San Jose, the capital of Silicon Valley, might be known globally as a hub for tech and innovation, but this buzzing city offers much more than gadgets and startups. From historic landmarks to sprawling parks and vibrant food scenes, San Jose is packed with things to see, do, and experience. If you’re visiting for a weekend or staying a while, here are the top things to do in San Jose.

Things to Do in San Jose

1. Visit the Tech Interactive

 

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Located in downtown San Jose, The Tech Interactive is a hands-on science and technology museum that’s both educational and fun. Perfect for families and curious minds, it features interactive exhibits on everything from robotics and biotech to virtual reality and space.

Tip: Don’t miss the IMAX Dome Theater for an immersive film experience.

2. Explore the Winchester Mystery House

This Victorian mansion is one of San Jose’s quirkiest and most famous attractions. Built by Sarah Winchester, the widow of a firearms magnate, the house is full of oddities, staircases that lead nowhere, doors that open into walls, and a maze-like layout believed to be influenced by spiritual beliefs.

Take the guided tour to hear the ghost stories and uncover its architectural mysteries.

3. Stroll Through San Pedro Square Market

San Pedro Square Market is the heart of San Jose’s food and entertainment scene. With a wide variety of food vendors, craft beer, live music, and a vibrant open-air setting, it’s a great place to eat, drink, and hang out—day or night.

4. Admire Art at the San Jose Museum of Art

For lovers of contemporary and modern art, the San Jose Museum of Art offers a dynamic collection and frequent exhibitions from artists around the world. The museum is compact but rich in visual experiences, located right in the heart of downtown.

5. Take a Walk in the Japanese Friendship Garden

This peaceful oasis located in Kelley Park is inspired by the gardens of Okayama, San Jose’s sister city in Japan. Complete with koi ponds, arched bridges, and seasonal blooms, it’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll or a serene picnic.

6. Check Out the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

One of the most unique attractions in the Bay Area, this museum houses the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in western North America. Mummies, hieroglyphs, and full-scale replicas of tombs make it a must-visit for history buffs.

7. Explore Santana Row

If you’re into shopping, fine dining, or just a chic vibe, Santana Row is your go-to spot. This upscale open-air shopping district is a stylish blend of luxury boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and bars—plus frequent events and live music.

8. Catch a Game or Show at SAP Center

Home to the NHL’s San Jose Sharks, the SAP Center (aka “The Shark Tank”) also hosts major concerts and entertainment events throughout the year. If you’re into sports or live music, there’s always something happening here.

9. Discover Local Nature at Alum Rock Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, Alum Rock Park offers scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views. Located on the east side of the city, it’s one of California’s oldest municipal parks and a quiet escape from the city buzz.

10. Sample Global Cuisine

San Jose is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the U.S., and it shows in the food. Explore authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Little Saigon, savor Mexican flavors in East San Jose, or enjoy Korean BBQ, Indian thalis, and Ethiopian injera all over the city.

Bonus: Visit the Lick Observatory

If you’re up for a scenic drive into the hills east of San Jose, check out the historic Lick Observatory atop Mount Hamilton. It offers stunning panoramic views and fascinating insight into astronomical research.

Frequently Asked Questions About San Jose

1. Where is it San Jose located?

The City is located in Northern California, in the heart of Silicon Valley. It’s about 50 miles south of San Francisco and 40 miles north of Santa Cruz.

2. Is San Jose worth visiting?

Absolutely! It  offers a unique blend of tech innovation, cultural attractions, diverse cuisine, and outdoor spaces. It’s ideal for both city lovers and nature enthusiasts.

3. What is San Jose known for?

It  is best known as the capital of Silicon Valley, home to major tech companies and startups. It’s also famous for attractions like the Winchester Mystery House, The Tech Interactive, and its multicultural food scene.

4. What are the top things to do in San Jose?

• Visit The Tech Interactive Museum

• Explore the Winchester Mystery House

• Stroll through the Japanese Friendship Garden

• Shop and dine at Santana Row

• Check out the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

• Hike in Alum Rock Park

5. What is the best time to visit San Jose?

The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is warm and dry. It has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and sunny summers.

6. How do I get around San Jose?

San Jose is car-friendly, but you can also use VTA (Valley Transportation Authority) buses and light rail. Rideshare services and bike rentals are widely available too.

7. Is San Jose safe for tourists?

Yes, It  is generally safe for visitors. Like any large city, it’s smart to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night in less busy areas.

8. Does it have an airport?

Yes. Mineta San José International Airport (SJC) is located just a few miles from downtown and offers flights to many domestic and international destinations.

Final Thoughts

It  is a city that balances cutting-edge innovation with rich cultural experiences and natural beauty. If you’re geeking out at tech museums, sipping wine at a trendy market, or hiking in the hills, there’s no shortage of things to do. So pack your curiosity and maybe a pair of walking shoes, and dive into the heart of Silicon Valley.