G2Rail

An aerial view of downtown San Jose

Often called "the Capital of Silicon Valley", San Jose is the largest city in the Bay Area, 3rd largest in California, and the 10th largest city in the United States. It was named the 6th safest big city in the US in 2015. This clean, sprawling metropolis has sports, beautiful vistas, ethnic enclaves, and bleeds into the greater Bay Area for travelers who want to take their time in Northern California.

El Pueblo de San Jose de Guadalupe (literally, the Town of Saint Joseph of Guadalupe) was founded by José Joaquín Moraga in 1777 near the present day intersection of Guadalupe Parkway and West Taylor Street. In 1797, the pueblo was moved to the Plaza Pueblo (now Plaza de César Chávez), around which San Jose grew.

True to its location in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose is now home to the headquarters of many tech companies such as Cisco Systems, eBay, and Adobe Systems.

There are so many different neighborhoods in the large geographic area of San Jose that, depending on where you are, you might not know if you're still in the same city. Like most Bay Area towns and cities, San Jose is an expensive place to live (many basic houses easily top $1M in price). Some of the hip areas to live these days are in San Jose's downtown area, for those who prefer urban living, or Santana Row for a mixed living, shopping and dining community. You can find vintage California charm in the neighborhoods of Willow Glen and Rose Garden. The woodsy area of Almaden Valley is known for its excellent schools, and Silver Creek is known for its subdivisions of sprawling "McMansions." Evergreen is in East San Jose, right at the foothills of the city. Evergreen has some more affordable housing and is very residential. Since it is at the foothills, east San Jose is not as accessible as the other neighborhoods. Evergreen has excellent views of the foothills and many parks and recreational areas. Groseprick Park is located right in the heart of Evergreen and offers a mile long loop, basketball courts, baseball fields, playgrounds, and hiking trails.

Downtown San Jose is a mix of offices, shopping, hotels, numerous restaurants as well as a convention center and the SoFA (South of First Area) nightclub district. Check out the San Pedro Square Farmer's Market on Fridays for local and organic produce, or visit the new City Hall (2005) and the nearby San Jose State University campus. The new main library (2003) is a prestigious, award-winning, joint-use library combining resources of the city and San Jose State University. Get outdoors and take advantage of San Jose's invariably sunny weather on the Guadalupe River Trail or in one of the many city parks. You'll always find a wealth of cultural events at theaters, art galleries, and museums.

The Tech Museum of Innovation, 201 S Market St (near Park Ave, +1 408 294-TECH. A great interactive experience for all ages and backgrounds. The Tech Museum allows visitors to see how technology affects their daily lives. Permanent exhibits focus on the Internet, the human body, and exploration. You'll also find an IMAX Theater, a cafe, and a retail store featuring merchandise unique to the Silicon Valley. $16 (museum and IMAX).
San Jose Museum of Art, 110 S Market St (at W San Fernando St, +1 408 271-6840. Tu-Su 11AM-5PM. Recognized for its contemporary collection of modern art, which highlights movements on the West Coast as well as national and international pieces. The museum started as a small civic art gallery in 1969 and has grown in step with its city. $8 general admission, $5 seniors/students.
San Jose City Hall, 200 E Santa Clara St (near S 4th St, +1 408 535-3500. Designed by architects Richard Meier & Partners, the new City Hall, opened in 2005, consists of a free standing glass rotunda at the center, a council chambers wing to the south, and a separate tower to the east. Tours are available.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library, 150 E San Fernando St (at S 4th St, +1 408 808-2000. M–F 8AM–6PM, Sa 9AM–6PM, Su 1–5PM. Expanded hours during SJSU semesters.. A partnership between the City of San Jose and San Jose State University, the King Library opened in 2003 as the largest new library west of the Mississippi, with 475,000 sq ft and 1.5 million items. No ID is needed to use materials within the library, but if you want to check them out, or use public-access computers or WiFi, you must apply for a free library card (available to residents and non-residents alike, but you need a photo ID). Special non-circulating collections on the 5th floor (with limited hours, M–Sa) include, among others: Beethoven Center, housing historical keyboard instruments and the largest collection of Beethoven materials outside Europe; Center for Steinbeck Studies, with more than 40,000 items—manuscripts, letters, films, photos, etc.— of writer John Steinbeck. Free.
San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles, 520 S 1st St (near E William St, +1 408 971-0323. Tu-Su 10AM-5PM. The first museum in the US to focus on quilts and textiles, the San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles has an outstanding collection on a rotating display. Exhibitions change quarterly at this exciting and modern museum. $6 general admission, $5 seniors/students with ID (free for everyone on the first Friday of the month).
Paseo de San Antonio. A four-block pedestrian-only space, running between SJSU and Plaza de Cesar Chavez, lined with shops, hotels, casual and fast-food restaurants, and the Camera 12 Cinemas, At the Market Street end, an oversized bronze table features memories and writings of Mexican immigrant, activist, and SJSU professor Ernesto Galarza.
Quetzalcoatl statue, south end of Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park. Robert Graham's 1994 sculpture of the Mesoamerican feathered-serpent deity was criticized for its $500,000 price tag, its composite-cement construction, its unimpressive 8-foot height, its religious significance, and its resemblance to coiled excrement.

The Tech Museum of Innovation, 201 S Market St (near Park Ave, +1 408 294-TECH. A great interactive experience for all ages and backgrounds. The Tech Museum allows visitors to see how technology affects their daily lives. Permanent exhibits focus on the Internet, the human body, and exploration. You'll also find an IMAX Theater, a cafe, and a retail store featuring merchandise unique to the Silicon Valley. $16 (museum and IMAX).

San Jose Museum of Art, 110 S Market St (at W San Fernando St, +1 408 271-6840. Tu-Su 11AM-5PM. Recognized for its contemporary collection of modern art, which highlights movements on the West Coast as well as national and international pieces. The museum started as a small civic art gallery in 1969 and has grown in step with its city. $8 general admission, $5 seniors/students.

San Jose City Hall, 200 E Santa Clara St (near S 4th St, +1 408 535-3500. Designed by architects Richard Meier & Partners, the new City Hall, opened in 2005, consists of a free standing glass rotunda at the center, a council chambers wing to the south, and a separate tower to the east. Tours are available.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library, 150 E San Fernando St (at S 4th St, +1 408 808-2000. M–F 8AM–6PM, Sa 9AM–6PM, Su 1–5PM. Expanded hours during SJSU semesters.. A partnership between the City of San Jose and San Jose State University, the King Library opened in 2003 as the largest new library west of the Mississippi, with 475,000 sq ft and 1.5 million items. No ID is needed to use materials within the library, but if you want to check them out, or use public-access computers or WiFi, you must apply for a free library card (available to residents and non-residents alike, but you need a photo ID). Special non-circulating collections on the 5th floor (with limited hours, M–Sa) include, among others: Beethoven Center, housing historical keyboard instruments and the largest collection of Beethoven materials outside Europe; Center for Steinbeck Studies, with more than 40,000 items—manuscripts, letters, films, photos, etc.— of writer John Steinbeck. Free.

San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles, 520 S 1st St (near E William St, +1 408 971-0323. Tu-Su 10AM-5PM. The first museum in the US to focus on quilts and textiles, the San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles has an outstanding collection on a rotating display. Exhibitions change quarterly at this exciting and modern museum. $6 general admission, $5 seniors/students with ID (free for everyone on the first Friday of the month).

Paseo de San Antonio. A four-block pedestrian-only space, running between SJSU and Plaza de Cesar Chavez, lined with shops, hotels, casual and fast-food restaurants, and the Camera 12 Cinemas, At the Market Street end, an oversized bronze table features memories and writings of Mexican immigrant, activist, and SJSU professor Ernesto Galarza.

Quetzalcoatl statue, south end of Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park. Robert Graham's 1994 sculpture of the Mesoamerican feathered-serpent deity was criticized for its $500,000 price tag, its composite-cement construction, its unimpressive 8-foot height, its religious significance, and its resemblance to coiled excrement.

