Things to do in San Jose, CA

Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.

This line perfectly captures the essence of exploring new places, and San Jose, CA, is no exception.

It is situated in the heart of Silicon Valley and is often known for its tech giants.

However, the city offers much more than just its reputation as an innovation hub.

Whether you are into outdoor adventures, rich cultural experiences, or cutting-edge technology, there's something for everyone here.

As the third-largest city in California and home to over 1 million residents, San Jose has a dynamic mix of attractions.

It is also considered one of the most diverse cities in the United States, with over 40% of its population born outside the country.

This cultural diversity can be seen in its food, art and community events, which makes it a fascinating place to explore.

San Jose's bustling downtown area alone is packed with great spots, from tech museums to farmers' markets and lively nightlife.

Tourism statistics show us that San Jose attracts millions of visitors annually.

In fact, the city's Mineta San Jose International Airport handled over 14 million passengers in the previous year.

What makes this city stand out is the variety of activities you can enjoy.

It doesn't matter if you are seeking family-friendly activities in San Jose, looking for free things to do in San Jose, or planning day trips from San Jose, California; it always delivers in spades.

Let’s find out things to do in San Jose, CA, and what makes it one of the most exciting places to visit in California!

Tech Capital of the World

San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley and home to global tech giants like Google, Apple, and Meta.

If you are interested in the history of innovation, The Tech Interactive downtown is a must-visit.

This interactive science and technology centre offers exhibits like exploring virtual reality and solving real-world engineering challenges.

It makes it one of the most family-friendly activities in San Jose.

If you are a tech enthusiast or a curious visitor, you will love exploring the future of technology here.

Downtown San Jose’s Vibrant Atmosphere

Downtown San Jose is brimming with activities, which makes it a hub for fun things to do in downtown San Jose.

One standout destination is San Pedro Square Market, where you can enjoy a variety of food stalls, craft beers, and live music.

Whether you are grabbing tacos or sipping artisanal coffee, it’s a hotspot for local culture.

Downtown also offers access to Plaza de César Chávez, where you can relax under the palm trees or enjoy seasonal events like Christmas in the Park.

Free Things to Do in San Jose

You don't always have to spend a fortune to enjoy what the city has to offer.

In fact, there are plenty of free things to do in San Jose that can make your visit just as exciting as if you were splurging. 

Municipal Rose Garden

Imagine walking through a garden filled with the fragrance of over 3,500 rose bushes, blooming in nearly 200 varieties of vibrant colors.

The Municipal Rose Garden is one of San Jose's most iconic and scenic spots and best of all—it's absolutely free.

It was established in 1927 and was named "America’s Best Rose Garden" by the All-America Rose Selections. 

Japanese Friendship Garden in Kelley Park

If you are looking for a serene escape in the middle of the city, the Japanese Friendship Garden in Kelley Park is the perfect spot.

It offers peaceful pathways, koi ponds, and traditional Japanese bridges that transport you into another world.

Plus, it's a great place to reflect and unwind, whether you're travelling solo or with family. 

San Jose’s Public Art and Murals

San Jose has made it a mission to beautify its urban spaces with public art, especially downtown.

Some notable stops include the "Horizon" sculpture at the City Hall and the vibrant "Embers of the Past" mural on Santa Clara Street. 

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library

This isn’t just any library—Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library is located on the San Jose State University campus.

It is a remarkable blend of a public library and a university library.

What makes it even more special are the hidden art installations scattered across its nine floors.

From an interactive piece called “By the People” to the giant book spine art in the atrium, this is more than just a library; it’s a cultural and artistic experience. 

Family-Friendly Activities in San Jose

When visiting San Jose with the family, you’ll be pleased to find that the city is packed with activities to keep everyone entertained, from toddlers to teens (and parents, too!). 

The Tech Interactive

Let’s start with one of the most interactive and fun places in San Jose—The Tech Interactive. It is located in downtown San Jose; this museum is all about hands-on learning through technology and innovation.

Kids (and adults) can explore topics like space, biology, and coding in a way that makes learning fun.

Its general fees are about $25 per adult and $20 per child. 

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo is a must-visit for families with younger kids.

It includes a small but charming zoo, puppet shows, and amusement rides that are designed just for kids.

