Schmap.com supports the following browsers:
PC
 A beach in San Jose |
At the corner of Almaden Expressway and Coleman Avenue San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95120 United States +1 408 277 5130 |
A beach in San Jose, sure, it exists in the Almaden Lake Park. Swim or relax on this tiny sandy beach or take a walk on the adjacent four miles of the scenic Los Alamitos Creek Trail. The trail has a fitness course and a very pleasant walkway that meanders with the creek. If you decide to feed the ducks and Canada geese along the lakeshore, beware! The birds can be quite aggressive. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bob |
 Photo: Alan Moore  |
 Photo: Bob |
 Photo: Don DeBold |
 Photo: Just chaos |
 Former mining facility |
At the corner of McAbee Road and Camden Avenue San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95120 United States +1 408 358 3741 http://www.parkhere.org/prkpag... |
This erstwhile mining facility that dates back to the 19th century has miles of trails for horseback riding, cycling or just plain hiking. Buried in the foothills south of San Jose, the park is definitely off the beaten path, making it a nice retreat from the city. Once there, you can gaze at remnants of mercury mining facilities from the Gold Rush days. They are a sometimes poignant reminder of how hard it was to stake a claim in those days and how few miners actually struck it rich. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marcel Marchon |
 Photo: Dawn Ellner |
 Photo: Ellen Fredricks |
 Photo: Andrea Lee |
 Photo: Tom Lechner |
|
California's oldest park |
16240 Alum Rock Avenue (at the corner of Crothers Road) San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95121 United States +1 408 259 5477 |
If you enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from horseback riding to picnics, from cycling to playing with the kids, then this park is for you. It has been around forever. Up at the end of Alum Rock Avenue, the park is buried in the foothills east of San Jose; on the drive there, you pass some impressive mansions. There are playgrounds and miles of trails. It is a very natural setting in which to enjoy leisure activities. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Scott G. Campbell |
 Photo: Jeff Halter |
 Photo: Scott G. Campbell |
 Photo: Christopher Walker |
 Photo: Sylvie Oxman |
 Photo: Cindy Royster |
 Photo: Paul Crovella |
 Photo: Ben Lilly |
 Photo: Lucy W. Shih |
 Photo: Chris Suen |
 Photo: Judy M_2007 |
 Photo: Raymond Cavalcante |
 Photo: krisshcv |
 Photo: Vlad Butsky |
 Photo: Angela Tamboura |
 Photo: mark suasin |
 Photo: vinay_143 |
 Photo: Alan Cantillep |
|
Horticulturally based theme park |
3050 Hecker Pass Highway San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95020 United States +1 408 840 7100 http://www.bonfantegardens.com/ |
About a 30-minute drive from Downtown San Jose sits this brand new, horticulturally aware theme park in Gilroy. Among other things, here you will find a monorail, a miniature golf course, incredible landscaping, several gardens, antique car rides, and the famous circus trees from Scott's Valley that are groomed to grow in fantastical shapes. A multitude of activities for the whole family await you here. The owner sold off a very successful chain of grocery stores in order to create this one-of-a-kind park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Countryside picnic facility |
At the corner of Coyote Ranch and Metcalf roads San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95013 United States +1 408 463 0661 http://www.coyoteranch.com |
This large ranch, located in the hills south of San Jose, is available for all sorts of events: company picnics, barbecues, graduation parties, and several other types of events. There are several softball fields, horsehoe pits, and volleyball courts. Events for all ages can be planned here and the courteous staff will be glad to handle all your needs when it comes to food and beverages. Or just show up on the weekend, there are several things always going on from live music to pony rides to line dance instruction. It is a great place for real western hospitality. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
For animal lovers |
647 South King Road San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95116 United States +1 408 926 5555 |
This urban farm covers an impressive 47 acres. It has school tours, orchards, a barnyard, picnic areas and places to fly kites. It is a great place to bring the kids, especially if they like animals; there are zillions of breeds of rabbits, chickens, geese and ducks for them to befriend. The property was originally given to the city of San Jose with the intent that it be used as an agricultural learning center, and in that it succeeds admirably. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Guadalupe River Park & Gardens |
