Looking for vacations plans or fun things to do in San Jose? The city is not merely a synonym for tech giants and innovation, it is also a city rich in culture and history, there are lot of relaxing things to do in there. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, nature lover, art aficionado, or want to have a memorable weekend with family and kids, this city offers a diverse array of activities that cater to every interest. From world-class museums to scenic parks and cultural festivals, here’s your curated guide to the best things to do in San Jose, California.
Things to do in San Jose
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
If you’re looking for fun things to do in San Jose today, start with the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum. The building is the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in Western North America, established by the son of Harvey Spencer Lewis, founder of the ancient Rosicrucian mystical order devoted to the mysteries of ancient Egypt, it displays his father’s collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, history lovers would love this place. Among the 4,000 exhibits on display, you will see authentic objects from pre-dynastic times through Egypt’s early Islamic era.
Features:
- Explore a well-curated museum packed with incredible artifacts from ancient Egypt
- Experience unique features like an AI pharaoh answering questions and interactive exhibits such as the mumification class
- Enjoy peaceful outdoor gardens inspired by Egyptian architecture
Why you should go:
To immerse yourself in ancient Egyptian history without leaving California. It’s educational, visually stunning, and unlike any other museum in the Bay Area. Perfect for history buffs, families, and curious travelers.
Location:
1660 Park Ave, San Jose, CA 95126
Don’t miss:
The actual mummies and sarcophagi display
Walking through the replica tomb (feels like a mini-expedition)
Planetarium shows linking Egyptian culture to astronomy
Winchester Mystery House
One of the most cool things to do in San Jose is exploring the Winchester Mystery House. It is a very distinctive building. During the tour, you can see many strange and fascinating designs, such as stairs leading to the ceiling, sealed doors, and abruptly interrupted corridors. The story background here is also very attractive, blending historical and mysterious elements. Parking was easy and convenient. We visited on a weekend and waited about 15 minutes for our tour to start. If you’re into architecture, history, or just love a good mystery, this is definitely a spot worth visiting in San Jose!
Features:
160-room mansion with bizarre architecture: doors to nowhere, stairs to ceilings
Séance room used by Sarah Winchester
Victorian-era furniture and design
Expansive gardens and historical exhibits
Why you should go:
For a uniquely quirky and slightly spooky experience blending history, architecture, and folklore. It’s a true slice of Silicon Valley’s oddball past.
Location:
525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128
Don’t miss:
The “Door to Nowhere” (opens onto a drop to the garden below)
The séance room and its eerie backstory
The kitchen with advanced (for its time) appliances
San Jose Museum of Art
If you’re into art, visiting the San Jose Museum of Art is one of the fun things to do in San Jose, California. The museum is a modern and contemporary art museum in downtown San Jose, California. Founded in 1969, the museum holds a permanent collection with an emphasis on West Coast artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Nestled in the heart of Downtown San Jose, the San Jose Museum of Art is a cultural gem well worth visiting, especially on Wednesdays, when you can combine your tour with the vibrant Downtown San Jose Farmers’ Market just steps away on South First Street. Wondering around Downtown and discovering hidden murals and cafes is one of the best things to do in San Jose, California.
Features:
Focus on modern and contemporary Californian art
Rotating exhibitions featuring diverse artists
Sculpture garden and interactive installations
Located in a historic 1892 building fused with modern architecture
Why you should go:
To engage with thought-provoking, innovative art in an intimate setting. It’s less overwhelming than big-city museums but equally compelling.
Location:
110 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95110
Don’t miss:
The outdoor sculptures near the entrance
Current rotating exhibit (check their website—often highlights local voices)
The museum store for unique art-inspired gifts
Tech Interactive Museum
For fun things to do in San Jose that are educational, try the Tech Inteactive Museum. The Tech Interactive is a family-friendly science and technology center in the heart of downtown San Jose. The Tech Interactive’s galleries, which offer hands-on opportunities to explore how technological innovation is changing our lives and helping us tackle big challenges. Whether you have an hour or a full day, our exhibits will inspire, educate, and entertain. If you want to encourage curiosity for science, engineering, math and technology, why not take a visit to the museum.
