What are the Best Things to do in San Jose?

San Jose, home to the largest and most populous city in Silicon Valley, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. With a population of over one million people, San Jose is home to many high-tech and creative businesses, making it a global center for innovation, discovery and creativity. For those looking to explore everything the “Capital of Silicon Valley” has to offer, there is no shortage of activities and attractions to explore. From wine tasting and upscale shopping centers to family-friendly museums, here are the top things to do in San Jose.

1. Visit Downtown San Jose

The downtown area of San Jose is the perfect place to start exploring this bustling city. Downtown San Jose is full of fascinating attractions, from Michelin star restaurants to world-class museums like San Jose Museum of Art, Tech Museum of Innovation and Children’s Discovery Museum. With nearby San Pedro Square as its epicenter, visitors can find a variety of shops and eateries along with a variety of events for all ages. Plus, with more than 4,000 hotel rooms in downtown alone, San Jose is an ideal budget-friendly destination for tourists looking for quality accommodations at reasonable prices.

2. Tour Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley has a rich history of technological innovation and is home to several large companies such as Apple and Google. While touring Silicon Valley, visitors can discover how these iconic businesses developed and how they’ve helped shape the world we live in today. Visitors can also explore other lesser known tech companies as well as unique attractions like The Winchester Mystery House, Intel Museum and Craft Beer Cellars.

3. Visit the Municipal Rose Garden

One of the most beloved attractions in San Jose is the Municipal Rose Garden. Located in Kelley Park, this 14-acre public rose garden is home to over 3,500 rose bushes that bloom each spring. This stunning destination offers visitors different varieties of roses and ample opportunities for taking beautiful photographs of its vibrant colors.

4. Explore Kelley Park

Kelley Park is a major tourist attraction in San Jose and a beautiful place to spend time outdoors. In addition to the Municipal Rose Garden, Kelley Park is home to numerous outdoor activities like bird watching, jogging paths and Japanese Tea Gardens. It also houses several historic landmarks like the Japanese Friendship Garden, Statue of Quetzalcoatl and Shrine of St. Clare.

5. Go Shopping on Santana Row

Santana Row is one of San Jose’s most popular shopping destinations. Spanning 40 acres, this vibrant area features designer boutiques and national stores as well as entertainment venues like La Fortuna Mexican Restaurant, Saddle Ranch Chop House and Left Bank Brasserie. Plus, visitors can also find an array of luxurious spas and salons here, perfect for those looking for some self-care during their stay in San Jose.

6. Enjoy Foodie Experiences

San Jose offers plenty of options for those who love exploring different cultures through food. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an upscale dining experience, this city has it all. San Pedro Square Market has over 20 food vendors offering everything from craft beer to tacos and burgers, while places like Origami’s Japanese Cuisine, LB Steak and Olla Cocina offer incredible dishes that are prepared according to traditional recipes.

7. Take a Drink Tour

San Jose’s thriving drink culture offers visitors plenty of opportunities to explore the city’s food and beverage scene from craft beers to innovative cocktails. Visitors can explore the city’s drinking culture by visiting bars like The Good Karma Vegan Café & Wine Bar or take a brewery tour of notable places like Clandestine Brewing or Strike Brewing Co..

No visit to San Jose would be complete without exploring all its unique attractions and trying out its delicious food and drinks. From its vast tech-based businesses that offer tours to its buzzing art galleries and gourmet restaurants, San Jose offers something for everyone. No matter what you decide to explore in this fascinating city, you’re sure to find plenty of fun things do in San Jose that will have you planning your next visit soon! If you would like to read more about things to do in San Jose check out sjvisitor.org.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring San Jose

San Jose is a vibrant and diverse city with so much to offer beyond its popular tourist attractions. As a local, I have discovered some hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences that are sure to make your trip unforgettable. In this insider’s guide, we will explore some of the best things to do in San Jose that most visitors miss out on.

Local Attractions

While the Tech Museum of Innovation and the Winchester Mystery House are great attractions, San Jose has so much more to offer. The Municipal Rose Garden is a stunning place to enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by gorgeous flowers and fountains. Another hidden gem is the San Jose Municipal Satori Garden, a serene Japanese-style garden with a koi pond and a waterfall. For breathtaking views of the city, hike up the Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve and take in the stunning vistas and nature.

Dining Spots

San Jose boasts a diverse food culture, so prepare to indulge your taste buds in some culinary delights. Don’t leave San Jose without trying the famous “Orange Sauce” from La Victoria Taqueria. Another must-visit spot for delicious Mexican food is Chavez Supermarket Taqueria, where you can get huge burritos for a reasonable price. For something a little different, try Dosa Biryani House, serving authentic South Indian cuisine. Lastly, don’t forget to grab some freshly made dim sum at Din Ding Dumpling House.

Cultural Experiences

San Jose has a rich cultural heritage that you should explore while you are here. The San Jose Museum of Art is one of the best places to learn about the city’s vibrant art scene, while the Vietnamese American Cultural Center offers a glimpse into the city’s Vietnamese heritage. Participate in the annual Cinequest Film Festival to experience some of the world’s best independent films or wander around the Japantown neighborhood during the Obon Festival, a Japanese summer festival that has been held for over fifty years.

Local History

San Jose has a fascinating history that is waiting to be explored. History Park, located in Kelley Park, showcases San Jose’s heritage with replicas of historic buildings and exhibits from different eras. The double D’s at the end of H.P. garage door stands for David & Douglas Auto Body, which later became Hewlett-Packard (HP), and visitors can stop by to take a photo. While you are here, visit the Peralta Adobe, the oldest structure in San Jose, that still stands. Or, take a mission tour and explore the centuries-old architectural marvel of the Mission San Jose.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

For a unique and memorable experience, try wine-tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The area’s microclimate produces top-rated wine, and some of the most scenic wineries offer tours to visitors. You may also discover some lesser-known hiking trails in the Almaden Quicksilver County Park, where you can explore the old mercury mines and a stunning scenery.

Lastly, ride on the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, an 18-mile bike and hike trail, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and opportunity to spot sea lions and playful otters, while exploring various coastal towns.

In conclusion, San Jose has so much more to offer beyond its popular tourist spots. As an insider, I hope this guide gives you a taste of the hidden gems and unique experiences that await you in this vibrant city. Explore, taste, and enjoy all that San Jose has to offer!