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Browsing San Jose (Silicon Valley)
Ainsley House
Dating from 1925, this English Tudor-style house was once one of the grandest homes in the entire valley. It is still impressive. Now it has been restored with period antiques and is an historic landmark in the old area of Campbell. Not only is it a fine example of Tudor-style architecture, the home is a great place for weddings, too.
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Almaden Lake Park
A beach in San Jose? Sure! It exists in the Almaden Lake Park. Swim or relax on this tiny sandy beach or take a walk on the adjacent four miles of the scenic Los Alamitos Creek Trail. The trail has a fitness course and a very pleasant walkway that meanders with the creek. If you decide to feed the ducks and Canada geese along the lakeshore, beware! The birds can be quite aggressive.
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Almaden Quicksilver County Park
This erstwhile mining facility that dates back to the 19th century has miles of trails for horseback riding, cycling or just plain hiking. Buried in the foothills south of San Jose, the park is definitely off-the-beaten-path, making it a nice retreat from the city. Once there, you can gaze at remnants of mercury mining facilities from the Gold Rush days. They are poignant reminders of how hard it was to stake a claim in those days and how few miners actually struck it rich.
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Alum Rock Park
If you enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from horseback riding to picnics, from cycling to playing with the kids, then this 720-acre park is for you. It was dedicated in 1872. Up at the end of Alum Rock Avenue, the park is buried in the Diablo Mountain foothills in east San Jose; on the drive there, you pass some impressive mansions. There are playgrounds and miles of trails. It is a very natural setting in which to enjoy leisure activities.
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Alviso Marina County Park
Located at the farthest southern tip of San Francisco Bay, this peaceful park along the San Jose's marshland is an excellent recreation area for you to stroll and see birds and other wildlife. Surrounding it is a charming Victorian-style neighborhood where the scent of fish-fry drifts from several cafes and restaurants.
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Ayoma LifeSpa
Ayurveda is a 5000 year-old life management system from India to maximize health through herbal personal care, diet, massage and other natural treatments, exercise, art, and environment. Other philosophies and alternative medicines such as Vedic Martial Arts, Yoga, and Thai Massage have descended from Ayurveda. Ayoma recognizes that the physical body and the senses are comprised of the 5 elements of Space, Air, Fire, Water, and Earth. These combined with the three qualities of the mind, Purity, Activity, Inertia, the individual soul and invisible past experiences unite to form three distinct mind-body combinations or doshas. Typically, one dosha determines the individual's mental and physical constitution. An imbalance in doshas affects health and well being. Ayoma's Spa Therapies restore the body's natural dosha balance, enhancing Ayurvedic healing at the subtlest levels. Ayoma is a personal sanctuary for healing and rejuvenation, where treatments, cuisine, consultations and lifestyle programs are tailored to your individual needs. AYOMA LifeSpa is a holistic health experience incorporating the Indian principles of mind and body.
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Bank of Italy Building
This 13-story building was built in 1926, yet it still dominates downtown San Jose's skyline as it competes in architectural grandeur with more modern buildings. Considered by some historians to be the city's first "skyscraper," it was built by architect H. A. Minton to one of the world's first "earthquake-proof" constructions in the Bay Area region.
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Bay 101
Located just south of San Francisco Bay off Highway 101 (from which it gets its name), this popular card club provides guests with games of chance 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When you want to take a break from gambling, you can enjoy a meal at Sutter's Broiler, the sports bar and restaurant that offers American and Asian food. There's also a deli that will bring sandwiches, soup, and other food items to you on the gaming floor so you can keep up your energy while you play.
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Bay Area Glass Institute
With a strong bold mission to educate the general public about glass artists and their work, this place offers several exhibits, lectures, classes and workshops. A variety of things go on here, including glass egg hunts on Easter, glass pumpkin sales for Halloween and several shows by nationally renowned glass artists. This is a unique space that is truly dedicated to its cause. Stop in and take some interesting classes, whether it be glass blowing or arc welding.
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Boulder Creek Golf and Country Club
This scenic mountain resort offers an 18-hole course, facilities for corporate meetings, overnight lodging, and a full bar and restaurant. Special tournament packages are available, which include banquets, condo rentals, power carts and more. A spectacular mountain resort set amongst the redwoods, this place is a one-hour drive from San Jose.
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Burke Williams Spa
Spas go back hundreds of years and even further than that. In ancient Rome spas were a favorite of the Patrician class. Today, spas are seen as part of the vacation-resort experience. Burke Williams has brought this concept out of the realm of a vacation experience and into the city where each of us can utilize the benefits of a soothing, nurturing environment to ease the stress of our daily lives. Elegant and refined, luxurious and pampering with all of the amenities found in world renowned resort spas, Burke Williams provides an oasis and a moment of tranquility so that each of us can better cope with the stress of daily living. Burke Williams has a variety of spa experiences, a full menu of treatments available for both men and women.
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Burrell School Vineyards & Winery
Don't expect kids to learn math and history here! Wine lovers who want to improve their knowledge of wine-making and tasting can sign up for classes at the Burrell School. The Moultons (the owners) enthrall visitors with premium handcrafted wines, lessons, tastings, and events, such as 'Crab and Chardonnay', 'Merlot meets Chocolate' and 'Winter Wine Passport'. Varietals such as Valedictorian, Zinfandel, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah are also available online. What's more, you can join the Wine Sippers Club and avail of up to 50 percent discounts on Burrell selections. This is truly one school you want to attend!
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Byington Vineyard and Winery
This mountain winery includes an Italian-style chateau, a spectacular mountain view, and a tradition of winemaking that is the equal of both. The specialty is Pinot Noir, a dry red wine. It is a popular place for chic corporate parties, banquets, weddings or events of any kind. It also hosts informative and fun tours, and is part of the region's gala Vintner's Festival. Allow 45 minutes to drive from downtown San Jose.
