As a seasoned traveler, I've had the pleasure of exploring countless cities around the world, but few have surprised me quite like San Jose, California. This vibrant metropolis, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, is a hidden gem that deserves to be discovered. Join me as I take you on a journey through the best that San Jose has to offer, from its trendy brunch spots to its fascinating historical landmarks and breathtaking natural surroundings.
What's the best time to visit San Jose?
San Jose boasts a delightful Mediterranean climate, with an impressive 257 sunny days per year. While the weather is rarely unpleasant, the most comfortable time to visit is during September and October, when temperatures average in the high 70s to low 80s. Summers are generally pleasant, with highs in the high 80s, but be prepared for the occasional heatwave, as temperatures can sometimes soar above 100 degrees. Always carry a light sweater for the evenings, even during the summer months, and consider avoiding the winter if you're not a fan of chilly weather, with highs in the 60s and lows in the high 40s.
One of the perks of visiting San Jose is that it's not a major tourist hotspot like nearby San Francisco, so you won't have to battle crowds, even during the summer months. However, if you're planning to use the city as a base for beach trips, keep in mind that the freeways leading to the coast can get quite congested during the summer, especially since local kids are out of school from June to August. To beat the rush, hit the roads early in the morning.
A few facts about San Jose
San Jose is a city of superlatives – it's the 10th largest city in the United States, the third largest in California (after Los Angeles and San Diego), and is known for being one of the most expensive places in the country. Interestingly, it was also the first capital of California before the title was moved to Sacramento further north.
Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose is surrounded by mountains on both sides, creating a stunning backdrop for the city and influencing the local culture. Residents here love to take advantage of the natural beauty around them, enjoying hiking and other outdoor activities in the nearby hills and mountains.
Another defining characteristic of San Jose is its diversity. People from all corners of the globe and all parts of the country have made this city their home, drawn by the thriving tech industry and the pleasant weather. This melting pot of cultures is reflected in the wide array of authentic ethnic cuisines available throughout the city. Despite its size, strong economy, and diverse population, San Jose has a distinctly suburban feel, with the downtown area playing a less prominent role in the city's overall vibe. This unique blend of characteristics can sometimes leave visitors unsure about how to plan a trip to San Jose, but fear not – I'm here to give you the inside scoop on the perfect one-day itinerary!
One Day in San Jose Itinerary
Follow this guide to make the most of your trip, even if you're short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in San Jose.
Stylish Brunch
Begin your day in the glamorous Santana Row, the place to see and be seen in San Jose. Dress to impress and take a leisurely stroll along the European-styled streets, snapping photos in front of the luxury cars parked outside. Find a charming restaurant or cafe with outdoor seating and indulge in a delicious brunch while people-watching. If you're in the mood for some serious shopping, head across the street to Valley Fair Mall, where you'll find a mix of top designers and affordable staples, as well as a huge food court featuring trendy Bay Area favorites like KoJa Kitchen, Sushirito, and boba milk tea shops.
Explore the Mystery
Next, immerse yourself in the city's culture by visiting the nearby Winchester Mystery House, a historical landmark of San Jose. This architectural marvel once belonged to an heiress widow who moved west from the East Coast after losing her husband and baby daughter. More than 150 years later, you can tour her legendary mansion, known for its ghost stories, secret rooms, and mysterious psychics. Even if you don't go inside, consider driving by to admire the exterior.
Time to Head Downtown
If touring mansions isn't your thing, don't worry – there's plenty to do at your next stop: Downtown San Jose. Choose from the Tech Interactive Museum, the San Jose Museum of Art, or any of the other museums downtown. If you're visiting during the winter, be sure to take a stroll through Christmas in the Park (it's free!) and go ice skating at the outdoor rink next to the large Christmas tree.
Enjoy Dinner with the Locals
Afterward, make your way to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph, one of the most beautiful buildings downtown. Then, walk over to San Pedro Square Market for an early dinner in one of San Jose's oldest neighborhoods. Here, you'll find a variety of creative food options, indoor and outdoor seating, and a lively atmosphere full of locals.
Before your visit, check the website to see if there are any exciting events or live music happening. San Pedro Square Market is also an excellent spot to watch a sporting event, especially if you're visiting in late spring and the Golden State Warriors are in the NBA playoffs.
