21 Exciting Things to Do in San Jose, US: Ultimate Guide

Experience the vibrant Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a classic amusement park just a short drive from San Jose! Take a thrilling spin on the historic Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster or enjoy panoramic ocean views from the top of the Sky Glider. Treat yourself to tasty treats like corn dogs and cotton candy. Don't miss the old-school arcade or a round of miniature golf nearby. On warm summer evenings, attend the free concerts on the beach and catch a movie at the historic Boardwalk Bowl.

The stunning Mission Peak Regional Preserve in San Jose offers views that will take your breath away. This 3,000-acre park offers excellent hiking and photography opportunities amidst diverse wildlife and lush greenery. Challenge yourself to the famous three-mile hike to the summit, where you'll be rewarded with picturesque panoramas of the Bay Area.

Discover the enigmatic Winchester Mystery House, a must-see architectural marvel in San Jose! Be captivated by the maze of rooms, staircases that lead nowhere, and secret passageways. Built by the eccentric Sarah Winchester, the house will captivate you with its stories of ghosts and the fortune of Winchester guns. Don't miss the haunted Séance Room and the doors that open to walls! Afterwards, shop and dine in style on beautiful Santana Row, just a mile away.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the Municipal Rose Garden in San Jose! This award-winning, 5.5-acre garden is home to over 4,000 fragrant and vibrant rose bushes in 189 varieties. It is a popular spot for relaxing, picnics and as a beautiful backdrop for photo shoots. From April to November, there's always a rose blooming here.

A trip to Castle Rock State Park in San Jose is an absolute must for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The 5,200-acre park offers breathtaking views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, impressive sandstone formations and scenic waterfalls. The extensive trail system, rock climbing opportunities and scenic picnic areas make the park a popular destination for hikers and climbers. Don't miss the Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail, which offers a breathtaking journey through lush greenery and waterways! Big Basin Redwoods State Park is just a stone's throw away, offering you the chance to explore ancient redwood forests in addition to your Castle Rock adventure.

Sunol Regional Wilderness is a true natural gem near San Jose, offering beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and unwind while hiking miles of scenic trails that lead through lush forests, majestic hills and picturesque meadows. Don't miss the breathtaking views at Flag Hill or the captivating rock canyon of Little Yosemite. An insider's tip: Wildflowers bloom here in the spring, and rumor has it there's a hidden cave just waiting to be explored! Plus, the nearby historic Niles Canyon Railway is a must-see attraction.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Wilder Ranch State Park, a hidden gem in San Jose. Immerse yourself in the park's diverse landscapes of stunning coastal bluffs, forested hills and lush valleys. Explore 34 miles of adventurous trails ideal for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Delight in the variety of native wildlife and admire the beautifully restored 19th-century ranch buildings that bear witness to the area's rich history. Nearby Natural Bridges State Park is just a short drive away and another fascinating spot on your itinerary.

A visit to Alum Rock Park in San Jose is a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers. California's oldest urban park offers over 720 acres of green space filled with wildlife, mineral springs and 13 miles of hiking, biking and even horseback riding trails. Don't miss the mesmerizing view from Eagle Rock, which acts as the park's guardian. To top off your visit, explore the nearby Penitencia Creek Gardens or treat yourself to a hot soak at the nearby historic indoor pool.

Santana Row is San Jose's vibrant, upscale shopping, dining and entertainment district that is not to be missed! Stroll the beautifully landscaped European-style avenues and discover a variety of chic boutiques, outdoor restaurants, and trendy bars. Discover local favorites like Rosie McCann's Irish Pub for an authentic meal, or treat yourself to a luxurious spa day at Burke Williams. Just a short drive away is the impressive Winchester Mystery House, which adds a touch of history and intrigue to your visit.

Head to the enchanting Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve and immerse yourself in a serene world of towering redwoods, lush fern-covered canyons and the soothing sound of Purisima Creek. Explore 24 miles of scenic hiking trails suitable for all fitness levels, admire the picturesque foliage, and possibly spot various wildlife such as black-tailed deer and banana slugs.