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Calero County Park
For visitors who want to enjoy a wilderness trek into Silicon Valley's foothills--or those who just want to have water fun on an immense reservoir--Calero County Park is a great place to spend a day. The trails vary in grades and difficulty, and many of them are fairly rugged paths involving steep climbs. But the view from the top is worth it because of the surrounding landscape. Bring a camera for some great photos--especially in the springtime when the wildflowers are at full color. And if you want to rent a horse or two for a ride, stables are available at the southern end of the park.
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California Theatre
If you're into opera or classical music, this is the perfect Silicon Valley setting to enjoy performances. Originally built as a grand movie palace, this remarkable theater is a splendid place to view performances by Opera San Jose and Symphony Silicon Valley. It also often shows old movies, with a 1927 Wurlitzer pipe organ getting audiences into a mood for yesteryear between showings. Opera San Jose puts on four operas every season, and Symphony Silicon Valley also uses the theater for performances of the great masters of music.
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Campbell Historical Museum
This slice of California history is located in an old firehouse that dates from the 1920s. Get an impressive glimpse of life in Campbell 80 years ago through videos about the history of the area as well as hands-on displays about home life, recreation, and culture of the 1920s. A gift store selling postcards and memorabilia is located around the corner. All proceeds go to the museum.
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Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph
This huge, multi-domed church was originally built in 1877 and was restored to its original splendor in 1990. This is actually the fifth location of the parish seat; the first was built in 1803. The present structure is a monumental building. Incredible stained glass work renders the sanctuary into a lovely, almost mystical space when the sun causes the colors to play across the walls, pews and floor. Masses are held in Spanish and English.
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Children's Discovery Museum
Two floors worth of exhibits and activities include a history of bubbles, a maze, face painting and all sorts of things to keep children busy and thinking. The museum is a giant, jagged purple building straddling Guadalupe River Park, so picnics are a common plan for visitors. CDM is right on the light rail station, which makes public transportation a snap. The museum offers facilities for birthday parties and special events. There is also a reasonably priced store with games, books and toys.
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Children's Musical Theater San Jose
This theater company puts on four shows a year and provides a great training ground for young people who desire a career in the theater. It has created a productive working environment for kids to learn communication skills and fundamentals of teamwork. It also offers discounted tickets to groups and classes. The main performing venue is the Montgomery Theater at the corner of Market Street and San Carlos Avenue.
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Cinnabar Hills Golf Club
A spectacular view awaits you in this golfing resort in South San Jose. Amidst mountains, lakes and canyons, there are 27 holes of champion-level golf, a fabulous pro shop, two putting greens, and a full service restaurant and bar. The golf carts contain global positioning systems to guide you throughout the course. It is an excellent destination for the discerning golfer.
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City Lights Theater Company
This downtown San Jose non-profit theater group dares to make its audiences think and often feel uncomfortable in questioning their own beliefs. It strives to find plays from up-and-coming Bay Area writers. You'll definitely have a low-cost but challenging night's entertainment. City Lights has six shows each season, most of which are of a high production quality.
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Computer Museum History Center
This incredible facility in Moffett Field offers tours of its exhibits on the history of the computer industry. The massive collection of over 3,000 artifacts includes computer equipment dating back to the 1950s. Other exhibits include the history of the Internet and the microprocessor timeline. Thousands of films are also available and several free lectures and other events take place throughout the year.
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Cooper-Garrod Fine Estate Winery
Situated in the eastern range of the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains, this family-owned winery specializes in Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc (all available to sample in the tasting room and purchase in the gift shop). It also provides horseback riding and picnic facilities. The 75-year-old tasting room is flanked by eucalyptus trees, and from the horse trails, you have a panoramic view of the entire South Bay. It is a wonderful place to spend the day.
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Coyote Creek Golf Club
Just minutes south of San Jose lies this 18-hole championship course designed by golf great Jack Nicklaus. Amidst a backdrop of serene countryside and rolling hills, the course is breathtaking and offers enough twists and turns to make it challenging and fun. The golf shop is top notch and the restaurant is open seven days a week. Banquet facilities are also available.
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Coyote Creek Trail
Stretching about 16 miles from Hellyer County Park in San Jose to Anderson Reservoir County Park in Morgan Hill, this trail is a relaxing way to view the natural terrain of Coyote Valley. It's relatively flat and passes among ponds and marshlands bordering the creek.
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Coyote Valley
Along Monterey Road just south of San Jose's Santa Teresa district, you'll discover this exceptionally bucolic region in the middle of America's 10th largest city. In 1999, Internet router company Cisco Systems proposed building a major manufacturing site here. That idea fizzled with the dot-com bust, but it prompted the city of San Jose to consider constructing a major suburb for 70,000 people here. Enjoy the tranquility of the valley, as the natural beauty might not be here in the near future.
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Dolce Hayes Mansion
The wealthy Hayes family built their 60-room Mediterranean-style mansion in the elegant Edenvale district of central San Jose. In 1994, the historic landmark was turned into a resort hotel and conference center where you can enjoy various activities such as fine dining and a spa. You don't have to stay at the hotel as a guest to enjoy it; casual visitors who just want to explore the site for its history and lovely gardens are welcome.
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Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge
At this urban area wildlife refuge that spreads across more than 30,000 acres around San Francisco Bay, you can enjoy a number of recreational activities including hiking trails, fishing, hunting, and boating. The refuge spans much of the South Bay, and in San Jose, you can visit its excellent Refuge Environmental Education Center in the Alviso neighborhood.
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Downtown Mountain View
The city of Mountain View, like most communities in Silicon Valley, started as a farm village. It later grew into a large city, but its downtown business district along Castro Street still retains a friendly feel. On the western end, you'll find the Civic Center Plaza with the stunning Mountain View Center for Performing Arts. Scattered throughout the next few blocks are restaurants--many serving excellent Asian cuisine--coffee shops, and various types of stores.
