Thinking of booking a trip to San Jose? This California city is a top tourist destination in the United States, boasting 300 days of sunshine per year and an international array of dining and shopping options. One of the largest and most affluent cities in the U.S., San Jose's location on the San Francisco Bay makes it a prime spot to soak in the natural beauty of Northern California and explore the thriving culture and ethos of the Bay area.
But in order to make the most of your trip, you'll want to plan ahead. That's where AAA comes in. Planning a trip to San Jose is easy when you've got insider information on where to eat, stay and what to do while you're in town. This San Jose travel guide has everything you need to know to get started!
How to Get Around San Jose
Many visitors opt to rent a car, but if you're planning to get around San Jose without adding to the traffic, there are plenty of public transportation options to get you close to your destination. You will likely want to grab a Clipper Card for ease of payment if you plan to take advantage of the Bay's public transit options.
Caltrain
Caltrain is a commuter rail service that connects San Francisco's South Bay all the way down to Gilroy. It consists of just one line, so its usefulness is limited for leisure travelers, but if you're heading to one of the locations near a CalTrain stop, you can count on it being fairly quick and reliable.
Valley Transportation Authority
The VTA provides an extensive light rail system and buses that connect much of the San Francisco Bay area, including much of San Jose. This is a cost-effective but sometimes time-consuming option, but it works great for some travelers.
Bay Area Rapid Transit System (BART)
The BART is a heavy rail that connects the Bay Area's larger communities and neighborhoods. There are 50 BART stations along with six routes and 131 miles of track. It is a great option if you are flying in from Oakland International Airport and looking to commute into San Jose.
Bike Rentals
For a truly low-emissions way to travel, opt for a bike rental from San Jose's bike share Bay Wheels. Grabbing an bike is often faster than waiting for a bus, making it a great option for travelers over 18.
Taxi Services/Rideshare
You'll also find plenty of taxi services, from limousine transports to old-school yellow cabs, that operate throughout the Bay Area and can quickly get you where you need to go. Most downtown San Jose hotels have a taxi stand, and/or they'll call a taxi for you when you need one. Of course, most major ridesharing platforms also operate in the San Jose area.
Walking
San Jose is fairly walkable if you stick to the downtown area. Downtown hotels tend to be in a walkable area in the sense that you'll always be close to shopping and dining options. But because there is a lot of city sprawl, whether you want to walk really depends on how much of a workout you're up for. Thanks to the relatively flat terrain on the south side of the city and the abundance of crosswalks, San Jose does feel like a safe and accessible city to walk--if you're close enough to your destination.
Best Time to Visit San Jose
It's hard to pick a bad time to visit San Jose; the city's mild Mediterranean climate serves up sunny, pleasant weather with remarkable regularity. With that said, you might want to avoid the winter months for the best of conditions--and summer can be quite warm.
Many travelers prefer to visit in either April to May or September to October to avoid the summertime crowds and enjoy the milder temperatures. You may find the city to be less busy during those months and find better deals on hotels, as well, as you'd be avoiding the peak summer travel season.
Top Things to do in San Jose
San Jose might be the heart of Silicon Valley, but it's also a thriving center of arts and culture, with plenty of museums, parks, history and attractions to enjoy during your visit. Here are a few of the most popular spots to visit.
San Jose Museum of Art
Address: 110 S. Market St., San Jose
The San Jose Museum of Art was built in 1892 and offers both permanent and rotating exhibits, many of which feature West Coast artists from the 19th and 20th centuries. There's enough to keep you busy here for a couple of hours, taking in the unique art style and the building's eye-catching architecture. Check the schedule before you go; periodic live performances make a visit even more memorable.
Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose
Address: 180 Woz Way, San Jose
If you're in search of something to do with the whole family, look no further. The Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose is a brilliant stop for the under-12 crowd. A brilliantly-designed play space, kids will stay busy for hours in the two-story facility, climbing into play fire trucks and ambulances, building massive foam towers, and enjoying the sprawling outdoor play space. It's a great stop when younger travelers need to run, move, and let off some steam.
Japanese American Museum of San Jose
Address: 535 N 5th St, San Jose
San Jose is home to a huge Japanese immigrant population, and it is the location of one of the largest Japanese internment camps during WWII. The Japanese American Museum is the home to impressive permanent and rotating collections that showcase over 100 years of Japanese-American history, The museum takes one to two hours to explore, and it's located right in the heart of San Jose's Japantown--so it makes sense to stop and grab some of the city's best Japanese food while you're in the neighborhood.
Alum Rock Park
Address: 15350 Penitencia Creek Rd, San Jose
Alum Rock Park is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, covering an impressive 720 acres of rolling foothills that overlook the San Jose's Santa Clara Valley. Here you'll find hiking and biking trails, picnic tables, playgrounds and sidewalk-equipped trails through manicured gardens, so just about anyone can enjoy the solitude, natural beauty and fresh air. To enjoy one of the San Jose's most popular hikes, check out the park's 4.4-mile Alum Rock South Rim Trail, which offers incredible scenic views.