Features:
Hands-on tech exhibits: VR, robots, coding, bioengineering
IMAX dome theater with science/nature films
Silicon Valley innovation lab showcasing local tech history
Design challenges and maker workshops
Why you should go:
To inspire curiosity in tech and science—whether you’re a kid or adult. It’s fun, interactive, and deeply tied to the spirit of Silicon Valley.
Location:
201 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113
Don’t miss:
The BioTinkering Lab (create with science)
IMAX film in the dome theater (immersive experience)
Robot obstacle course where you code a robot’s path
San Jose Municipal Rose Garden
Just wanna unwind? One of the most fun things to do in San Jose is lounging at the Municipal Rose Garden. Visitors can wander through the replica 18th dynasty Rosicrucian Peace Garden. Just one block from the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, smell the beautiful rose blooms at America’s Best Rose Garden, the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden, a 5½ acre park with 4,000 roses and over 250 different rose varieties. There is a very large picnic area at the second half of the garden, behind the rose garden, perfect for relaxing with friends amid nature’s beauty.
Features: 5.5-acre garden with 4,000+ rose bushes, 189 varieties, and lush green lawns.
Why you should go: A fragrant, visually stunning escape perfect for photos, picnics, and relaxation.
Location: 1649 Naglee Ave, San Jose, CA 95126.
Don’t miss: The peak bloom season (April–October) and the historic “Friendship Garden” section.
Santana Row
Santana Row offers shopping, dining, and playing—definitely one of the best things to do in San Jose. Santana Row is Silicon Valley’s most prominent mixed-use destination, encompassing more than 2.5 million square feet across retail, office, residential, and hotel uses in San Jose, California. Here, there are not only luxury brands like Gucci and Kate Spade, but also mid-range brands such as Diesel, H&M, Ann Taylor, LOFT and Urban Outfitters. There are over 30 restaurants in the shopping center, offering a wide variety of delicious foods for you to choose from. While you are shopping and enjoying delicious food to your heart’s content at the shopping center, you might as find live music performances in the central plazas to make your trip even more perfect.
Features: Upscale outdoor shopping district with luxury boutiques, restaurants, cinemas, and vibrant street events.
Why you should go: Perfect for shopping, dining, and people-watching in a European-inspired setting.
Location: 377 Santana Row, San Jose, CA 95128.
Don’t miss: Live music on weekends, seasonal festivals, and dessert at Cocola Bakery.
Santana Row’s holiday events are some of the most fun things to do in San Jose in December.
San Pedro Square Market
If you like farmers markets, that’s another fun thing to do in San Jose on a Saturday morning. Fresh produce, good for health, buy specific…
Features: Bustling food hall with 20+ vendors, live music, bars, and outdoor seating.
Why you should go: Taste global cuisines, enjoy local brews, and soak in downtown’s energetic vibe.
Location: 87 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110.
Don’t miss: The Garlic Noodles at Vino Vino and Friday night salsa dancing.
For fun things to do in San Jose this weekend, check out San Pedro Square Market for live music and food
St. Joseph Cathedral
The variety of things to do in San Jose ensures that every visitor, regardless of interest, will find something captivating. St. Joseph’s Cathedral is a place to enjoy music from the Odell pipe organ, admire the stained-glass windows, and learn about the history of the site. This magnificent church located in downtown San Jose at the heart of Silicon Valley, is also a landmark building in California’s history. It now serves as a Roman Catholic Basilica. Founded in 1803, it was destroyed twice by earthquakes in 1818 and 1868. The current structure was built between 1875 and 1885. Its grand Roman Catholic architecture, solemn sculptures and murals, and immense dome leave visitors spiritually moved!
