Located in the heart of the Silicon Valley, San Jose defines the area that surrounds it. The 10th largest city in the US, San Jose was once an agricultural stronghold. Today, San Jose is a mecca for arts and culture as well as a rapidly growing center for technology. The hands-on Tech Museum of Innovation is a popular illustration of the art of technology and is an important educational and cultural resource for tourists and local residents alike.
In downtown, the South of First Area (SoFA) host’s art galleries and arts organizations, like the San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles, keep their doors open late the first Friday of every month so patrons can meet and mingle with the artists. To see a much larger collection emphasizing West Coast artists of the 20th- and 21st-century make sure to stop by the San Jose Museum of Art. Located next to the Circle of Palm Plaza and Plaza de César Chávez park; the museum is surrounded by palm trees from the neighboring plaza as well as the Fairmont San Jose Hotel, the Knight-Ridder building, home to Silicon Valley’s Financial Center, and the famous Tech Museum of Innovation.
From the rich flavors of Japantown to the high-end fashions of Santana Row, from big malls to quaint neighborhoods, you'll find plenty of places to unwind with a little retail therapy. Start at Plaza de Cesar Chavez and head east along Paseo de San Antonio. The flower-lined pedestrian mall is filled with surprises, from Mosher's and Rosies & Posies Florist to Circle-A Skateboards, at the edge of the SJSU campus.
After picking up a cashmere sweater at Smith Alder, you'll have no problem finding a charming dinner spot at one the area bistros. Downtown and Santana Row make great neighborhoods for strolling, and finding exactly what you're in the mood for. The recently remodeled Original Joe's Italian restaurant, bar, and lunch counter has been open in San Jose since 1960, and beloved especially for steaks and veal. You can find terrific seafood at the upscale McCormick & Schmick's, or the bright and airy Scott's Seafood Grill & Bar. Tiny Good Kharma Vegan Deli offers a fresh change of pace, but for that sports bar fix, it's San Jose Bar & Grill—all only a few minutes walking distance from downtown hotels and the San Jose convention center.
Still up for more? The diverse nightlife scene has it all – dance clubs, ultra-cool lounges, even casual pubs. Adding to the never-ending list of fun activities are over 15 local and championship golf courses, more than 20 vineyards, 150 parks and gardens, and theme parks.
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