Winchester Mystery House, 525 S Winchester Blvd, +1 408 247-2101. Tours daily 9AM-7PM. Check their website for a current schedule. The legend is that Sarah Winchester, Winchester Rifle heiress, was afraid of being cursed by the ghosts of those who had been killed by Winchester guns. She thought that as long as construction continued, the ghosts would be kept at bay. Construction did continue (for 38 years!), resulting in a fantastic house full of mazes, stairs that go nowhere and other odd architecture. Two tours are available: the Mansion Tour, which takes you through most of the mansion and discusses the different theories about Sarah Winchester (fanatical spiritualist, self-taught architect, or both?), and the Explore More Tour, which goes to some of the unfinished rooms and parts of the house that were closed to the public for decades. Each tour takes about an hour, and a single ticket for either one is $39 for adults (13–64), $20 for children 6–12, and $32 for seniors, military, firefighters, and EMTs. A combined ticket is available at a discount for $54. There's a $3 fee for booking online, but it's a good idea to book in advance in case the tours fill up.
Santana Row, 368 Santana Row (near S Winchester Rd, +1 408 551-4611. A "European-style" village of shops, restaurants, and high-priced condos, with hotels and great nightlife. There's a year-round farmer's market on Sundays, and during the summer bands play free outdoor music every weekend. Santana row has become a hang-out spot for San Jose's residents. Has numerous restaurants, bakeries, cafes and central garden. Stores include Anthropologie, J. Crew, and surf shops. Its development has had a huge impact on the San Jose landscape and economy.
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum and Planetarium, 1664 Park Ave, +1 408 947-3636. M-F 9AM-5PM, Sa-Su 11AM-6PM. This museum of Ancient Egypt features exhibits funded by the Rosicrucian Order, who have secured artifacts from archaeologists working in the area since the 1920s. Take a tour through a detailed replica of an Egyptian tomb and browse their collection of mummies and artifacts. $9 general admission, $7 seniors/students, $5 children 5-10, free for children under 5.
Japantown, Between Jackson and Taylor on 1st-5th Sts (VTA Light Rail Station Japantown/Ayer. The neighborhood surrounding Fifth and Jackson streets (a mile from Downtown) has some good restaurants, retail shops, and cultural facilities. Festivals are held several times a year, and there is a year-round farmer's market on Sundays.
Willow Glen, Lincoln Ave between Willow St and Minnesota St. This charming shopping district was once the center of a town separate from San Jose. Has a variety of small shops and restaurants, as well as a farmer's market and a handful of community festivals and events throughout the year.
San Jose Municipal Rose Garden, Naglee Ave between Dana Ave and Garden Dr, +1 408 277-2757. 8AM to half hour past sunset. San Jose's 5 1/2–acre Municipal Rose Garden, once a prune orchard, draws thousands of visitors each year. The Garden is exclusively devoted to shrubs of the rose family and features over 4,000 rose shrubs with 189 varieties represented. Hybrid–teas comprise 75 percent of the plantings. free.
Heritage Rose Garden, Spring St and Taylor St. half an hour before dawn to half an hour after dusk. This garden, initially planted by volunteers in 1995, has a collection of almost 4,000 plants of more than 3,000 rose varieties. free.
Alum Rock Park, 15350 Penitencia Creek Rd. half an hour before dawn to half an hour after dusk. Amazing park nestled in the Eastern foothills of Silicon Valley. Great for picnics, hiking, biking, and exploring. Great scenic trails, and 1800s era natural spring baths. free.
Lick Observatory, Mount Hamilton Rd, +1 408 274-5761. Lick Observatory can be found on the highest point of Mount Hamilton. It can be seen on a clear day in San Jose. It has a paved road climbing up to it which was originally a horse track, which it is a steady incline with steep slopes to the side. There are three telescopes on the mountain, including a newer one within walking distance of the observatory. There are tours of one of the telescopes and a gift shop. Sometimes gets snow in winter and on a cloudy day it is above the clouds.
Japanese Friendship Garden, 1300 Senter Rd, +1 408 794-7275. Six-acre open, park-style garden designed to resemble the famous Korakuen in Okayama, Japan.
Japanese American Museum of San Jose, 535 N 5th St, +1 408 294-3138. Th-Su noon-4PM. Documents the history of Japanese Americans in the San Jose area. Highlights are a collection of farm equipment used on Japanese-American-owned farms and a recreation of a barracks from the internment during World War II. $5.
Five Wounds Portuguese National Church, 1375 E Santa Clara Street (VTA bus routes 22, 522, +1 408 292-2123. Located at the edge of the Little Portugal neighborhood and built in 1916–19 with materials from the Portuguese pavilion of the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, this parish church of the Roman Catholic Latin Rite, with its Neo-Manueline archictecture, is one of the most photographed and painted buildings in San Jose.

Winchester Mystery House, 525 S Winchester Blvd, +1 408 247-2101. Tours daily 9AM-7PM. Check their website for a current schedule. The legend is that Sarah Winchester, Winchester Rifle heiress, was afraid of being cursed by the ghosts of those who had been killed by Winchester guns. She thought that as long as construction continued, the ghosts would be kept at bay. Construction did continue (for 38 years!), resulting in a fantastic house full of mazes, stairs that go nowhere and other odd architecture. Two tours are available: the Mansion Tour, which takes you through most of the mansion and discusses the different theories about Sarah Winchester (fanatical spiritualist, self-taught architect, or both?), and the Explore More Tour, which goes to some of the unfinished rooms and parts of the house that were closed to the public for decades. Each tour takes about an hour, and a single ticket for either one is $39 for adults (13–64), $20 for children 6–12, and $32 for seniors, military, firefighters, and EMTs. A combined ticket is available at a discount for $54. There's a $3 fee for booking online, but it's a good idea to book in advance in case the tours fill up.

Santana Row, 368 Santana Row (near S Winchester Rd, +1 408 551-4611. A "European-style" village of shops, restaurants, and high-priced condos, with hotels and great nightlife. There's a year-round farmer's market on Sundays, and during the summer bands play free outdoor music every weekend. Santana row has become a hang-out spot for San Jose's residents. Has numerous restaurants, bakeries, cafes and central garden. Stores include Anthropologie, J. Crew, and surf shops. Its development has had a huge impact on the San Jose landscape and economy.

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum and Planetarium, 1664 Park Ave, +1 408 947-3636. M-F 9AM-5PM, Sa-Su 11AM-6PM. This museum of Ancient Egypt features exhibits funded by the Rosicrucian Order, who have secured artifacts from archaeologists working in the area since the 1920s. Take a tour through a detailed replica of an Egyptian tomb and browse their collection of mummies and artifacts. $9 general admission, $7 seniors/students, $5 children 5-10, free for children under 5.

Japantown, Between Jackson and Taylor on 1st-5th Sts (VTA Light Rail Station Japantown/Ayer. The neighborhood surrounding Fifth and Jackson streets (a mile from Downtown) has some good restaurants, retail shops, and cultural facilities. Festivals are held several times a year, and there is a year-round farmer's market on Sundays.

Willow Glen, Lincoln Ave between Willow St and Minnesota St. This charming shopping district was once the center of a town separate from San Jose. Has a variety of small shops and restaurants, as well as a farmer's market and a handful of community festivals and events throughout the year.

San Jose Municipal Rose Garden, Naglee Ave between Dana Ave and Garden Dr, +1 408 277-2757. 8AM to half hour past sunset. San Jose's 5 1/2–acre Municipal Rose Garden, once a prune orchard, draws thousands of visitors each year. The Garden is exclusively devoted to shrubs of the rose family and features over 4,000 rose shrubs with 189 varieties represented. Hybrid–teas comprise 75 percent of the plantings. free.

Heritage Rose Garden, Spring St and Taylor St. half an hour before dawn to half an hour after dusk. This garden, initially planted by volunteers in 1995, has a collection of almost 4,000 plants of more than 3,000 rose varieties. free.

Alum Rock Park, 15350 Penitencia Creek Rd. half an hour before dawn to half an hour after dusk. Amazing park nestled in the Eastern foothills of Silicon Valley. Great for picnics, hiking, biking, and exploring. Great scenic trails, and 1800s era natural spring baths. free.

Lick Observatory, Mount Hamilton Rd, +1 408 274-5761. Lick Observatory can be found on the highest point of Mount Hamilton. It can be seen on a clear day in San Jose. It has a paved road climbing up to it which was originally a horse track, which it is a steady incline with steep slopes to the side. There are three telescopes on the mountain, including a newer one within walking distance of the observatory. There are tours of one of the telescopes and a gift shop. Sometimes gets snow in winter and on a cloudy day it is above the clouds.

Japanese Friendship Garden, 1300 Senter Rd, +1 408 794-7275. Six-acre open, park-style garden designed to resemble the famous Korakuen in [[Okayama]], Japan.

Japanese American Museum of San Jose, 535 N 5th St, +1 408 294-3138. Th-Su noon-4PM. Documents the history of Japanese Americans in the San Jose area. Highlights are a collection of farm equipment used on Japanese-American-owned farms and a recreation of a barracks from the internment during World War II. $5.

Five Wounds Portuguese National Church, 1375 E Santa Clara Street (VTA bus routes 22, 522, +1 408 292-2123. Located at the edge of the Little Portugal neighborhood and built in 1916–19 with materials from the Portuguese pavilion of the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition, this parish church of the Roman Catholic Latin Rite, with its Neo-Manueline archictecture, is one of the most photographed and painted buildings in San Jose.

San Jose has two major professional sports teams, some fantastic amusement parks and a variety of theater and comedy venues to entertain you throughout the year. The city also hosts a colorful array of festivals and conventions and offers plenty of shopping options.

You're on their ice when the San Jose sharkhead is lowered from the ceiling of the arena, affectionately known as "The Shark Tank."

Tree tours—Our City Forest, +1 408 624-1224. Self-guided tours, via your mobile phone, of trees which have been marked for identification. Recommended for ages 6–8 and up. Our City Forest also offers occasional docent-led tours at various locations. Free.

