San Jose, California: February 18th-19th, 2023

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Built on agriculture and mining, and founded as one of the first secular pueblo towns in California, the city of San Jose is now a major hub for big tech, earning it the nickname, "capital of the Silicon Valley."  Located in the San Francisco Bay area at the center of the Santa Clara Valley, San Jose is traversed by many major roads including Highway 101 and Interstates 880, 680, and 280. With a vibrant downtown, beautiful parks, interesting museums, and several wineries, there's plenty of fun to be had in San Jose. With San Francisco only 48 miles away, you might decide to add a few more days to your California adventure!

Exploring San Jose:.

Interesting places to see in San Jose include the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum featuring ancient magical artifacts and real-life mummies, the Winchester Mystery House, and Monopoly in the Park--the world's largest permanent Monopoly board! The Guadalupe River Park offers beautiful trails and scenery for those who want to relax in nature. The bustling downtown features restaurants, shops, and more. For tech lovers, be sure to visit the Intel Museum and Tech Interactive. If you're a  confectionary connoisseur, stop by the San Jose Candy Kitchen for chocolate-dipped strawberries and other artisan-crafted sweets. Happy Hollow Park and Zoo and the Japanese Friendship Gardens offer a relaxing and engaging getaway just a 15 minute drive from the hotel.

Exploring San Francisco: 

Just 48 miles away and accessible via public transit (VTA, Caltrain, and BART) or the monterey Airbus, there is much to see and do in San Francisco! 

The Castro District (Take the Rainbow Honor Walk and check out the Seward Street Slides!)

Japantown (Visit the Peace Plaza and shop unique stores)

Chinatown (See the famous Dragon's Gate and shop for gifts)

Golden Gate Bridge 

Fisherman's Wharf (see the sea lions at Pier 39 and views of Alcatraz!)

Ghiradelli Chocolate Factory 

Lombard St. (the world's most crooked street)

Coit Tower (great views, plus parrots!) 

Exploring California's Wine Country: 

Just a 20 mile drive to the southwest brings you to the heart of Santa Cruz wine country, known for it's lively wines. See the Guide to Santa Cruz Wine Country for more information on suggested routes, vineyards, and tasting rooms. There are also several wineries with tasting rooms in San Jose, including J. Lohr Vineyards and Divine Wine.

Further Adventures:

If you're interested in learning about local Bigfoot sightings, ask the pros and check out the evidence at the Bigfoot Discovery Museum, just 32 miles to the southwest in Felton, CA. 

If you like exploring haunted places and other oddities, check out this guide to mysterious places near San Jose.