Discover Things to Do in San Jose, CA
San Jose, CA, is often touted as a diverse city teeming with culture. Nearby Silicon Valley brought affluence to the area, but the sunny, mild climate, bay access, and other amenities of San Jose can be enjoyed by people of all income levels and backgrounds. Read on to learn more about some of the best things to do in San Jose, CA. From wedding venues to places to take the kids on the weekend, this city has it all.
Introduction to San Jose, CA
San Jose is one of the most populous cities in the nation; it’s home to more than a million residents. Known sometimes as the Capital of Silicon Valley, the city has roots that date back to the 1700s. Diversity and innovation are important traits of the San Jose landscape. The city is home to numerous people with Hispanic, Japanese, Portuguese, and Vietnamese heritage. In fact, around 10% of its residents are Vietnamese Americans.
Introduction to San Jose, CA
San Jose is one of the most populous cities in the nation; it’s home to more than a million residents. Known sometimes as the Capital of Silicon Valley, the city has roots that date back to the 1700s. Diversity and innovation are important traits of the San Jose landscape. The city is home to numerous people with Hispanic, Japanese, Portuguese, and Vietnamese heritage. In fact, around 10% of its residents are Vietnamese Americans.
History of San Jose, CA
A group of indigenous people known as the Tamien group made the area around modern-day San Jose home for more than 4,000 years. So, when the Spanish colonized the area in the 1700s, they moved or integrated those peoples as they set up missions, forts, and towns. In 1777, San Jose became the first official settlement in California, and it played an important role in connecting military, agricultural, and eventual commercial communities in the area.
When Mexico became independent of Spain, San Jose was part of the First Mexican Empire. It was still a fairly small town, with only a few hundred people. The population only came close to 1,000 people by around 1845. A few years later, the Mexican-American War ended, and California became a territory of the United States. San Jose was the capitol at that time.
Though the city didn’t hold its capitol status as California journeyed into statehood and the future, it continues to play an important role in the area. By the mid-20th century, the city’s economy had moved from agricultural to industrial, and later that century, the area evolved again as technology became a main driver.
Why You Should Visit San Jose, CA…and Consider Staying
Its ties with Silicon Valley, the broad diversity, and an overall culture of innovation make San Jose a welcoming land of opportunity for many. According to Area Vibes, the per capita income in the city is 27% higher than the national average, and median household income is an impressive 63% higher than it is across the nation as a whole. The area’s mild weather is also inviting, especially for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. U.S. Climate Data indicates the average highs for San Jose, even in months like July and August, hover just under 95 degrees, for example, and temperatures through much of the year are in the 60s and 70s.
On top of welcoming weather, career and income opportunity, and diversity, there are plenty of things to do in San Jose. Peruse the lists below for tourist attractions in San Jose, CA, as well as events and amenities of interest to locals.
Why You Should Visit San Jose, CA…and Consider Staying
Its ties with Silicon Valley, the broad diversity, and an overall culture of innovation make San Jose a welcoming land of opportunity for many. According to Area Vibes, the per capita income in the city is 27% higher than the national average, and median household income is an impressive 63% higher than it is across the nation as a whole. The area’s mild weather is also inviting, especially for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. U.S. Climate Data indicates the average highs for San Jose, even in months like July and August, hover just under 95 degrees, for example, and temperatures through much of the year are in the 60s and 70s.
On top of welcoming weather, career and income opportunity, and diversity, there are plenty of things to do in San Jose. Peruse the lists below for tourist attractions in San Jose, CA, as well as events and amenities of interest to locals.
Attractions in San Jose, CA
From mysterious man-made abodes to natural wonders, San Jose attractions offer plenty to pursue. Find some options for yourself, your family, or potential romantic outings below.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Ride an old-fashioned steam train or take a scenic rail trip from the mountains to the Santa Cruz beach boardwalk. Roaring Camp Railroads offers train excursions throughout the year as well as special adventures, like the Thomas and Percy Halloween Party or Holiday Lights Train during specific seasons.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Ride an old-fashioned steam train or take a scenic rail trip from the mountains to the Santa Cruz beach boardwalk. Roaring Camp Railroads offers train excursions throughout the year as well as special adventures, like the Thomas and Percy Halloween Party or Holiday Lights Train during specific seasons.
Winchester Mystery House
The Winchester Mystery House is one of the most unique attractions you’ll find in the area. Outside spooky season, visitors can tour the giant mansion, which boasts more than 160 rooms and 2,000 doors, among other oddities. Outside, gardens and other amenities offer even more to explore. Whether you want to spend an hour or the entire day, you’ll find an option for admission. During the Halloween season, visitors can enjoy a Halloween Haunt tour.