Tree tours—Our City Forest, +1 408 624-1224. Self-guided tours, via your mobile phone, of trees which have been marked for identification. Recommended for ages 6–8 and up. Our City Forest also offers occasional docent-led tours at various locations. Free.

San Jose Sharks. The SAP Center, formerly known as HP Pavilion (aka "The Shark Tank"), hosts this National Hockey League team, which has enjoyed relatively good success since their inception in 1991. Watch one of the more famous traditions as the team enters the rink out of a 17-foot high shark head.
San Jose Earthquakes, Avaya Stadium, 1123 Coleman Ave, +1 408 556-7700. The Bay Area's Major League Soccer team. The "Quakes" opened their new Avaya Stadium for the 2015 season.
San Jose Giants. San Jose's single-A minor-league baseball team (affiliated with the San Francisco Giants) plays in the California League from April to September. Games are held at historic San Jose Municipal Stadium. The BBQ area next to left field is a hit with fans before the game.
San Jose State Spartans, +1 408 924-SJTX. M-F 9AM-5PM. The Spartans represent San Jose State University in NCAA Division I sports. Most of the school's six men's and 13 women's teams compete in the Mountain West Conference.
Cinnabar Hills Golf Course, +1 408-323-5200. 27-hole course ranked among the top ten in Northern California.

San Jose Sharks. The SAP Center, formerly known as HP Pavilion (aka "The Shark Tank"), hosts this National Hockey League team, which has enjoyed relatively good success since their inception in 1991. Watch one of the more famous traditions as the team enters the rink out of a 17-foot high shark head.

San Jose Earthquakes, Avaya Stadium, 1123 Coleman Ave, +1 408 556-7700. The Bay Area's Major League Soccer team. The "Quakes" opened their new Avaya Stadium for the 2015 season.

San Jose Giants. San Jose's single-A minor-league baseball team (affiliated with the San Francisco Giants) plays in the California League from April to September. Games are held at historic San Jose Municipal Stadium. The BBQ area next to left field is a hit with fans before the game.

San Jose State Spartans, +1 408 924-SJTX. M-F 9AM-5PM. The Spartans represent San Jose State University in NCAA Division I sports. Most of the school's six men's and 13 women's teams compete in the Mountain West Conference.

Cinnabar Hills Golf Course, +1 408-323-5200. 27-hole course ranked among the top ten in Northern California.

California's Great America, 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, +1 408 988-1776. Mostly 10AM–10PM from June to August; weekend hours vary seasonally. With roller coasters, thrill rides, children's attractions, the Boomerang Bay water park, and Vegas-style live shows. Parking costs $20. $40+.
Raging Waters, 2333 S White Rd, +1 408 238-9900. Jun–Aug daily, May and Sep weekends only. A favorite local spot to cool off in the summer, this water park features slides, rides and a 350,000 gallon wave pool. $37 at the gate.
Golfland, 976 Blossom Hill Rd, +1 408 225-1533. M-F 10AM-midnight, Sa 9AM–midnight, Su 10AM-10PM. Classic miniature golf course, plus water slides (in the summer) and a great arcade. $9-24.
Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, 748 Story Road, +1 408 794-6400. 10AM–4PM most of the year, and 10AM–5PM on weekends and during the summer. A small, child-friendly amusement park with some animal exhibits. The carousel, train, miniature roller coaster and other rides are all included in the admission price, but bring a few quarters if you want to feed the goats in the petting zoo. Try VTA buses #73 and #25 to save $10 per vehicle on parking. $14.25 per person.

California's Great America, 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, +1 408 988-1776. Mostly 10AM–10PM from June to August; weekend hours vary seasonally. With roller coasters, thrill rides, children's attractions, the Boomerang Bay water park, and Vegas-style live shows. Parking costs $20. $40+.

Raging Waters, 2333 S White Rd, +1 408 238-9900. Jun–Aug daily, May and Sep weekends only. A favorite local spot to cool off in the summer, this water park features slides, rides and a 350,000 gallon wave pool. $37 at the gate.

Golfland, 976 Blossom Hill Rd, +1 408 225-1533. M-F 10AM-midnight, Sa 9AM–midnight, Su 10AM-10PM. Classic miniature golf course, plus water slides (in the summer) and a great arcade. $9-24.

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, 748 Story Road, +1 408 794-6400. 10AM–4PM most of the year, and 10AM–5PM on weekends and during the summer. A small, child-friendly amusement park with some animal exhibits. The carousel, train, miniature roller coaster and other rides are all included in the admission price, but bring a few quarters if you want to feed the goats in the petting zoo. Try VTA buses #73 and #25 to save $10 per vehicle on parking. $14.25 per person.

Improv Comedy Club, 62 S 2nd St, +1 408 280-7475. A downtown venue showcasing well-known comedy acts, they have a full restaurant and bar. The club is also great for group outings for 10-400 people.
ComedySportz San Jose, 288 S 2nd St (at the Camera 3 Cinemas, +1 408 985-LAFF. F 9PM, 11PM; Sa 7PM, 9PM. Named "Best Local Theatre" by the Metro's "Best of the Silicon Valley", ComedySportz is an interactive improv comedy show where two teams of "act-letes" compete in various comedic games, with the audience as the judge. $10-15.

Improv Comedy Club, 62 S 2nd St, +1 408 280-7475. A downtown venue showcasing well-known comedy acts, they have a full restaurant and bar. The club is also great for group outings for 10-400 people.

ComedySportz San Jose, 288 S 2nd St (at the Camera 3 Cinemas, +1 408 985-LAFF. F 9PM, 11PM; Sa 7PM, 9PM. Named "Best Local Theatre" by the Metro's "Best of the Silicon Valley", ComedySportz is an interactive improv comedy show where two teams of "act-letes" compete in various comedic games, with the audience as the judge. $10-15.

Opera San Jose, 2149 Paragon Dr (California Theatre, +1 408 437-4450. Sep-May. San Jose's resident opera company performs on a restored 1920s vaudeville stage and features some of the most accomplished young voices in the country. $50-100.
Children's Musical Theater San Jose, 271 S Market St (Montgomery Theater, +1 408 288-5437. This children's theater puts on productions the whole family can enjoy, from 'Peter Pan' to The Who's 'Tommy'. $15–25.
Teatro Visión, 1700 Alum Rock Ave, Suite 265, +1 408 272-9926. Known for putting on high-quality Chicano/Latino plays in San Jose for over 25 years, Teatro Visión celebrates community, culture, and the vision of a better world.
Ballet San Jose, 255 Almaden Blvd (Center for the Performing Arts, +1 408 288-2800. Oct-May. Formerly the San Jose Cleveland Ballet and more recently Ballet San Jose Silicon Valley, this highly skilled and innovative company includes dancers from all over the world. Each season, they perform an extensive repertoire of classical and contemporary works. $25-85.

Opera San Jose, 2149 Paragon Dr (California Theatre, +1 408 437-4450. Sep-May. San Jose's resident opera company performs on a restored 1920s vaudeville stage and features some of the most accomplished young voices in the country. $50-100.

Children's Musical Theater San Jose, 271 S Market St (Montgomery Theater, +1 408 288-5437. This children's theater puts on productions the whole family can enjoy, from 'Peter Pan' to The Who's 'Tommy'. $15–25.

Teatro Visión, 1700 Alum Rock Ave, Suite 265, +1 408 272-9926. Known for putting on high-quality Chicano/Latino plays in San Jose for over 25 years, Teatro Visión celebrates community, culture, and the vision of a better world.

Ballet San Jose, 255 Almaden Blvd (Center for the Performing Arts, +1 408 288-2800. Oct-May. Formerly the San Jose Cleveland Ballet and more recently Ballet San Jose Silicon Valley, this highly skilled and innovative company includes dancers from all over the world. Each season, they perform an extensive repertoire of classical and contemporary works. $25-85.

Cinequest, +1 408 295-QUEST. One week every March. A film festival emphasizing digital production, with screenings and guest speakers at venues throughout San Jose. Named one of the Top 10 Film Festivals in the world by the Ultimate Film Festival Survival Guide.
San Jose Jazz Festival, +1 408 288-7557. every August. A weekend of jazz as well as blues, salsa, and big bands, playing on a dozen mostly outdoor stages.
San Jose Metro Fountain Blues Festival. Every May. This day-long concert will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2010. Around 8,000 blues enthusiasts show up yearly for an impressive lineup of blues musicians. It all happens in the open air on the university campus downtown. $5.
Starlight Cinemas, San Pedro Square/ Historic District/ SoFA District. Most Wednesdays, June–August, dusk. Outdoor movie screenings all summer long, held in a different neighborhood each week. Bring some lawn chairs and a picnic, or check out the nearby cafes and eateries. Films range from true Hollywood classics to newer hits. Once a month, Post Street Summertime Blues joins Starlight Cinemas with a live blues performances before the show. free.
Downtown Ice, 120 S. Market St (between the Fairmont Hotel and the San Jose Museum of Art. November–January. It doesn't get more California than an outdoor ice skating rink surrounded by a circle of palm trees. The admission price includes rental skates and ice time. $15 general admission, $13 children 12 and under.
5 de Mayo. First Sunday of May. The Sunday right before or after May 5th is the biggest Cinco de Mayo celebration in the Bay Area. A parade takes place downtown early in the morning, followed by music and cultural events held in Guadalupe Park and the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds in the afternoon.
Nikkei Matsuri, Japantown. Held in spring each year around late April/early May. Features Japanese-American arts, crafts and food.
Sake San Jose, Japantown. Held in spring each year. Combines sake tasting with a walk through historic Japantown.
Christmas in the Park, Plaza de Cesar Chavez. Features Christmas scene dioramas and decorated trees sponsored by local businesses and civic organizations; carnival rides; and fair food. Displays free, carnival priced per ride.