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Downtown Palo Alto
The heart of Palo Alto is focused on its charming downtown area along University Avenue. Here you'll most likely find Stanford students with their heads buried deep in their books as they study at coffee shops. If you like art, there are a number of galleries that will welcome you to browse and buy. The downtown area especially comes alive on Friday and Saturday nights, when the restaurants and bars here attract the most business.
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Duldzin Dragpa Buddhist Center
Duldzin Dragpa, a Mahayana Buddhist Center provides a casual, amiable and tranquil environment in which to learn about Buddhism. Renowned Tibetan lama Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, founder and Spiritual Director of the Center, established the New Kadampa Tradition, which encourages followers to transform their daily actions through the guidance of Buddha's teachings.
The Center offers a wide range of courses, workshops and retreats to explore and celebrate Buddhism. Retreats are held in conjunction with other Bay Area centers in San Francisco and Berkeley and include focused meditation and instruction in specific Buddhist teachings. Check the Web site for details. More »
Emma Prusch Farm Park
This urban farm covers an impressive 47 acres. It has school tours, orchards, a barnyard, picnic areas and places to fly kites. It is a great place to bring the kids, especially if they like animals; there are zillions of breeds of rabbits, chickens, geese and ducks for them to befriend. The property was originally given to the city of San Jose with the intent that it be used as an agricultural learning center, and in that it succeeds admirably.
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Filoli Center
In the affluent community of Woodside about 20 minutes drive north of San Jose on the Bay Area's Peninsula region, you'll find that this elegant estate is a romantic day trip that will take you to a more colorful time in California's history. It was designed and built in 1916 for Gold Rush millionaire William Bourne. His spectacular 43-room Georgian-style mansion was named by using the first couple of letters of Bourne's motto: “Fight for a just cause; Love your fellow man; Live a good life.” -- Fight, Love, Live... or Filoli.
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Forbes Mill Annex
Located along the Los Gatos Creek Trail, you'll discover this charming two-story stone building that was originally built in the 1800s as an annex to Alexander Forbes's wheat mill. It now serves as a museum devoted to teaching visitors about the history of Los Gatos.
Forbes Mill itself was built by a Scottish man named James Alexander Forbes who came to California in 1831 and once served as a manager at the Mission Santa Clara. The mill cost $100,000 to build and stood four stories high. It was completed in August 1854, but the machinery did not arrive via ship from New York until April 1855. This delay caused Forbes to lose a significant amount of money because he couldn't mill that year's large wheat harvest. He faced a huge debt and declared bankruptcy in December 1856. The mill went through several owners until it found one that made it a prosperous business.
A town grew around Forbes Mill, and locals called the community Forbestown for a time. But they changed it to Los Gatos after the original Mexican rancho. More »
Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park
About a 40-minute drive from Downtown San Jose sits this brand new, horticulturally-aware theme park in Gilroy. Among other things, here you will find a monorail, an exciting rollercoaster, incredible landscaping, several gardens, antique car rides, and the famous circus trees from Scott's Valley that are groomed to grow in fantastical shapes. A multitude of activities for the whole family await you here. The owner sold off a very successful chain of grocery stores in order to create this one-of-a-kind park.
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Guadalupe River Park & Gardens
Crawling for three miles alongside the Guadalupe River and harnessing Highway 87, this unique natural environment contains a rose garden, jogging trails, several species of birds and lots of picnic tables. Nestled in a particularly scenic spot in the South Bay, it is a great place for a day's outing or a slow leisurely walk. Improvements are ongoing and when it is finally completed, it will be a spectacular place for everyone in the family.
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Guglielmo Winery
You will feel as though you are in 19th-century Italy at this award-winning winery. It is located in Morgan Hill, just a scenic 30-minute drive from San Jose. The winery's outstanding selection of vintages includes Chardonnay, White Zinfandel, Merlot and White Riesling. Tours are available, and the Wine Shop is open seven days a week.
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Hakone Gardens
This authentic Japanese garden is one of the best places to smooch in the entire South Bay, at least that is what several local publications have proclaimed. You will be swept away by the serenity and the perfect harmony of it all. There are koi ponds, tea and Zen gardens, and even a tea museum. Muko, Japan, a sister city of Saratoga, California, donated the materials for the bamboo garden. The facility also offers art classes, and Japanese dance performances are available.
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Happy Hollow Park & Zoo
This fun-filled spot is highly recommended for families with young children (and pretty much anyone else, too). People have been flocking to the park and zoo since the early 1960s. All the things that children could want are here: puppet shows, rides, birthday facilities, classes, and holiday feasts. A great place for an affordable family outing, it caters especially to kids younger than 12, but kids of all ages are welcome. You can even adopt pets if you so desire.
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Hidden Villa
Looking to reconnect with your inner self and with nature? A visit to Hidden Villa should help. Over 1600 acres of farmland, home to cattle, fowl, animals, plants and birds will provide that country holiday you've always wanted your kids to experience, at a reasonable price. Many urban dwellers come here to enjoy simple pleasures, such as watching a plump hen tentatively peck some feed off your palm. Various programs on environmental and multicultural awareness are held here, especially for kids. The campsite hostel provides quiet and comfortable quarters well-suited to introspection and solitude, a short distance from Silicon Valley.
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History Park at Kelley Park
Here's where you come when you need to know all about San Jose's local history. The city is not just about bright lights and bustle; it's also California's oldest, and richest in terms of culture. The park consists of historical landmarks and old houses that form a quaint village with a breathtaking view of the valley. Go for a long stroll, if you'd like to scour its nooks and crannies on your own, or, better still, hitch a ride on the electric trolley. This car has its own charm, with reversible seats and wooden framework. The park's early car models are also displayed.
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HP Pavilion at San Jose
Home to a variety of teams like the NHL San Jose Sharks, the WNBA Stealth and Arena Football's Sabercats, this large venue also hosts concerts by artists like Eric Clapton and Prince, trade shows and even the Ringling Bros.