Winchester Mystery House
The Winchester Mystery House is one of the most unique attractions you’ll find in the area. Outside spooky season, visitors can tour the giant mansion, which boasts more than 160 rooms and 2,000 doors, among other oddities. Outside, gardens and other amenities offer even more to explore. Whether you want to spend an hour or the entire day, you’ll find an option for admission. During the Halloween season, visitors can enjoy a Halloween Haunt tour.
Santa Clara County Fairgrounds
The Santa Clara County Fairgrounds hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including an annual livestock fair and numerous concerts and music events. Visitors to San Jose or locals can check the fairgrounds website to see what events might be upcoming.
Santa Clara County Fairgrounds
The Santa Clara County Fairgrounds hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including an annual livestock fair and numerous concerts and music events. Visitors to San Jose or locals can check the fairgrounds website to see what events might be upcoming.
Casino M8trix
Adults looking for a bit of a thrill or fine dining and gaming can find it at Casino M8trix. Poker, Baccarat, Black Jack, and other games are available with a variety of max or min wagers. After collecting your winnings or as a break between wagers, you can visit one of several cafes and eateries in the Casino for lunch, dinner, or a decadent dessert.
Casino M8trix
Adults looking for a bit of a thrill or fine dining and gaming can find it at Casino M8trix. Poker, Baccarat, Black Jack, and other games are available with a variety of max or min wagers. After collecting your winnings or as a break between wagers, you can visit one of several cafes and eateries in the Casino for lunch, dinner, or a decadent dessert.
LEGOLAND
The Bay-area LEGOLAND Discovery Center is one of the top sights in the San Jose, CA, area for kids and builders of all ages. At the center, you can explore enormous LEGO creations, participate in virtual reality games, and put your own building skills to the test in interactive exhibits. Locals can save on admission with annual passes.
LEGOLAND
The Bay-area LEGOLAND Discovery Center is one of the top sights in the San Jose, CA, area for kids and builders of all ages. At the center, you can explore enormous LEGO creations, participate in virtual reality games, and put your own building skills to the test in interactive exhibits. Locals can save on admission with annual passes.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium provides the opportunity to explore underwater worlds and landscapes from across the globe. This location houses a variety of sea life, including sharks, jellyfish, and stingrays, and you can see them in natural habitats ranging from kelp forests to ocean dunes.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium provides the opportunity to explore underwater worlds and landscapes from across the globe. This location houses a variety of sea life, including sharks, jellyfish, and stingrays, and you can see them in natural habitats ranging from kelp forests to ocean dunes.
Happy Hollow Park and Zoo
San Jose locals can become members of this conservation and education zoo to get half-off admission. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy the Happy Hollow Zoo, which houses a variety of animals and includes demonstrations and interactive exhibits. The zoo includes a puppet theater, a tree-filled park area for free play, and dining options, so you can grab lunch or dinner while experiencing nature and learning about animals.
Happy Hollow Park and Zoo
San Jose locals can become members of this conservation and education zoo to get half-off admission. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy the Happy Hollow Zoo, which houses a variety of animals and includes demonstrations and interactive exhibits. The zoo includes a puppet theater, a tree-filled park area for free play, and dining options, so you can grab lunch or dinner while experiencing nature and learning about animals.
Great America
Thrill seekers can find the adrenaline they crave at Great America, a theme and water park that includes everything from coasters to carousels. Whether you want to idle along a lazy river, challenge the kids to bumper cars, or push your limits on rides that go fast and soar high, this theme park is a great way to spend the day.
Great America
Thrill seekers can find the adrenaline they crave at Great America, a theme and water park that includes everything from coasters to carousels. Whether you want to idle along a lazy river, challenge the kids to bumper cars, or push your limits on rides that go fast and soar high, this theme park is a great way to spend the day.
Getting Married in San Jose: San Jose, CA Offers Beautiful Wedding Venues
From country clubs to city parks, San Jose provides plenty of locations for beautiful, personalized wedding celebrations. Choose from locations where guests can view scenic mountain or desert landscapes as the backdrop to your I do's. Or find a place convenient to hospitality and attractions so family and friends coming in from out of town can easily enjoy the amenities of the city before and after they celebrate your nuptials.
