San Jose CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near San Jose, California.
1. Winchester Mystery House
ECCENTRIC HISTORIC MANSION
Winchester Mystery House is a world-famous Victorian mansion renowned for its maze-like design, built under the direction of eccentric heiress Sarah Winchester. The house features staircases leading nowhere, secret passages, and beautifully manicured gardens, making it a unique piece of architectural history. Guided tours offer insights into the oddities and legends that have fascinated visitors for decades.
2. Municipal Rose Garden
EXPANSIVE ROSE SANCTUARY
Municipal Rose Garden is a tranquil urban retreat filled with over 3,500 rose bushes representing dozens of varieties. The garden's carefully landscaped lawns and picturesque reflecting pool create a perfect setting for photography, picnics, and relaxation. Visitors can stroll among blooming flowers and enjoy the vibrant colors, especially during peak season in spring and early summer.
3. Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
ANCIENT EGYPT EXHIBITS
The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum offers an immersive experience into ancient Egyptian culture, featuring the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts on display in western North America. It includes detailed replicas of tombs, mummies, and fascinating exhibits on daily life and religious beliefs. The museum's unique architecture and adjacent gardens add to its appeal for history enthusiasts and families alike.
4. Santana Row
UPSCALE SHOPPING DISTRICT
Santana Row is a vibrant open-air shopping and dining destination that combines luxury boutiques, trendy restaurants, and lively public spaces. Modeled after European shopping districts, its tree-lined streets and outdoor cafes make it popular for both locals and visitors. Santana Row frequently hosts live music and events, adding a festive atmosphere to its chic ambiance.
5. The Tech Interactive
HANDS-ON SCIENCE CENTER
The Tech Interactive is a renowned technology and science museum offering interactive exhibits that explore robotics, virtual reality, and innovation. The museum encourages visitors of all ages to experiment, create, and learn through hands-on activities and themed galleries. An attached IMAX theater provides an immersive cinematic experience, making it a must-visit in downtown San Jose.
6. Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose
INTERACTIVE KIDS' MUSEUM
Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose is a favorite family attraction, offering interactive exhibits designed to spark creativity and curiosity in kids. From water play and climbing structures to science labs and art studios, the museum provides hands-on learning experiences for children of all ages. Its vibrant purple building is a downtown landmark and a hub for educational fun.
7. Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ZOO PARK
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo combines a compact, engaging zoo with amusement park rides and large shaded play areas, perfect for young families. It features a variety of animals, a puppet theater, and interactive exhibits amid beautifully landscaped grounds. Adjacent picnic areas and playgrounds make it an all-day destination for relaxation and fun.
8. Alum Rock Park
SCENIC URBAN WILDERNESS
Alum Rock Park is one of California's oldest municipal parks, spanning 720 acres of foothills, forests, and creekside trails. Visitors enjoy hiking, biking, picnicking, and exploring the park's diverse wildlife and mineral springs. Panoramic viewpoints and family-friendly facilities make it a top spot for outdoor recreation in the city.
9. Japanese Friendship Garden
TRANQUIL POND GARDENS
Japanese Friendship Garden is a serene oasis inspired by traditional Japanese landscape design, featuring koi ponds, arched bridges, and meticulously pruned trees. The garden is a peaceful setting for strolls and contemplation, reflecting San Jose's sister-city relationship with Okayama, Japan. Seasonal blooms and tranquil water features attract photographers and nature lovers.
10. San Pedro Square Market
LIVELY FOOD HALL
San Pedro Square Market is a bustling indoor-outdoor food hall offering a diverse range of local eateries, bars, and dessert spots. The market's communal seating and regular live music events create a lively atmosphere ideal for meeting friends or sampling new cuisines. Nearby historic buildings and outdoor plazas add to its dynamic urban vibe.
11. San Jose Museum of Art
CONTEMPORARY ART SHOWCASE
San Jose Museum of Art specializes in modern and contemporary works, featuring pieces from emerging and established artists across diverse media. Its downtown location and rotating exhibitions draw art lovers seeking inspiration and new perspectives. Educational programs and community events enhance its role as a cultural hub in Silicon Valley.
12. Great Mall
MAJOR OUTLET SHOPPING
Great Mall in Milpitas is Northern California's largest indoor outlet mall, boasting more than 200 stores including popular fashion and electronics brands. Shoppers can take advantage of discounted prices in a climate-controlled environment, with a wide variety of dining options available onsite. The mall is conveniently located just minutes from central San Jose.
13. Japantown San Jose
HISTORIC CULTURAL DISTRICT
Japantown San Jose is one of the last three authentic Japantowns in the United States, offering a unique glimpse into Japanese-American heritage. Visitors can explore specialty shops, art galleries, and traditional restaurants along its walkable streets. The neighborhood hosts annual festivals and cultural celebrations that honor its rich history.
14. Westfield Valley Fair
UPSCALE RETAIL CENTER
Westfield Valley Fair is a premier shopping destination featuring luxury brands, department stores, and an impressive international food court. The mall offers high-end fashion, tech gadgets, and gourmet experiences in a modern setting. Its proximity to Santana Row allows for a seamless day of shopping and dining for Bay Area visitors.
15. Original Joe's
CLASSIC ITALIAN-AMERICAN DINING
Original Joe's is a beloved San Jose institution known for serving hearty Italian-American fare in a timeless, old-school atmosphere. Established in 1956, the restaurant is famous for its signature steaks, pastas, and tableside service. It remains a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking an authentic dining experience in the heart of downtown.