17 Things to do in San Jose

San Jose is one of the largest cities in California and is located in the heart of the Silicon Valle. I have been visiting the city for years, so join me as I journey through the vibrant city of San Jose, California, uncovering a diverse array of activities and attractions that are sure to captivate your wanderlust. From breathtaking drives with stunning views and the city's thriving art scene, to fascinating museums that showcase the region's rich history and culture, San Jose has a lot to offer. Check out this video to see all of my favorite spots and let me know what I left off in the comments.

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California Through My Lens
5198 Arlington Ave # 937
Riverside, CA 92504

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[brucejohnson]

My great grandparents lived in San Jose when I was a kid in the 60’s. We lived in Santa Clara. I can’t believe Happy Hollow is still there ! Brings back great memories. Great Video. Thanks

[gregsvlogshow]

As a person that was born in San Jose and raised just south of SJ I will say, San Jose is an often times overlooked city, It has tons to offer and it's either 2nd or 3rd biggest city in California. It is beautiful there and about 40 minutes away from the ocean beaches/ Santa Cruz and 50 minutes from San Francisco. It's a great place!

[tattooeddragon]

Been a native of San Jose my entire life and I can definitely vouch for all of these fun and interesting spots. Great video!

[ronaldperez]

Feels great that you took the time to shed light on these often overlooked or hidden gems . SJ never get a rep it deserves .

[jimfunchess]

I'm glad that you chose to do this city in one of your videos. San Jose is the 10th largest city in all of the U.S. with over a million people according to the 2020 Census, but most people know very little about it. Thanks for the informative video!!!

[CamilaMayumi]

Thank you! Just moved to SJ and now I have many places to visit

[trinacarrillo]

Great America Amusement Park was my go to place. I spent my summers there and used to call it my sons park when i had kids... we were season pass holds and went all the time. It was great!

[notisac]

I highly suggest Alum Rock Park, the oldest city park in California!

Only about 15-25 minute drive from city hall. It follows Penitencia Creek through the East Foothills and provides miles of great hiking trails for beginners and more experienced hikers alike. Certain trails are open for horseback riding and/biking. There are various picnic areas with grills, some of which require reservations. You can get some amazing views of Silicon Valley, especially from Eagle Rock.

A small animal exhibit can also be found, they’ve got an owl, a few snakes at least. Though you are guaranteed to see plenty of wildlife regardless, every time I’ve gone I’ve seen deer and plenty of unique birds. The trails also connect to Sierra Vista, another set of trails leading a bit further North, from which you get a real “mountain view”.

Unfortunately, the park is only partially open at the moment due to some damage from the floods earlier this year, but there are still plenty of trails that remain open. The path to Eagle Rock for instance remains closed temporarily. Parking is free until the other parking lots are able to reopen, otherwise the parking fee is under $10 on weekdays I think, free on weekends if I’m not mistaken. Oh and there’s no entry fee.

[cooper]

Informative! Lots of places to keep busy while there!

[jphan]

Yay!!! Thanks for doing this one. Glad you found some interesting places. Grew up in San Jose so I feel like I take those places for granted.

[angrylbrylvr]

I love that all these places are close to me. Plus I finally saw where that orchard hardware sign went in history park.

[scottscriticalmass]

I've lived in San Jose most of my life and embarrassed to say you've visited more places than me... Thanks for the great video as always Josh.

[prowrestlingisart]

My wife and I are planning a trip and will be going through San Jose. Thanks for the great tips! I would Falafel Drive In to your list. Great food and close to the Winchester House.

[missterrific]

I've lived in San José for almost 6 years and have only been to 5 of these places. Definitely will be trying out some of these other locations. My favorite place in Santana Row is Mai Do, they sell cute Japanese stationary. The parking to hike up to Mt. Umunhum is super small gets really full quick, so I recommend coming SUPER early.

[davidzamora]

Thank you for taking us around on your trip /o San Jose. May you and your family have beautiful Easter day today. 😊😊😊😊

[ModernMolliee]

You nailed it! I was so excited to see you visited my town and impressed that you’ve visited more spots than I have. The only things I’d add are San Pedro Square and Christmas in the Park. Also, you NEED to come back in May or June when the roses are blooming! For Santana Row, I love Left Bank, Boba Guys and Sauced BBQ 😊

[retiredsockmonkey]

Thank you for sharing all these places in SJ. Our youngest son and fiance live there. Walking distance from Japantown❤

[kimt]

I came to San Jose to lay to rest a loved one. The scenery is very beautiful. Hopefully we can take advantage of some of these attractions!

[DavidMartinez-xhye]

Thanks Josh for the nice video of San Jose! My grandfather brought our family down from San Francisco to the small farming town of San Jose in 1922 and it was nice to see a lot of our favorite places to visit here also. It was nice to see Saint Joseph's because my dad was a alter boy at the church back in the 40's and 50's and it was nice to see Mt. Umunhum because we live close to the base of the mountains and i took a nice hike at Quicksilver County Park today which are the first mines in all of California. Thanks again Josh!

[george]

Little Saigon and the art museum downtown are also must dos.