What to do in San Jose, CA

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San Jose travel guide

San Jose Museum of Art showing interior views

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What to do in San Jose

Popular places to visit

Santana Row Shopping Center

During your trip to San Jose, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Santana Row Shopping Center. Attend a sporting event or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Winchester Mystery House

Wonder about the alleged hauntings and other mysteries as you chart the life of a gun magnate’s widow in this unfinished manor.

View of Silicon Valley at Dusk, San Jose, California, USA

San Jose McEnery Convention Center

Learn about the events happening in San Jose McEnery Convention Center during your trip to San Jose. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

San Jose is a great city in all respects. The MLK, Jr. Library is situated in dowtown just 5 minutes away from town hall . The campus is great especially behind the library where you can find this old constructions covered in ivy and if the sky will cooperate that day you might get amazing pictures. Great location for group photos and other events.

CSU San Jose State University

Enjoy the student vibe at CSU San Jose State University during your stay in San Jose. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Raging Waters

Bring your family to Raging Waters and enjoy some excitement at this theme park in San Jose. Discover the top-notch restaurants and great live music in this family-friendly area.

Alum Rock Park

Enjoy some time outdoors at one of San Jose’s oldest and prettiest public parks. Just a short drive from downtown, its caves, creeks and wildlife make it feel like a far-off wilderness.

SAP Center at San Jose

Catch an event at SAP Center at San Jose during your trip to San Jose. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

PayPal Park

Catch an event at PayPal Park during your trip to San Jose. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

San Jose Civic Auditorium

You can enjoy a show at San Jose Civic Auditorium on your trip to San Jose. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Explore areas of San Jose

Downtown San Jose

3.5/5(5 area reviews)

Known for its fascinating museums and great live music, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Jose. You can visit top attractions like San Pedro Square and San Jose Museum of Art, and jump on the metro at Santa Clara Station or St James Station to see more of the city.

Great place for a family walk. Koi fish, hummingbirds, a lot of greenies and nice spots to take pictures. Suitable location for outdoor professional photography

South San Jose

4/5(8 area reviews)

Consider exploring the abundant dining options in South San Jose. If sightseeing is on the list, Almaden Plaza is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Blossom Hill Station (VTA) or Snell Station to see more of the area.

Willow Glen

When in Willow Glen and the surrounding area, you'll want to check out sights like The Pruneyard Shopping Center or Orchid Beauty & Spa and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Bascom Station or Fruitdale Station.

North San Jose

3/5(6 area reviews)

While you're in North San Jose, take in top sights like Samsung Semiconductor Inc or Topgolf San Jose, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Cisco Station or Baypointe Station.

Beautiful historic mansion owned by Sarah Winchester owner of the Winchester rifle. Many believe the house to be haunted by the souls who was killed from the Winchester rifle. House is well maintained but some of its structures was destroyed from the earthquake. Still it’s a beautiful place to check out if you are in the area. #history #travel

West San Jose

If you're spending some time in West San Jose, Winchester Mystery House and Santana Row Shopping Center are top sights worth seeing.

Sikh temple in San Jose area and one of the largest temple in California.

East San Jose

While you're in East San Jose, take in top sights like Lake Cunningham Park or Raging Waters, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Alum Rock Station or McKee Station.

Day trip destinations from San Jose

Cupertino

Saratoga

Fremont

Los Gatos

Milpitas

Sunnyvale

Frequently asked questions

Is San Jose worth visiting?

Providing a blend of culture and markets, there are many things to do in San Jose. When you're here, head to Raging Waters, a major attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in San Jose?

Once you've checked off top attractions like Raging Waters and The Tech Interactive, spend some time exploring the food and retail options in San Jose.

What is the top tourist attraction in San Jose?

The top tourist attraction in San Jose is Raging Waters, so be sure to include it on your sightseeing list.

Is three days enough to stay in San Jose?

You can easily tour leading attractions like Raging Waters, San Jose Centre for the Performing Arts and The Tech Interactive with a three-day getaway in San Jose. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stick around longer and head to Santa Cruz.

Is San Jose a walkable city?

It all depends on what you'd like to see and do in San Jose. Several key attractions, such as San Jose Centre for the Performing Arts and The Tech Interactive, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of San Jose's neighbourhoods, Rosemary is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Downtown San Jose is 0.16 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in San Jose with kids?

Planning what to do in San Jose with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're holidaying with toddlers or teenagers, there are many family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in San Jose for adults?

SAP Centre at San Jose and San Jose Civic Auditorium are just a couple of the things to do in San Jose. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.

Are there free things to do in San Jose?

From relaxing in parks to strolling around hip neighbourhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in San Jose. If you're looking for inspiration, ask a local tour guide for some tips. St. Joseph Cathedral Basilica is a must for anyone wishing to save on their travel adventures.