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Best known for its
sunshine and its ties to technology, San Jose has much to offer even the
most discriminating traveler. Whether for business or pleasure, this
beautiful California city has something for everyone. With over 300
days of sunshine, near perfect weather, a multitude of sites to see and,
not to mention, the opportunity to play Monopoly on a 930 square foot
board, as well as its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, it makes this a
must see destination for anyone traveling to northern California.
It is hard to remember
when looking at San Jose today that it is the oldest civil settlement in
California, founded back in 1777. It was also the first capital of
California, even before California became an official state and at one
time was a thriving agricultural area. Few remnants of that period
remain. Instead, there are a host of new things to see and do.
No matter what time of
year for a visit, beautiful California weather awaits. Summer tends to
be the busiest season as tourists from around the world come to visit
the area, enjoying its wonderful scenery, weather, entertainment and
attractions. Summer daytime temperatures reach into the mid 80’s F. but
with very little humidity it’s quite comfortable. It’s the perfect time
for taking advantage of the many outdoor activities available. Spring
and fall are pleasant, although cooler. Spring brings the average
temperature to about 60 F and fall is slightly higher. Although there
is a winter season, the daytime temperatures rarely fall below 60 F,
making it an ideal time to take advantage of the beautiful scenery.
One thing to keep in
mind when visiting this California city is that “California Casual” is
the dress code for daytime and most evening outings. From November
until spring, a light sweater is advisable during the day and a light
jacket for the evenings.
The History Museum
gives visitors a feel for what it was like when California’s first
settlement was established back in the late 1700’s. Guests can enjoy
the 14 acre facility with a park-like setting including 27 original and
reconstructed homes, businesses, and landmarks highlighting the culture
and history of San Jose and Santa Clara Valley. The museum is unique
with paved streets, running trolleys and an old-fashioned ice cream and
even a candy parlor.
Known for its ties to
technology, San Jose also offers tours of the Tech Museum of Innovation
where Technology from Silicon Valley and beyond comes alive. This
unique museum features interactive exhibits for all ages. The Tech is a
place that’s about real technology . . . changing the way people work
and play, creating, harnessing, and sharing information about how we
innovate, how we do things differently. It features over 250 interactive
exhibits as well as an Imax Dome Theater.
For a little outdoor
activity, a must visit attraction is Kelly Park. The park is home to
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, the Japanese Friendship Garden and the San Jose
Historical Museum. Visitors may enjoy a train ride, picnicking, a
beautiful lawn and shade tree areas or a walk through the tranquil
Japanese Friendship Garden. For those looking for more activity, visit
the zoo, amusement park and play area of Happy Hollow. For a unique
adventure, try a game of Monopoly on a 930 square foot board at
Guadalupe River Park. Be sure to bring a camera for this
once-in-a-lifetime picture.
For a day trip, be
sure to visit Paramount’s Great America and Six Flags Marine World.
Both are just minutes away from San Jose and offer fun and adventure for
the entire family. Great America is a universe of Nickelodeon fun,
friends, and adventures that burst into life daily. The stars on
Nickelodeon, one of the networks preferred by kids, come to life at one
of Northern California’s favorite theme parks for family fun and
thrills. Marine World is the country's only combination wildlife park,
oceanarium and theme park featuring over 30 thrilling rides, 35 exotic
animal attractions and 10 great shows. Of course, historic and
beautiful San Francisco is also only an hour away.
San Jose showcases a
mix of world class cultural and performing arts, name brand stores and
quaint boutiques, superb dining, exciting night life, great sporting
events and outdoor activities, year-round cultural events and
festivities, many historic sites, thrilling theme parks, varied points
of interest, and beautiful climate year-round. It’s no wonder it has
been an ongoing recipient of
numerous honors and awards, and has become a stomping ground for
millions of visitors each year. Wouldn’t you like to be one of them?
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