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Intel Museum
Is there a better place than Silicon Valley to learn about the history of hi-tech and its impact on the Bay Area and the world? Not likely. This museum offers not only a history of the Intel Corporation and Silicon Valley, it also displays interesting exhibits on how chips, microprocessors and memory technology all work together. Learn about semiconductors, chip design, fabrication and packaging. Group tours are available. The gift shop is an excellent spot to find mementos from Silicon Valley.
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Ira F. Brilliant Center for Beethoven Studies
The only place in North America dedicated solely to the works of Ludwig himself, it contains a wealth of material, including the much-heralded lock of Beethoven's hair. Original manuscripts, books, recordings, autographed materials, masks, sculptures, stamps, films and all sorts of things are here. The center sponsors many concerts and lectures throughout the year and several things are for sale, like coffee mugs, scores and a bibliography database. This is an excellent place for scholarly research.
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J. Lohr Winery
This winery is located minutes away from downtown San Jose, making it readily accessible from the city proper. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you in tasting many of the award-winning wines. A free winery membership gets you a 25 percent discount on everything you buy, as well as 25 percent off two bottles shipped to you each month. It is a great side trip from downtown; stop by and taste the intensely scented chardonnay.
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Japanese American Resource Center/Museum
Japanese-Americans have a long history in Santa Clara Valley and this place is dedicated to preserving these traditions. Exhibits, collections, workshops, lectures and other special events take place here, all centering on the prominence of the Japanese-American peoples of the area. Several resource materials are also available, including books, videos and CDs. Established in 1987, the museum is right smack in the middle of Japan town. Stop in and see some incredible photo collections.
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Japanese Friendship Garden
Located in Japantown
Japantown is a true cultural treasure of San Jose. Here you'll find an assortment of Japanese restaurants and shops, some of which have been run by generations of Japanese Americans. Several stores sell interesting gifts. The architecture is a feast for the eyes.
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Japantown Farmers Market
Even if it is pouring rain, growers will be hawking their wares at this longtime San Jose institution, and customers will be there to greet them. Greens, breads, potatoes, eggs, onions, unusual Asian vegetables and pumpkins attract locals and out-of-towners to this market every Sunday. The selection is always excellent, there are many hard-to-find items such as bitter melon and long beans that are rarely seen outside of specialty markets. Do not miss the Mochi, a candy-like treat made from pounded rice and filled with sweetened beans.
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Kelley Park
This wonderful facility is a great place to take advantage of the generally sunny weather with which San Jose is blessed. It contains the Knight Ridder Building
It's easy to figure out which of San Jose's skyscrapers is the Knight Ridder Building. It's the 17-story one that has the name "Knight Ridder" boldly across the top story. But by the San Fernando Street entrance, you'll find a historic marker showing the significance of this location to American media. A former seven-story business building called the Garden City Bank Building once stood here and served as the transmitting spot for the world's first commercial radio station.
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Lake Cunningham Park
This spacious outdoor facility will please everyone, which explains the half a million visitors that come here every year. You can exercise, play horseshoes or volleyball, and even go sailing or fishing. Or just enjoy the fabulous sunshine in one of the few fog-free places in the Bay Area. There are a variety of picnic areas including a pavilion to hold your company meeting (call for reservation and fee information). It is a perfect retreat for the outdoorsman in us all. Check out the variety of wildlife that makes the park their home.
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Leavey Center
The Leavey Center is home to the Santa Clara Broncos basketball team. It can seat up to 5,000 spectators, and hosts the West Coast Conference Basketball tournaments. It also has a Sports Medicine and Treatment Center, volleyball, basketball, baseball and soccer team and training rooms. It was earlier known as the Harold J. Toso Pavilion, and after a massive renovation project, it was renamed after the late founder of Farmers Insurance, Thomas E. Leavey, a graduate from Santa Clara in 1922.
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Lick Observatory
About an hour's drive up Mount Hamilton Road you will find one of the world's largest telescopes, with a diameter of ten feet. Situated atop the 4,209-foot Mount Hamilton, the observatory dates back to the late 19th century, when it was one of the finest facilities of its kind anywhere in the world. It is still impressive, though the modern influx of light pollution has become a problem for some types of astronomical observations. The visitor's center offers many tours and viewing events during specific nights. Call for details. Because it is relatively fog free, this is still one of the best star-gazing spots in the Bay Area.
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Logitech Ice at San Jose
If you think ice is very nice, this is a fun frozen palace for you to visit during your stay in San Jose. You can take hockey or figure skating lessons--both for adults and kids--and also on occasion get yourself into a drop-in hockey game. After a hearty workout, stop by at Stanley Sports Bar where you have lunch or dinner. Just remember, it's great to skate.
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Los Altos History House and Museum
The history house is a redwood-shingled farmhouse that once belonged to orchard grower J. Gilbert Smith. It's set in the Los Altos Civic Center next to the city library. Inside, you can see furnishings from the 1930s, and outside, you can few various country-life relics in the garden. The museum next door contains various displays of Los Altos's natural history and a rotating exhibit relating to the town's past.
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Los Gatos Creek Trail
This 9.7-mile (15.6 km) trail is heavily used, so prepare for a lot of pedestrian and bike traffic. In San Jose, it starts in Willow Glen neighborhood at Meridian Avenue. It passes through Campbell and Los Gatos before finishing at Lexington Reservoir in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains just off Highway 17. Recently, work has been done to connect the trail to the network of San Francisco Bay Trails that will one day circle the entire San Francisco Bay.
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MACLA/San Jose Center for Latino Arts
This attractive little art space celebrates the contributions of Latinos to the visual and literary arts. It offers a fascinating look at the important part Latino arts play in the so-called mainstream culture. Every year, high profile artists join with local talents to produce events that address issues in the Latino community. The participants are heavily involved in art education for youth. Also on the premises is a neat little store filled with Hispanic art, figurines and more.