Santana Row
Address: 377 Santana Row
For shopping, it's hard to beat Santana Row, which occupies one of San Jose's oldest neighborhoods. This tree-lined avenue just off Winchester Boulevard has the aesthetic of a European shopping district, complete with open-air cafes and upscale boutique shops that invite wandering and relaxing in style.
The Tech Interactive
Address: 201 S Market St, San Jose
Located between the San Jose Civic Center and the popular Plaza de Cesar Chavez, The Tech Interactive is a hands-on technology center that has something for visitors of all ages. Whether you have a hankering to measure your brain activity, try your hand at engineering a robot, or make art with the latest virtual reality tech, you'll be able to do it here. Plan to spend at least two hours (and maybe a lot more) to take in the interactive exhibits. The attached IMAX theater is another great stop on a rainy day.
Where to Stay in San Jose
From resort-style luxury to more homelike accommodations, you'll find a place to stay in San Jose that fits your aesthetic and your travel goals.
Signia by Hilton San Jose
- Address: 170 S Market St, San Jose, CA
- AAA Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
- Best For: Those wanting contemporary style and gorgeous public spaces in the heart of downtown San Jose
The Signia by Hilton has a bit of everything: contemporary style and luxury, an incredible location, and all the amenities you'd expect from a Four Diamond property. You can expect spacious, well-appointed guest rooms, many of which overlook the Plaza de Cesar Chavez, one of the city's most picturesque parks. Fantastic architecture and beautifully-designed public areas, an on-site restaurant and plenty of shopping and dining nearby make this an excellent spot to begin exploring San Jose.
The Westin San Jose
- Address: 302 S Market St, San Jose
- AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best For: Historic architecture and great location
If you're looking for a great location close to everything downtown San Jose has to offer, the Westin San Jose has it. Architecture buffs will love the historic building, which was originally built to be a luxury hotel in 1926. The decor incorporates a tasteful blend of classic and modern style that fits right in. Roomy guest rooms and a clean, helpful environment make this spot a breath of fresh air for weary travelers.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott San Jose/Cupertino
- Address: 440 Saratoga Ave, San Jose
- AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best For: Families and extended stay travelers
Located near the biggest companies in the Silicon Valley area, TownePlace Suites San Jose is the perfect refuge for business travelers and those wanting a little more space and facility to spread out and stay awhile. Each suite offers a small kitchen and refrigerator, and sofas, large closets with plenty of storage, and desks offer the comfort of a home away from home.
Hotel Valencia Santana Row
- Address: 355 Santana Row, San Jose, CA
- AAA Diamond-designation: Four Diamond
- Best for: Vacationers with an eye for luxury
Located in the heart of Santana Row, the Hotel Valencia looks and feels like an upscale boutique hotel right in the heart of the action. Italian and Spanish-style elements influence the architecture and interior design of the place, and you'll find that no amenity has been overlooked. Large guest rooms offer incredibly comfortable furniture, high-end technology and luxurious bedding, and the on-site restaurant leaves little to be desired. Step outside the door for an upscale shopping mecca with even more dining options, from sidewalk cafés to upscale eateries.
Where to Eat in San Jose
San Jose is home to countless internationally-acclaimed restaurants, from contemporary to classic. Whether you're looking for a truly unforgettable dining experience or down-home comfort food that hits the spot, you'll find it in San Jose's bustling downtown area. Here are some of the most highly recommended local favorites.
Il Fornaio San Jose
- Address: 302 South Market St.
- AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Cuisine: Italian
Located in The Westin San Jose, Il Fornaio serves Italian favorites with upscale ambiance. Begin your meal with crisp, fresh-from-the-oven Italian bread, then savor the light but flavorful pastas and roasted meats and vegetables. Service here is impeccable, dishes are fresh and beautifully-plated, and a kids' menu ensures that everyone can find something they'll love.
Left Bank Santana Row
- Address: 377 Santana Row, Suite #1100, San Jose
- AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Cuisine: French
You'll find plenty of trendy restaurants in Santana Row, and Left Bank is one of the standouts. This brasserie is home to an impressive menu of French favorites, from duck confit to escargot and the ever-famous baguettes. You can expect attentive service and unbeatable ambiance to set the backdrop for your meal. Reservations aren't required, but are a good idea; this is a popular spot and it can be hard to snag a table.
Luna Mexican Kitchen
- Address: 1495 The Alameda, San Jose
- AAA Diamond-designation: AAA Approved
- Cuisine: Mexican
Luna Mexican Kitchen, conveniently nestled on The Alameda in San Jose, is chock-full of atmosphere, comfort and style. Expect flavorful Mexican favorites served with a little extra flair, colorful drinks, and world-class guacamole made fresh daily. Reservations are recommended, especially if you plan to visit during peak hours; on many days, there's a line out the door during the dinnertime hours.