438 Coleman Ave San Jose, CA 95110 United States 408-298-7657 http://www.grpg.org |
Crawling for three miles alongside the Guadalupe River and harnessing Highway 87, this unique natural environment contains a rose garden, jogging trails, several species of birds and lots of picnic tables. Nestled in a particularly scenic spot in the South Bay, it is a great place for a day's outing or a slow leisurely walk. Improvements are ongoing and when it is finally completed, it will be a spectacular place for everyone in the family. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Xi |
 Photo: Alan Brown |
|
Serene Japanese gardens |
21000 Big Basin Way (at the corner of Ambric Knolls Road) San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95070 United States +1 408 741 4994 |
This authentic Japanese garden is one of the best places to smooch in the entire South Bay, at least that is what several local publications have proclaimed. You will be swept away by the serenity and the perfect harmony of it all. There are koi ponds, tea and Zen gardens, and even a tea museum. Muko, Japan, a sister city of Saratoga, California, donated the materials for the bamboo garden. The facility also offers art classes, and Japanese dance performances are available. Docent tours are available on weekends. Admission is free, hours vary, call for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: liwen's memory |
 Photo: Donna Lynn Vennum |
 Photo: Cherri Lakey |
 Photo: Jim Konkler |
 Photo: Donna Lynn Vennum |
 Photo: Stephen A Lee |
 Photo: alan.creeksideretrea |
 Photo: John Conrod |
 Photo: PattiG |
 Photo: Allan Hack |
 Photo: xephemiance |
 Photo: Kathy Kobashi |
 Photo: Anna Zieo |
 Photo: ronH |
 Photo: wang_a_ma_chang |
 Photo: Doña Bumgarner |
 Photo: Bob Wall |
 Photo: Taswiir |
 Photo: jorge bachmann |
 Photo: Rex Walters |
 Photo: Karen Louie |
|
Great for the kids |
1300 Senter Rd (at Alma Ave) San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95112 United States +1 408 277 3000 http://www.hhpz.org/ |
This fun-filled spot is highly recommended for families with young children (and pretty much anyone else, too). People have been flocking to the park and zoo since the early 1960s. All the things that children could want are here: puppet shows, rides, birthday facilities, classes and holiday feasts. A great place for an affordable family outing, it caters especially to kids younger than 12, but kids of all ages are welcome. You can even adopt pets if you so desire. Check website for admission prices and further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jan Yarnot |
 Photo: Chris McSorley |
 Photo: Shauna Carlson |
 Photo: Dave Knudson |
 Photo: OrangeLimey |
 Photo: Jun Aviles |
|
Getting to know San Jose |
1650 Senter Road San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95112 United States +1 408 287 2290 http://www.historysanjose.org/ |
Here's where you come when you need to know all about San Jose's local history. The city is not just about bright lights and bustle; it's also California's oldest, and richest in terms of culture. The park consists of historical landmarks and old houses that forms a quaint village with a breathtaking view of the valley. Go for a long stroll, if you'd like to scour its nooks and crannies on your own, or, better still, hitch a ride on the electronic trolley. This car has its own charm, with reversible seats and wooden framework. The park's early car models are also displayed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Scott Loftesness |
 Photo: Scott Loftesness |
 Photo: Amlan Chatterjee |
|
Modeled after Okayama |
1300 Senter Road (at the corner of Alma Avenue) San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95112 United States +1 408 277 5254 |
Located in Kelley Park, this garden is modeled after Korakuen Park in Okayama, Japan, which is one of San Jose's sister cities. In a very peaceful, relaxing setting, enjoy the unique bridges, ponds and pathways that exquisitely demonstrate the fine art of classic Japanese landscape gardening. You can even feed the fish. You will always be immersed in a wide variety of colors, varying from wisteria lavenders to azalea pinks and depending on the season. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robb Kistler |
 Photo: Graham Hellewell |
 Photo: Brian McCrory |
 Photo: Eva Kaniasty |
 Photo: rhodag1981 |
 Photo: rhodag1981 |
 Photo: Thomas Weisbach |
 Photo: Sarah B |
 Photo: Thomas Weisbach |
 Photo: Rich Sharples |
 Photo: Scott Loftesness |
 Photo: Wyatt Hatfield |
 Photo: Avital Gertner-Samet |
 Photo: Avital Gertner-Samet |
 Photo: Sarah B |