Seacliff State Beach near San Jose is a gem to see, offering fascinating history, recreation and breathtaking views. The beach is home to the SS Palo Alto, a concrete ship that offers incredible photo opportunities. Enjoy a relaxing day of swimming, fishing, and picnicking while soaking up the sun and soothing ocean breezes. The nearby Forest of Nisene Marks State Park is a well-kept secret and offers a lush retreat for hikers, mountain bikers and nature lovers.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure at Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve in San Jose! This hidden gem offers breathtaking panoramic views of Silicon Valley and the Santa Cruz Mountains. With over 18,000 acres of pristine wilderness, hikers and nature lovers can enjoy peaceful solitude or traverse scenic trails, such as the challenging Kennedy-Limekiln Route. Nearby is the breathtaking Mount Umunhum, once a military radar station, which offers spectacular views and fascinating historical insights.

Del Valle Regional Park is a must-see for nature lovers visiting San Jose. This expansive park offers serene views of the lake and has more than 4,000 acres of breathtaking landscapes. Here, you can hike scenic trails, indulge in water sports like kayaking and fishing, or simply soak up the California sun. Did you know that you can spot golden eagles in this park? Plus, it's just 5 miles from the famous Wente Vineyards. Combine nature and luxury and create an unforgettable experience in San Jose!

Visit the Egyptian Museum of the Rosicrucians and marvel at the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in Western North America! This architectural gem transports you back to ancient Egypt with its temple-inspired exterior, majestic gardens, and stunning murals. Discover mummies, intricately carved sculptures, and impressive exhibits that reveal Egypt's rich history. Located in beautiful Rosicrucian Park, you can round out your visit with a visit to the peaceful Peace Garden. Just a short walk away is the Municipal Rose Garden, a blooming paradise that must be seen!

The Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University is a must-see for art lovers. It houses a remarkable collection of more than 38,000 works from different cultures and eras. In addition to the impressive Rodin Sculpture Garden, the center offers captivating exhibitions of iconic works, including the famous "Thinker." With free admission, the center offers guided tours that make for an interesting and educational experience. Nearby, the picturesque Stanford campus and the fascinating Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden round out your day of artistic discovery.

Venture to enchanting Portola Redwoods State Park, an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking tranquility amid San Jose's vibrant city life. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of towering redwoods, lush ferns, and babbling streams that flow through the mighty canyons. Don't miss the breathtaking Tiptoe Falls - a well-kept secret worth a short hike. Just a stone's throw away, you'll find unique rock formations and spectacular views of the valley at nearby Castle Rock State Park.

Immerse yourself in the wondrous world of Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park in San Jose! This unique park showcases the magic of horticulture, combining lush gardens with thrilling rides and captivating shows. Relax in the famous Circus Trees, spin in the iconic Garlic Twirl, or let your curiosity run wild in the interactive Artichoke Science Exhibit. And tantalize your taste buds with garlicky dishes - a local delicacy! Just a short drive from stunning Calero County Park, Gilroy Gardens guarantees enchanting memories for the whole family.

Experience nature's beauty and diverse outdoor activities at Joseph D. Grant County Park, San Jose's largest park! With over 50 miles of trails, you can explore rolling hills, majestic oak trees, and scenic vistas. The park is a hidden gem and is great for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and picnicking. Don't miss the historic Grant Ranch, the former home of Joseph Grant, which is now open for tours. Just a short drive away, you'll find the enchanting Lick Observatory, which will add a touch of stargazing to your adventure.

Step back in time for family-friendly fun at Roaring Camp, an outdoor living history museum! Experience authentic Old West adventures like steam train rides, blacksmith demonstrations, and gold panning while enjoying delicious treats around the campfire. History buffs will be thrilled by the impressive collection of Civil War artifacts. Don't miss the Redwood Forest Walk for an up-close experience with nature. Last but not least, the nearby Mystery Spot and Santa Cruz beaches provide the perfect excuse to extend your adventurous day!

Discover the charm of Leo J. Ryan Park, a picturesque oasis in the bustling city of San Jose! This hidden gem beckons with a tranquil lake, beautiful walking paths, and lush greenery. Have a picnic on the lake shore and observe the local wildlife, or start your day with an invigorating jog on the quiet trails. Enjoy the whimsical playground that delights children and adults alike. Just a stone's throw away, the Japanese Gardens await you, a true piece of tranquility in the urban jungle.

Adventure seekers and the curious shouldn't miss the opportunity to explore the enigmatic Mystery Spot in San Jose! Unravel the mysteries of this gravity-defying, mind-boggling curiosity. Since 1940, the area has amazed visitors with a unique gravitational anomaly where the laws of physics seem to be suspended. Get ready to challenge your perception of reality and take unforgettable photos! After solving the mystery, take a short hike through the stunning redwood forest nearby. The adventure is waiting for you!