Silicon Valley

San Jose showing signage
San Jose showing signage
Fremont which includes landscape views, mountains and a bay or harbor
San Jose Museum of Art which includes a city
San Jose showing signage, street scenes and a city


This hub of all things high-tech also offers excellent parks, wineries and a well-established cultural scene.

Sitting in the heart of California’s Silicon Valley, San Jose enjoys more than its fair share of success in the technology industry. Spread out around the southern end of the San Francisco Bay, it also has easy access to the nature reserves, parks and gardens the Bay Area is renowned for.

Explore the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge to watch for migratory and endangered birds. For a different take on Bay Area wildlife and terrain, head to Alum Rock Park. There are miles of walking tracks through woodlands and hills, where you’re likely to spot deer, squirrels and maybe even a puma.

When you get back to town, brush up on your Bay Area history by dropping into the Los Altos History Museum. To go even further back in time, check out the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum. With a collection of over 4,000 artifacts, including mummies and objects from daily life in ancient times, there’s enough to keep budding Egyptologists occupied for hours. Wander outside to admire the Ancient Egyptian-inspired grounds.

At Kelley Park enjoy more outdoor beauty, as well as indoor attractions. This 156-acre (63-hectare) public space has cultural centers dedicated to local immigrant communities, as well as a selection of heritage buildings. Kids will love the nearby Happy Hollow Park and Zoo.

For a taste of contemporary Bay Area culture, visit the San Jose Museum of Art or the San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles. Both feature works by local artists from the 20th and 21st centuries. Techies should also take some time to explore the Intel Museum, where they’ll learn how microprocessors are designed and constructed.

Restore your inner zen at the Hakone Japanese Gardens, an immaculately cultivated space nestled in the tranquility of in the Saratoga Hills. Garden enthusiasts will also want to visit the award-winning San Jose Municipal Rose Garden.

San Jose is Silicon Valley’s unofficial capital. Its highly-educated population and strong economy ensure a thriving cultural scene, while its prime location allows locals and visitors to enjoy the Bay Area’s natural beauty without traveling too far from town.

Plan a trip to see Silicon Valley

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Best Lodging Options Near Silicon Valley

Hyatt Centric Santa Clara Silicon Valley

Hyatt Centric Santa Clara Silicon Valley

3.5 out of 5
3100 Lakeside Dr Santa Clara CA
Hyatt Centric Santa Clara Silicon Valley
Hotel Valencia Santana Row

Hotel Valencia Santana Row

4 out of 5
355 Santana Row San Jose CA
Hotel Valencia Santana Row
The Domain Hotel

The Domain Hotel

4 out of 5
1085 E El Camino Real Sunnyvale CA
The Domain Hotel
Aloft San Jose Cupertino

Aloft San Jose Cupertino

3 out of 5
4241 Moorpark Ave San Jose CA
Aloft San Jose Cupertino
Wild Palms, a JdV by Hyatt Hotel

Wild Palms, a JdV by Hyatt Hotel

3 out of 5
910 E Fremont Ave Sunnyvale CA
Wild Palms, a JdV by Hyatt Hotel
Spark by Hilton San Jose Airport

Spark by Hilton San Jose Airport

3 out of 5
2585 Seaboard Ave San Jose CA
Spark by Hilton San Jose Airport
Maple Tree Inn

Maple Tree Inn

3 out of 5
711 E El Camino Real Sunnyvale CA
Maple Tree Inn
The Row Hotel, BW Signature Collection

The Row Hotel, BW Signature Collection

3 out of 5
2404 Stevens Creek Blvd San Jose CA
The Row Hotel, BW Signature Collection
Sonesta Select San Jose Airport

Sonesta Select San Jose Airport

3 out of 5
1727 Technology Dr San Jose CA
Sonesta Select San Jose Airport
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Silicon Valley

Shopping

Visit Santana Row Shopping Center, just 3.2km away, for a vibrant mix of shops and restaurants. The Apple Park Visitor Center, located 8.0km away, offers unique Apple merchandise. For a local experience, check out the San Jose Flea Market, 6.4km away, bustling with vendors and city vibes.

Recreation

Explore Levi's Stadium for an exhilarating sports experience, just 9.7km away, and soak in the electric atmosphere. At California Theater, only 3.2km away, enjoy captivating performances that celebrate romance and culture. For family fun, head to Golfland USA, a mini-golf venue 9.7km away, for adventure and laughter.

Adventure

At Raging Waters, enjoy thrilling water slides and wave pools for a day of splashing fun, located 9.7km from Silicon Valley. Experience the excitement of battle at Santa Clara Paintball, 6.4km away, or engage in competitive fun at Nor Cal Laser Tag, also 6.4km from the city.

Nightlife

Silicon Valley offers vibrant nightlife, with venues like The Continental in Mountain View for craft cocktails and live music. For a laid-back vibe, visit The Patio in Palo Alto, where you can enjoy outdoor seating and tasty bites. Don't miss the lively atmosphere at San Jose's Santana Row.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Silicon Valley

Explore the vibrant attractions of Silicon Valley, where you can enjoy urban parks, modern universities, and entertainment arenas. This destination offers a unique blend of culture, family activities, and outdoor experiences. Be sure to check out top attractions and plan your Silicon Valley tour, which may include a day trip to nearby San Francisco for an unforgettable experience.

  • SAP Center at San Jose: This vibrant arena is the heart of entertainment in San Jose, hosting thrilling sports events, concerts, and family shows. Its lively atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for visitors seeking fun and excitement.
  • Winchester Mystery House: A captivating historic mansion filled with intriguing architecture and mysterious stories, this house offers a unique glimpse into the life of its eccentric owner, Sarah Winchester. Explore its maze-like corridors and discover the rich cultural history.
  • San Jose McEnery Convention Center: A premier venue for conventions and events, this center showcases the business side of Silicon Valley. Experience innovation and networking opportunities in its modern facilities, making it a hub for professionals.

Best time to go to Silicon Valley

The best time to visit Silicon Valley is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
March53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April56.8°F (13.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
May60.6°F (15.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June65.7°F (18.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July68.9°F (20.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August69.4°F (20.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September69.1°F (20.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
October64.8°F (18.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Silicon Valley

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically November to January) for more affordable package holidays to Silicon Valley.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

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