I’ve lived in the bay area for over a decade, including one summer in San Jose for an internship. San Jose is not as touristy as San Francisco, but it is the largest city in Silicon Valley and has its own set of quirky attractions. Here are my top 5 picks for things to do in San Jose:
1. Winchester Mystery House
Why Visit:
This world-famous Victorian mansion was built by Sarah Winchester, heiress to the Winchester rifle fortune. She spent 38 years renovating it nonstop, resulting in architectural oddities meant to confuse the spirits she believed haunted her.
Highlights:
- Mansion Tour → take the classic guided tour through the bizarre rooms with features such as stairs that lead to nowhere, doors that open into walls, and secret passageways.
How to Go:
All access to the mansion is via guided tour. Book online in advance if you’re visiting on weekends or holidays to make sure you get the time you want. There are lots of stairs and narrow passages, so wear comfortable shoes.
2. Santana Row / Valley Fair
Why Visit:
Santana Row and Valley Fair are across the street from one another, and they’re the largest and best shopping hub in the Bay Area! Santana Row is outdoors with an European vibe, while Valley Fair is indoors and modern.
Highlights:
- Eat at popular restaurants such as Din Tai Fung and Ramen Nagi.
- Check out seasonal events such as farmers markets and live music.
- Shop at a mix of luxury brands, boutiques, and chain stores.
How to Go:
Both have large parking garages, but weekends get crowded so go earlier in the day for an easier time finding parking.
3. Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
Why Visit:
This museum has the largest collection of authentic ancient Egyptian artifacts in Western North America. It was founded by the Ancient Mystical Order Rosae Crucis (AMORC), a group who views Ancient Egypt as the cradle of mystical wisdom.
Highlights:
- See real human and animal mummies. I was really surprised by how well preserved the teeth are!
- Wander the peaceful Egyptian-style gardens outside.
- Try the ancient Egyptian board game Senet.
How to Go:
You can buy tickets onsite. There’s a free parking lot right across the street.
4. Municipal Rose Garden
Why Visit:
Named “America’s Best Rose Garden”, Municipal Rose Garden has over 3500 rose bushes and serves as an official test garden for new roses.
Highlights:
- Walk among 150+ varieties of roses and enjoy the colors and fragrances.
- Relax on the huge grassy field next to the garden.
How to Go:
The garden is free. There were still some flowers when I visited in December, but the best time to visit is from April – June.
5. Play a Game
Why Visit:
San Jose has tons of entertainment options thanks to its large and diverse population. While many have SF locations too, the San Jose venues are usually bigger and better.
Highlights:
- Great Big Game Show → a live game show experience with up to 14 people. My husband and I joined a public game and had lots of fun competing against another couple.
- Round1 → a massive multi-entertainment complex with activities such as bowling, karaoke, and arcade. I prefer the arcade here than Dave & Buster’s because of how many Japanese games it has.
- Topgolf → a high-tech driving range with games. I found this more enjoyable than real golf.
Looking for more ideas nearby? Check out my recommendations for things to do in SF and day trips from SF.