City Guides: Things to do While Boating in San José, California
San José, California, is much more than a tech hub of Silicon Valley. It's a captivating blend of history, culture, green spaces and discovery. Whether you're seeking spine‑tingling mysteries, peaceful escapes, immersive science or the vibrant neighborhoods of Santana Row, the SoFi District, Japantown and Little Saigon, San José has something special to offer travelers visiting from marinas, private boat slip rentals and the Bay Area.
The Tech Interactive
This flagship 130,000-square-foot Tech Interactive museum is a wonderland of innovation and discovery with interactive exhibits on robotics, space exploration, biotech and an IMAX dome for immersive films. Ideal for both kids and adults, it invites you to tinker, experiment and be inspired.
Winchester Mystery House
Step into one of the most eccentric mansions in America. The Victorian Winchester Mystery House is a surreal labyrinth of 160 rooms, secret staircases, doors to nowhere and odd architectural quirks. Built by Sarah Winchester over the time span of 1886 to 1922, it's a must for lovers of the bizarre and unexplained.
San José Municipal Rose Garden
Spread across 37 acres, the 5.5-acre San José Municipal Rose Garden is a living tapestry that hosts more than 3,500 rose bushes and nearly 200 varieties. A serene enclave awarded “America’s Best Rose Garden” in 2010 is perfect for a relaxed stroll, photography excursions or a romantic picnic.
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
A striking oasis of history, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum boasts the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the western U.S. Learn about mummification, see an authentic tomb replica and relax among lush gardens before returning to a marina or a private boat lift rental.
Kelley Park and Japanese Friendship Garden
Enjoy a full day of nature and culture at Kelley Park, which is home to the Japanese Friendship Garden, Happy Hollow Zoo and picnic-perfect green spaces. The stunning garden is designed after Japan's Korakuen Garden. Don't miss the koi ponds and traditional landscaping.
Parks and Squares
While you’re exploring San José, take time to visit the area’s green spaces and local parks. Plaza de Cesar Chavez is a leafy two‑acre park surrounded by major cultural spots like The Tech, the Museum of Art and the majestic Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph.
San Pedro Square is a historic square turned lively food hall with diverse bites, live music and a weekly farmers market. Peruse the market wares and pick up souvenirs and culinary items to enjoy back at a private boat dock rental, marina or resort.
For athletic adventures, head to Alum Rock Park is a 718‑acre oasis offering hiking, biking, riding trails, picnic zones, wildlife sightings and spring blooms. It’s a hidden jewel within the urban landscape and makes a lovely setting to enjoy from private boat slips for rent.
