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Quietly and steadily, San Jose has been transforming itself into a larger city both in terms of size and population compared to its neighbor, San Francisco. Unlike the foggy and rainy Bay Area, this vibrant hub of Silicon Valley manages to avoid the misty weather. While it may seem like San Jose is filled with typical housing developments, tech company parks, and commercial areas sprawled along its main roads, there’s more to this city than meets the eye. Take a stroll downtown, and you’ll discover its unique charm. Local artists showcase their work at the San Jose Museum of Art, while the Tech Museum of Innovation offers interactive exhibits for aspiring software engineers. The SAP Center, home to the San Jose Sharks, and the California Theatre attract world-class performers. Moreover, with a theme park and a trendy shopping street, the original capital of California is becoming an exciting destination for the entire family.
San Francisco has always stolen the spotlight when it comes to dining in the Bay Area, leaving San Jose in its shadow. However, just because San Jose may not be on every food lover’s radar doesn’t mean it lacks a unique and vibrant culinary scene. In fact, the city’s dining landscape is a reflection of its diverse population, with a significant Hispanic and Asian influence.
Here are some of our favorite things to do while visiting San Jose. Pick your favorite!
California’s Great America Located in the Santa Clara neighborhood, just a short drive away from downtown San Jose, this theme park is a fantastic choice for families seeking thrilling rides, water park excitement, and live entertainment. While …
If you have an appreciation for architecture, make sure to visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph in downtown San Jose. This Roman Catholic church has a fascinating history as it is the fifth version built on this site. Previous basilicas were …
Children’s Discovery Museum The Children’s Discovery Museum is a great place for kids to have fun and learn. Just like the Tech Museum nearby, this museum offers hands-on experiences that children will enjoy. Adults can also find interesting displays …
The garden, built in 1965 to symbolize the enduring friendship between San Jose and Okayama, Japan, is often praised by visitors for its serene atmosphere. Many families find it to be a wonderful spot for their children to play and enjoy themselves. …
The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is home to over 4,000 ancient Egyptian artifacts, making it the largest collection on the West Coast. Visitors can explore a replica tomb, marvel at numerous sarcophagi and mummies, and enjoy detailed descriptions and …
The downtown area of San Jose is home to the San Jose Art Museum, which adds a touch of sophistication to the surroundings. The museum showcases a diverse range of artwork from the 20th and 21st centuries, including paintings, video installations, …
Santana Row, located west of downtown San Jose, is the place where wealthy individuals from Silicon Valley choose to indulge in their spending. This trendy shopping development offers a variety of enticing restaurants, a cinema, and high-end stores …
Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose, The Tech Interactive is a welcoming destination. This downtown facility, distinguished by its striking blue dome, attracts hordes of schoolchildren who arrive by the busload. It embraces and …
The Winchester Mystery House, located near the trendy Santana Row in San Jose, has a fascinating history and is often regarded as a tourist attraction. It was constructed by Sarah Winchester, a highly superstitious woman and heir to the firearm …