San Jose is considered the capital of Silicon Valley, best known for its growing electronics industry. Not only home to many tech headquarters such as Yahoo and eBay, it also boasts mountain scenery, sunny weather and a vibrant culture. Whether here for outdoor adventure, art or shopping, each traveler will find plenty of activities to suit his needs.
The Museum of Art is primary known for its collection of contemporary West Coast artists, with a large permanent exhibit and rotating installations. The wide variety of works on display include paintings, drawings, photographs, digital media and sculpture from artists such as Andy Warhol, Chuck Close and Wayne Thiebaud. Much of the museum's focus is dedicated to the fusion of art and technology, combining San Jose's innovative industrial reputation with expressive local artistry. It is also family-friendly, complete with a kids center filled with interactive exhibits and hands on activities.
San Jose Museum of Art
110 South Market St.
San Jose, CA 95113
408-271-6840
sjmusart.org
The Winchester Mystery House provides guided tours through an unsual Victorian style mansion. Visitors will learn all about Sarah Winchester, the resident who ordered constant construction — lasting 38 years — on her home until her death. The mansion is said to be haunted, and the tour provides an entertaining mix of tales of spirit sightings with informational historical anecdotes about life at the turn of the 20th century. Tours of varying lengths are available.
Winchester Mystery House
525 South Winchester Blvd.
San Jose, CA 95128
408-247-2101
winchestermysteryhouse.com
San Jose has many different neighborhoods to explore, and Japantown is not one to skip. Filled with authentic Japanese culture, visitors can wander admiring the beautiful churches while taking in traditional music. Shop at a Sunday morning farmer's market, or buy Japanese and Hawaiian gifts at novelty shops like Santo Market. Tourists can buy Asian treats from outdoor vendors, or enjoy a meal at one of the many outstanding Japanese restaurants in the area.
Alum Rock Park is located in a valley in the foothills of eastern San Jose. It has playgrounds, picnic areas and natural spring baths. It also contains multiple trails for hikers, bikers and equestrians. Visitors will have a chance to see vegetation and wildlife native to California; such as the California Buckeye tree, the Coast Live Oak and the California Quail. The Alum Rock Science and Nature Center contains science exhibits and several regional animals.
16240 Alum Rock Ave.
San Jose, CA 95127
sjparks.org
Raging Waters is the largest water park in Northern California. It boasts 23 acres of rides, slides and attractions, including the 350,000-gallon wave pool, which mimics real tidal motion and wave patterns. Shotgun Falls allows daredevils to freefall down a steep slide into a 10-foot pool, while slides like Dragon's Den and Blue Thunder are only slightly tamer. Even small children will enjoy play areas such as Pirate's Cove and Little Dipper, making Raging Waters perfect for the entire family.
Raging Waters, San Jose
2333 South White Rd.
San Jose, CA 95148
408-238-9900
rwsplash.com
