Things To Do In San José, California

San José, located in Silicon Valley, is the largest city in Northern California.

Surrounded by rolling hills, the city is a popular destination for business people and tourists. Whether you're interested in its rich history or its technology, San José offers something for everyone.

Here are some fun things to do when visiting San José, California.

Take a tour

If you're a wine lover, a tour of the Santa Clara Wine Trail might interest you. You will stop at wineries, learn about them, and sample wine. Your tour may also include lunch. If beer is more your style, you can tour local breweries. Strike Brewing Company offers tours and tastings.

If you're into history and mystery, visit the Winchester Mystery House. This supposedly haunted house was built in 1884 by Sarah Winchester, the widow of firearm magnate William Wirt Winchester. You can also take a half-day evening bus tour of San José, including pick-up and dinner.

Check out the Computer History Museum

If technology is your thing, you won't want to miss seeing the Computer History Museum. Explore 19 galleries, 1,100 objects, and original multimedia. The history of computing goes back to the abacus, 2,000 years ago.

If you want to see the progression of computers and the Internet, are interested in robots, autonomous cars, or software history, or want to learn about women in technology, then the Computer History Museum should be on your to-do list. Your family can spend hours exploring and learning.

Have an adventure

If you're adventurous, San José offers plenty to do to get your adrenaline pumping. There's nothing like a vacation to try something new.

If you've never been rock climbing, you can take a half-day beginner rock-climbing lesson. If you're an expert, there are options for you, too.

Consider a helicopter tour to see the city from a different perspective. You can also go zip-lining, skydiving, or bungee jumping.

Take a hike

San José has plenty of hiking trails if you're the outdoorsy type.

Almaden Quicksilver County Park includes 37 miles of hiking and 16 miles of bike trails. Dogs are welcome if they're on a leash. Bring water, as there is no drinking water available in the park. What makes this park unique is its status as a historic landmark. For 135 years, the park was a mining area. Miners and their families lived there, and you can see remnants today.

Another hiking spot you may enjoy is Alum Rock Park, California's oldest municipal park, founded in 1872. The park has 13 miles of hiking trails and three miles of biking trails. You can park for free at the Eagle Rock and Rustic Lands lots.