Things to Do at San Jose Museum of Art

Complete Guide to San Jose Museum of Art in San Jose

About San Jose Museum of Art

The San Jose Museum of Art stands as the cultural heart of Silicon Valley, showcasing contemporary and modern art with a particular focus on West Coast artists since its founding in 1969. Located in downtown San Jose's vibrant arts district, the San Jose Museum of Art occupies a striking building that seamlessly blends a historic 1892 sandstone structure with a modern glass and steel addition, creating an architectural dialogue between past and present. The San Jose Museum of Art has built an impressive permanent collection of over 2,500 works, featuring California artists alongside international contemporary pieces. The museum's rotating exhibitions consistently present cutting-edge contemporary art, digital media installations, and thought-provoking social commentary pieces that reflect the innovative spirit of the surrounding tech capital. With its commitment to accessibility and community engagement, the museum serves as a bridge between Silicon Valley's technological prowess and its growing artistic identity.

What to See & Do

Contemporary Gallery Exhibitions

Explore rotating exhibitions featuring contemporary artists from California and beyond, with installations that often incorporate digital media and interactive elements reflecting Silicon Valley's tech influence

Permanent Collection Highlights

View masterworks by renowned California artists including Wayne Thiebaud, Robert Arneson, and David Gilhooly, showcasing the evolution of West Coast art movements from the 1960s to present

Digital Art Installations

Experience cutting-edge digital and new media artworks that blur the lines between technology and traditional art forms, often featuring local Silicon Valley artists

Historic Sandstone Building

Admire the beautifully preserved 1892 sandstone structure that houses part of the museum, originally built as the city's post office and library

Museum Store and Café

Browse unique artist-designed items, books, and locally-made crafts while enjoying light refreshments in the museum's welcoming café space

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Tuesday through Sunday 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed Mondays except holiday Mondays. Extended hours until 8:00 PM on first Fridays of each month

Tickets & Pricing

General admission $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and students with ID, free for members and children under 6. First Fridays are free for all visitors from 5:00-8:00 PM

Best Time to Visit

Visit on First Friday evenings for free admission and special programming, or weekday mornings for smaller crowds and more intimate viewing experiences

Suggested Duration

Plan 2-3 hours to fully explore the permanent collection and current exhibitions, or 1-2 hours for a focused visit

Getting There

The San Jose Museum of Art is located at 110 South Market Street in downtown San Jose, easily accessible by VTA light rail with the closest station being San Antonio/1st Street, just a 3-minute walk away. Multiple VTA bus lines serve the downtown area, and the museum is within walking distance of San Jose Diridon Station for Caltrain and Amtrak passengers. For drivers, paid parking is available in nearby city lots and street meters, with the closest parking garage located at 154 South Second Street. The museum's central downtown location makes it easily walkable from most downtown San Jose hotels and restaurants.

Things to Do Nearby

California Theatre
Historic 1927 performing arts venue hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and cultural performances, located just 2 blocks from the museum
San Jose Center for the Performing Arts
Major venue for touring Broadway productions, opera, and symphony performances, situated in the heart of the downtown arts district
Plaza de César Chávez
Downtown San Jose's central park featuring seasonal events, farmers markets, and outdoor concerts, perfect for a post-museum stroll
Tech Interactive
Hands-on science and technology museum showcasing Silicon Valley innovations, located 4 blocks away and ideal for families
SAP Center at San Jose
Home of the San Jose Sharks NHL team and major concert venue, offering sports and entertainment events year-round

Tips & Advice

Take advantage of the San Jose Museum of Art's free First Friday events which include extended hours, special programming, and often artist talks or live music performances
The San Jose Museum of Art offers free WiFi throughout the building, and photography is permitted in most galleries for personal use without flash
Check the museum's website before visiting as the San Jose Museum of Art frequently hosts special events, artist workshops, and lecture series that enhance the regular exhibition experience
Combine your museum visit with exploring the surrounding SoFA (South First Area) district, which features numerous galleries, restaurants, and shops within easy walking distance

Tours & Activities at San Jose Museum of Art