Features: Historic Spanish Colonial-style cathedral with stunning stained glass, vaulted ceilings, and peaceful gardens.
Why you should go: Experience architectural beauty and quiet reflection in the heart of the city.
Location: 80 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113.
Don’t miss: The restored 19th-century pipe organ and Sunday mass choir.
Alum Rock Park
Locals know that some of the best things to do in San Jose, CA are found in its hidden gems, like the fascinating Alum Rock Park. The park in San Jose, California, is the state’s oldest municipal park, established in 1872. It offers 13 miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, mineral springs, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a small museum. It is renowned for wildlife viewing and group camping opportunities. The park featured bathhouses, private mineral baths that visitors could rent, and even a large indoor swimming pool filled with heated sulfur water.
Features: San Jose’s oldest municipal park with 13 miles of trails, mineral springs, canyon views, and picnic areas.
Why you should go: Ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and escaping into nature without leaving the city.
Location: 15350 Penitencia Creek Rd, San Jose, CA 95127.
Don’t miss: The South Rim Trail for panoramic vistas and the historic Mineral Springs.
Almaden Quicksilver County Park
Check out the Almaden Quicksilver Park—it’s one of the free things to do in San Jose, CA. Once the site of over 135 years of mining activities, the park now offers a captivating blend of picturesque landscapes and remnants of its mining past. Almaden Quicksilver County Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re a nature lover, a hiker, or a history buff, this park offers something for everyone. With nearly forty miles of hiking trails and thirty miles of bridleways, Almaden Quicksilver County Park provides ample opportunities for families and individuals alike to explore the beautiful natural surroundings. Put down your phone, hike with a friend, share a meaningful chat, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Features: Former mercury mining site turned 4,000-acre park with rugged trails, wildflowers, and historic ruins.
Why you should go: Hike through California’s mining history with sweeping views of the Santa Cruz Mountains,
Location: 21785 Almaden Rd, San Jose, CA 95120.
Don’t miss: The English Camp Trail and spring wildflower blooms.
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
For fun things to do in San Jose with kids, visiting Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is a classic. Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is a family-friendly destination, featuring interactive exhibits, amusement rides, and a small zoo with over 140 animals. The puppet theater and nature play areas make it a great spot for young children, while the lemur and miniature horse exhibits add to the experience. The park is well-maintained, though weekends can get crowded, leading to longer wait times for rides.
Features: Combination zoo and amusement park with 140+ animals, kiddie rides, and puppet shows.
Why you should go: A safe, engaging destination for families with young children (ages 2–10).
Location: 748 Story Rd, San Jose, CA 95112.
Don’t miss: The Pacific Fruit Express roller coaster and lemur feeding sessions.
Children’s Discovery Museum
Parents looking for things to do in San Jose with kids will appreciate the interactive exhibits at the Children’s Discovery Museum. Conveniently located adjacent to the Blue Line station, making it easily accessible. This museum is so much fun and perfect for kids all ages. It has two floors and an outdoor area. The first floor is where the kids can explore water works, fire truck, foam buildings, mammoth era, and more. The second floor is where they learn about shapes, arts, and toddlers room where they can roam freely without getting hit.
Features: Hands-on exhibits focused on science, art, and culture, including a giant bubble lab and mammoth skeleton.
Why should you go: Spark curiosity and creativity in kids through interactive learning.
Location: 180 Woz Way, San Jose, CA 95110.
Don’t miss: The Levers & Pulleys exhibit and rooftop art installations.
History Park
History Park is located at the south end of Kelley Park at the corner of Senter Road and Phelan Avenue. Through 30+ original and reproduction homes, businesses, and landmarks, History Park reveals Santa Clara Valley’s past. The park is spacious, making it easy to explore at a relaxed pace, whether you’re visiting for a casual stroll or attending a local event. One of the highlights is the annual Scout-O-Rama, a well-organized gathering of scouting troops from around the area. Checking the event calendar ahead of time is a great way to plan your visit around special programs, guided tours, or seasonal festivals.