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Maples Pavilion
Named after the principle donor, the late Roscoe Maples, a member of the Stanford class of 1904, this $3.3 billion multi-purpose facility was dedicated on March 1, 1969. This full-function pavilion serves Stanford students for all there event needs. Home to both the men's and women's basketball teams and the men's and women's volleyball teams, come cheer on your team or attend music performances in this 7,613-seat arena.
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Martha Heasley Cox Center for Steinbeck Studies
If you're a fan of John Steinbeck, this is America's preeminent research place to come to see artifacts and letters devoted to the writer's life and literature. Although it was started originally to help researchers, everyone is welcome to explore Steinbeck's contribution to literature here. You'll find photographs and paintings as well as a portable typewriter he once owned.
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Mexican Heritage Plaza
This brand new oasis is the Mecca for Latino culture in the South Bay. An art gallery, spectacular gardens, and a state-of-the-art theater, as well as meeting rooms and offices, are all here. Concerts and festivals take place throughout the year, and the theater is the home of Los Lupenos de San Jose, a Latin folkloric dance troupe, and Teatro Vision, a theater collective. It is a lovely spot to spend a leisurely lunch hour or a sunny afternoon soaking up local culture.
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Moffett Field Golf Course
If you spot a GI, or other military personnel golfing, get used to it. This field golf course has 18 holes, and you will get to see lakes and other water hazards here. Rental carts are available for those who just decided to tee off after checking the environs. Metal spikes are tolerated but not encouraged. Head to this Santa Clara county golf course for some real challenge.
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Mountain Winery
You'll find the most exquisite wines in California at the Mountain Winery. Nestled in the scenic Saratoga mountains, the winery also hosts weddings, private parties, summer concerts, wine tasting events, and corporate events.
You probably know the name "Paul Masson" from the famous TV commercials where Orson Welles once intoned: "Old Paul Masson himself said it nearly a century ago: We will sell no wine before its time." Masson actually existed, and the Mountain Winery now serves as his monument. He came to California in 1878 from the Burgundy region of France and worked for a decade in the local wine-making business for Frenchman Charles Le Franc's Almaden Winery, the valley's largest wine producer at that time. Masson married his boss's daughter, and while on their honeymoon in France, he snipped some champagne grape cuttings and smuggled them back to Santa Clara Valley. Along Pierce Road in the Saratoga foothills, he used the cuttings to start his La Cresta Vineyard. It eventually became known as Paul Masson's Mountain Winery and won world-wide fame for its high-quality sparkling wine. In 1914, his wine won the prestigious Gran Prix of France, the first time an American-produced wine was so honored. More »
Municipal Rose Garden
Thousands visit this park each year to view the beautiful varieties of roses in a profusion of colors and types. A very colorful location, the park also includes a few fountains and a reflecting pool, making it a great spot for a quiet stroll even if you aren't a rose aficionado. Take a look at the map of the place, which lists names of all the varieties of roses.
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Municipal Stadium
When you've come to Muni Stadium, you've come to the homes of the San Jose Giants, the city's beloved minor league baseball team. The stadium is also used by San Jose high school teams during division championships. The stadium was built in 1941 and 1942 as a Works Progress Administration project, and it has a quaint old-fashioned feel to it. You'll definitely feel like you've come to Silicon Valley's version of a "Field of Dreams."
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NASA Ames Exploration Center
Located conveniently off Highway 101, this visitors center is a true treasure for science and space buffs. It offers an exciting way for you to learn about NASA space exploration--both manned and unmanned. You'll see a genuine moon rock brought back to Earth by Apollo 15's crew. And, among many other attractions, you'll also see up close a Mercury Redstone capsule launched in 1960. And best of all, it's free to get in.
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New Almaden Village
San Jose is known for its high-tech and fast-paced culture, but the city has its own "Brigadoon" located in one canyon corner. The little village of New Almaden is an enchanting step into the 19th-century past where life moved at a horse pace. The village is a National Historic Landmark district because it played an important role in the Gold Rush years. Without the mercury (or "quicksilver") mined out of the hills here, California's quest for the precious yellow metal quickly would have gone bust. New Almaden's mercury was placed in mining equipment to capture the little flakes of gold.
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Northside Theatre
Founded in 1978, this small but dynamic theater just east of downtown San Jose has been recognized nationally for developing exciting new plays. You'll discover a true theater treasure here that provides you with opportunities to see the performances of new emerging actors and playwrights. Every season, Northside Theater produces five plays.
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Oak Hill Memorial Park
Oak Hill was set aside in 1839 to be the final resting place for many of Santa Clara Valley's pioneer citizens. It's now considered the state of California's oldest secular cemetery. If you're into historic cemeteries, it's well worth a stop.
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Overfelt Gardens
This lovely and lush 33-acre space contains the Chinese Cultural Gardens, Palm Grove, reflecting ponds, a memorial for Chinese Nationalist hero Sun Yat Sen, and a natural wildlife and plant sanctuary. Stroll, take photos, or just kick back in the warm, sunny weather that is a hallmark of the San Jose area. This is easily one of the most charming gardens in the area. Group tours and picnic arrangements are available. Call for reservations and fee information.
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Paramount's Great America
This amazing amusement park offers something for the entire family. You'll find thrilling rides for children, family rides, 3-D animation shows at the Paramount Action FX Theater and loads of adrenaline-packed excitement. It also boasts of the world's tallest double-decker carousel. So waste no time and head straight here this spring for a fun-filled time. The park has some attractive season passes as well.
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Peralta Adobe & Fallon House Historic Site
This historic site is home to two of San Jose's oldest residences, the Peralta Adobe, built in 1797, and the Fallon House, built in 1855. The Adobe, in fact, is the oldest surviving structure from the El Pueblo de San Jose de Guadalupe. The interior is furnished as it would have been at the turn of the 19th century, when the Gonzales family and the Peralta family lived in the adobe. At the same site is the Fallon House, which was built by a former San Jose mayor in 1855. Tour the Victorian furnished rooms, rich with history and a glimpse into life in 1800s San Jose.
