There are lots of things to do in San Jose that you might not even know about while planning your trip. More than just being the headquarters of famous tech companies, San Jose offers a variety of experiences for all personalities. Need help planning your itinerary? Check out these things to do in San Jose!
Things to Do in San Jose | Experiencing the Silicon Valley Capital to the Max
In this article:
- What Time Is It in San Jose?
- Free Things to Do in San Jose
- Things to Eat in San Jose
- Most Popular Restaurants in San Jose
- Most Popular Places to Shop in San Jose
- Most Popular Destinations in San Jose
- How to Get Around in San Jose
- Travel Tips for San Jose
1. What Time Is It in San Jose?
San Jose, California follows Pacific Standard Time or UTC -8 hours. San Jose also follows daylight savings time. Daylight savings time starts on March 11 and ends on November 4.
2. Free Things to Do in San Jose
There are lots of things you can do in San Jose without breaking the bank. Do you want to stop and smell the roses? Literally? Visit the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden and see the beautiful flowers bloom!
If you’re more in the mood for a zen walk and finding peace and tranquility, the Japanese Friendship Garden may be what you’re looking for. If you want to relax in a rural setting and spend a day on a farm, the Emma Prusch Farm Park is the perfect place for you.
3. Things to Eat in San Jose
Whatever food you’re craving, San Jose has something that will satisfy your palate! This part of California offers a diverse food experience. From barbecue to pasta, from Japanese to Ethiopian food, name it and it’s here!
Imagine Rajun Cajun, garlic sauce, and lemon pepper all rolled into one sweet sauce. That’s what they call the whole Sha-Bang Sauce at the Boiling Crab. You’re good to order any food as long as it’s offered with that savory sauce!
Some of San Jose’s specialty sandwiches will also keep you coming back for more, so don’t miss out on them. For Middle Eastern food, keep an eye out for biryanis and curries.
4. Most Popular Restaurants in San Jose
According to TripAdvisor, the maker of the best falafels in town and the number one food place in San Jose is the Falafel Drive-in. The fast food restaurant offers both Mediterranean cuisine and American favorites. Be sure to try the falafel, which makes people fall in love with this place!
Another place you should try is Original Joe’s. This vibrant Italian restaurant offers a San Francisco flair in the heart of Silicon Valley. It also has a vegan-friendly menu, so there’s something for everyone!
5. Most Popular Places to Shop in San Jose
For a unique shopping and dining experience, drop by the “village within a city” Santana Row near downtown San Jose. The place offers a variety of world-class brands and cuisine. Another great place to eat, drink, and shop is the San Pedro Square Market. For added fun, join the Pub Quiz every Monday, 7 pm at the Market Bar.
6. Most Popular Destinations in San Jose
If you’re a fan of quaint yet spooky houses, don’t miss out on a visit to the Winchester Mystery House! It holds flashlight tours every Friday the 13th of October for Halloween. Outdoor enthusiasts and mountain lovers should make it a point to hike Mission Peak. It’s a two-hour trek but the view at the top is worth the effort!
7. How to Get Around San Jose
Through its many public transportation options, San Jose is quite accessible to the rest of the San Francisco Bay area and to major freeways. The Valley Transportation Authority operates buses, light rail, and shuttles. Bike sharing is also an easy way to get around San Jose.
8. Travel Tips for San Jose
San Jose has sunny weather and is a great place to walk around or go biking. Better bring reliable and comfy shoes if you want to make the most of your vacation! If you also want to take your trip indoors, note that San Jose has several museums. Visit as many as you can while you’re there. An entrance ticket ranges in cost from free up to $10.
For more ideas on things to do in San Jose, check out this video from mikeetoot:
San Jose may be popularly known as the capital of Silicon Valley, but there’s more to it than its tech headquarters. From amazing food to nature to people, you’ll find yourself continuously in awe of this city! Head to San Jose and make sure you pack the right travel accessories for the adventure.
Have you been to San Jose? What was your favorite experience? Let us know in the comments!
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