17 Must-See Things to Do in San Jose: Your Ultimate Guide

Attention all history buffs! Don't miss the opportunity to visit the National Museum of Costa Rica in the heart of San José. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and fascinating history of this beautiful country. Marvel at pre-Columbian artifacts, learn about the colonial era, and discover Costa Rica's biodiversity.

Are you ready for some outdoor fun in San Jose? La Sabana Metropolitan Park is the perfect destination for jogging, biking, or just having a picnic under a shady tree. This stunning park is also home to the National Stadium, where you can catch a soccer game or a concert. Don't forget to visit the nearby Costa Rican Museum of Art to get a taste of the country's vibrant cultural scene.

Are you looking for an exciting and fun adventure in San José? Then Parque Diversiones is just the place for you! This amusement park has everything you need to make your trip unforgettable, from thrilling roller coasters to water rides that will make you scream. There's also an impressive selection of food stalls and arcades, so you'll have a blast from the moment you arrive.

The National Theater of Costa Rica is a must-see for any visitor to San José. The stunning architecture and opulent interior will take you back in time to the golden age of theater. Be sure to take a guided tour to learn more about the building's history and its important role in Costa Rican culture.

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Braulio Carrillo National Park in San Jose! This magnificent park offers endless natural beauty and exploration opportunities that will amaze you. With over 500 species of birds, you will have the opportunity to observe exotic animals and plants during your hike.

A visit to the Museo del Jade in San Jose is an absolute must for anyone interested in Costa Rican culture and history. This museum has one of the largest collections of ancient jade artifacts in the world and offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about the important role jade played in pre-Columbian society. Not only will you see stunningly beautiful jade pieces, but you'll also learn about the techniques used to create these works of art.

Are you a history lover? Then you can't miss the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum in San Jose! This museum houses an exquisite collection of gold artifacts from the pre-Columbian era and showcases the remarkable craftsmanship of the indigenous cultures that inhabited Costa Rica before the arrival of Columbus. The museum is located in the heart of San José, near the bustling Central Market, where you can sample delicious local dishes or buy souvenirs. Don't forget to join a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of each artifact.

As your guide to San Jose, I highly recommend a visit to the Children's Museum - a must for families and kids of all ages. This interactive museum is housed in a former prison, which makes the experience even more unique. Inside, kids will have a blast exploring the many exhibits, including a giant kaleidoscope, a rainforest treehouse, and a maze. There's even a monster-sized slide that goes from the top to the bottom of the building! Plus, the museum is very close to other popular tourist attractions like the National Museum and the Jade Museum. Don't miss this fun and educational opportunity!

Are you ready for an authentic Costa Rican experience? Then San José's Central Market is the place for you! This bustling market is a must for any traveler who wants to experience the local culture and cuisine. Stroll through the maze of stalls and choose from a wide variety of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food.

The Museum of Costa Rican Art in the trendy La Sabana neighborhood is a must-see for all art lovers in San José. Housed in a former airport terminal, the museum houses an impressive collection of Costa Rican art, including paintings, sculptures and ceramics. A special highlight is the outdoor sculpture garden, which features the works of some of the country's most famous artists. And if you visit on a Sunday, you can also visit the nearby farmer's market - a great place to pick up some souvenirs to take home.

If you're looking for upscale accommodations in the heart of San Jose, the Barceló Hotel is the place for you. With its prime location and luxurious amenities, this hotel is the perfect base from which to explore all that the city has to offer. The rooms are spacious, tastefully decorated, and have all the modern amenities you could want. And the pool area? It's an oasis in the middle of the city. Plus, the hotel is just a stone's throw from beautiful La Sabana Park.

Looking for an authentic experience in Costa Rica? Then Hacienda y Beneficio La Chimba is the place for you! This beautiful coffee plantation in the hills just outside San Jose offers visitors the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. Take a tour of the coffee plantation, learn about the production process, and sample some of the best coffee in the area.

Imagine walking through a lush jungle with exotic flora and vibrant fauna, and encountering breathtaking waterfalls and crystal clear rivers. This is what the Children's Eternal Rainforest in San Jose has to offer. It's a paradise for nature lovers, hikers and wildlife photographers. And the best part? It's a conservation project started by kids, so it's a perfect opportunity to learn about conservation. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes, binoculars and a camera to capture the moments. The nearby El Tigre waterfall is also a must see.

Experience the magical world of butterflies at Spirogyra Butterfly Garden in San Jose! This beautiful garden is home to hundreds of species of butterflies and offers an extraordinary opportunity to observe these delicate creatures up close. Not only will you be surrounded by butterflies, but you'll also see different types of plants and flowers that attract them. Have your camera ready to capture the perfect shot of a butterfly landing on your shoulder.

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure amidst the lush greenery of Costa Rica's rainforests! Rainforest Adventures Braulio Carrillo is the perfect place to learn more about the flora and fauna of this extraordinary country. The park offers various activities such as zip lines, suspended railroads, suspension bridges and much more. You can experience the jungle from different angles and heights, giving you an exciting view of the endemic species and panoramic views. And if you're lucky, you might see a sloth or two! Just a short drive from San Jose, this is a great opportunity to experience Costa Rica's natural beauty up close.

If you're planning a trip to San Jose, Casa Conde Hotel & Suites should be at the top of your accommodation list. This family-run hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms, a beautiful outdoor pool, delicious on-site restaurants, and friendly and helpful staff. Thanks to its location in the Sabana district, you're just minutes from downtown San José, where you can visit cultural attractions like the National Museum of Costa Rica and the National Theater.

The Municipal Crafts Market in San Jose is a haven for lovers of traditional arts and crafts. This market is a bustling hub for local artisans selling their handmade wares, from beautiful woven textiles to intricate pottery and everything in between. Strolling through the lively stalls, you'll find unique souvenirs and gifts that reflect the essence of Costa Rican culture.