San Jose: 10 Places to Visit and 5 to Avoid

San Jose is a vibrant city located in the heart of California’s Silicon Valley. It is home to some of the country’s most renowned technology companies, as well as beautiful parks, museums, and other attractions. Whether you’re visiting San Jose for business or pleasure, there are plenty of places to explore. Here is a list of 10 places to visit and 5 to avoid in San Jose.

1. Winchester Mystery House

The Winchester Mystery House is a curious Victorian mansion located in San Jose. Built by Sarah Winchester over a period of 38 years, the house features 160 rooms, secret passageways, and ornate architectural features. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house to learn about its strange history and architecture.

2. Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is an educational attraction located in the Rosicrucian Park in San Jose. The museum houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts from Egypt, including mummies, sculptures, and jewelry. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, attend lectures, and participate in special events.

3. Santana Row

Santana Row is a popular shopping and dining destination located in San Jose. The area features a variety of upscale stores, restaurants, and bars, as well as a movie theater and live music venues. Visitors can browse the shops, enjoy a meal at one of the many eateries, or take a stroll through the picturesque streets.

4. San Jose Flea Market

The San Jose Flea Market is a bustling outdoor market located in San Jose. With more than 800 vendors selling a variety of items, including antiques, furniture, clothing, and jewelry, the flea market is a great place to find unique items and bargains. The market also features food vendors, live entertainment, and a carnival-style atmosphere.

5. History Park at Kelley Park

History Park at Kelley Park is a living history museum located in San Jose. The park features historic buildings from the city’s past, including a schoolhouse, a railroad station, and a print shop. Visitors can explore the park’s exhibits, take part in educational programs, and attend special events throughout the year.

6. Municipal Rose Garden

The Municipal Rose Garden is a beautiful garden located in San Jose. The garden features more than 4,000 rose bushes of 200 different varieties, as well as a variety of trees and shrubs. Visitors can stroll through the garden’s pathways, relax in the shade of the trees, and enjoy the fragrant scent of the roses in bloom.

7. San Jose Museum of Art

The San Jose Museum of Art is an art museum located in downtown San Jose. The museum features a variety of works from different periods and regions, including contemporary art, photography, and sculpture. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, attend lectures and workshops, and take part in special events.

8. Children’s Discovery Museum

The Children’s Discovery Museum is an interactive museum located in downtown San Jose. The museum features hands-on exhibits, interactive games, and educational activities designed to engage children and adults alike. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, participate in special events, and attend workshops and classes.

9. Alum Rock Park

Alum Rock Park is a beautiful outdoor park located in East San Jose. The park features a variety of trails, picnic areas, and natural attractions, as well as a lake and a waterfall. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, take part in educational programs, and attend special events throughout the year.

10. Japanese Friendship Garden

The Japanese Friendship Garden is a beautiful garden located in San Jose. The garden features a tranquil pond, a traditional tea house, and a variety of plants and trees. Visitors can explore the garden’s pathways, take part in educational programs, and attend special events throughout the year.

Places to Avoid

1. East San Jose: East San Jose is a neighborhood located in the city of San Jose. The area is known for its high crime rate, so visitors should avoid it.

2. North San Jose: North San Jose is another neighborhood with a high crime rate. Visitors should avoid this area, especially at night.

3. Downtown San Jose: While there are many attractions in downtown San Jose, it is also home to a large homeless population and has seen an increase in crime in recent years. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings when visiting this area.

4. West San Jose: West San Jose is a neighborhood located west of the downtown area. The area is known for its high crime rate and visitors should avoid it.

5. King Road: King Road is a street located in East San Jose. The area has seen an increase in violence and drug activity in recent years, so visitors should avoid it.