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Petroglyph Ceramic Lounge
This is Willow Glen's resident creative lounge where you can come to paint original ceramic masterpieces for gifts or relaxation. For a flat rate of less than $15, you get unlimited studio time, firing, glazing and use of paints and materials (pieces extra). The shop has a wide selection of ceramics to choose from, you will not just find tiles and plates, although those can be a lot of fun. Unique to this place is silver alchemy, a moldable clay-like material that once fired, becomes a pure silver color. Unbelievable but true, come and see for yourself.
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Picchetti Winery
Located in the hills above Cupertino on a 19th-century ranch, this winery will take you back to the turn of the century when it was founded.
The winery was started in 1896 and is considered one of California's oldest. Its founder was a young man named Vincenso Picchetti who came to California from Formarco, Italy in 1872 to work in the many orchards in Santa Clara Valley.
At the winery, you'll step into a red brick building that houses Picchetti's barrel and tasting rooms. This was built in 1896 by the Picchetti brothers, when this part of California was officially part of the Old West. More »
Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park
Located in the heart of the city and across from the Fairmont Hotel, this is one of the happening parks in San Jose. Live music, cultural festivals, craft fairs, food shows and open-air theater, it all happens at the Plaza. The two-acre park is dedicated to community activities, recreation and relaxation and is part of the original Pueblo de San Jose plaza. Parking is problematic, so use the San Jose light rail, VTA bus or one of the two free buses: the Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) and the San Jose Arena Shuttle.
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Raging Waters
A recreational hot spot for the entire family, this park is the largest of its kind in the Bay Area and has waterslides of all shapes and sizes. Careen your way down the 500-foot-long Barracuda Blaster or take an inner-tube ride down the Great White Shark. There are wading areas and smaller rides designed just for the youngsters. This park is highly recommended for families as well as couples and folks just looking for good clean fun.
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Rod Diridon Station
This station is the main passenger rail depot for San Jose and an important transportation hub for Silicon Valley. You'll find it a useful place to get around by Caltrain service to other points in Silicon Valley. It's also a beautiful building that played an important role in the region's history.
The station was opened in December 1935 and called for many years the Cahill Depot. The name was changed in 1994 to honor former Santa Clara County Supervisor Rod Diridon, who played an important role in developing public transportation in Silicon Valley.
It was originally built to serve Southern Pacific passenger trains such as the famous Coast Daylight that once traveled between Los Angeles and San Francisco. More »
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum & Planetarium
Tombs, mummies and all sorts of ancient Egyptian artifacts await you at one of the tourist hot spots of San Jose. The place is in beautiful Rosicrucian Park, with palm trees and Egyptian-style buildings everywhere. The museum itself contains an extensive array of artifacts, jewelry and displays of Egyptian antiquity. Especially fun is the tour in the cavernous tomb below the museum. You will get a great look at what life was like in ancient Egypt.
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Saint James Park
The last lynching ever held in California took place in this park. Things are much quieter these days (not to mention law-abiding). Nowadays the place holds a few statues and a small clan of homeless persons, but during the summer, there are live concerts featuring a variety of music performed to an appreciative crowd of locals. You will spot everyone from hi-tech types taking a break to families with kids to senior citizens enjoying the fresh air. There are also forestry classes year-round that make the environment come to life in all new ways.
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San Jose Betsuin Buddhist Church
This temple is a fabulous one to look at from the outside, as it is the only Japanese-style building in the immediate area. There is a pond outside, and the temple is right around the corner from many fine Japanese restaurants. The temple offers flower-arranging classes (also known as ikebana), Japanese language classes and judo practice. The central figure of the temple's altar is a traditionally ornate statue of the Buddha Amida, sculpted according to the Jodo Shinshu Nishi Hongwanji school of Buddhism.
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San Jose Center for Performing Arts
This 2,600-seat city-owned theatre, designed by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, is the venue for the San Jose Symphony, the American Musical Theatre of San Jose and San Jose Cleveland Ballet. The Center also hosts plays, concerts, and a variety of cultural events year-round. Thick carpet, plush seats, ample legroom and a sloping floor create a comfortable viewing environment. The theatre has accommodations for ten wheelchairs.
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San Jose City Hall
This controversial City Hall cost $382 million to build. It faced a lot of political heat during its construction for cost overruns. Some locals consider it a graceful architectural addition to downtown San Jose, while others believe its high-tech dome makes it look like the R2-D2 robot from Star Wars.
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San Jose Civic Auditorium
This well-designed auditorium is perfectly suited for concerts, lectures, sporting events or assemblies of any kind. The building, constructed in the Spanish Mission style, dates back to the 1930s, seats 3,000 people, and has been lovingly maintained, making it an elegant venue for any event. It also offers an interesting look at what San Jose was like before Silicon Valley reshaped the area's economy and the architecture.
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San Jose Flea Market
What may be the world's largest flea market (that is the claim, anyway) covers nearly 120 acres and offers lots of parking. Browse goods from more than 2,000 sellers, some commercial, some private. Everything is here: arts and crafts, produce, clothing, furniture, tires, bicycles, music, electronics, collectibles, shops, markets, barbecues, and knickknacks. It is a great destination for the bargain hunter.
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San Jose Improv
If you love to laugh at life, this is a great place to go to watch professional and up-and-coming comedians perform. This comedy club is part of the Improv chain that bills itself as "the premiere venue for showcasing new talent." It's a great place to hang out with local Silicon Valley residents in their 20s and 30s.