The zoo houses over 150 animals like the lemur and jaguar. It also offers close-up animal encounters. 

Children's Discovery Museum

Another on the list is the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose.

It is a perfect indoor activity for curious little ones.

With more than 150 interactive exhibits, this museum allows kids to explore science, art, and the natural world.

It’s one of the most popular family-friendly activities in San Jose.

It also draws over 400,000 visitors a year. 

Emma Prusch Farm Park

If you are looking for something more relaxed and outdoorsy, head over to Emma Prusch Farm Park.

Kids can enjoy farm animals like chickens, goats, and cows and even explore the community gardens.

It is a perfect spot for a leisurely family picnic day in green spaces. 

Best Places to Visit in San Jose

If you are visiting San Jose and wondering where to start, let's look at the best places in San Jose that you won’t want to miss.

Winchester Mystery House

First up is the iconic Winchester Mystery House.

It is a must-see for anyone who loves a bit of history mixed with mystery.

This mansion is built by Sarah Winchester (widow of the rifle tycoon). It is famous for its strange architectural quirks.

It has staircases that lead to nowhere, secret doors, and windows that open into walls.

Since its opening to the public, it has attracted over 12 million visitors, making it a major draw for both locals and tourists.

Santana Row

If you're in the mood for shopping, dining, or just soaking in some luxury, Santana Row is the place to be.

You’ll find upscale boutiques, trendy restaurants, and even some live entertainment on weekends.

With over 50 shops and numerous dining options, it's a vibrant day and night destination. 

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

Head to the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, which houses the largest collection of Egyptian artefacts on the West Coast.

You can explore authentic mummies, hieroglyphics, and even a replica of an ancient Egyptian tomb.

The museum’s collection includes over 4,000 artefacts, from jewellery to sculptures and burial items. 

Alum Rock Park

Alum Rock Park is one of the oldest municipal parks in California

It offers over 13 miles of hiking trails and breathtaking views.

The trails wind through beautiful natural scenes, including lush greenery, creeks, and old bridges.

Plus, it's free to enter, which makes it an easy choice for those looking for free things to do in San Jose.

Pros and Cons of living in San Jose, CA

When considering a move to San Jose, CA, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons.

How Much Will it Cost to Move to San Jose, CA

Moving to San Jose, CA, can be an exciting prospect, but it’s essential to know the costs upfront. 

Housing Costs

One of the biggest factors when moving to San Jose is housing.

San Jose’s location in Silicon Valley means it has some of the highest housing costs in the country. 

Renting in San Jose: The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around $2,900 per month, while outside the city centre, it is around $2,400 per month.

For a 2-bedroom apartment, expect to pay about $3,800 downtown and $3,100 in the suburbs.

Buying a Home: If you’re looking to purchase, the median home price in San Jose is about $1.4 million.

The prices depend on the neighbourhood, with areas like Willow Glen or Santana Row on the higher end.

Utilities and Internet

Typically, for a 900 sq. ft. apartment, utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage) cost about $170 per month.

If you add internet, it can cost you around $70 per month for a decent high-speed connection. It brings your total utility costs to around $240 per month.

Transportation Costs

San Jose has an extensive VTA (Valley Transportation Authority) network that includes buses and light rail.

Public Transport: A monthly VTA pass costs $90 and includes unlimited rides on buses and light rail. 

Driving: If you plan to drive, gasoline in California is more expensive than the national average. As of 2024, gas prices in San Jose are around $5.20 per gallon.

Insurance is also relatively high in this area, with $1,500 per year for car insurance. 

Grocery and Dining Costs

Overall, grocery costs are higher than the national average.

A typical grocery bill for one person can range from $350 to $450 monthly.

Dining out is another popular activity in San Jose. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will set you back about $20, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages $80. 

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare is another significant expense to consider when moving to San Jose.

If you have health insurance through your employer, you may pay less, but without it, a basic doctor’s visit can range from $150 to $250.

For those with insurance, it usually ranges from $20 to $50.

Childcare and Education

For families moving to San Jose, childcare costs are important to keep in mind.

A full-time placement in a daycare center costs around $1,500 to $2,200 per month for a child.

If you are looking for private schooling, tuition for K-12 education generally ranges between $12,000 and $20,000 per year.

Summary of Monthly Living Costs in San Jose, CA