Features: Beautifully preserved historic buildings, engaging exhibits, and interactive experiences that highlight California’s rich heritage.
Why you should go:
It offers a unique, immersive journey into Northern California’s past, making history accessible and engaging for all ages—perfect for a family outing, educational trip, or a peaceful stroll through time.
Location: History Park at Kelley Park, 635 Phelan Avenue, San Jose, CA 95112
Don’t miss:
Riding the vintage trolley through the park
Exploring the fully restored Pacific Hotel and Print Shop
Visiting the iconic Electric Light Tower replica
Checking the calendar for seasonal events like history fairs and cultural festivals
Japanese Friendship Garden
Finding peaceful things to do in San Jose is easy at the Japanese Friendship Garden, a serene landscape for contemplation. This has turned into a staple of many people’s visits to San Jose. They love the tranquil, serene, Japanese vibes that this Garden gives. The layout goes into each different sections with it’s own magical feel. From the majestic redwoods, to the koi pond, to the cherry blossoms, to the bridge, each area provides a reflective quality and meditative opportunity. Great for taking pictures of flowers, plants and landscaping, the garden provides a memorable and relaxing experience.
Features: Serene 6-acre garden with koi ponds, cherry blossoms, stone lanterns, and a tea house.
Why you should go: Experience tranquility and traditional Japanese landscape design.
Location: 1300 Senter Rd, San Jose, CA 95112 (inside Kelley Park).
Don’t miss: Spring cherry blossom festivals and feeding the koi fish.
Japanese American Museum of San Jose
Features: Exhibits on Japanese American history, immigration, and cultural contributions to Silicon Valley.
Why you should go: Deepen your understanding of local history and resilience.
Location: 535 N 5th St, San Jose, CA 95112.
Don’t miss: The Issei Pioneers exhibit and oral history recordings.
Emma Prusch Farm Park
The search for free things to do in San Jose leads many to the stunning Emma Prusch Farm Park, a unique blend of outdoor recreation and agricultural education. In the fall, the park hosts a pumpkin patch and Halloween storytelling events. Visitors can enjoy picnics on the lawn, explore the various gardens, learn about sustainable farming practices, and experience a bit of San Jose’s agricultural heritage.
Features: 47-acre working farm with livestock, community gardens, orchards, and barns.
Why go: A hands-on rural experience for kids and families in an urban setting.
Location: 647 S King Rd, San Jose, CA 95116.
Don’t miss: The weekly Farm Fresh Market and seasonal pumpkin patches.
Mount Umunhum
If you’re into views, driving up to Mount Umunhum is one of the most fun things to do in San Jose. Umunum Mountain is located in the West Azul Open Space Reserve, at an altitude of 3,490 feet, overlooking the Santa Clara Valley. This mountain peak offers breathtaking panoramic views and has historical significance as a sacred ritual site for Native Americans. The 7.7-mile hiking trail leading to the summit is a local favorite, featuring gentle slopes and shady paths.
Features: Sacred peak with a 3,486-foot summit, historic radar tower, and 360-degree views of the Bay Area.
Why go: One of the best panoramic viewpoints near San Jose.
Location: Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, San Jose, CA 95120.
Don’t miss: The Bald Mountain Trail summit at sunrise or sunset.
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines
Tasting local brews is one of the best things to do in San Jose for couples, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines is close ot Downtown, convenient for visitors. J. Lohr Vineyards was founded more than four decades ago by Jerry Lohr and is still family owned and operated today. Jerry and his team helped pioneer winegrowing on California’s Central Coast. Today, J. Lohr sustainably farms 4,000+ acres of vineyards in the Monterey, Paso Robles, and Napa Valley appellations. The J. Lohr Wine Center in San Jose welcome visitors daily.
Features: Family-owned winery offering tastings of acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay in a rustic-chic setting.
Why go: Savor locally produced wines without driving to Napa.
