Best Places To Visit In San Jose, California

Below is our list of best places to visit & things to do in San Jose California

Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph in downtown San Jose is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

Many visitors are drawn to it by the building’s beauty on the interior and the outside, as well as its unique past.

A total of five 19th-century basilicas were destroyed by earthquakes or fire. One thing they have in common is their seating arrangement.

Awe-inspiring windows and domes surround you.

The Cathedral’s walls are adorned with all 39 of its stained glass windows. The most notable are the 21 that ring the transept walls.

It’s also the most striking!

Hand-blown, high-quality Bavarian glass was used to make sixteen of them. They are “fade proof” since they were manufactured using an 11th-century process.

A technique that has never been employed before.

In addition to its architectural splendor, the cathedral is noted for its tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.

Address: 80 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113

Children’s Discovery Museum

If you’re seeking for activities to do with kids in San Jose, this is a fantastic alternative.

A hands-on museum in the center of San Jose, the Children’s Discovery Museum is dedicated to igniting children’s innate curiosity and creativity.

Steve Wozniak is the primary source of funding for the museum. In addition to being one of Apple’s co-founders, he was one of the museum’s most vocal supporters.

Children’s Discovery Museum opened its doors for the first time in 1990. It’s now a matter of time. A world-class scientific museum and a top-notch children’s museum.

Outdoor playground Bill’s Backyard teaches youngsters about nature. Climbing, building, and digging are all permitted in this kid-friendly space.

The museum’s Discovery Youth program gives kids a look at some of Silicon Valley’s newest and oldest technological innovations.

If you’re searching for something informative and family-friendly to do in San Jose, this is the place to go.

Address: 180 Woz Way, San Jose, CA 95110

Computer History Museum

San Jose’s Computer History Museum is only fitting given the city’s reputation as a mecca for technology.

Given your position in the epicenter of high-tech innovation, you’ll gain a better understanding of the evolution of technology by looking back to when the Information Age was just getting started.

Once a part of Digital Equipment Corporation, this museum is no longer open to the public. Until 1996, when it relocated to Silicon Valley, the company remained there.

In the end, it was all for the best.

As the world’s largest collection of computing antiques and antiquities, this San Jose icon is a must-see.

This course will teach you everything from photoshop to the history of the internet and how to create your own software.

Visitors are welcome to visit the Computer History Museum at any time of the day or night. It also provides family trips on Saturdays.

It’s important to double-check that there aren’t any private events going on when you plan to stop there.

Address: 1401 N Shoreline Blvd, Mountain View, CA 94043

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

In addition to being a family-friendly amusement park, Happy Hollow Park and Zoo is an accredited zoo!

When Disneyland first opened its doors to the public in Anaheim, California, in 1955, their tale began. Development

Soon after, ideas for a San Jose family entertainment park emerged.

It’s a 16-acre zoo and amusement park located in Kelley Park that provides a wide range of activities for the whole family.

The amusement park’s puppet theater is aimed at entertaining young children and toddlers, making it a unique addition to the park’s offerings.

Attractions including a petting zoo, a carousel, and an amusement park are found here.

The Red Panda exhibit is a must-see for both children and adults alike, where you can see these mischievous creatures at work.

There will be adorable fennec foxes and squirrel monkeys just after that!

If you’re feeling really brave, make a beeline for the American alligator display.

Address: 748 Story Rd, San Jose, CA 95112

Hayes Mansion

Even if you’re not planning to stay at the Hayes Mansion, it’s a must-see if you’re in the area.

Designed in the Queen Anne style, it was built in 1905 to replace the Hayes family’s previous home, which had burned to the ground in 1899.

An outstanding example of late-nineteenth-century architecture, the Hayes Mansion was designed by George Page.

The 41,000-square-foot Mediterranean home boasts an 18-foot-wide solarium that links the south and north wings of the property.

Mary Folsom Hayes Chynoweth was scheduled to live in the home, but she died before it was completed.

With more than 200 rooms, it has become a five-star hotel.

The beautiful interiors and architecture have been linked to rumors of haunting and ghost stories.

The spooky nature of the antique hotel is, of course, a big magnet for visitors.