Cinequest, +1 408 295-QUEST. One week every March. A film festival emphasizing digital production, with screenings and guest speakers at venues throughout San Jose. Named one of the Top 10 Film Festivals in the world by the Ultimate Film Festival Survival Guide.

San Jose Jazz Festival, +1 408 288-7557. every August. A weekend of jazz as well as blues, salsa, and big bands, playing on a dozen mostly outdoor stages.

San Jose Metro Fountain Blues Festival. Every May. This day-long concert will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2010. Around 8,000 blues enthusiasts show up yearly for an impressive lineup of blues musicians. It all happens in the open air on the university campus downtown. $5.

Starlight Cinemas, San Pedro Square/ Historic District/ SoFA District. Most Wednesdays, June–August, dusk. Outdoor movie screenings all summer long, held in a different neighborhood each week. Bring some lawn chairs and a picnic, or check out the nearby cafes and eateries. Films range from true Hollywood classics to newer hits. Once a month, Post Street Summertime Blues joins Starlight Cinemas with a live blues performances before the show. free.

Downtown Ice, 120 S. Market St (between the Fairmont Hotel and the San Jose Museum of Art. November–January. It doesn't get more California than an outdoor ice skating rink surrounded by a circle of palm trees. The admission price includes rental skates and ice time. $15 general admission, $13 children 12 and under.

5 de Mayo. First Sunday of May. The Sunday right before or after May 5th is the biggest Cinco de Mayo celebration in the Bay Area. A parade takes place downtown early in the morning, followed by music and cultural events held in Guadalupe Park and the Santa Clara County Fairgrounds in the afternoon.

Nikkei Matsuri, Japantown. Held in spring each year around late April/early May. Features Japanese-American arts, crafts and food.

Sake San Jose, Japantown. Held in spring each year. Combines sake tasting with a walk through historic Japantown.

Christmas in the Park, Plaza de Cesar Chavez. Features Christmas scene dioramas and decorated trees sponsored by local businesses and civic organizations; carnival rides; and fair food. Displays free, carnival priced per ride.

Further Confusion. January. One of the world's largest conventions for fans of furry (anthropomorphic animals or creatures) art, writing, comics, and costuming. If you like walking around in a dog costume, this 4-day event is for you. $40.
Consonance. March. A mid-sized convention devoted to fans of filk, a subgenre of folk music inspired by science fiction and fantasy themes. $40-50.
BayCon. May. A long-running regional science fiction convention. $50.
Fanime. May. The largest anime convention in Northern California. $30-35 one day, $60 full weekend..
California Extreme. July or August. An all-you-can-play exhibition of classic pinball machines and arcade games. All games are free for attendees, so you can leave your quarters at home! $30–35 one day, $60 full weekend.
SiliCon. October. A small science fiction convention with a media track.
Pacificon. October. Amateur-radio convention of the Pacific Division of the American Radio Relay League. $28 at the door, discount for pre-registration, free to youth 17 and under.

Further Confusion. January. One of the world's largest conventions for fans of furry (anthropomorphic animals or creatures) art, writing, comics, and costuming. If you like walking around in a dog costume, this 4-day event is for you. $40.

Consonance. March. A mid-sized convention devoted to fans of filk, a subgenre of folk music inspired by science fiction and fantasy themes. $40-50.

BayCon. May. A long-running regional science fiction convention. $50.

Fanime. May. The largest anime convention in Northern California. $30-35 one day, $60 full weekend..

California Extreme. July or August. An all-you-can-play exhibition of classic pinball machines and arcade games. All games are free for attendees, so you can leave your quarters at home! $30–35 one day, $60 full weekend.

SiliCon. October. A small science fiction convention with a media track.

Pacificon. October. Amateur-radio convention of the Pacific Division of the American Radio Relay League. $28 at the door, discount for pre-registration, free to youth 17 and under.

Valley Fair, 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd, +1-408-248-4450. One of the largest shopping malls in Northern California, Valley Fair has over 250 stores and several restaurants. Valley fair has gone under tremendous renovations within the last few years making it bigger and more modern.
Santana Row, 368 Santana Row (off of Stevens Creek, +1 408 551-4611. Across from Valley Fair is a "European-style" village of high-end and specialty shops, restaurants, and high-priced condos. There is also a giant chess board where you can battle using pawns that are half your size.
Oakridge Mall, 925 Blossom Hill Rd, +1 408 578-2912. All the Westfield mall basics for those that are addicted to malls. Since its renovation, seems to largely be a clone of Valley Fair
Berryessa Flea Market, 1590 Berryessa Rd. A huge outdoor flea market including California's largest farmer's market. Everything from furniture and stereos to haircut salons and massages can be found here, if you look hard enough. Spanish is the lingua franca, but you can get by using English.
Moon Zooom, 1630 W San Carlos St, +1 408 287-5876. Stashed inside a converted home, this is San Jose's one-stop shop for your vintage clothing and costume desires. Explore racks and racks of retro styles from the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s.
Fry's Electronics, 550 E Brokaw Rd. Offering the best selection in town for consumer electronics and gadgetry, this particular Fry's branch is unique for its Mayan-themed architecture and decor. It's one of several Fry's stores in the Bay Area.

Valley Fair, 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd, +1-408-248-4450. One of the largest shopping malls in Northern California, Valley Fair has over 250 stores and several restaurants. Valley fair has gone under tremendous renovations within the last few years making it bigger and more modern.

Santana Row, 368 Santana Row (off of Stevens Creek, +1 408 551-4611. Across from Valley Fair is a "European-style" village of high-end and specialty shops, restaurants, and high-priced condos. There is also a giant chess board where you can battle using pawns that are half your size.

Oakridge Mall, 925 Blossom Hill Rd, +1 408 578-2912. All the Westfield mall basics for those that are addicted to malls. Since its renovation, seems to largely be a clone of Valley Fair

Berryessa Flea Market, 1590 Berryessa Rd. A huge outdoor flea market including California's largest farmer's market. Everything from furniture and stereos to haircut salons and massages can be found here, if you look hard enough. Spanish is the lingua franca, but you can get by using English.

Moon Zooom, 1630 W San Carlos St, +1 408 287-5876. Stashed inside a converted home, this is San Jose's one-stop shop for your vintage clothing and costume desires. Explore racks and racks of retro styles from the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s.

Fry's Electronics, 550 E Brokaw Rd. Offering the best selection in town for consumer electronics and gadgetry, this particular Fry's branch is unique for its Mayan-themed architecture and decor. It's one of several Fry's stores in the Bay Area.