 Photo: Jonas M Luster |
 Photo: Aryana Mehrabi |
 Photo: ghin321 |
 Photo: James |
 Photo: gz0 |
 Photo: Alex Liu |
 Photo: Leslie Gauthier |
 Photo: © Adrian Rahardja |
|
Diverse and unique |
1300 Senter Road (at the corner of Alma Avenue) San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95112 United States +1 408 277 2757 |
This wonderful facility is a great place to take advantage of the generally sunny weather with which San Jose is blessed. It contains the Japanese Friendship Garden, Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, the San Jose Historical Museum, a huge amount of picnic tables, an amphitheater and other venues. This is a fantastic spot for wedding receptions, barbecues, family camping or other group functions. It is a diverse place, one that is great for a family day out.Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Valerie Franek |
 Photo: Ei-Nyung Choi |
 Photo: Catie Anchev |
 Photo: Bluntzilla |
 Photo: Raul S. Dequito |
 Photo: www.mandajuice.com |
 Photo: pikabon |
 Photo: Kevin Tien |
 Photo: Winnie Shih |
 Photo: Michael Rymer |
 Photo: Samantha Luu |
|
Wide open space |
2305 South White Road (between Tully Road and Cunningham Avenue) San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95148 United States +1 408 277 4319 http://www.ci.san-jose.ca.us/c... |
This spacious outdoor facility will please everyone, which explains the half a million visitors that come here every year. You can exercise, play horseshoes or volleyball, and even go sailing or fishing. Or just enjoy the fabulous sunshine in one of the few fog-free places in the Bay Area. There are a variety of picnic areas including a pavilion to hold your company meeting (call for reservation and fee information). It is a perfect retreat for the outdoorsman in us all. Check out the variety of wildlife that makes the park their home. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alex Pearson |
 Photo: Donovan Snyder |
|
Almost 200 varieties |
Corner of Naglee & Dana Aves San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95126 United States +1 408 277 5422 |
Thousands visit this park each year to view the beautiful varieties of roses in a profusion of colors and types. A very colorful location, the park also includes a few fountains and a reflecting pool, making it a great spot for a quiet stroll even if you aren't a rose aficionado. Take a look at the map of the place, which lists names of all the varieties of roses. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Osborne |
 Photo: Daniel |
 Photo: Daniel |
 Photo: Evelyn Huynh |
 Photo: Devin Scherck |
 Photo: Fintano |
 Photo: Barden |
 Photo: Svetlana I |
 Photo: Bryn Dole |
 Photo: Alex Baranda |
 Photo: Michael White |
 Photo: venkataramanik |
|
Music Every June |
At the corner of Saint James and First streets (St James Park) San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95113 United States +1 408 279 1775 http://www.sjdowntown.com |
Every Thursday in June, there is a live concert in Saint James Park for free. Many local residents and businessmen stop by after work for the show. Beer is usually sold, and everyone is welcome to hang out and listen to the music between 5p and 8p. The style of music changes every season. The 2001 show saw mostly soul and fusion acts, but there is no telling what style of music might be on tap on any particular Thursday. The only thing you can be sure of is that it will be a great time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jennifer Bullock |
 Photo: Jennifer Bullock |
|
Natural sanctuary |
2145 McKee Road (at the corner of Educational Park Drive) San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95133 United States +1 408 251 3323 http://www.ci.san-jose.ca.us/c... |
This lovely and lush 33-acre space contains the Chinese Cultural Gardens, Palm Grove, reflecting ponds, a memorial for Chinese Nationalist hero Sun Yat Sen, and a natural wildlife and plant sanctuary. Stroll, take photos, or just kick back in the warm, sunny weather that is a hallmark of the San Jose area. This is easily one of the most charming gardens in the area. Group tours and picnic arrangements are available. Call for reservation and fee information. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ben I |
 Photo: Happy Tinfoil Cat |
 Photo: Michelle N |
 Photo: lex lapax |
 Photo: Bekka Björke |
 Photo: Judy Lam |
 Photo: lindsey k. holland |
 Photo: michelle g |
|
Rides & Thrills |
P.O. Box 1776 San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95052 United States +1 408 988 1776 http://www.pgathrills.com/ |
