San Jose, California, is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do.
From museums and art galleries to parks and gardens, there’s something for everyone in San Jose.
The city is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the San Jose Museum of Art and the San Jose Symphony.
And of course, no visit to San Jose would be complete without sampling the local cuisine.
The city is home to some of the best restaurants in the country, so be sure to try a few while you’re here.
Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled vacation or a relaxing getaway, San Jose is the perfect destination.
With that said, here are 18 fun things to do and awesome places to see in San Jose.
1. Pay a Visit to the San Jose Museum of Art
The San Jose Museum of Art is a great place to view some amazing pieces of art.
The museum has a wide variety of collections that feature different styles of art.
You can view paintings, sculptures, and photographs from around the world.
The museum also offers a variety of events and programs that you can participate in.
If you are looking for a place to learn about art or just to view some beautiful pieces, the San Jose Museum of Art is the perfect place for you.
2. Take a Stroll Through One of the City’s Beautiful Parks
San Jose is home to a number of beautiful parks, each with its own unique atmosphere.
For a peaceful stroll, try Hellyer County Park, where you can meander through winding paths flanked by towering redwoods.
Or if you’re looking for something a bit more lively, take a walk through Downtown San Jose’s Plaza de Cesar Chavez, where you’ll find public art, fountains, and a variety of cafes and shops.
And of course, no visit to San Jose would be complete without a stop at the Japanese Friendship Garden, where you can admire the tranquil ponds and carefully manicured landscaping.
With so many options to choose from, there’s sure to be a park that’s perfect for you.
3. Sample the Local Cuisine at One of the City’s Top Restaurants
If you’re looking for a truly unique dining experience, you’ll want to sample the local cuisine at one of San Jose’s top restaurants.
From traditional Mexican dishes to inventive California fusion cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
And with so many top-rated restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for any occasion.
Some of our favorite places to eat in San Jose include La Victoria Taqueria, Rincon Center Food Court, and Original Joe’s.
La Victoria is perfect if you’re craving authentic Mexican food, while Rincon Center is ideal for a quick and tasty bite.
And if you want something a little more upscale, Original Joe’s is always a great choice.
No matter what your taste, you’re sure to find something delicious at one of these San Jose hotspots.
4. Catch a Show at the San Jose Symphony
The San Jose Symphony is a world-renowned orchestra that has been entertaining audiences for over 125 years.
The symphony is based in the heart of San Jose and is home to some of the most talented musicians in the world.
If you’re looking for an evening of culture and refinement, you can’t go wrong with a performance by the San Jose Symphony.
The orchestra offers a wide variety of classical and pop concerts, as well as special events throughout the year.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time listener, you’re sure to enjoy an evening at the symphony San Jose.
5. Explore the Bizarre Winchester Mystery House
San Jose’s Winchester Mystery House is one of the most bizarre places in the world.
Built by Sarah Winchester, the widow of gun magnate William Winchester, the house is a labyrinth of staircases, hallways, and rooms that lead nowhere.
Winchester believed that the ghosts of those killed by her husband’s rifles were haunting her, and she sought to appease them by building a house that would confuse and trap them.
Today, the Winchester Mystery House is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can explore its strange hallways and hidden passageways.
So if you’re looking for a truly unique experience, be sure to add the Winchester Mystery House to your list of must-see destinations.
6. Take the Little Ones to Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
Looking for a fun-filled day out with the little ones? Then head to Happy Hollow Park & Zoo in San Jose!
With more than 130 species of animals, including tigers, lions, bears, and reptiles, there’s plenty to see and learn about.
The park also has a thrilling amusement park ride area, complete with a Ferris wheel, carousel, and roller coaster.
Plus, there’s a playground, picnic areas, and a petting zoo.
In other words, there’s something for everyone at Happy Hollow Park & Zoo!
So what are you waiting for? Pack up the kids and enjoy a day of fun at this one-of-a-kind park.
7. Check Out the San Jose McEnery Convention Center
The San Jose McEnery Convention Center is a great place to hold events, conferences, and conventions.
The convention center is located in the heart of downtown San Jose, close to hotels, restaurants, and other attractions.
It is one of the largest conference centers in the nation with approximately 200,000 square feet of space.
The convention center is also home to a variety of meeting rooms, exhibit halls, and an auditorium.
In addition, the San Jose McEnery Convention Center offers a wide range of services and amenities, making it a great choice for any event.
8. Learn About the City’s History at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of San Jose.
The museum houses an impressive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, statues, and jewelry.
You can also learn about the city’s fascinating past through exhibits in the early days of California’s Silicon Valley.
The museum is located in Rosicrucian Park, a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city.
In addition to the museum, the park features a planetarium, a research library, and a tranquil garden.
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique day out, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is sure to please.
9. Take a Look Around the HP Pavilion
The HP Pavilion is a multipurpose entertainment and sports venue located in San Jose, California.
The pavilion was built in 1993 and is currently home to the NHL’s San Jose Sharks.