End the Day with a View
To cap off your day, head to the mountains to see the city from above. San Jose is surrounded by beautiful mountains on two sides and water on the other, but you can't fully appreciate this from the city center. Depending on the day and the vibe you're after, you have a couple of options. The Mountain Winery in Saratoga often hosts concerts and events that allow for late visits, while House Family Vineyards boasts an incredible outdoor patio but has limited hours (except on Fridays when it closes at 8 pm). No matter which you choose, unwind as you reflect on your one day in San Jose and take in the stunning sunset over the city, mountains, and water.
If you don't feel like making the drive, simply enjoy your evening around Downtown Willow Glen or Downtown Campbell, which are a bit closer to the city center. Both areas feature charming tree-lined streets, restaurants, and a laid-back yet social atmosphere.
Where to stay in San Jose, California?
Fairmont San Jose
For a convenient and elegant stay, choose the Fairmont San Jose, located in the heart of Downtown. Enjoy a rooftop pool, six restaurants, a gym, and easy walking distance to all the worthwhile attractions in the downtown area.
Hotel Valencia Santana Row
As the only hotel on the upscale Santana Row, Hotel Valencia perfectly complements its surroundings. With its beautiful Spanish-style design, outdoor pool, two excellent restaurants, luxurious rooms, and a gym, this hotel offers the perfect place to rest and relax while staying in a fantastic location.
Alura Inn
Finding affordable accommodations in Silicon Valley can be a challenge, but Alura Inn offers all the essentials and free WiFi at a reasonable price. Each room comes equipped with a microwave and a fridge, and the inn even has an on-site Mexican restaurant.
Day trips from San Jose
San Francisco
While San Jose may be the largest city in the area, it doesn't have the typical urban feel. If you're craving tall buildings, hustle and bustle, and city life, a day trip to San Francisco from San Jose is the perfect solution. You can either drive the 50 miles (be mindful of Silicon Valley rush hour!) or take the Caltrain from downtown San Jose.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
No trip to California is complete without a visit to the beach, and luckily, the beloved Santa Cruz is just a short drive from San Jose. Enjoy the awesome boardwalk (closed in winter) and watch the surfers catch some waves. If you're making this drive during the summer, be sure to leave San Jose before 8:30 am to avoid traffic!
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
California is famous for having the tallest trees in the world, and you can find them right in the mountains behind San Jose at Big Basin State Park. The park offers multiple hiking trails of varying lengths, featuring waterfalls and creeks.
Monterey and Big Sur
About a 1.5-hour drive south of San Jose lies Monterey, a fantastic day trip destination known for whale sightings, a lively pier, and a world-class aquarium. While in the Monterey area, be sure to also check out Carmel and Big Sur.
Extra tips for visiting San Jose
Rent a Car, or Download an App
Like most cities in California, San Jose is not particularly pedestrian-friendly. Most residents own cars, which are the most convenient way to get around. If you don't have a car, you'll likely rely on ride-sharing apps like Lyft or Uber to navigate the city. Alternatively, you can rent a car for the day. Driving in San Jose is quite convenient, as parking is rarely a challenge and is never too expensive.
Time Your Visit with Big Events
Are you a fan of American football or ice hockey? The San Francisco 49ers and San Jose Sharks both play near downtown San Jose, so consider timing your visit with football or hockey season to catch a game. Additionally, San Jose's SAP Center hosts many big-name concerts throughout the year, so check if your favorite performer is on tour and plan your visit accordingly.
Take Advantage of the Outdoors
San Jose residents love the outdoors, and for good reason – the city has an abundance of parks, hiking trails, small lakes, and creeks. If you're a nature enthusiast, consider squeezing in an easy 3-mile (5 km) hike at Almaden Quicksilver County Park during your morning for some stunning views of the city with minimal effort.
Discover the best of San Jose with Excurcity's guided tours. From tech-focused Silicon Valley excursions to cultural experiences in the heart of the city, these expertly curated trips offer an insider's perspective on this vibrant Californian hub. Book your adventure today and uncover San Jose's hidden gems with knowledgeable local guides.