Address: 200 Edenvale Ave, San Jose, CA 95136

Great America Amusement Park

Not to be overlooked is the 1976 opening of Great America Amusement Park in San Jose.

Located on 100 acres, it is one of California’s most popular amusement parks and is owned and operated by Cedar Fair.

In addition to the Demon, the Flight Deck has an excitement level of five out of five among the coasters.

Additionally, the Flight Deck is one of the most terrifying roller coasters in the world, having a thrill level of five out of five among the coasters.

After going on these rides, you’ll feel like you’ve left your soul in the air.

Visitors to the Berserker or the water park may enjoy a wide range of rides, attractions, and activities geared at children and families.

At Planet Snoopy, children (and adults) may meet their favorite Charlie Brown characters in addition to the rides, shows, and play areas.

Be prepared to have a good time all day if you’re going to Great America.

Address: 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, CA 95054

Los Gatos Creek Trail

Did you know that “The Cats” is a Spanish phrase that meaning “The Cats”? They’re not referring to domestic cats, either, but feral ones.

Although the Los Gatos Creek Trail is no longer as safe as it once was, it’s still an excellent spot to go hiking.

Local park paths are an essential part of many tourists’ vacations.

Because of this, the Los Gatos Creek Trail is a well-liked excursion destination.

The area has 9.7 miles of biking, jogging, and walking trails, making it a great place for families.

Just so you know, the Los Gatos Creek is one of the Santa Clara Valley’s few remaining urban streams.

The riparian corridor is also part of a comprehensive water resource and flood management system that protects the city from flooding.

If you’re concerned that your children won’t like the trek, perhaps the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad and the W.E. “Bill” Mason Carousel can make up for their disappointment.

On the trails of Los Gatos, you may find both of these.

Address: 110 E. Main St. Los Gatos, CA 95030

Makers Market

Go to a souvenir shop where you may buy something to remember San Jose by.

One of Suzy Ekman’s four California Makers Markets may be located in the Santana Row shopping district of San Jose.

Makers Market has a wide range of American-made items that are classic, well-crafted, and proudly manufactured in the United States.

American-made handcrafted products are the focus of the business, which features a broad variety of goods created by second and third-generation artisans making magnificent modern products.

Men’s and women’s apparel and accessories, jewelry, handcrafted home decor, and speciality pharmacy goods are all available at the store.

Craftsman stores and studios in the San Francisco region are the primary source for all of our merchandise.

When you purchase from this business, you’re supporting the survival of American creativity and craftsmanship.

You won’t be able to locate anything like the treats in the store because no product is mass-produced.

Address: 378 Santana Row #1120, San Jose, CA 95128

Mount Hermon Adventures

This high-octane activity may be enjoyed with friends or family members.

Mount Hermon Adventures is a one-stop shop for breathtaking scenery and exhilarating experiences.

Mount Hermon Adventures has a long and illustrious history that dates back to the year of its founding in 1906.

Mount Hermon was established as the first Christian retreat.

Because of this, its creators hoped it would be a haven for individuals from all walks of life to recharge their batteries by spending time with their loved ones and connecting with the natural world and God.

Zip lines and aerial courses are quite popular in this area because of the gorgeous and ancient Redwood trees that surround it.

A trip to Mount Hermon Adventures is a fun and educational way to spend a day.

While swaying from branch to branch, remember to take in the scenery.

Aside from that, they have some of the top zip lines in California.

It’s safe to say that they are protected.

If you want to go, you’ll need to make a reservation.

Address: 17 Conference Dr, Felton, CA 95018

Mountain Winery

So, you’d want to go out for a night of fun and celebration? Attend the Mountain Winery and reserve a spot.

In the fall of 1878, Paul Masson, a young Frenchman who aspired to be an explorer, came in San Francisco.

He grew up in Burgundy, surrounded by some of the world’s most renowned vineyards and wineries.

If he ended up in the fields of California by chance, consider it a godsend.

With its outdoor theater and wine tastings year-round, Mountain Winery attracts visitors from all over the world.

The Mountain Winery’s dinner and show package is a terrific way to spend an evening out.

Listen to classical and modern music from bands and musicians. At the same time, you enjoy a three-course dinner at La Cresta Restaurant.

