San Jose is considered to be California State’s 3rd largest city and the United States’ 10th largest one, based on population. This area is presently popular for its booming, vibrant hi-tech industry, thereby gaining the nickname of ‘Silicon Valley Capital’. However, it is a very expensive place only the fairly affluent can purchase a property here. The city also boasts of having a rich, colourful history, which includes the Mexicans and the Spanish. There are several interesting things to do during the travel in this great city, some of which are given below.
Top places to visit in San Jose
Spend some time at Innovation Tech Museum:
The whole family can enjoy visiting this place. Initially, this museum was started in a garage place and became popular, after which it had been moved into the current facility that covers an area of 132,000 sq. ft. The museum’s aim is to provide the next generation tourist with a glimpse of how Silicon Valley is and to inspire them and to contribute towards developing a great future.
Winchester Mystery House:
In case, you are trying to check out something different, then perhaps, this is the right place to be. Initially, it was Sarah Winchester’s property, who was William Winchester’s window, the famous gun magnate. Upon his passing away, she had inherited the wealth and soon after this strange house was constructed. According to legend, 38 years went into its construction and work seemed to go forever until the moment Sarah herself had expired. Being constructed from ground up, this building is regarded to be an interesting maze of alcoves and rooms and did not have any proper construction plans.
Visit the Pharaoh’s to go back in time:
San Jose does boast of having a museum that has been dedicated towards the ancient Egyptians, known as Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum. It does boast of having large collection of valuable items gathered from ancient Egypt in entire Western U.S. Besides the artefacts, the museum has been constructed in ancient Egyptian architectural style, which will take you back in time and provide that feeling. Few notable exhibits placed here include Cleopatra VII’s stone figure and statue of Taweret.
Children’s Discovery Museum:
Your children are sure to love this museum. Since its opening in 1990, it was witnessed over 7 million people enjoying its interactive exhibits. They have been designed to respond to the children’s different needs. This museum is also expanded constantly and in the near future, there is planned another major expansion. There have also been employed several talented staffs here, who ensure that children do get their fill from the visit.
Explore St. Joseph’s Cathedral Basilica:
It is actually a popular Roman Catholic Church that has been constructed at San Jose’s downtown area and is located in its centre. It has been named after the universal church’s patron saint, St. Joseph. It is also considered to be the 5th church to stand in this very spot, since earthquakes or fires are said to have destroyed the previous constructions. Restoration is being undertaken on a regular basis. This is indeed a beautiful cathedral that has given attention to minute details and has amazing artwork.
Visit Heritage Rose Garden to admire the exotic flowers
This rose garden claims to have world-class rose collection which had been planted initially in 1995 by more than 750 volunteers and still is maintained by volunteers. If you are eager to enjoy being among roses, then you should definitely visit the Municipal Rose Garden, which is close-by. The main attraction of both the gardens is the existence of 3,500 plantings and 180 varieties of flowers. The garden in the past had been a prune orchard and covers an area of 5½ acres of land, is presently dedicated to the rose family members. Since 1937, it is open to visitors and is a quiet, beautiful place to be.
Hollow Park and Zoo:
This is a small amusement park and zoo covering an area of 16 acres and housing about 150 animals. The park in the recent years had witnessed some major renovations. Although small in size, there are indeed several things to do here during the visit, besides having a look at the animals. You can check out the education centre and learn more about those animals kept in the park or enjoy the puppet show. Also are present few amusement rides like the carousel and a roller coaster.
Alum Rock Park:
It is located at Diablo Mountain Range foothills and is considered to be among California’s oldest municipal parks. It covers an area of 740 acres and is full of rugged beauty which you can enjoy thoroughly during your visit. You can enjoy cycling, hiking, jogging or simply strolling around and have a picnic. You can find several wild animals roaming all over the park like the bobcats, deer and mountain lions. The park also boast of having a mineral spring that is still active including 9 barbecue pits, which needs to be advance booked to avoid disappointment.
Local Flea Market:
Since 1950, this flea market has been operating, allowing locals and tourists to have an inexpensive day. There are many stores here and you are sure to find here something of your preference ranging from fashionable clothing to antique comic books, toys, etc. Also are present several outlets that serve delicious food. Before ending the trip, you can also enjoy the ride on mini-Ferris wheel or vintage carousel.
Kelley Park:
Covering an area of 156 acres, it is set in San Jose city and provides several facilities to tourists within its borders like the Zoo & Happy Hollow Park. Previously, it was a farm whose owner was Mrs. Louise Kelley. But after she passed away, it was donated to the city. You can take a hike across the tree groves or relax in any of the picnic areas here.
There are indeed numerous activities that you can engage in along with your during your trip to San Jose. But do ensure booking your hotels in San Jose much in advance to get huge discounts and enjoy more savings!!
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