Silicon Valley & Beyond: A Week in San Jose
From Tech Innovation to Natural Wonders
Trip Overview
Discover the heart of Silicon Valley with this comprehensive week-long adventure through San Jose and its surrounding treasures. This itinerary balances cutting-edge technology museums with Victorian mysteries, serene gardens with thrilling theme parks, and urban culture with stunning natural preserves. You'll explore world-class attractions like the Winchester Mystery House and The Tech Interactive, relax in beautiful parks and gardens, and venture into nearby hills for hiking and scenic vistas. The pace allows for thorough exploration without feeling rushed, with built-in flexibility for personal interests. From family-friendly museums to quirky attractions and outdoor adventures, this journey showcases the diverse character of California's third-largest city.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival & Downtown Discovery
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown San Jose (Mid-range hotel near Plaza de Cesar Chavez)
Central location provides walkable access to restaurants, nightlife, and tomorrow's attractions
Victorian Mysteries & Family Fun
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown or West San Jose (Same hotel or similar mid-range accommodation)
Staying in the same area minimizes packing and unpacking while maintaining access to city attractions
Gardens, History & Culture
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown San Jose (Same or similar accommodation)
Central location continues to provide convenient access to varied attractions
Family Discovery & Interactive Adventures
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown San Jose (Same accommodation)
Maintaining your base allows for a relaxed evening without travel logistics
Outdoor Adventures & Natural Beauty
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown San Jose (Same accommodation)
Return to your familiar base to rest after an active outdoor day
Lakeside Leisure & Historic Estates
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown San Jose (Same accommodation)
Final night in your established base before departure preparations
Final Discoveries & Departure
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown San Jose or near airport if departing early (Same hotel or airport hotel)
Choose based on departure time; airport hotels offer convenience for early flights
Practical Information
Getting Around
Renting a car is highly recommended for this itinerary as San Jose is spread out and many attractions are not easily accessible by public transit. The city does have VTA light rail and buses serving downtown and some attractions, but having a car provides flexibility for visiting parks, gardens, and surrounding areas. Ride-sharing services are readily available throughout the area. Parking is generally easy and affordable, with most attractions offering on-site parking. Downtown parking garages charge $10-20 daily. Traffic can be heavy during rush hours (7-9am, 4-7pm) on major highways.
Book Ahead
Book Winchester Mystery House tours, Filoli estate tickets, and escape room experiences at least 3-7 days ahead. Purchase The Tech Interactive tickets online to save time. Reserve accommodations early if visiting during peak season or major events.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for variable temperatures, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), reusable water bottle, light rain jacket for winter visits, camera, daypack for hiking days, casual dining attire
Total Budget
$850-1,200 for the week (excluding flights and accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay at budget hotels or hostels outside downtown, pack picnic lunches, focus on free attractions like Municipal Rose Garden, Guadalupe River Park, and various county parks. Skip the escape rooms and choose only one paid museum. Use public transportation where possible and visit during off-peak seasons. Cook some meals if your accommodation has kitchen facilities. Total budget can be reduced to $70-100 per day.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at upscale hotels in Santana Row or downtown, book private tours at Winchester Mystery House and Filoli, dine at high-end restaurants in Los Gatos and Santana Row, hire a private guide for hiking expeditions, upgrade to VIP experiences at The Tech Interactive, add wine tasting in nearby Santa Cruz Mountains, book spa treatments, and arrange private transportation. Consider adding a day trip to Monterey or Napa Valley. Budget $300-500 per day.
Family-Friendly
This itinerary is already quite family-friendly, but optimize by spending more time at Happy Hollow Park & Zoo and Children's Discovery Museum. Add extra visits to Vasona Lake for paddleboating and playground time. Skip Filoli in favor of more time at Emma Prusch Farm Park. Choose accommodations with pools and family suites. Build in more downtime between activities and select restaurants with kids' menus. Consider shorter hiking options at Alum Rock Park focusing on the creek trail.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in San Jose