Sample a variety of wines and cheeses on the Wine Deck, which overlooks the courtyard.

It’s also possible to have a seafood dinner instead.

For the restaurant and wine terrace, reservations are strongly encouraged so that no one has to wait.

Address: 14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga, CA 95070

Museum of Quilts & Textiles

The Museum of Quilts and Textiles is another worthwhile stop in the city. In particular, for those who enjoy quilts.

The San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles is located in the center of San Jose, on First Street.

Quilts and textiles have never been the focus of a museum until now. It’s the first of its sort, in fact.

One of the world’s most comprehensive collections of 20th and 21st-century textile art is on show at the museum.

There are hundreds of quilts in this museum’s collection (800).

The museum aims to highlight how people have utilized cloth fibers in diverse ways across time and civilizations.

Additionally, there is an entire library dedicated to quilting and textiles, as well as methods, history, and chronology from various periods.

It’s a sight you don’t see every day, for sure.

Address: 520 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113

San Jose Heritage Rose Garden

It’s impossible to visit San Jose without seeing the Heritage Rose Garden, which opened to the public in 1995.

Roses of every color and kind may be found here, making it the biggest rose garden in the Western Hemisphere.

The garden’s mission was to raise awareness about the value of these uncommon and beautiful species by serving as a refuge for them.

In order to establish this beautiful garden, the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy cooperated with the South Bay Heritage Rose Group and the City of San Jose.

More than 750 volunteers donate their time and energy to help make this initiative a reality, with support from the City of San Jose.

Even Santa Clara University’s barrier may be seen with the Garden’s climbing roses.

If you’re planning a trip between March and May, you’ll be just in time.

In the formal rose garden, you’ll be able to witness 2,800 varieties of modern and historic roses, along with tiny roses.

Address: 438 Coleman Ave, San Jose, CA 95110

San Jose Museum of Art

Let’s give the San Jose Museum of Art one more chance to show off the best of our local talent.

The late twentieth and early twenty-first century work of West Coast artists is the emphasis of the San Jose Museum of Art.

Drawings, paintings, photos, sculptures, and more comprise the museum’s 2,000-piece collection.

From 1937 through 1969, the building was home to the San Jose Public Library.

Fine Arts Gallery Association bought it in 1991 and created a new museum section.

A California Historical Landmark, it has now been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

In addition, the museum is a member of the American Association of Institutions (AAAM), which only recognizes 750 of the nation’s 8,000 museums with accreditation.

The San Jose Museum of Art is a must-see for art lovers.

Address: 110 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113

San Pedro Square Market

Get together with the locals at a spot where you can sample the best of the world’s cuisines all in one place!

The Peralta Adobe, San Jose’s oldest Spanish Californian tower, houses the San Pedro Square Market, the last of its sort.

At 1972, restaurants and taverns, including the Tower Saloon and the Old Spaghetti Factory, were opened in San Pedro Square.

SPS Market serves as a welcoming food hall for the local community. A large range of speciality food shops and restaurants, many of which are locally owned, are housed under one roof, making it easy for visitors to sample cuisines from across the world.

With a vast range of cuisines to pick from, including Latin American food, sushi, wine, salads, and fusion burgers, there’s something for everyone.

A movie, live music, or athletic event may all be found right here in San Pedro Square Market.

Everything you’re looking for may be found here.

Address: 87 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110

Santana Row

Here is the place to go for those who believe in retail therapy and are now looking to spend their hard-earned money on anything. Santana Row could be worth a look.

One of the world’s leading centers of high-tech research and development.

Santana Row is the best shopping and dining destination in Silicon Valley.

Suppose you’re looking for the most luxurious shopping experience in the city. In that case, this upmarket outdoor mall is the place to be on market day.

Under oak trees, you’ll find seats for relaxing, fountains, live performances, outdoor seating, and some of the best restaurants in the area.

Allow yourself to get completely absorbed by this wide range of shopping options.

Grab a croissant and cup of coffee on a bench as you contemplate your purchases and try not to worry about how much you’ve spent.

San Pedro Square offers so much to see and do that a single day won’t be enough time.

Address: 377 Santana Row, San Jose, CA 95128

SAP Center

The SAP Center, a sports arena in San Jose, California, has hosted a wide variety of high-profile events.

