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

Experience the heart of Silicon Valley in San Jose.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Getting to know San Jose

  • Check-in at The Fairmont San Jose, a luxurious hotel with a central location and exceptional service
  • Start the day with a walk in the beautiful Municipal Rose Garden, boasting over 4,000 rose bushes
  • Explore the historic buildings of the San Jose State University campus, including Tower Hall and Morris Dailey Auditorium
  • Visit the Tech Interactive, a museum featuring interactive exhibits about technology and innovation
  • Dine at Original Joe's, a classic Italian-American restaurant serving delicious pastas and steaks
Day 2

Discovering Art and Culture

  • Start the day with a visit to the San Jose Museum of Art, showcasing a collection of over 2,000 artworks
  • Enjoy a stroll through the charming Japanese Friendship Garden, featuring koi ponds, waterfalls, and a tea house
  • Take a tour of the Winchester Mystery House, a fascinating Victorian mansion with peculiar architectural features
  • Catch a performance at the beautiful California Theatre, a historic venue showcasing opera, ballet, and theater shows
  • Satisfy your cravings with a gourmet sandwich at Ike's Love and Sandwiches
Day 3

Nature and Adventure

  • Head to Alum Rock Park, a stunning natural park with hiking trails, gorgeous views, and picnic areas
  • Visit the Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, a fun attraction for families featuring a petting zoo, rides, and playgrounds
  • Take a scenic drive to the Lick Observatory, overlooking the Silicon Valley and offering guided tours and stargazing events
  • Go on a thrilling adventure at the Raging Waters San Jose, a water park with water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers
  • Enjoy a scrumptious meal at The Table, a farm-to-table restaurant with a cozy ambiance and delicious seasonal dishes
Day 4

Shopping and Foodie Delights

  • Start the morning with some retail therapy at the upscale Santana Row shopping district, featuring high-end brands and trendy boutiques
  • Visit the San Jose Flea Market, a massive open-air market with over 10 acres of vendors selling everything from vintage clothing to fresh produce
  • Savor some authentic Vietnamese cuisine at the popular Pho Y #1 Restaurant
  • End the day with a food and drink crawl in the SoFA district, known for its culinary diversity, craft beers, and live music venues
  • Rest your head at The Westin San Jose, an elegant hotel with a prime location and comfortable amenities.

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

Escape to San Jose: 3-Day Romantic Adventure

A romantic trip to San Jose, United States promises unforgettable experiences. From exploring the picturesque Winchester Mystery House to savoring delectable cuisines at the famous San Pedro Square Market, the trip will be filled with unforgettable memories. Don't forget to visit the iconic Municipal Rose Garden and take a scenic stroll with your loved one.

San Jose Smiles: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Adventure!

A family-friendly trip to San Jose, United States is a perfect blend of fun and educational activities. Visit the Tech Museum of Innovation, where children can explore interactive exhibits, or head to the Children's Discovery Museum for hands-on learning experiences. Enjoy outdoor adventures at Almaden Quicksilver County Park, offering hiking trails and wildlife sightings, ensuring a memorable and family-oriented trip in San Jose.

San Jose Family Adventure: 4 Days of Fun!

San Jose, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. With its mild climate and abundant recreational opportunities, families can enjoy outdoor attractions like the Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, which offers rides, playgrounds, and up-close animal encounters. Additionally, families can explore innovative museums such as the Tech Museum of Innovation, providing interactive exhibits and educational experiences perfect for kids and adults alike.

Discover San Jose: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

On a limited budget, a trip to San Jose, United States can be enjoyable with plenty of free things to do. Explore the tech capital's famous landmarks such as the Winchester Mystery House, San Jose Museum of Art, and the Tech Museum of Innovation, all of which offer low-cost admission or free visiting hours. Dine at local food trucks and visit bustling farmers markets to experience a taste of the diverse culinary scene while staying within budget.