San Jose

Perhaps San Jose’s most whimsical treasure is the Winchester Mystery House. The Victorian-crafted mansion was built by Sarah Winchester, the wily heir to the Winchester repeating rifle fortune. As she believed she was haunted by the spirits of those killed by the rifle, Winchester built the house in an effort to thwart the spirits. The labyrinth was constructed and added onto until Winchester’s death, resulting in one of the strangest feats of architecture known to man. Endless stairs, corridors, mazes and secret passageways lead tour guides to instruct guests to stay with the group.

Serving as the cathedral for the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Jose in California is the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph. The beautiful church follows the ground plan of a Greek cross, with a round altar beneath the dome. Bavarian glass and stained glass murals lend to the basilica’s stunning craftsmanship, along with a multitude of artwork, sculptures, paintings and the elegant Stations of the Cross. Originally built in 1803, St. Joseph’s has undergone several major fires and renovations to remain the lovely structure of today, and Mass is still held.

Channeling the spirit of Silicon Valley is the Tech Museum of Innovation. The Museum is a non-profit learning organization designed to immerse the public in the wonderful world of science and intellectual exploration. There are galleries with over 100 interactive activities encompassing a bounty of topics, as well as continuous learning for all ages. Various educational programs take place year-round, including The Tech Challenge, competitions for the youth and internationally-recognized programs like The Tech Awards.

The Japanese Friendship Garden was created out of reverence to San Jose’s sister city, Okayama, Japan. It is now an amazing and breathtaking park that is used quite often for weddings. There are six acres of waterfalls, landscaping, bridges, Bonzai plants and much more. Take a stroll or picnic in one of San Jose’s most beautiful treasures.

The Mexican Heritage Plaza is a 200,000-square-foot cultural center designed to promote and strengthen the traditions of Mexico–one of the largest Latino centers in the nation. There are premier theatrical venues, thematic gardens and a Smithsonian-affiliated gallery. It is most certainly a sight to see and appreciate, with musical, dance and visual art activities taking place daily.

San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin was founded in 1902 as a Temple of the Jodo Shinshu Nishi Hongwanji sect of Buddhism. Located in downtown San Jose, Betsuin attracts countless visitors each year who are drawn to the Temple’s interminable beauty. Ornate altars, ponds and gardens make Betsuin that much more transcendent and its meditative peace resonates with everyone regardless of creed or background. Ikebana flower arranging classes are held, as well as Judo training and Japanese language programs.

The Almaden Quicksilver County Park is one of San Jose’s natural gems. The biodiversity is accompanied by a rich history of over 135 years and 4,152 acres. Wildflower displays, over 34.3 miles of hiking trails, 10 miles of biking trails and 23 miles of equestrian trails make Almaden Quicksilver the perfect getaway. The park is also pet-friendly and open to dog walking (as long as dogs are leashed). Ranger guided tours and walks are available.

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of cultural and natural history. Employing multi-disciplinary methods of education, Rosicrucian teaches visitors about the complexities of past, present and future human relationships and endeavors. The research is collection-based, and the learning programs are collaborative and diverse. The architecture was modeled after the Temple of Amun at Karnak, and the museum boasts the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in western North America.

Not your typical zoo, Happy Hollow is rife with rides, play areas, and a Puppet Theater. It also operates as an accredited zoo, with over 140 animals in its conservation-centered park.

Silicon Valley is home to the MLS's San Jose Earthquakes. Now finding home in a brand new stadium, Earthquakes soccer is always riveting and always the pride of San Jose. The MLS regular season runs from March until October, so check out the website for a schedule of the upcoming games and information on tickets.