This amazing amusement park offers something for the entire family. You'll find thrilling rides for children, family rides, 3-D animation shows at the Paramount Action FX Theater and loads of adrenaline-packed excitement. It also boasts of the world's tallest double-decker carousel. So waste no time and head straight here this spring for a fun-filled time. The park has some attractive season passes as well. For more details on opening dates please check the website. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael Minshall |
 Photo: Michael Minshall |
 Photo: Alan Fung-Schwarz |
 Photo: anandsekar |
 Photo: Russell Cooper |
 Photo: Dina V |
|
Happening community park |
at the corner of Market Street and San Carlos Street (near San Fernando Street) San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95112 United States +1 408 277 2757 |
Located in the heart of the city and across from the Fairmont Hotel, this is is one of the happening parks in San Jose. Live music, cultural festivals, craft fairs, food shows and open-air theater, it all happens at the Plaza. The two-acre park is dedicated to community activities, recreation and relaxation and is part of the original Pueblo de San Jose plaza. Parking is problematic, so use the San Jose light rail, VTA bus or one of the two free buses: the Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) and the San Jose Arena Shuttle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kar-Han Tan |
 Photo: Vince DeVito |
 Photo: Satoshi Kawase |
 Photo: spyceafrochick |
 Photo: Ben |
 Photo: watchers_trips |
|
Premiere waterslide |
2333 South White Road (between Tully Road and Cunningham Avenue) San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95148 United States +1 408 238 9900 http://www.rwsplash.com |
A recreational hot spot for the entire family, this park is the largest of its kind in the Bay Area and has waterslides of all shapes and sizes. Careen your way down the 500-foot-long Barracuda Blaster or take an inner-tube ride down the Great White Shark. There are wading areas and smaller rides designed just for the youngsters. This park is highly recommended for families as well as couples and folks just looking for good clean fun. Admission for adults (includes all rides): USD15.99, seniors (55+); USD12.99: those under 48 inches tall: USD19.99; Kids under two free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Ancient Egyptian Delights |
1342 Naglee Ave San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95191 United States +1 408 947 3636 http://www.egyptianmuseum.org |
Tombs, mummies and all sorts of ancient Egyptian artifacts await you at one of the tourist hotspots of San Jose. The place is in beautiful Rosicrucian Park, with palm trees and Egyptian-style buildings everywhere.The museum itself contains an extensive array of artifacts, jewelry and displays of Egyptian antiquity. Especially fun is the tour in the cavernous tomb below the museum. You will get a great look at what life was like in ancient Egypt. Check website for admission prices and for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Angelo Mercado |
 Photo: John Carleton |
 Photo: LeeAnn Heringer |
 Photo: Anthony M. Warnack |
 Photo: Danielle Sainton |
 Photo: Thomas Barta |
 Photo: Kevin Olson |
 Photo: don del castillo |
 Photo: don del castillo |
 Photo: Shivan Naidoo |
 Photo: John (JC) French |
 Photo: Jack Baxter |
|
Famous SJ park |
At the corner of Saint James and First streets San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95113 United States +1 408 277 4661 |
The last lynching ever held in California took place in this park. Things are much quieter these days (not to mention law-abiding). Nowadays the place holds a few statues and a small clan of homeless persons, but during the summer, there are live concerts featuring a variety of music performed to an appreciative crowd of locals. You will spot everyone from hi-tech types taking a break to families with kids to senior citizens enjoying the fresh air. There are also forestry classes year-round that make the environment come to life in all new ways. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Debi Willis |
|
Riding Through History |
400 Beach Street at Cliff Street San Jose and Silicon Valley, CA 95060 United States +1 831 423 5590 http://www.beachboardwalk.com |
History, culture, and a seaside amusement park all in one place ensures that there really is something for everyone. Since 1907, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has been thrilling children and grown-ups alike with its infamous Giant Dipper roller coaster, circa 1924, along with its 1911 Looff Carousel, arcades, mini golf, bowling, shopping, outdoor concerts, and more. And all of this with the ocean right at your feet. The Boardwalk is the perfect place for a day trip with the kids, but seasonal park passes are available for the regulars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