Arcadia – Modern American Steakhouse, 100 W San Carlos St, +1 408 278-4555. A 130-seat modern American Steak House with a cuisine of classic American Dishes. Wine from California and Europe. The Private Dining Room can accommodate up to 40 people.
Henry's Hi-Life, 301 W St John St, +1 408 295-5414. Lunch: Tu-F 11:30AM-2PM. Dinner: M-Th 5PM-9PM, F-Sa 4PM-9:30PM, Su 4PM-9PM. Special hours during NFL and NHL seasons.. A brick BBQ and steakhouse popular with local guys on their way to or from a Sharks game. Located close to the Shark Tank as well as the Guadalupe River, the restaurant has survived floods of both hockey fans and water. $15-30.
Amato's Restaurant, 1162 Saratoga Ave (in Maple Leaf Plaza, +1 408 246-4007. M-F 11AM-10PM, Sa 11AM-9PM, Su 11AM-7PM. This tiny shop in West San Jose specializes in cheese steaks and hoagies. 35 sandwiches on the menu and sizes from 7 to 24 inches. $6-30.
A Slice of New York, 3443 Stevens Creek Blvd, +1 408 247-5423. Tu-Sa 11AM-midnight. This establishment specializes in New York pizzas/slices, Calzones and Strombolis. $3.25-30.
Gordon Biersch Restaurant Brewery, 33 E San Fernando St (downtown, half a block from VTA Santa Clara Light Rail stop, the Camera 12 theaters, San Jose Rep, and various night clubs, +1 408 294-6785. Su-W 11:30AM-11PM, Th 11:30AM-midnight, F-Sa 11:30AM-2AM. California fusion cuisine and a wide variety of freshly-brewed Gordon Biersch beers. Eat inside or at a courtyard table. Recommended: Garlic Fries: French fries smothered in garlic, and parsley. $12-28.
Sonoma Chicken Coop, 31 N Market St (and 2 other San Jose area locations, +1 408 287-4098. Su-Th 11AM-9PM, F-Sa 11AM-10PM. Rotisserie chicken and California fusion cuisine in a casual atmosphere. As an added bonus, they brew their own beer and have a nicely sized covered patio area. $10-20.
Poor House Bistro, 91 S Autumn St, +1 408 29-BLUES. M-Th 11AM-9PM, F-Sa 11AM-10PM, Su 10AM-8PM (brunch 10AM-2PM). San Jose's "New Orleans Joint". Is close to the Shark Tank and serves a variety of New Orleans-style food including gumbo, red beans & rice, jambalaya and po' boys. Live music on Fridays and Saturdays and a regular Jazz Brunch on Sundays. $10-15.
Ike's. The California sandwich chain has half a dozen San Jose locations. Lots of tasty vegetarian and vegan options.
In-N-Out Burger, 550 Newhall Drive (On Coleman, W of I-880. 2 other San Jose locations. $5–10.
Bill's Cafe, 1115 Willow St (and 4 other San Jose locations, +1 408 294-1125. 7AM–PM daily. For a weekend (or weekday) brunch, Bill's can get pretty packed, and for good reason. They offer an overwhelming selection of breakfast crowdpleasers like omelettes, Belgian waffles and a dozen different styles of eggs Benedict. For lunch, they serve homemade soups, meal-size salads, burgers, sandwiches and wraps. There's also a full bar, low-carb menu options and outdoor patio seating. $10–30.
The Loft, 90 S 2nd St (downtown, less than 1 block from VTA Santa Clara Street Light Rail stop, +1 408 291-0677. M–W 11AM–10PM, Th–Sa 11AM–1:30AM, Su 11AM–11PM. Meat, seafood, vegetarian. The salmon pasta with capers in a white sauce and the sun-dried tomato and garlic soup are delicious. They also have a Campbell location, called Capers. $100 gift cards are sold for $70 (rarely $50) at local Costco stores. $12–29.
Morton's Steakhouse, 177 Park Ave, +1 408 947-7000.
Naglee Park Garage, 505 E San Carlos St, +1 408 286-1100. Tu-Sa 5PM-9:30PM, Su 9AM-1PM. A neighborhood eatery featuring contemporary and traditional American dishes. Locals congregate here for patio dining and weekly live music during summer months. Dinner entrees $12-20, sides priced separately..

Arcadia – Modern American Steakhouse, 100 W San Carlos St, +1 408 278-4555. A 130-seat modern American Steak House with a cuisine of classic American Dishes. Wine from California and Europe. The Private Dining Room can accommodate up to 40 people.

Henry's Hi-Life, 301 W St John St, +1 408 295-5414. Lunch: Tu-F 11:30AM-2PM. Dinner: M-Th 5PM-9PM, F-Sa 4PM-9:30PM, Su 4PM-9PM. Special hours during NFL and NHL seasons.. A brick BBQ and steakhouse popular with local guys on their way to or from a Sharks game. Located close to the Shark Tank as well as the Guadalupe River, the restaurant has survived floods of both hockey fans and water. $15-30.

Amato's Restaurant, 1162 Saratoga Ave (in Maple Leaf Plaza, +1 408 246-4007. M-F 11AM-10PM, Sa 11AM-9PM, Su 11AM-7PM. This tiny shop in West San Jose specializes in cheese steaks and hoagies. 35 sandwiches on the menu and sizes from 7 to 24 inches. $6-30.

A Slice of New York, 3443 Stevens Creek Blvd, +1 408 247-5423. Tu-Sa 11AM-midnight. This establishment specializes in New York pizzas/slices, Calzones and Strombolis. $3.25-30.

Gordon Biersch Restaurant Brewery, 33 E San Fernando St (downtown, half a block from VTA Santa Clara Light Rail stop, the Camera 12 theaters, San Jose Rep, and various night clubs, +1 408 294-6785. Su-W 11:30AM-11PM, Th 11:30AM-midnight, F-Sa 11:30AM-2AM. California fusion cuisine and a wide variety of freshly-brewed Gordon Biersch beers. Eat inside or at a courtyard table. Recommended: Garlic Fries: French fries smothered in garlic, and parsley. $12-28.

Sonoma Chicken Coop, 31 N Market St (and 2 other San Jose area locations, +1 408 287-4098. Su-Th 11AM-9PM, F-Sa 11AM-10PM. Rotisserie chicken and California fusion cuisine in a casual atmosphere. As an added bonus, they brew their own beer and have a nicely sized covered patio area. $10-20.

Poor House Bistro, 91 S Autumn St, +1 408 29-BLUES. M-Th 11AM-9PM, F-Sa 11AM-10PM, Su 10AM-8PM (brunch 10AM-2PM). San Jose's "New Orleans Joint". Is close to the Shark Tank and serves a variety of New Orleans-style food including gumbo, red beans & rice, jambalaya and po' boys. Live music on Fridays and Saturdays and a regular Jazz Brunch on Sundays. $10-15.

Ike's. The California sandwich chain has half a dozen San Jose locations. Lots of tasty vegetarian and vegan options.

In-N-Out Burger, 550 Newhall Drive (On Coleman, W of I-880. 2 other San Jose locations. $5–10.

Bill's Cafe, 1115 Willow St (and 4 other San Jose locations, +1 408 294-1125. 7AM–PM daily. For a weekend (or weekday) brunch, Bill's can get pretty packed, and for good reason. They offer an overwhelming selection of breakfast crowdpleasers like omelettes, Belgian waffles and a dozen different styles of eggs Benedict. For lunch, they serve homemade soups, meal-size salads, burgers, sandwiches and wraps. There's also a full bar, low-carb menu options and outdoor patio seating. $10–30.

The Loft, 90 S 2nd St (downtown, less than 1 block from VTA Santa Clara Street Light Rail stop, +1 408 291-0677. M–W 11AM–10PM, Th–Sa 11AM–1:30AM, Su 11AM–11PM. Meat, seafood, vegetarian. The salmon pasta with capers in a white sauce and the sun-dried tomato and garlic soup are delicious. They also have a [[Campbell]] location, called Capers. $100 gift cards are sold for $70 (rarely $50) at local Costco stores. $12–29.

Morton's Steakhouse, 177 Park Ave, +1 408 947-7000.

Naglee Park Garage, 505 E San Carlos St, +1 408 286-1100. Tu-Sa 5PM-9:30PM, Su 9AM-1PM. A neighborhood eatery featuring contemporary and traditional American dishes. Locals congregate here for patio dining and weekly live music during summer months. Dinner entrees $12-20, sides priced separately..

Scott's Seafood Grill and Bar, 185 Park Ave, +1 408 971-1700. Lunch: M-F 11:30AM-5PM, Dinner: M-Sa 5PM, Su 4:30PM. A classic selection of seafood, as well as pasta and steaks from the grill and a full bar. Dress is business casual during the day, and a little dressier at night. Is on the 6th floor and has a fantastic view of downtown and Silicon Valley. Reservations recommended. $20-40.

Scott's Seafood Grill and Bar, 185 Park Ave, +1 408 971-1700. Lunch: M-F 11:30AM-5PM, Dinner: M-Sa 5PM, Su 4:30PM. A classic selection of seafood, as well as pasta and steaks from the grill and a full bar. Dress is business casual during the day, and a little dressier at night. Is on the 6th floor and has a fantastic view of downtown and Silicon Valley. Reservations recommended. $20-40.

Original Joe's, 301 S 1st St, +1 408 292-7030. 11AM-1AM daily. A San Jose classic, in business for over 50 years. Hearty American and Italian food and 70s diner decor. Always, always busy and one of the few places open late in the downtown core. Be prepared to wait for a table and leave with a full belly. $20-40.
Il Fornaio, 302 S Market St, +1 408 271-3366. M-Th 7AM-10PM, F 7AM-11PM, Sa 8AM-11PM, Su 8AM-10PM. At the Sainte Claire Hotel, near Original Joe's. Regional dishes of chicken, veal, fish, steak, pasta, salad, prepared by chefs imported from different parts of Italy: Bakery with specialty coffees, desserts, and Italian artisan breads. $15-30.

Original Joe's, 301 S 1st St, +1 408 292-7030. 11AM-1AM daily. A San Jose classic, in business for over 50 years. Hearty American and Italian food and 70s diner decor. Always, always busy and one of the few places open late in the downtown core. Be prepared to wait for a table and leave with a full belly. $20-40.

Il Fornaio, 302 S Market St, +1 408 271-3366. M-Th 7AM-10PM, F 7AM-11PM, Sa 8AM-11PM, Su 8AM-10PM. At the Sainte Claire Hotel, near Original Joe's. Regional dishes of chicken, veal, fish, steak, pasta, salad, prepared by chefs imported from different parts of Italy: Bakery with specialty coffees, desserts, and Italian artisan breads. $15-30.

