give you some insider tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in San Jose.1. Visit the San Jose Museum of Art
The San Jose Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for art lovers. It features a diverse collection of American art from the 20th and 21st centuries, with an emphasis on West Coast artists. The museum also plays host to a variety of changing exhibitions, lectures, and events throughout the year. The museum is located in downtown San Jose and is open Tuesday through Sunday.2. Explore the Tech Museum of Innovation
The Tech Museum of Innovation is a hands-on interactive museum that explores the intersection of technology and society. It features exhibits on robotics, virtual reality, and genetics, among others. One of the most popular exhibits is the earthquake simulator, which lets visitors experience what it’s like to be in an earthquake. The museum is located in downtown San Jose and is open daily.3. Take a Stroll Through the Japanese Friendship Garden
The Japanese Friendship Garden is a beautiful and tranquil oasis in the heart of San Jose. It features a koi pond, bamboo forest, tea garden, and various other Japanese-inspired gardens. The garden is open daily, and guided tours are available on weekends.4. Visit the Winchester Mystery House
The Winchester Mystery House is a bizarre and fascinating attraction that is sure to pique your curiosity. The mansion was built by Sarah Winchester, heir to the Winchester rifle fortune, and features staircases that lead to nowhere, doors that open onto walls, and other oddities. The mansion is open for tours daily.5. Discover the History of Silicon Valley at the Computer History Museum
The Computer History Museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of computing and its impact on society. It features exhibits on the history of computers, video games, and the internet, among others. The museum is located in Mountain View, just a short drive from San Jose, and is open Wednesday through Sunday.6. Take in a Show at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts
The San Jose Center for the Performing Arts is the premier performing arts venue in San Jose. It hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including Broadway shows, concerts, and ballets. The center is located in downtown San Jose and is open for performances throughout the year.7. Visit the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is home to the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in the western United States. It features exhibits on ancient Egyptian culture, religion, and daily life. The museum also features an authentic replica of an ancient Egyptian tomb. The museum is located in San Jose and is open daily.8. Take a Hike in the Santa Cruz Mountains
The Santa Cruz Mountains offer some of the best hiking and outdoor opportunities in the San Jose area. There are numerous trails and parks in the area, including Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Castle Rock State Park, and Mount Umunhum. These parks offer breathtaking views of the mountains and are a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area.9. Shop and Dine in Santana Row
Santana Row is a stylish outdoor shopping and dining destination located in the heart of San Jose. It features over 70 shops and restaurants, including designer boutiques and gourmet cafes. Santana Row is the perfect place to spend an afternoon shopping, dining, and people-watching.10. Catch a Game at SAP Center
SAP Center is home to the San Jose Sharks, the local NHL hockey team. The arena also hosts a variety of other events throughout the year, including concerts, family shows, and other sporting events. Catching a Sharks game at SAP Center is a must-do activity for sports fans visiting San Jose.Book Your Tour Now
San Jose has something for everyone, from art and culture to outdoor recreation and shopping. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there is always something new to see and do in this vibrant city. With this guide, you’ll be able to experience the best that San Jose has to offer and make the most of your time as a tourist.
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