Enjoying the Outdoors in San Jose, CA
The city of San Jose, CA, may be a bustling city with all the attractions, fine dining, and nightlife that comes with that designation, but it’s also in an area that makes enjoying the outdoors easy. Find your balance in San Jose while on vacation or as a resident by exploring nature and outdoor adventures, starting with some of the options below.
Castle Rock State Park
See the sights from a high point in the Santa Cruz Mountains when you visit Castle Rock State Park. You’ll pay a small day-use fee when parking, and that grants you access to more than 30 miles of trails through gorgeous terrain. Dogs are allowed, and you can also ride horseback through much of the park. This area doesn’t have cell reception, so plan ahead to enjoy and unwind without distractions for a few hours or a day.
Castle Rock State Park
See the sights from a high point in the Santa Cruz Mountains when you visit Castle Rock State Park. You’ll pay a small day-use fee when parking, and that grants you access to more than 30 miles of trails through gorgeous terrain. Dogs are allowed, and you can also ride horseback through much of the park. This area doesn’t have cell reception, so plan ahead to enjoy and unwind without distractions for a few hours or a day.
Japanese Friendship Gardens
You don’t have to escape the city to find a great place to enjoy the outdoors near San Jose. The Japanese Friendship Garden in San Diego includes a variety of indoor and outdoor exhibits, including koi ponds, statuary, and artifacts. Seniors, students, and the military get discounts on tickets for this San Jose attraction, and you can buy tickets online that never expire and can be used any day.
Japanese Friendship Gardens
You don’t have to escape the city to find a great place to enjoy the outdoors near San Jose. The Japanese Friendship Garden in San Diego includes a variety of indoor and outdoor exhibits, including koi ponds, statuary, and artifacts. Seniors, students, and the military get discounts on tickets for this San Jose attraction, and you can buy tickets online that never expire and can be used any day.
Alum Rock Park
Alum Rock Park is a municipal park that dates back to 1872. It includes 720 acres within Alum Rock Canyon, and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, and plenty of green spaces to run around or relax in. Picnic amenities include tables and grills, and families will find easy access to restrooms and water as well as playgrounds for the kids.
Alum Rock Park
Alum Rock Park is a municipal park that dates back to 1872. It includes 720 acres within Alum Rock Canyon, and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, and plenty of green spaces to run around or relax in. Picnic amenities include tables and grills, and families will find easy access to restrooms and water as well as playgrounds for the kids.
Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve
Have limited time on a visit to San Jose and want to experience all the landscape has to offer? The Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve is a great choice, as it lets you bike, hike, or ride through woods and grasslands with views of the valley. You can choose from a variety of trails to meet the needs of your group or family.
Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve
Have limited time on a visit to San Jose and want to experience all the landscape has to offer? The Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve is a great choice, as it lets you bike, hike, or ride through woods and grasslands with views of the valley. You can choose from a variety of trails to meet the needs of your group or family.
Alviso Marina County Park
The Alviso Marina County Park is around 20 acres and offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with the nature of the Bay Area. Charter a boat tour or enjoy kayaking in the park’s waterways. You can also hike or bike the area, and there are plentiful options for birdwatching and wildlife sightings, as this park is in a wildlife refuge.
Alviso Marina County Park
The Alviso Marina County Park is around 20 acres and offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with the nature of the Bay Area. Charter a boat tour or enjoy kayaking in the park’s waterways. You can also hike or bike the area, and there are plentiful options for birdwatching and wildlife sightings, as this park is in a wildlife refuge.
Mount Hermon Adventures
Whether you’re looking to send your kids somewhere to experience nature during the summer or your family just needs a day or weekend getaway, Mount Hermon Adventures might be a good choice. This camp and adventure facility offers faith-based programming and activities for people of all ages.
Mount Hermon Adventures
Whether you’re looking to send your kids somewhere to experience nature during the summer or your family just needs a day or weekend getaway, Mount Hermon Adventures might be a good choice. This camp and adventure facility offers faith-based programming and activities for people of all ages.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Being outdoors isn’t always about stopping to smell the flowers or exploring the woods. Sometimes, it’s about good old fun in the sun, which is exactly what’s on tap at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy games and rides or bite into delicious snacks as you take in the sights.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Being outdoors isn’t always about stopping to smell the flowers or exploring the woods. Sometimes, it’s about good old fun in the sun, which is exactly what’s on tap at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy games and rides or bite into delicious snacks as you take in the sights.