One of many taquerias on First Street in San Jose

Aqui Cal-Mex Grill, 1145 Lincoln Ave, +1 408 995-0381. M-Th 11AM-9PM, F 11AM- 9:30PM, Sa 10AM- 9:30PM, Su 10AM- 9PM. This place serves Mexican food as if it passed through a fun-house mirror. One of the first places to use gourmet burrito wraps. Inside the wraps you'll find fish and fillings from anywhere on the Pacific Rim: salmon, yellow-fin tuna, or plantains. Satisfying, fresh and creative. $7-10.
Taqueria Corona, 601 N 4th St, +1 408 925-9336. This bright taqueria in Japantown is a traditional, leisurely, sit-down Mexican restaurant. Choose from seafood plates, chimichangas, al pastor and more. Their tortillas are homemade, and there's a nice selection of domestic and Mexican beers. $10–20.
La Victoria Taqueria, 140 E San Carlos St (and 2 other locations, +1 408 298-5335. 7AM-3AM daily. La Victoria stays open late to cater to the local late-night revelers. You can buy a burrito anywhere, but this is the only place to get their famous Orange Sauce, a very spicy creamy concoction featured on a Metro Silicon Valley cover. $5-10.
Iguana's Burritozilla, 330 S 3rd St. 10:30AM-11PM daily. You can choose several different burrito styles, 8 types of meat and 3 types of beans. Try the "Burritozilla" if you dare—it's 17 inches long and weighs in at a whopping 5 pounds. $5-10.
Dia de Pesca, 55 N Bascom St (A short block north of W San Carlos St and the VTA 23, 61, and 62 bus stop, +1 408 287-3722. Su–Th 10:30AM–8PM, F–Sa 10:30AM–8:30PM. Mexican-style seafood with a few meat dishes. Casual: you order at the cash register and then sit inside or outside. The Caldo de Mares (Seven Seas Bouillabaisse) is delicious, though you may need a friend to help you eat it. It is served with the kind of tortillas that you can buy at a supermarket. The seafood tacos and burritos are also quite good. $3–21.
Mezcal, 25 W San Fernando St, +1 408 283-9595. Specializes in regional cuisine from Oaxaca.

Aqui Cal-Mex Grill, 1145 Lincoln Ave, +1 408 995-0381. M-Th 11AM-9PM, F 11AM- 9:30PM, Sa 10AM- 9:30PM, Su 10AM- 9PM. This place serves Mexican food as if it passed through a fun-house mirror. One of the first places to use gourmet burrito wraps. Inside the wraps you'll find fish and fillings from anywhere on the Pacific Rim: salmon, yellow-fin tuna, or plantains. Satisfying, fresh and creative. $7-10.

Taqueria Corona, 601 N 4th St, +1 408 925-9336. This bright taqueria in Japantown is a traditional, leisurely, sit-down Mexican restaurant. Choose from seafood plates, chimichangas, al pastor and more. Their tortillas are homemade, and there's a nice selection of domestic and Mexican beers. $10–20.

La Victoria Taqueria, 140 E San Carlos St (and 2 other locations, +1 408 298-5335. 7AM-3AM daily. La Victoria stays open late to cater to the local late-night revelers. You can buy a burrito anywhere, but this is the only place to get their famous Orange Sauce, a very spicy creamy concoction featured on a Metro Silicon Valley cover. $5-10.

Iguana's Burritozilla, 330 S 3rd St. 10:30AM-11PM daily. You can choose several different burrito styles, 8 types of meat and 3 types of beans. Try the "Burritozilla" if you dare—it's 17 inches long and weighs in at a whopping 5 pounds. $5-10.

Dia de Pesca, 55 N Bascom St (A short block north of W San Carlos St and the VTA 23, 61, and 62 bus stop, +1 408 287-3722. Su–Th 10:30AM–8PM, F–Sa 10:30AM–8:30PM. Mexican-style seafood with a few meat dishes. Casual: you order at the cash register and then sit inside or outside. The Caldo de Mares (Seven Seas Bouillabaisse) is delicious, though you may need a friend to help you eat it. It is served with the kind of tortillas that you can buy at a supermarket. The seafood tacos and burritos are also quite good. $3–21.

Mezcal, 25 W San Fernando St, +1 408 283-9595. Specializes in regional cuisine from Oaxaca.

With the second-largest Vietnamese-American community living in San Jose, Vietnamese restaurants have proliferated here in the past few decades. Vietnamese cuisine features fresh herbs, often added to the meal at the table. The signature dish of Vietnamese cuisine is phở, a beef soup with rice noodles, usually with a choice of cuts of meat available. Bánh mì (sandwiches), noodle bowls, and rice plates are also common choices.

Lee's Sandwiches, 260 E Santa Clara St and 6 other locations in San Jose. 6AM-9PM daily. San Jose's home-grown chain of Vietnamese Sandwich shops started with a catering truck and now has dozens of locations around the country. Lee's offers Vietnamese baguette sandwiches, European-style sandwiches, smoothies and bakery items at low prices with fast service. Under $10.
Thiên Long Restaurant, 3005 Silver Creek Rd #138, +1 408-223-6188. 9AM-10PM daily. This very informal restaurant (a waitress will take your order and bring your food but not your check: you pay at the counter) has few non-Asian customers and puts out a varied menu of very tasty food. You'll notice the good smell as you enter. Many photographs of their food are on their site.
Vung Tau, 535 E Santa Clara St, +1 408 288-9055. M-Th 11AM-3PM, 5PM-9PM, F-Su 10AM-9PM. One of the first Vietnamese restaurants to become popular outside the Vietnamese community, Vung Tau continues to serve a wide range of Vietnamese favorites in a refined atmosphere. Vegetarian menu available. Dinner entrees $15-25.

Lee's Sandwiches, 260 E Santa Clara St and 6 other locations in San Jose. 6AM-9PM daily. San Jose's home-grown chain of Vietnamese Sandwich shops started with a catering truck and now has dozens of locations around the country. Lee's offers Vietnamese baguette sandwiches, European-style sandwiches, smoothies and bakery items at low prices with fast service. Under $10.

Thiên Long Restaurant, 3005 Silver Creek Rd #138, +1 408-223-6188. 9AM-10PM daily. This very informal restaurant (a waitress will take your order and bring your food but not your check: you pay at the counter) has few non-Asian customers and puts out a varied menu of very tasty food. You'll notice the good smell as you enter. Many photographs of their food are on their site.

Vung Tau, 535 E Santa Clara St, +1 408 288-9055. M-Th 11AM-3PM, 5PM-9PM, F-Su 10AM-9PM. One of the first Vietnamese restaurants to become popular outside the Vietnamese community, Vung Tau continues to serve a wide range of Vietnamese favorites in a refined atmosphere. Vegetarian menu available. Dinner entrees $15-25.

Try some sushi in San Jose's Japantown.

Kaita Restaurant, 215 Jackson St, +1 408 287-5551. M-Sa 11:30AM-2:00PM Lunch & 5:00PM-9:30PM dinner. Cosy, quaint restaurant on Japantown's main strip. Authentic Japanese cuisine. Very good combo meals and whiteboard specials. $11-30.
Kazoo Restaurant, 250 Jackson St, +1 408 288-9611. Lunch: M-F 11:30AM-2PM, Sa-Su noon-2PM; dinner: M-Th,Sa 5PM-9:30PM, F 5PM-10PM, Su 4PM-9PM. This Japantown restaurant has friendly service and a large selection of fresh sushi. Try sitting at their sushi boat bar, which can be a lot of fun and remove some of the mystery of ordering sushi for the uninitiated. The menu ranges from traditional to very Californian. $10-30.
Gombei, 193 Jackson St, +1 408 279-4311. M-Sa 11:30AM-2:30PM and 5PM-9:30PM. An inexpensive homestyle Japanese restaurant in Japantown. The udon and teishoku lunches are very popular, so try to schedule your lunch a little early or late to beat the crowd. $6-14.
Minato Japanese Cuisine, 617 N 6th St (north of Jackson St, +1 408 998-9711. Lunch: Tu-Sa 11:15AM-1:45PM; dinner: Tu-Th 5PM-8:30PM, F-Sa 5PM-9PM. Good inexpensive traditional Japanese food in Japantown; favorite among locals and visitors. Closed Sundays and Mondays. $6-16.
Okayama Sushi, 565 N 6th St, Suite A, +1 408 289-9508. M-Th 11AM-2PM & 5PM-10PM, F 11AM-2PM & 5PM-10:30PM, Sa 11AM-10:30PM, Su 11AM-9:30 PM. The oldest sushi restaurant in Japantown and a local favorite. Fantastic food at very reasonable prices. $10-20.
Shuei-Do Manju Shop, 217 Jackson St (Japantown, +1 408 294-4148. Tu 11AM–5PM, W–Sat 9AM–5PM, Sun 10AM–4PM. Fresh, handmade Japanese treats, called manju. They also sell mochi and, during the summer, snow cones. Go earlier in the day for the best selection. $7 for a box of four.

Kaita Restaurant, 215 Jackson St, +1 408 287-5551. M-Sa 11:30AM-2:00PM Lunch & 5:00PM-9:30PM dinner. Cosy, quaint restaurant on Japantown's main strip. Authentic Japanese cuisine. Very good combo meals and whiteboard specials. $11-30.