Location: 1000 Lenzen Ave, San Jose, CA 95126.
Don’t miss: The Flight Night tastings and vineyard tours (reservations recommended).
Convenient Housing Options near San Jose Attractions
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Conclusion
With so many things to do in San Jose, the city really has it all. You can geek out at the Tech Museum, get spooked at the Winchester Mystery House, or check out ancient mummies at the Egyptian Museum. Love art? Hit the San Jose Museum of Art. Need nature? The Rose Garden and Alum Rock Park are perfect. There are lots of fun things to do in San Jose with kids, Happy Hollow and the Children’s Discovery Museum are a blast. Foodies will love San Pedro Market, shoppers adore Santana Row, and wine fans can sip at J. Lohr. Plus, don’t miss the Japanese Garden, Mount Umunhum for killer views, or a peaceful moment at St. Joseph’s. Honestly, whatever you’re into—history, nature, food, or fun—San Jose’s got you covered.
FAQ About Things to do in San Jose
What is San Jose most popular for?
San Jose is known as the heart of Silicon Valley, a global hub for technology and innovation. Beyond its tech industry, there are lots of fun things to do in San Jose, popular attractions including the quirky Winchester Mystery House, the historic Japantown, and the lush Municipal Rose Garden. It also offers a vibrant culinary scene, particularly its Mexican cuisine, and a pleasant, temperate climate ideal for its numerous outdoor spaces.
Is San Jose a walkable city?
San Jose is a large city with some walkable areas, particularly its neighborhoods and downtown core. You’ll find more walkable experiences by focusing on specific neighborhoods like St. Leo’s, downtown areas like Santana Row and San Pedro Square, and other communities with a good mix of amenities and pedestrian-friendly features.
What are some fun things to do in San Jose with kids?
Fun things to do in San Jose with kids include visit the Tech Interactive for science and technology, explore Children’s Discovery Museum for hands-on exhibits, go to Happy Hollow Park & Zoo for young children’s amusement, trip to Emma Prusch Farm Park for a farm experience, and Magical Bridge Playground for inclusive play. Other options range from historical sites like History Park to outdoor spaces such as the Municipal Rose Garden and various parks and trails.
What are some fun free things to do in San Jose?
Free things to do in San Jose, CA include exploring the Municipal Rose Garden and Japanese Friendship Garden, hiking at Almaden Quicksilver County Park and Alum Rock Park, pick up fruits at Emma Prusch Farm Park. If you want to find stylish restaurants, Japantown and Downtown Willow Glen are very nice spots to walk around.
Is San Jose, California worth visiting?
San Jose is absolutely worth visiting. It offers a unique mix of world-class tech museums like The Tech Interactive, fascinating history at the Winchester Mystery House, and beautiful outdoor spaces such as the Municipal Rose Garden. The city boasts diverse cultural experiences, from Santana Row’s upscale shopping and dining to the historic Japantown. Its proximity to both San Francisco and natural wonders like the Santa Cruz Mountains makes it an ideal, sun-soaked base for exploring Northern California. Perfect for tech enthusiasts, families, and foodies alike.
How to spend a day in San Jose?
There are so many fun things to do in San Jose, for example, you can start your day exploring the Tech Interactive or Winchester Mystery House. Grab lunch at San Pedro Square Market, then wander through the beautiful Municipal Rose Garden. In the afternoon, dive into art at the San Jose Museum of Art or history at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum. As evening sets in, shop and dine at Santana Row. End your day catching live music or a performance downtown. With its mix of innovation, culture, and cuisine, San Jose offers a fulfilling and diverse day for any visitor.
What are things to do in San Jose this weekend for adults?
This weekend in San Jose, adults can explore cultural attractions like the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum or the Winchester Mystery House, catch a sports event or concert at the SAP Center, or enjoy the vibrant dining and shopping scene at Santana Row. If you want to find peaceful in outdoor, Japanese Friendship Garden and Municipal Rose Garden are recommended sites.
