San Jose is a bustling modern city that sits among restored 19th century buildings. As a contrast to this rich history, San Jose is also home to the United States' technical hub, Silicon Valley. In this town, visitors will find a range of activities including golfing, parks, farmers markets and educational historical tours.
Golf
When visiting San Jose, consider playing a round on one of the golf courses that are designed to match any playing level. Located in this city is the San Jose Municipal Golf Course, which is perfect for beginners that are looking to hone their skills. This nine-hole course has stunning views of the ocean and affordable green fees. More advanced golfers can head over to the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, Coyote Creek Gold Club. This course hosts the annual senior PGA tour tournament. There are 36 holes at this challenging golf course.
Park
On the weekends, head to Vasona Lake County Park for a way to relax and enjoy the California sunshine. This 150-acre park features miles of hiking trails, 45 acres of informal sports fields, picnic areas and boats for rent. On Saturday evenings in the summer, Vasona hosts a summer concert series. One Friday night a month, the National Wildlife Federation hosts a family-friendly moonlit hike guided by the park's docent, Jennifer Snedeker. During this hike, you can watch wildlife as it comes out at dark and explore the constellations overhead.
Exploring Historic Sites
Built in 1797, the Peralta Adobe is considered the most significant adobe structure still standing in San Jose. Also located at this historic site is the Fallon House, which was built in 1855 by one of San Jose's first mayors. On Saturdays and Sundays, there is a guided walking tour of these two buildings. History buffs can spend hours wandering between these historic houses and comparing the original furnishings of the adobe to the original Victorian furnishings of the Fallon House.
Farmers Market
Each Friday, Downtown San Jose hosts an outdoor farmers market on the block of Santa Clara and St. John Streets. Stop by the market for fresh seasonal produce, unique recipes designed specifically for California's agricultural bounty and cooking demonstrations. In addition to the Downtown San Jose market, there are farmers markets on Sundays in Alum Rock Village and Blossom Hill.
Conservancy
If you are looking to stretch your legs, consider taking the three-mile guided walking tour around the River Park Conservancy. This is an excellent weekend activity that will take you through the Heritage Rose Garden, past San Jose's Historic Orchard and to Discovery Meadow. This comprehensive tour takes visitors past almost all the sites of Guadalupe River Park.
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