The HP Pavilion is also home to a variety of concerts and other events.
If you’re ever in the area, be sure to take a tour of the HP Pavilion. You’ll get to see the inside of the arena and learn about its history.
You might even get to meet some of the Sharks players!
Tours are typically available on game days and during regular business hours. Call ahead for more information.
10. Watch a Sharks Hockey Game at the SAP Center
The SAP Center in San Jose, California is home to the Sharks hockey team.
The arena seats over 17,000 fans and is known for its loud and energetic atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to spend an evening, watching a Sharks game at the SAP Center is a great option.
The games are always well-attended, and there’s a great sense of community among the fans.
Plus, you can’t beat the views from inside the arena—it’s one of the best ways to experience live hockey.
So whether you’re a diehard Sharks fan or just looking for a fun night out, heading to the SAP Center to watch a Sharks game is sure to be a memorable experience.
11. Visit the Tech Museum of Innovation
The Tech Museum of Innovation is located in downtown San Jose and is dedicated to the history and future of technology.
The museum has interactive exhibits on a variety of topics, such as renewable energy, communication, transportation, and biotechnology.
You can also learn about the latest breakthroughs in technology and see how they are being used to solve real-world problems.
In addition, the museum offers a variety of educational programs for all ages.
The Tech Museum is a great place to learn about the past, present, and future of technology.
12. Get Your Thrill On at California’s Great America Amusement Park
As the weather gets warmer, thoughts turn to days spent outdoors enjoying all that California has to offer.
And what could be better than a day spent at an amusement park?
Great America in Santa Clara is the perfect place to scream your head off on hair-raising roller coasters, gobble down deliciously unhealthy food, and make memories with family and friends.
The park first opened its gates in 1976 and has been thrilling visitors ever since.
With over 40 rides spread out across 100 acres, there’s something for everyone.
From pulse-pounding coasters like Gold Striker and Wilderness Run to kid-friendly attractions like the merry-go-round and bumper cars, there’s something for everyone at Great America.
So this summer, don’t miss out on the fun head to Santa Clara and get your thrill on!
13. Stroll Through the Japanese Friendship Garden
San Jose is home to the beautiful Japanese Friendship Garden.
The garden is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city, and it’s the perfect place to take a relaxing walk.
There is a koi pond, a rock garden, and several sculptures and artwork throughout the area.
The Japanese Friendship Garden is also a popular spot for weddings and other special events.
If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Japanese Friendship Garden is definitely worth a visit.
14. See the Dinosaurs at the Children’s Discovery Museum
The Children’s Discovery Museum in San Jose is home to the largest collection of dinosaurs in the world.
With more than 50 full-size dinosaurs on display, the museum is a must-see for any dinosaur lover.
The dinosaurs are arranged in chronological order, so visitors can see how they have evolved over time.
The exhibit also includes interactive displays that teach about the different species of dinosaurs and their habitats.
In addition, the museum offers a variety of programs and events that are perfect for kids of all ages.
So whether you’re a diehard dino fan or just looking for a fun day out, be sure to check out the Children’s Discovery Museum in San Jose.
15. Cool Off at Raging Waters San Jose
Raging Waters San Jose is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day.
With over 25 slides and attractions, there is something for everyone.
For thrill-seekers, there are high-speed slides like the Frog Hop and the Big Wave.
For those who want to take it easy, there is the lazy river, where you can float along and soak up the sun.
There is also the Kids Kingdom, with pint-sized slides and fountains designed just for little ones.
And no matter how hot it is outside, the waterpark is always a comfortable 84 degrees.
So come on down to Raging Waters San Jose and cool off!
16. Explore Downtown San Jose
Downtown San Jose is a vibrant and exciting place to explore.
There’s always something going on, whether it’s a festival, a concert, or just people-watching.
The restaurants are lively, and there’s plenty of shopping to be done.
The best way to experience downtown is just to walk around and take it all in.
There are so many different things to see and do that you’ll never get bored.
So come on down and explore downtown San Jose for yourself! You won’t regret it.
17. Have a Picnic at Los Gatos Creek County Park
Los Gatos Creek County Park is a great place to have a picnic.
There are plenty of picnic tables, and the creek provides a beautiful backdrop.
The park also has a playground, making it a perfect spot for families with young children.
There are plenty of hiking trails to explore, and the scenery is simply stunning.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature, Los Gatos Creek County Park is the perfect spot.
18. See the Postmodern Architecture of San Jose City Hall
San Jose City Hall is a must-see for anyone interested in postmodern architecture.
Completed in 2005, the building was designed by internationally acclaimed architect Frank Gehry.
The unusual shape of the building is meant to mimic the motion of a dancing couple, and the facade is covered in over 10,000 shimmering metal panels.
Inside, the building is just as striking, with sweeping curved staircases and walls lined with colorful murals.
The best part is that City Hall is open to the public, so you can admire the architecture up close.
So whether you’re an architecture buff or just looking for something new to see, be sure to check out San Jose City Hall.