The Improv is located in what was once the Jose Theatre, a historic landmark of farm-town San Jose. It is the city's oldest surviving auditorium, and in its heyday it showcased touring vaudeville acts and silent movies. Escape artist Harry Houdini and movie comedians Fatty Arbuckle and Charlie Chaplin often performed here. More »
San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art
The ICA is a non-profit, innovative visual arts space located in downtown San Jose. For more than 20 years, they have presented cutting edge exhibitions featuring emerging and mid-career artists and provided the public a chance to see "what's new" in contemporary art. Exhibitions are accompanied by workshops and lectures to further engage the viewer. In addition to gallery programming, the ICA presents "Night Moves," new media installations in the front and rear windows that are visible only after dark.
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San Jose Museum of Art
There is something for everyone here: contemporary art, lectures, concerts, tours, book signings, special events and even programs for children. The museum has been host to many outstanding traveling shows and has been a champion of local artists. The museum bookstore offers a nice selection of usual museum merchandise, such as books, tote bags and greeting cards. The museum cafe, under the direction of celebrity chef Kevin Baker, offers a wonderful rotating menu of seasonal delights.
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San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles
The world's oldest quilt museum features constantly revolving exhibitions from all over the world. It looks small from the outside, but once you get in, there is a plenitude of wonderful things to see. Exhibits have included exquisite examples of Amish, Shaker, and Hawaiian quilting as well as striking works by contemporary crafters. The staff is well versed in quilt lore and can answer any of your questions or recommend books for any further research you might want to do.
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San Jose Public Library
This facility is a unique collaboration between San Jose Public libraries and San Jose State University Library. Named after icon Martin Luther King, Jr., this library provides a wealth of activities for children, reading classes, storytelling and more. An extensive foreign language collection includes many books in Spanish and Vietnamese, especially for kids, so it is a boon for non-English speakers and those wanting to learn a second language. Also check out the California Room, where you can do historical research about the San Jose area. Internet access workstations are available free to the public.
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San Jose Repertory Theater
Known as "The Rep," this cobalt blue, angular building juts out in the middle of downtown San Jose like a sore thumb. Its innovative approach draws many in the arts community to its plays, festivals, performances and lectures. A variety of contemporary theater works are scheduled on a regular basis. The season runs all year long. Recent productions include Having our Say by Emily Mann and Side Man by Warren Leight.
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San Jose State Event Center Arena
Located on the San Jose University campus, this multi-purpose arena has a seating capacity of 6,500 spectators. Choose from live sporting action and rocking concerts. Alternatively, you could head to the well-equipped fitness center, which is absolutely free for students. Otherwise, opt for a vigorous aerobics workout. Famous musicians, such as Pearl Jam, Sarah McLachlan, the Beastie Boys, and the Power Rangers have performed at this venue. The arena is also home to the Spartans basketball team.
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San Jose State University
San Jose State University is well worth a stroll to see its beautiful grounds and buildings and meet a few of its 30,000 students. Serving as a gateway between the campus and downtown San Jose is the modern Martin Luther King, Jr. Public Library. On campus, you'll find a mix of attractions including art galleries, a fun Student Union, an events center, and Northern California's largest swimming pool.
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Santa Teresa County Park
This county park spreads across 1,627 acres of foothill wilderness in south San Jose. It was once the setting of a Spanish era rancho that raised cattle and grew fruit for the pioneers of early California.
This wilderness park has an abundance of native animals including the coyote, black-tailed deer, and the small bobcats that like to hide in the grass and brush here. Excellent vistas of Silicon Valley can be enjoyed from Coyote Peak, which rises to an elevation of 1,155 feet. Coyote Valley just south of San Jose can also be seen from here. The park is very popular for group barbecues and picnics in spring, summer, and fall months.
The park's activities for travelers include 18 miles of hiking and equestrian riding, barbecues and picnics in the Pueblo Day Use area, an archery range, and an 18 hole championship golf course at the Santa Teresa Golf Club. During the spring, you'll find the park is a great place to see colorful wildflower displays. More »
Santana Row
Santana Row is the new urban district, a magnet for shopping, dining, entertainment and accommodations in North San Jose. With 42 acres at the corner of Stevens Creek & Winchester Blvds., and 528K square feet of luxury, lifestyle and "new concept" boutique retail, Santana Row redefines the entire destination experience. There is something for the entire family: 14 full service restaurants; twice-weekly farmers market; WiFi Internet access zones; Hotel Valencia world-class boutique hotel; outdoor cafes, public parks, gardens, plazas and courtyards; and a 6-screen CineArts complex. Developed by Federal Realty Investment Trust, Santana Row is a $531 million project that successfully combines the best elements of an urban plaza with the convenience and variety of a mall. Santana Row, it's a place like no other.
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Saratoga Springs
Immerse yourself in a natural, mountainous environment at this picnic facility, perfect for company picnics, weddings, reunions or meetings of any kind. You will be amid redwood trees that reach up as far as you can see. There are also streams, a swimming pool, a volleyball court and camping facilities. It is an excellent remote location for a corporate meeting, as the staff can provide catering and the whole nine yards.
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Savannah Chanelle Vineyards
Nestled in the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains just outside of Saratoga, this winery, originally established in 1892, offers a spectacular view of the entire South Bay. It is known for a variety of wines, all of which are available in the tasting room/gift shop. Enjoy the Cabernet Franc, Carignane, Zinfandel and Chardonnay in the gorgeous Mediterranean-style chateau, which is also available for meetings, barbecues, picnics and elegant weddings. The interior setting for this party and meeting facility is 1920s-style and quite posh. The tasting room was built of redwood in 1912.
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Shoreline Amphitheatre
Located on 60 acres of land, the Shoreline Amphitheatre is dubbed as the "Best Large Outdoor Amphitheatre in the United States" and has been seen as a blessing to the cultural scene in San Jose. The amphitheatre provides a view of the stage from every angle and has ample legroom that makes sitting or standing a pleasure! It is no wonder that nearly 450,000 people came to watch the likes of the Dave Matthews Band, Radiohead, Coldplay, James Taylor and Neil Young. Apart from providing comfortable facilities for concert goers, it also has a state of the art sound and light systems. It is housed in the world's largest tent, creating a sublime atmosphere during concerts. With such an impressive set of features, it would be advisable to check out who's playing and get down there to boogie!