Kazoo Restaurant, 250 Jackson St, +1 408 288-9611. Lunch: M-F 11:30AM-2PM, Sa-Su noon-2PM; dinner: M-Th,Sa 5PM-9:30PM, F 5PM-10PM, Su 4PM-9PM. This Japantown restaurant has friendly service and a large selection of fresh sushi. Try sitting at their sushi boat bar, which can be a lot of fun and remove some of the mystery of ordering sushi for the uninitiated. The menu ranges from traditional to very Californian. $10-30.

Gombei, 193 Jackson St, +1 408 279-4311. M-Sa 11:30AM-2:30PM and 5PM-9:30PM. An inexpensive homestyle Japanese restaurant in Japantown. The udon and teishoku lunches are very popular, so try to schedule your lunch a little early or late to beat the crowd. $6-14.

Minato Japanese Cuisine, 617 N 6th St (north of Jackson St, +1 408 998-9711. Lunch: Tu-Sa 11:15AM-1:45PM; dinner: Tu-Th 5PM-8:30PM, F-Sa 5PM-9PM. Good inexpensive traditional Japanese food in Japantown; favorite among locals and visitors. Closed Sundays and Mondays. $6-16.

Okayama Sushi, 565 N 6th St, Suite A, +1 408 289-9508. M-Th 11AM-2PM & 5PM-10PM, F 11AM-2PM & 5PM-10:30PM, Sa 11AM-10:30PM, Su 11AM-9:30 PM. The oldest sushi restaurant in Japantown and a local favorite. Fantastic food at very reasonable prices. $10-20.

Shuei-Do Manju Shop, 217 Jackson St (Japantown, +1 408 294-4148. Tu 11AM–5PM, W–Sat 9AM–5PM, Sun 10AM–4PM. Fresh, handmade Japanese treats, called manju. They also sell mochi and, during the summer, snow cones. Go earlier in the day for the best selection. $7 for a box of four.

In addition to the several Korean restaurants in San Jose, numerous Korean restaurants are concentrated in the "Koreatown" neighborhood on El Camino Real in neighboring Santa Clara.

Omogari Korean Restaurant, 154 Jackson St, +1 408 288-8134. M-Sa 11:30AM-9PM. A busy local favorite.

Omogari Korean Restaurant, 154 Jackson St, +1 408 288-8134. M-Sa 11:30AM-9PM. A busy local favorite.

Rangoli, 3695 Union Ave, +1 408 377-2222. Upscale Indian, long on flavor if occasionally a little short on mouth-burning spice. Extensive lunch buffet, excellent wine list, and a quiet, romantic atmosphere. $12-22.

Rangoli, 3695 Union Ave, +1 408 377-2222. Upscale Indian, long on flavor if occasionally a little short on mouth-burning spice. Extensive lunch buffet, excellent wine list, and a quiet, romantic atmosphere. $12-22.

Krung Thai. In spite of the building's nondescript exterior, it's some of the most loved Thai food in the area. If you tell them to make it spicy (or even medium spicy), be prepared to eat some VERY spicy food. The newer New Krung Thai Restaurant is managed by the same family, has the same menu, and is less than a mile away. $10–30.
New Krung Thai Restaurant, 580 N Winchester Blvd, +1 408 248-3435.
The Original Krung Thai, 640 S Winchester Blvd, +1 408 260-8224.

Krung Thai. In spite of the building's nondescript exterior, it's some of the most loved Thai food in the area. If you tell them to make it spicy (or even medium spicy), be prepared to eat some VERY spicy food. The newer New Krung Thai Restaurant is managed by the same family, has the same menu, and is less than a mile away. $10–30.

New Krung Thai Restaurant, 580 N Winchester Blvd, +1 408 248-3435.

The Original Krung Thai, 640 S Winchester Blvd, +1 408 260-8224.

Hunan Taste, 998 N 4th St, +1 408 295-1186. M-Sa 11AM-8:30PM. An offshoot of Henry Chung's original Hunan Restaurant on Kearny Street in San Francisco (the one with eight tables and a counter space which was once hailed by New Yorker magazine as "The Best Chinese Restaurant in the World"). A quintessential hole-in-the-wall, but the service could not be nicer, as is the hot, garlicky cuisine, if you're so inclined. Beer and wine are available. $10-20.
King Eggroll, 1221 Story Rd, +1 408 999-0798. 7AM-8PM daily. Often dubbed "The Asian McDonalds", King Eggroll offers a variety of fast-food style Asian dishes, dim sum, sandwiches and combination plates. As the name would imply, though, most come here for their famous egg rolls! $5-10.
Taiwan Restaurant, 1306 Lincoln Ave (Willow Glen), +1 408 289-8800. A neighborhood favorite for many years, the food is not 100% traditional but still flavorful. most entrees $10-20.

Hunan Taste, 998 N 4th St, +1 408 295-1186. M-Sa 11AM-8:30PM. An offshoot of Henry Chung's original Hunan Restaurant on Kearny Street in San Francisco (the one with eight tables and a counter space which was once hailed by New Yorker magazine as "The Best Chinese Restaurant in the World"). A quintessential hole-in-the-wall, but the service could not be nicer, as is the hot, garlicky cuisine, if you're so inclined. Beer and wine are available. $10-20.

King Eggroll, 1221 Story Rd, +1 408 999-0798. 7AM-8PM daily. Often dubbed "The Asian McDonalds", King Eggroll offers a variety of fast-food style Asian dishes, dim sum, sandwiches and combination plates. As the name would imply, though, most come here for their famous egg rolls! $5-10.

Taiwan Restaurant, 1306 Lincoln Ave (Willow Glen), +1 408 289-8800. A neighborhood favorite for many years, the food is not 100% traditional but still flavorful. most entrees $10-20.

Good Karma Vegan House, 37 S 1st St (between Post & Santa Clara, downtown, +1 408 294-2694. M-Sa 11AM-9PM, Su noon-7PM. Even the local carnivores find something to love at this hipster vegan deli. The food is filling and flavorful, and the owners are friendly, mellow guys who donate what little wall space they have to local artists. They have a weekly bingo night, beer on tap and free internet access. They even offer vegan turkeys made-to-order during the holidays. Their menu is revolving, so there's always something new to try. $5-10.
Vegetarian House, 520 E Santa Clara St, +1 408 292-3798. M-F 11AM-2PM, 5PM-9PM, Sa-Su 11AM-9PM. A friendly, funky place with bright decor and cheerful servers. Menu selections take inspiration from around the globe, including western, Chinese, and Indian styles. most mains $10-15.
Tofoo Com Chay, 388 E Santa Clara St, +1 408 286-6335. M-F 9AM-9PM, Sa 10AM-6PM. A tiny lunch counter specializing in Vietnamese vegetarian dishes, including bánh mì, noodle soups, and rice plates. under $10.

Good Karma Vegan House, 37 S 1st St (between Post & Santa Clara, downtown, +1 408 294-2694. M-Sa 11AM-9PM, Su noon-7PM. Even the local carnivores find something to love at this hipster vegan deli. The food is filling and flavorful, and the owners are friendly, mellow guys who donate what little wall space they have to local artists. They have a weekly bingo night, beer on tap and free internet access. They even offer vegan turkeys made-to-order during the holidays. Their menu is revolving, so there's always something new to try. $5-10.

Vegetarian House, 520 E Santa Clara St, +1 408 292-3798. M-F 11AM-2PM, 5PM-9PM, Sa-Su 11AM-9PM. A friendly, funky place with bright decor and cheerful servers. Menu selections take inspiration from around the globe, including western, Chinese, and Indian styles. most mains $10-15.

Tofoo Com Chay, 388 E Santa Clara St, +1 408 286-6335. M-F 9AM-9PM, Sa 10AM-6PM. A tiny lunch counter specializing in Vietnamese vegetarian dishes, including bánh mì, noodle soups, and rice plates. under $10.

Falafel's Drive-in, 2301 Steven's Creek Blvd, +1 408 294-7886. A family-run local favorite, there is always a line at the drive-in. They offer authentic Middle Eastern cuisine including falafel, hummos and gyros as well as hamburgers, fries and homemade milkshakes. $5–10.
Zeni, 1320 Saratoga Ave (at Payne, +1 408 615-8282. Tu-Th 11:30AM-10PM, F 11:30AM-11PM, Sa noon-11PM, Su noon-10PM. An Ethiopian restaurant that knows how to show off the complex flavors of the cuisine. Meals are served Ethiopian style, on injera bread. A full Ethiopian coffee ceremony is available, but they ask that you request it an hour in advance. Many options for vegetarians, as well as a full bar. $10-20.

Falafel's Drive-in, 2301 Steven's Creek Blvd, +1 408 294-7886. A family-run local favorite, there is always a line at the drive-in. They offer authentic Middle Eastern cuisine including falafel, hummos and gyros as well as hamburgers, fries and homemade milkshakes. $5–10.