The Grill on the Alley
- Address: 172 South Market St., San Jose
- AAA Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Cuisine: Steak, Seafood, American
Located in downtown San Jose right beside the Plaza de Cesar Chavez, The Grill on the Alley is a local favorite for date nights and cozy, consistently excellent American cuisine. You'll find various grilled meats on the menu, as well as seafood and traditional comfort food dishes. The steaks and cocktails are particularly highly recommended.
San Jose Photo Spots
Looking for the best photo spots San Jose has to offer? You'll find more than a few, whether you're on the lookout for an urban backdrop, natural beauty or local landmarks.
- The Municipal Rose Garden (1649 Naglee Ave, San Jose): spans 55 acres and features hundreds of meticulously-curated rose bushes. This is a prime photo spot during the blooming season from April-November.
- The Japanese Friendship Garden (1300 Senter Rd., San Jose): occupies a walled section of Kelley Park where you'll find a traditional, highly photograph-able Japanese garden, complete with an elegant red arched bridge that makes a fantastic photo spot.
- Santana Row (377 Santana Row, San Jose): is a relatively new addition to the San Jose shopping scene, but its thoughtful design and architecture make it a lovely place to snap a few shots.
- The Winchester Mystery House (525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose): was built by the late Sarah Winchester of Winchester rifle fame in the late 1800's. This is an interesting stop to spot for a tour--or just an eye-catching photo op from the street out front. The sprawling mansion combines Victorian and Gothic-style architecture, making it a unique local landmark.
- Alum Rock Park (15350 Penitencia Creek Rd, San Jose): the spot to go for panoramic natural beauty without leaving the city limits of San Jose. Hundreds of acres of foothills, parks, and walking and biking trails make this a gorgeous escape--and possibly some of the best photos you'll take during your visit.
Day Trips from San Jose
San Jose is within driving distance of some of the most stunning natural beauty in North America. Whether you're looking for a quick jaunt beyond the city limits or a full day of adventure, you've got plenty of options.
1. Spend the day on a guided, private tour visiting Monterey, Carmel, and Big Sur.
Sometimes a guided tour is the effortless solution you need for a day of exploring. This tour traverses the Pacific Coast Highway from the San Francisco Bay area down along the Big Sur coast, to the Monterey Peninsula, and then on to Carmel-by-the-Sea. This is one day trip packed with scenery and memories you'll never forget.
2. Head down to Yosemite National Park
This is a three-hour drive, but it's well worth the trip if you have it in you to begin early in the day or plan to stay overnight in Yosemite. Spend a few hours exploring Lower Yosemite and Bridalveil Falls, take a gander at Half Dome, and then grab dinner before heading back to the city. Want to let someone else do the driving? This guided tour from San Jose to Yosemite makes it easy!
3. Drive down to Monterey Bay
Just over an hour south of San Jose, this might be the best bang-for-your-buck day trip you can take on your own; it's an easy jaunt for incredible views and atmosphere. Monterey is known for its Old Fisherman's Wharf, Cannery Row, and Monterey Bay Aquarium. Here you'll find plenty of quaint shopping and dining opportunities, most with gorgeous views of the sea. You could spend a couple of hours or an entire day taking in the sights before heading back to San Jose for dinner.
4. Ride a Steam Train Through the Redwoods
Head up to Roaring Camp to ride a steam train through the redwoods. It's just under an hour to drive from San Jose down to Roaring Camp, which is just north of Santa Cruz, California. The drive itself is gorgeous, and hopping aboard the Steam Train in the Redwoods will make you feel like you've entered another time and place entirely. Book a guided day tour that includes your steam ticket, transportation from San Jose, and stops at the American Abalone Farms and Santa Cruz Harbor, and you'll be set for a successful day. This is a totally family-friendly excursion, as well.
Visiting San Jose on a Budget
Though San Jose is one of the nation's most affluent cities, you don't have to completely destroy your budget during your time here. By taking advantage of these tips, you'll save money while making memories that last a lifetime.
- Visit the many gorgeous parks. San Jose is home to countless gorgeously-manicured city parks, most of which offer free admission. A few parks do require a parking fee, but it still beats admission prices at many of the other local attractions.
- Take public transportation when you can. You'll save significantly on parking and taxi or rental car fees if you don't mind planning to take advantage of San Jose's public transportation options.
- Visit during the off-season. San Jose receives the most visitors during the summer months; to avoid the crowds and get better hotel deals, consider planning your trip for earlier in the spring (April-May) or in the autumn (October-November).
- Don't forget to utilize your AAA benefits for vehicle discounts, tickets and hotels. Your benefits go a long way; don't overlook those exclusive deals!
Plan Your San Jose Vacation with AAA
Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream San Jose trip on Trip Canvas, contact one of AAA’s Travel Agents today to start making your dream a reality, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or à la carte options.