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Spartan Stadium
Home of the San Jose Earthquakes and San Jose State University's football team, the stadium holds over 30,000 persons. Over the years, the facility has hosted many international sporting events and concerts. What began in 1933 as 4000 seat venue has constantly been upgraded and expanded into a modern venue for enjoying sporting events of all kinds as well as concerts, yet it still retains the charm of days gone by.
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Stanford Stadium
Stanford Stadium, located in the campus of the world-renowned Stanford University, is the largest privately owned college football facility in America. This stadium has held a record crowd of 94,000 spectators! Built in 1921, Stanford Stadium has received worldwide recognition from millions of sports fans watching the Super Bowl XIX and the Olympic Soccer competition. In 1994, the stadium played host to the Soccer World Cup. The Women's World Cup came to Stanford Stadium on July 4, 1999.
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Stanford University
This private university has played a big role in making Silicon Valley the world's center of high-tech. Historically, many of its alumni and faculty helped to create the innovations that made computers and the Internet possible. On your visit to San Jose, it's well worth a visit to the sprawling campus to see Ground Zero of the Digital Age. The campus has several museums and art galleries to enjoy also.
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Symphony Silicon Valley
The symphony's performances reach thousands of patrons at venues throughout the South Bay. It is also active in many education programs including an active outreach program to schools and young people's concerts.
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Teatro Vision
This nationally recognized theater company is dedicated to giving quality productions focusing on Latino issues. It performs in an intimate 500-seat theater at the Mexican Heritage Plaza. Every year, it produces three different shows and gives nearly 40 performances.
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Tech Museum of Innovation
San Jose's Tech Museum of Innovation is designed to inspire children's scientific curiosity, but adults who began as chaperones invariably find themselves becoming enthralled participants. Outside the mango-colored building is a tremendous, hypnotic Rube-Goldberg type of perpetual motion machine, famous for perplexing visitors for hours at a time with its spinning whirligigs and bouncing doohickeys. Inside is an array of hands-on exhibits employing scientific principles that yield exciting results for kids and grown-ups alike. Also, don't miss the IMAX theater, showing films on an enormous screen that literally fills your field of vision, an experience that you're not likely to forget soon. Come to the Tech Museum with an open mind, and give yourself a few extra hours just in case you don't want to leave.
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The Alameda
"The Alameda" is Spanish for "The Way." It is a busy city street that was originally part of the historic El Camino Real that connected all of California's missions about 200 years ago. Today, it is graced by elegant mansions, law offices, restaurants, and neighborhood stores.
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Thomas Fogarty Winery
Started by a Stanford University surgeon whose love of wine manifested itself in a creative way, this winery and estate sits atop the mountains at 2000 feet above sea level, and boasts a tremendous view of the entire bay area. It focuses on Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Merlot. Amidst stone walls and polished wood surfaces, visitors can relax and sample the wares. The winery can also hold corporate meetings for up to 220 people.
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Triton Museum of Art
This landmark museum is dedicated to the cultural diversity of the greater South Bay Area. For more than 30 years, the museum has offered collections that showcase the history and experiences of diverse South Bay communities including Latino, Japanese, and Pacific Islander, among others. It also provides thought-provoking, unfailingly illuminating lectures, classes, panel discussions, and tours. Exhibitions change on a monthly basis, and admission is free. It is a great place to learn the fascinating history of the area.
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Twin Creeks Sports Complex
Built in 1985, this 60-acre sports complex quickly became a huge hit for baseball and softball fans in the South Bay. Its 10 lighted fields draw more than 7,000 teams each year. It also includes batting cages, two soccer fields, a basketball court, a volleyball court, and horseshoe pits for sports-minded folks to enjoy.
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Villa Montalvo
This richly appointed Mediterranean-style estate and park is home to one of California's most respected arts organizations. A huge summer concert season takes place here, bringing world-renowned bands and performers. A multitude of famous-name performers have graced the stage over the years. There is also a gorgeous park in which you can stroll, as well as an art gallery that features up-and-coming local artists. It also provides services and an elegant setting for corporate retreats and weddings.
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Willow Glen (Neighborhood)
This neighborhood along the Guadalupe River was its own rural community, until its annexation by San Jose. Over the years, it has gained a reputation as one of the finer places to live in San Jose. Visit its quaint shopping district and you'll find a number of friendly restaurants offering good food in a pleasant ambiance. You'll also find a number of boutique shops and a scattering of antique stores.
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Winchester Mystery House
Famous for stairways that lead nowhere, windows placed in the floor, and over 160 bizarre rooms, the Winchester Mystery House is one of the most architecturally eccentric houses with an even more interesting history. Sarah Winchester, who was the heiress of the Winchester Rifle fortune, began construction on her Victorian mansion in 1884 and it wouldn’t end until the widow’s death—38 years later. After the death of both her husband to tuberculosis and her son only a few weeks after his birth, Sarah inherited half of the Winchester Rifle company and fell into a great depression. The grieving widow sought the advice of a spiritual medium who told her she, as well as her home, would be haunted and cursed by the many people who had been killed as a result of Winchester rifles. The medium then told Sarah the only thing she could do would be to move out west and build a mansion in which the construction should never end. And so the mysterious Winchester Mansion was built with countless oddities and the construction continued 24 hours a day for the duration of Sarah’s life. Today, visitors can tour the 160 rooms of the mansion with three elevators, 47 fireplaces, gold and silver chandeliers, Tiffany art glass windows, doors that open to walls, and much more. The Winchester Mystery House also houses the Winchester Firearms Museum and the Winchester Antique Products Museum.
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Wings of History Museum
Entirely run by volunteers, this friendly museum is devoted to repairing and maintaining antique airplanes of various vintages. You'll learn about the history of aviation starting from Orville and Wilbur Wright. It's also a great p