San Jose's 2-Day Adventure Guide

Discover technology's birthplace in sunny San Jose.

22 April 2023

Discover a city that blends its rich history with modern-day innovation. In San Jose, you can delve into the birthplace of silicon valley and explore world-class museums such as the Tech Museum of Innovation. Don't miss out on the authentic Mexican cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and unforgettable outdoor adventures in the nearby mountains.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

San Jose Shuffle

  • Check in at The Westin San Jose, a beautifully restored hotel with modern amenities.
  • Head to the San Pedro Square Market for lunch and enjoy local food and craft beer.
  • Take a stroll through the historic Japantown neighborhood and visit the Japanese American Museum.
  • Learn about the tech industry at the Tech Museum of Innovation and marvel at the IMAX theater.
  • End the day with dinner at Adega, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving up authentic Portuguese cuisine.
Day 2

Nature in the City

  • Start the morning with breakfast at Bill's Cafe, a local favorite for their delicious pancakes.
  • Visit the San Jose Flea Market, the largest open-air market in the U.S. and browse through vintage finds and artisanal goods.
  • Take a relaxing walk through the Municipal Rose Garden and smell the fragrant roses in full bloom.
  • Hike the trails at Alum Rock Park and enjoy scenic views of the city and the Santa Clara Valley.
  • Indulge in a fancy dinner at The Table, a farm-to-table restaurant that uses seasonal ingredients to create memorable dishes.
  • There's never a dull moment in San Jose, and with so much to see and do, two days is just enough to get a taste of the city's charm.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to San Jose is by plane. You can fly into San Jose International Airport (SJC), which is located less than 4 miles from the downtown area. There are numerous airlines that fly into SJC, including American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest.

Car

Driving is a popular way to get to San Jose. Depending on where you are coming from, you can take Interstate 5 or Interstate 580 and then merge onto Interstate 680 to get to San Jose. From Southern California, it may be faster to take Interstate 101 and then head south to San Jose.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to San Jose. However, you can take Amtrak to San Francisco and then transfer to a Caltrain that goes to San Jose. The Amtrak station in San Francisco is located at 700 4th St, while the Caltrain station in San Jose is located at 65 Cahill St.

Boat

Unfortunately, there is no way to get to San Jose by boat as the city is not located on the coast or any major bodies of water.

Bus

Taking a bus is a convenient way to get to San Jose. Greyhound offers numerous bus routes to San Jose, with the bus station located at 70 S Almaden Ave. Megabus also has service to San Jose, with the stop located at the Diridon Transit Center at 65 Cahill St.

More travel plans

3 Days in San Jose: Tech, Art, & Adventure

As a budget traveler visiting San Jose, there are several inexpensive activities to choose from, including hiking Alum Rock Park or admiring the street art in the city. For a cheap meal, check out one of the many food trucks or grab a burrito from a taqueria. To save money on accommodation, consider staying in a hostel or renting a room through Airbnb.

5-Day San Jose Itinerary: Tech, Art, and Adventure

As a tourist, a trip to San Jose, United States can be full of fun and excitement. One can explore the Tech Museum of Innovation, admire the architectural beauty of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph, and enjoy an evening walk in the scenic Kelly Park. Additionally, the city is a perfect base for day trips to the nearby San Francisco Bay Area and Silicon Valley.

4 Days of Tech, Culture, and Adventure in San Jose

Visiting San Jose, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers a unique blend of technology and culture. The city boasts impressive museums, including the Tech Museum of Innovation and the San Jose Museum of Art, as well as diverse culinary offerings and outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking at nearby parks. From high-tech campuses to historic neighborhoods, San Jose has something for every type of traveler.

Artistic Delights in San Jose: Get Quirky and Geeky

San Jose, United States offers a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. With its numerous kid-friendly attractions such as the famous Children's Discovery Museum, Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, and the Tech Museum of Innovation, there is something for everyone. Additionally, families can explore the beautiful San Jose Municipal Rose Garden and enjoy outdoor activities at Almaden Lake Park, making it a memorable trip for all.