Discover the 14 Best Things to Do in San Jose

San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, is renowned for its tech industry and cultural diversity. Beyond its business reputation, San Jose offers numerous attractions, recreational activities, diverse shopping destinations, and world-class dining. There are endless things to do in San Jose for both leisure and business travelers. From historical museums to outdoor adventures, the city's vibrant entertainment scene promises relaxation and excitement.

Top Attractions and Things to Do in San Jose

1. Municipal Rose Garden

The Municipal Rose Garden spans 5.5 acres and features over 3,500 rose shrubs. Named “America’s Best Rose Garden,” this beautiful park offers blooming roses, breathtaking fragrances, and a relaxing ambiance.

2. Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

Home to the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in Western North America, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum offers a fascinating journey through time with over 4,000 artifacts, an Alchemy garden, and a planetarium.

3. Santana Row

A European-style village, Santana Row is a paradise for shopping, dining, and entertainment. With over 50 shops and 20 upscale restaurants, it’s a must-visit for a satisfying shopping and culinary experience.

4. The Tech Interactive

This world-class science and technology center features hands-on activities and interactive exhibits on topics like climate change and robotics. It’s a top destination for learning and inspiration.

5. Plaza de Cesar Chavez

Located in Downtown San Jose, this 2-acre park is perfect for relaxing strolls and family hangouts. It hosts fountains, musical performances, food festivals, and other unique events.

6. Winchester Mystery House

A mansion with 160 rooms, secret passageways, and intriguing history, the Winchester Mystery House offers guided tours and special events for adventure and history enthusiasts.

7. Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

This family-friendly destination features over 150 exotic animals, amusement rides, seasonal shows, and conservation programs.

8. San Jose Museum of Art

Dedicated to modern and contemporary art from the West Coast, the museum features unique exhibitions, art education programs, and a museum café.

9. Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph

A stunning Roman Catholic Church with a majestic dome and exquisite stained glass windows, it’s a historical landmark worth visiting.

10. Guadalupe River Park & Gardens

Offering 2.6 miles of trails for walking, jogging, and skating, this park connects visitors with nature through concerts, festivals, and bird watching.

11. Alum Rock Park

One of California's oldest municipal parks, Alum Rock Park offers hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking in a beautiful natural setting.

12. Mission Santa Clara de Asis

Founded in 1777, this Spanish Mission on Santa Clara University’s campus features a Rose Garden and original preserved items.

13. Los Gatos Creek Trail

Popular for hiking, walking, and biking, this trail offers stunning natural scenery and connects Downtown San Jose to the surrounding hills.

14. San Jose Flea Market

A family-friendly market offering organic produce, daily supplies, gift shops, and entertainment with food stalls and playgrounds.

Best Shopping Destinations in San Jose

• Westfield Valley Fair: The largest shopping mall with over 200 stores and 70+ restaurants.

• Westfield Oakridge: Featuring high-end brand stores, restaurants, and cinemas.
• San Jose Market Center: Offers fashion brands, gift shops, grocery stores, and eateries.
• Santana Row: A high-end commercial district with premium shopping and dining experiences.
• Eastridge: One of the largest malls with a variety of fashion and retail brands, restaurants, and theatres.

Top Restaurants in San Jose

• Adega: Upscale Portuguese cuisine and the city’s only Michelin-starred restaurant.

• Straits Restaurant: Pan-Asian cuisine with a creative menu in Santana Row.
• La Foret: Sophisticated French culinary experience in the New Almaden Historic District.
• Falafel’s Drive-In: Authentic Middle Eastern food with delicious falafels and milkshakes.
• Aqui Cal-Mex: Blending California cuisine with traditional Mexican cooking.
• Back a Yard: Caribbean cuisine, particularly known for its Jerk Chicken & Beef Oxtail plate.
• Naschmarkt: Austrian cuisine with Californian flavors offering sophisticated dining.
• Zeni Ethiopian Restaurant: Traditional Ethiopian food served in a unique setting.
• Black Sheep Brasserie: French brasserie cuisine with a California twist.
• Le Papillon: Elegant French cuisine with organic ingredients and an extensive wine list.

Luxury Transportation in San Jose

LavishRide offers premium transportation services, including city tours, airport transfers, and executive travel. With well-trained chauffeurs and luxury fleets, they ensure a safe and comfortable journey around San Jose.

Conclusion

San Jose’s diverse entertainment options, attractions, dining, and shopping cater to all interests and tastes. The city’s cultural diversity, sunny weather, historical landmarks, and culinary delights captivate visitors and locals alike. To fully enjoy all the adventures San Jose has to offer, consider using LavishRide for a luxurious travel experience.

Share your thoughts and experiences visiting San Jose on our blog. We’d love to hear your favorite attractions, restaurants, and shopping destinations. Safe travels!