Best
known for its sunshine and its ties to technology, San Jose has much to
offer even the most discriminating traveler. Whether for business or
pleasure, this beautiful California city has something for everyone.
With over 300 days of sunshine, near perfect weather, a multitude of sites
to see and, not to mention, the opportunity to play Monopoly on a 930 square
foot board, as well as its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, it makes this a
must see destination for anyone traveling to northern California.
It
is hard to remember when looking at San Jose today that it is the oldest
civil settlement in California, founded back in 1777. It was also the
first capital of California, even before California became an official state
and at one time was a thriving agricultural area. Few remnants
of that period remain. Instead, there are a host of new things to see
and do.
No
matter what time of year for a visit, beautiful California weather awaits.
Summer tends to be the busiest season as tourists from around the world come
to visit the area, enjoying its wonderful scenery, weather, entertainment
and attractions. Summer daytime temperatures reach into the mid 80’s
F. but with very little humidity it’s quite comfortable. It’s the
perfect time for taking advantage of the many outdoor activities available.
Spring and fall are pleasant, although cooler. Spring brings the
average temperature to about 60 F and fall is slightly higher.
Although there is a winter season, the daytime temperatures rarely fall
below 60 F, making it an ideal time to take advantage of the beautiful
scenery.
One
thing to keep in mind when visiting this California city is that
“California Casual” is the dress code for daytime and most evening
outings. From November until spring, a light sweater is advisable
during the day and a light jacket for the evenings.
The
History Museum gives visitors a feel for what it was like when
California’s first settlement was established back in the late 1700’s.
Guests can enjoy the 14 acre facility with a park-like setting including 27
original and reconstructed homes, businesses, and landmarks highlighting the
culture and history of San Jose and Santa Clara Valley. The museum is unique
with paved streets, running trolleys and an old-fashioned ice cream and even
a candy parlor.
Known
for its ties to technology, San Jose also offers tours of the Tech
Museum of Innovation where Technology from Silicon Valley and beyond comes
alive. This unique museum features interactive exhibits for all
ages. The Tech is a place that’s about real technology . . . changing the
way people work and play, creating, harnessing, and sharing information
about how we innovate, how we do things differently. It features over 250
interactive exhibits as well as an Imax Dome Theater.
For
a little outdoor activity, a must visit attraction is Kelly Park. The
park is home to Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, the Japanese Friendship Garden
and the San Jose Historical Museum. Visitors may enjoy a train ride,
picnicking, a beautiful lawn and shade tree areas or a walk through the
tranquil Japanese Friendship Garden. For those looking for more activity,
visit the zoo, amusement park and play area of Happy Hollow. For a
unique adventure, try a game of Monopoly on a 930 square foot board at
Guadalupe River Park. Be sure to bring a camera for this
once-in-a-lifetime picture.
For
a day trip, be sure to visit Paramount’s Great America and Six Flags
Marine World. Both are just minutes away from San Jose and offer fun
and adventure for the entire family. Great America is a universe
of Nickelodeon fun, friends, and adventures that burst into life daily.
The stars on Nickelodeon, one of the networks preferred by kids, come to
life at one of Northern California’s favorite theme parks for family fun
and thrills. Marine World is the country's only combination wildlife
park, oceanarium and theme park featuring over 30 thrilling rides, 35 exotic
animal attractions and 10 great shows. Of course, historic and
beautiful San Francisco is also only an hour away.
San
Jose showcases a mix of world class cultural and performing arts, name
brand stores and quaint boutiques, superb dining, exciting night life, great
sporting events and outdoor activities, year-round cultural events and
festivities, many historic sites, thrilling theme parks, varied
points of interest, and beautiful climate year-round. It’s no wonder
it has been an ongoing recipient of numerous honors and awards, and has
become a stomping ground for millions of visitors each year.
Wouldn’t you like to be one of them?
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