The NHL’s San Jose Sharks are a famous example of this.

As a result, the show became known as “The Shark Tank.”

Besides hosting a variety of concerts and events, the SAP Center in San Jose is also home to the Olympic Gymnastics Trials (held there in 2012 and 2016).

There are also frequent mixed martial arts contests in the area.

First, verify the schedule and calendar of the event before you plan a vacation to witness a big name concert or sports event.

That brings us to the end of the list. The San Jose Barracuda of the American Hockey League and the Golden State Warriors of the NBA are also based here, as are the San Jose Sharks.

It’s conceivable that one of the many activities taking place at the SAP Center in San Jose could capture your eye the next time you’re there.

Address:525 W Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113

Skyline Boulevard

Taking a trip on Skyline Boulevard is one of the best ways to see Northern California and the rest of the state.

Take a journey into the mountains on Skyline Boulevard, which features tiny, twisting roads and stunning vistas.

The nicest part about Skyline Boulevard is that it’s just the beginning of your journey there.

It provides as a gateway to reservoirs, trails, state parks, and a host of other natural beauties.

Access to a large number of protected open space locations is restricted.

Every detour will take you to a new and exciting location.

Regardless of the season, it’s a favorite family activity.

If you are hungry while driving, there is even a stop for cool beers and mouth-watering burgers to satisfy your cravings.

This is an excellent place to start if you’re looking for an inexpensive, family-friendly activity in California.

Address: Skyline Boulevard (CA Hwy 35)

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

The history of Egypt fascinates me. Don’t miss the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum if you’re there.

Visitors to the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum may discover all about Egypt’s intriguing past right before their eyes.

Dr. Harvey Lewis created the Rosae Crucis Ancient Mystical Order, which erected the museum.

Everything began with a small statue of Sekhmet, the Egyptian lion goddess, that H. Spencer Lewis kept in his office.

Museums were established in 1966 to house his burgeoning collection of Egyptian antiquities.

The museum was designed to resemble an Egyptian temple from antiquity. True to the region’s ancient history, which is evidenced by the abundance of artifacts found there.

More than 4,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt are on exhibit, making it the largest collection of its sort in Western North America.

Every year, the museum welcomes more than 100,000 visitors, including 26,000 students.

Visit the Alchemy Garden and the Planetarium, both of which are excellent additions.

Address: 1660 Park Ave, San Jose, CA 95191

Willow Glen

Have you had enough of the Californian chaos? Willow Glen is a great place to get some fresh air.

With its tree-lined streets, plethora of eateries and shops, and charming architecture, Willow Glen contributes to the neighborhood’s small-town atmosphere.

As the country’s tenth biggest city, San Jose, is home to the picturesque tiny village of Willow Glen.

Shops, bistros, and coffee shops abound on the city’s main thoroughfares, from vintage to speciality.

Because of its long history, the Willow Glen neighborhood has seen a wide range of architectural styles, from Craftsman to Mission Revival to Neoclassical.

Christmas Tree Lights and Dancing on the Avenue are two of several yearly activities that Willow Glen conducts. Another is Founders’ Day.

Downtown Willow Glen is home to more than 250 retail, eating, service, and professional enterprises that are eager to provide you with the personal attention that only a small company can offer..

Address: Willow Glen, San Jose, CA

Winchester Mystery House

The Winchester Mystery House may be found on South Winchester Boulevard in San Jose.

Queen Anne-style Victorian mansion Sarah Winchester initially resided in was originally owned by gunmaker William Wirt Winchester’s wife Sarah Winchester.

People like her felt that the house was haunted, and she was one of them.

More than 10,000 panes of glass adorn the 161 rooms of the Winchester Mystery House, 40 of which are bedrooms. And there is just one working bathroom amid the several bedrooms.

In the odd environment, doors open onto walls and staircases go to nowhere.

What is the explanation behind this? She hoped this would scare away any bad spirits that might be prowling around the house while she was doing the renovations and confuse them.

No more work was done following Sarah’s death.

The estate’s blend of beautiful and bizarre interiors has amazed visitors since 1923.

There is a National Register of Historic Places designation for the property. The state of California has named it a historic site.

Address: 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128