San Jose, CA is Home to Amazing Social Clubs
Spending time on the boardwalk or exploring the Japanese Gardens are activities that are more fun with friends and family. In San Jose, you can build your community and increase your friend group by joining amazing social clubs. Choose from country clubs and other social opportunities that offer fine dining, golf, tennis, swimming, and membership benefits such as priority access to event spaces.
Arts, Museums, and Culture in San Jose, CA
Those looking for cultural or educational experiences will find plenty of top sights in San Jose, CA, that meet their needs, including those below.
Lick Observatory
The Lick Observatory is a shared effort between multiple colleges in the area, which use the observatory for astronomy and other research. Admission to the visitor’s center and gift shop is free year-round, and you can also reach out to schedule walking tours or learn about educational events at the facility.
Lick Observatory
The Lick Observatory is a shared effort between multiple colleges in the area, which use the observatory for astronomy and other research. Admission to the visitor’s center and gift shop is free year-round, and you can also reach out to schedule walking tours or learn about educational events at the facility.
Japanese American Museum of San Jose
With such a large Japanese-American presence and heritage in the city, it’s no surprise the area boasts a Japanese American Museum. This location includes a variety of items and information detailing the history of people of Japanese heritage in the nation.
Japanese American Museum of San Jose
With such a large Japanese-American presence and heritage in the city, it’s no surprise the area boasts a Japanese American Museum. This location includes a variety of items and information detailing the history of people of Japanese heritage in the nation.
Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph
Whether you’re a person of faith or just love the architecture of historic churches, consider a visit to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph. Mass is held daily and multiple times on Sunday for those looking to attend a service, and visitors can also view the grounds and building and learn about its history.
Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph
Whether you’re a person of faith or just love the architecture of historic churches, consider a visit to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph. Mass is held daily and multiple times on Sunday for those looking to attend a service, and visitors can also view the grounds and building and learn about its history.
Tech Museum of Innovation
This science museum offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and experiences for the entire family. You can enjoy paid general admission access to most areas of the museum or add on optional additional tickets for IMAX and other immersive experiences. Check the museum calendar for educational and community events.
Tech Museum of Innovation
This science museum offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and experiences for the entire family. You can enjoy paid general admission access to most areas of the museum or add on optional additional tickets for IMAX and other immersive experiences. Check the museum calendar for educational and community events.
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is open Friday through Sunday and includes the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in the western part of North America. You can purchase tickets on location, but buying them online may help you get more convenient and quick access to the museum. A self-guided museum tour is available via the app, which you can download on a smartphone and use when you’re in the museum.
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is open Friday through Sunday and includes the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in the western part of North America. You can purchase tickets on location, but buying them online may help you get more convenient and quick access to the museum. A self-guided museum tour is available via the app, which you can download on a smartphone and use when you’re in the museum.
San Jose Museum of Art
Art lovers will find a large permanent collection and rotating exhibits from around the world at the San Jose Museum of Art. Members, college students, youth, and teachers get in free, and admission is moderately priced for other adults. The museum includes a store and a cafe, so you can plan to spend the day and enjoy lunch and an afternoon of art.
San Jose Museum of Art
Art lovers will find a large permanent collection and rotating exhibits from around the world at the San Jose Museum of Art. Members, college students, youth, and teachers get in free, and admission is moderately priced for other adults. The museum includes a store and a cafe, so you can plan to spend the day and enjoy lunch and an afternoon of art.
Entertainment in San Jose, CA
Entertainment is never far away when you’re living in or visiting the San Jose area. There are thousands of venues and events to choose from, starting with the few listed below.
San Jose Brew Bike
Pedal your way to fun with this unique entertainment option. Gather friends for a community-powered ride through San Jose as you enjoy brews, snacks, and laughs. San Jose Brew Bike also offers a shuttle service for those who aren’t looking for exercise during their entertainment.
San Jose Brew Bike
Pedal your way to fun with this unique entertainment option. Gather friends for a community-powered ride through San Jose as you enjoy brews, snacks, and laughs. San Jose Brew Bike also offers a shuttle service for those who aren’t looking for exercise during their entertainment.
Santana Row
For retail shopping enthusiasts, a visit to Santana Row is a must when in the San Jose area. Fashion, home decor, and niche interest brands all show up in this shopping district, where you’ll also find plenty of beverage and dining options to keep you fed and hydrated as you browse.
Santana Row
For retail shopping enthusiasts, a visit to Santana Row is a must when in the San Jose area. Fashion, home decor, and niche interest brands all show up in this shopping district, where you’ll also find plenty of beverage and dining options to keep you fed and hydrated as you browse.