Zeni, 1320 Saratoga Ave (at Payne, +1 408 615-8282. Tu-Th 11:30AM-10PM, F 11:30AM-11PM, Sa noon-11PM, Su noon-10PM. An Ethiopian restaurant that knows how to show off the complex flavors of the cuisine. Meals are served Ethiopian style, on injera bread. A full Ethiopian coffee ceremony is available, but they ask that you request it an hour in advance. Many options for vegetarians, as well as a full bar. $10-20.

Nightlife in the Downtown area is a mix of lounges, clubs, and bars which, according to locals, have either greatly improved the scene or marked the beginning of its decline. Santana Row has a number of upscale clubs and bars and has been the new hotspot since 2005.

Goosetown Lounge, 1172 Lincoln Ave, +1 408 292-4835. 9PM-2AM daily. Willow Glen's neighborhood bar and cocktail lounge; if you're into a late night pops and enthusiastic renditions of 'YMCA', this karaoke hotspot may be for you. $5-10.
The Lobby Lounge, 170 S Market St (in the Fairmont, +1 408 998-1900. Noon-midnight daily. An upscale piano bar inside the Fairmont Hotel, with an impressive wine list, over 500 different cocktails and martinis, and an array of single malt scotches. They offer weekly wine tastings, live jazz and piano nightly, and free dance lessons on Fridays. $10-20.
The Vault, 81 W Santa Clara St, +1 408 298-1112. Th-Sa 9PM-2AM. This hot spot for dancing and drinking is inside a renovated 1920s bank building, mixing historical architecture with a very contemporary club scene. Bottle service, pounding music, and usually a $20 cover on weekends. $10-30.
San Jose Bar & Grill, 85 S 2nd St, +1 408 286-2397. M-F 4PM-2AM, Sa 1PM-2AM, Su 5PM-2AM. Since one Happy Hour just isn't enough, the Grill offers all kinds of specials on wings, burgers and drinks throughout the week. It's a good place to watch sports, especially Sundays during football season. Weekly karaoke and DJs on weekend nights. $5-10.
JJ's Blues, 3439 Stevens Creek Blvd, +1 408 243-6641. M-Sa 5:30PM-2AM, Su 4PM-2AM. One of the most popular places in the Bay Area to hear live blues music, and one of the few San Jose clubs with live music every night of the week. JJ's has been around for two decades and hosts jam nights, unsigned acts and big names. There's a vintage Steinway that's up for grabs during intermissions, so you too can get the blues. $5-10.
Splash, 65 Post St, +1 408 993-0861. Th-Sa 9PM-2AM. San Jose's downtown gay video bar, nightclub and lounge is friendly to people of all persuasions. $5-10.
Tanq, 301 S Market St, +1 408 280-1300. 11:30AM-midnight daily. Downtown San Jose's newest hip bar with a great aquatic theme,located on the corner of Market and San Carlos. Great drink menu (try their signature "Kiss the Fish")and to die for small plate menu. Must trys are the Ahi Tuna Poppers and the Angus Beef Slider. Tanq is also open for lunch and has some really great dishes, the Skirt Steak Salad is a favorite.
Single Barrel, 43 W San Salvador St, +1 408 792-7356. Tu-Su 5PM-2AM. Speakeasy Style, without the passwords and gimmicks.

Goosetown Lounge, 1172 Lincoln Ave, +1 408 292-4835. 9PM-2AM daily. Willow Glen's neighborhood bar and cocktail lounge; if you're into a late night pops and enthusiastic renditions of 'YMCA', this karaoke hotspot may be for you. $5-10.

The Lobby Lounge, 170 S Market St (in the Fairmont, +1 408 998-1900. Noon-midnight daily. An upscale piano bar inside the Fairmont Hotel, with an impressive wine list, over 500 different cocktails and martinis, and an array of single malt scotches. They offer weekly wine tastings, live jazz and piano nightly, and free dance lessons on Fridays. $10-20.

The Vault, 81 W Santa Clara St, +1 408 298-1112. Th-Sa 9PM-2AM. This hot spot for dancing and drinking is inside a renovated 1920s bank building, mixing historical architecture with a very contemporary club scene. Bottle service, pounding music, and usually a $20 cover on weekends. $10-30.

San Jose Bar & Grill, 85 S 2nd St, +1 408 286-2397. M-F 4PM-2AM, Sa 1PM-2AM, Su 5PM-2AM. Since one Happy Hour just isn't enough, the Grill offers all kinds of specials on wings, burgers and drinks throughout the week. It's a good place to watch sports, especially Sundays during football season. Weekly karaoke and DJs on weekend nights. $5-10.

JJ's Blues, 3439 Stevens Creek Blvd, +1 408 243-6641. M-Sa 5:30PM-2AM, Su 4PM-2AM. One of the most popular places in the Bay Area to hear live blues music, and one of the few San Jose clubs with live music every night of the week. JJ's has been around for two decades and hosts jam nights, unsigned acts and big names. There's a vintage Steinway that's up for grabs during intermissions, so you too can get the blues. $5-10.

Splash, 65 Post St, +1 408 993-0861. Th-Sa 9PM-2AM. San Jose's downtown gay video bar, nightclub and lounge is friendly to people of all persuasions. $5-10.

Tanq, 301 S Market St, +1 408 280-1300. 11:30AM-midnight daily. Downtown San Jose's newest hip bar with a great aquatic theme,located on the corner of Market and San Carlos. Great drink menu (try their signature "Kiss the Fish")and to die for small plate menu. Must trys are the Ahi Tuna Poppers and the Angus Beef Slider. Tanq is also open for lunch and has some really great dishes, the Skirt Steak Salad is a favorite.

Single Barrel, 43 W San Salvador St, +1 408 792-7356. Tu-Su 5PM-2AM. Speakeasy Style, without the passwords and gimmicks.

Metro Silicon Valley. Published every Wednesday, distributed in news racks, businesses, libraries. Arts, entertainment, night clubs, restaurant reviews, community events, local news and opinion. Free.
San Jose Mercury News. Daily newspaper, sold in stores and news racks.

Metro Silicon Valley. Published every Wednesday, distributed in news racks, businesses, libraries. Arts, entertainment, night clubs, restaurant reviews, community events, local news and opinion. Free.

San Jose Mercury News. Daily newspaper, sold in stores and news racks.

Most of the foreign consulates are located in downtown San Francisco. The following is in Santa Clara County:

Mexico Mexico, 302 Enzo Drive, Suite 200, +1 408 294-3414.

Mexico Mexico, 302 Enzo Drive, Suite 200, +1 408 294-3414.

Just east of the city lies Alum Rock Park, a canyon through which Penitencia Creek flows, which is lined by sulfurous mineral springs and several small waterfalls. Above the park stands Mount Hamilton, one of the highest peaks in the Bay Area at 4,213 feet. The telescopes of Lick Observatory, operated by the University of California, crown the summit and are open to the public during daytime hours. Northeast of San Jose is the Livermore Valley, which includes wine country and the cities of Pleasanton and Livermore.

Other places to see in San Jose's backyard are the Scenic Drive in Saratoga Hills, the quaint and classy town of Los Gatos, and Mission Santa Clara at Santa Clara University. Palo Alto and Stanford University are about half an hour's drive to the north. About 45 minutes northeast, you can visit Fremont's Mission San Jose and the Ardenwood Historic Farm.

Less than an hour away over the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains, the small coastal city of Santa Cruz is a nice day trip out San Jose. Spend the day enjoying the beaches and Boardwalk, or make it the first stop on a longer coastal drive. From Santa Cruz, you can take Route 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) south to Capitola, Monterey, and the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

The Pacific Coast Highway is a nationally famous highway. It goes along the whole coast of California giving off spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Many movies have shown this highway in scenes that take place in California, and it is also a main tourist attraction to drive along the coast. Route 1 can take you up to Pacifica which is about 30 minutes north of San Jose. Pacifica is an ocean side residential town that has affordable housing and sit's on hills that overlook the Pacific. The beach here is typical to the Bay Area and has a very rough current.

Less than an hour away is Half Moon Bay beach. This beach sits on the bottom of cliffs with a very rough current. During most the summer months the water is closed to swimmers because of rip tides and massive waves. The Pacific ocean is typically cold and in half moon bay this is still very true. The sunsets here have been known to lure in travelers and those wanting to rent beach houses. Since Half Moon Bay sits on cliffs, the sunset goes down over the water and seems to create perfect scenery.

Only about an hour and fifteen minutes north, taking highway 101, is the city of San Francisco. San Francisco is the heart of the Bay Area and is the proud owner of the Golden Gate bridge. San Francisco has may neighborhoods with all kinds of restaurants, shopping, parks, beaches, and views of the bridge.

The rolling hills of San Jose surround the city creating a valley. See the top of these hills by driving into East San Jose. The houses on the hills are spread out and ranch from ranches, farms, and even mansions. These houses can be seen from the valley and the picturesque drive leads to the top of the hills where you can see the entire landscape of San Jose. On the Fourth of July, many San Jose natives come up to the hills to watch the spectacular firework show over the city.

San Jose

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