SAP Center at San Jose
Catch games, concerts, and major theatrical events at the SAP Center at San Jose. This major venue serves up premium entertainment options all year.
SAP Center at San Jose
Catch games, concerts, and major theatrical events at the SAP Center at San Jose. This major venue serves up premium entertainment options all year.
The Ritz
Spend the night on the town by starting or ending at The Ritz nightclub. You’ll need tickets to catch some of the popular music acts that hit the stage at The Ritz in downtown San Jose.
The Ritz
Spend the night on the town by starting or ending at The Ritz nightclub. You’ll need tickets to catch some of the popular music acts that hit the stage at The Ritz in downtown San Jose.
West Wind Capitol Drive-In
The Mediterranean-style climate makes drive-in movies an enjoyable evening activity near San Jose. Catch a classic or a current release at The West Wind Capitol Drive-In.
West Wind Capitol Drive-In
The Mediterranean-style climate makes drive-in movies an enjoyable evening activity near San Jose. Catch a classic or a current release at The West Wind Capitol Drive-In.
SoFA District
Not sure what you want to do for the day or evening? Head out to the SoFA District, which is an arts, cultural, and entertainment area in downtown San Jose. You’ll find plenty of options to explore, including craft breweries, eateries, shopping, and galleries.
SoFA District
Not sure what you want to do for the day or evening? Head out to the SoFA District, which is an arts, cultural, and entertainment area in downtown San Jose. You’ll find plenty of options to explore, including craft breweries, eateries, shopping, and galleries.
San Pedro Square Market
Enjoy live music, explore multiple dining options, and shop for yourself or gifts at San Pedro Square Market. This is a great stopping point between nearby historical tours or an awesome way to end a day enjoying the sites around San Jose.
San Pedro Square Market
Enjoy live music, explore multiple dining options, and shop for yourself or gifts at San Pedro Square Market. This is a great stopping point between nearby historical tours or an awesome way to end a day enjoying the sites around San Jose.
Events and Event Venues in San Jose, CA
Speaking of events in San Jose, CA—sometimes you want to host your own. The city and surrounding area offers plenty of options, including country and social club locations, wedding and party venues, and outdoor options.
Shopping in San Jose, CA
Retail therapy is easy to come buy in San Jose. Whether you’re looking to up the ante on your seasonal wardrobe, want to find unique gifts for friends and family, or need to round out your grocery shopping with local produce, there’s a location designed to meet your preferences. Some of the best shopping in and around the city is found at locations like Santana Row, the Great Mall, Gilroy Premium Outlets, the downtown farmers market, the San Jose Flea Market, the Japanese Farmers market, and the Grand Century Mall.
Nearby Areas and Neighborhoods of San Jose, CA
Whether you’re looking for a place to spend a few nights or a new home, the neighborhoods in and surrounding San Jose offer plenty of options.
Downtown San Jose
Lofts and other spaces downtown let you live or visit right at the heart of the city. You can easily walk to shopping, dining, and many attractions.
Japantown
Japantown offers cultural experiences in line with Japanese-American experiences and is a favorite of visitors looking for unique dining options.
Willow Glen
Tree-lined shopping streets, a local farmers market, and nearby casual dining options make this neighborhood walkable and charming.
Rose Garden
Older homes, tree-lined streets, and a variety of roses and rose gardens make this district a favorite of locals and visitors alike. If you’re in the city, it’s worth a drive or walk through the area.
Fremont
The nearby city of Fremont is an easy commute from San Jose. It offers a variety of its own attractions, including the Mission San Jose reconstructed museum and church.
Mountain View
Located just south of the bay, Mountain View has a population of more than 80,000 and plenty of amenities to enjoy for visitors and locals.
Alum Rock
Alum Rock is an incorporated neighborhood of San Jose that used to be an independent town. You’ll find everything you need for day-to-day life in the area, including casual dining, drug and grocery stores, and schools.
Morgan Hill
This city, located in the south part of Silicon Valley, is another location option for anyone who might want to live in the San Jose area.
Where to Stay in San Jose, CA
As you can see, there are no shortages of options for where to stay when visiting San Jose, CA, or the area surrounding it. Thousands of hotels and Airbnb locations dot the landscape, so you can find the amenities you need in any neighborhood in the city. The area is also home to several country clubs that offer suites for visitors.
Discover San Jose Attractions Today
With so many things to do in San Jose, CA, you’ll be glad you visited. So glad, you may even decide to stay because it would take a lifetime to explore everything the area has to offer.