The 10 Best Family-Friendly Activities in San Jose

Momtastic Editors

July 30, 2023 at 10:30 PM·5 min read

Family activities in San Jose, California

San Jose, California, offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that blend entertainment, education, and outdoor adventures. From interactive museums to picturesque parks, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 family-friendly activities in San Jose. Get ready to embark on a memorable journey filled with exploration, learning, and quality time with your loved ones.

San Jose, California, United States, North America

Visit the Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose

The Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose is a hub of imagination and hands-on learning. This interactive museum features a wide range of exhibits designed to engage children of all ages.

Stop by the Art Studio, where kids can unleash their creativity, or venture into the WaterWays exhibit to learn about the properties of water. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs, workshops, and special events. With its emphasis on interactive play and exploration, the museum is the perfect destination for a day of family fun.

Visit Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

A delightful combination of an amusement park and a zoo, Happy Hollow Park & Zoo provides endless entertainment for families. Enjoy thrilling roller coasters such as the Pacific Fruit Express or take a gentle ride on the Danny the Dragon train. Visit the zoo and observe a variety of animals, including lemurs, meerkats, and jaguars.

There are also nature play areas, playgrounds, and interactive exhibits throughout the park. Happy Hollow also offers educational programs and live animal presentations, ensuring an enriching experience for the whole family.

Learn About Science at The Tech Interactive

Ignite your curiosity and delve into the wonders of science and technology at Tech Interactive. This innovative museum offers a range of interactive exhibits that explore topics such as robotics, DNA, and climate change. Engage in hands-on experiments, create your own inventions, and take part in immersive experiences that challenge your problem-solving skills.

Tech Interactive also features educational shows and workshops, providing a captivating blend of entertainment and education for all ages.

San Jose Municipal Rose Garden via Getty Images

Stop and Smell the Roses at San Jose Municipal Rose Garden

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden. This enchanting garden spans five and a half acres and is home to over 4,000 rose bushes of many varieties.

Take a leisurely stroll along the pathways, marvel at the meticulously manicured rose beds, and enjoy a picnic surrounded by the sweet scent of roses. The rose garden offers a tranquil retreat for families to relax and unwind.

Winchester Mystery House via Getty Images

Explore the Winchester Mystery House

Uncover the mysteries of the Winchester Mystery House, an architectural marvel with a fascinating and eerie history. This sprawling mansion features peculiar architectural elements, secret passages, and staircases that lead to nowhere. Take a guided tour and learn about the eccentricities of Sarah Winchester, the widow who believed she needed to continuously build and renovate the house to avoid bad luck.

The Winchester Mystery House offers an intriguing glimpse into the past and sparks the imagination of visitors of all ages.

Swim at Raging Waters San Jose

Cool off from the California heat at Raging Waters, Northern California’s largest water park. With over 23 acres of thrilling water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, there’s no shortage of aquatic fun. The little ones can splash around in the Little Dipper play area, complete with miniature slides and a waterfall. Raging Waters San Jose is an ideal destination for a family day of fun in the sun.

Play at the San Jose Municipal Golf Course

Introduce your family to the game of golf at the San Jose Municipal Golf Course. This public golf course is perfect for golfers of all skill levels and offers scenic views of the surrounding hills. The course provides lessons and clinics for beginners, making it a great opportunity for the whole family to improve their golfing skills together. This golf course is a fantastic outdoor activity that promotes sportsmanship, focus, and quality time spent in nature.

Study History at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum houses one of the largest collections of Egyptian artifacts in the United States. The museum offers a variety of exhibits, including a replica tomb and an alchemy exhibit.

Visitors can also explore the gardens surrounding the museum, which feature a variety of plants and structures inspired by ancient Egyptian architecture. The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is a great place to learn about a fascinating part of history.

Visit the San Jose Museum of Art

Nurture your family’s artistic side at the San Jose Museum of Art. This contemporary art museum showcases a diverse collection of works by local and international artists, encompassing various styles and mediums.

Wander through the galleries and marvel at thought-provoking paintings, sculptures, and installations. The museum also offers engaging educational programs, workshops, and guided tours designed to spark creativity and foster an appreciation of contemporary art.

Mineral Spring, Alum Rock Park, San Jose, California

Explore Nature at the Alum Rock Park

Escape into nature and enjoy outdoor activities at Alum Rock Park, a beautiful oasis nestled in the foothills of the Diablo Range. This expansive park offers numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Take a leisurely hike along the trails, discovering hidden waterfalls and serene meadows along the way, or go for an exciting horseback ride. Alum Rock Park is a serene retreat where families can reconnect with nature and go on outdoor adventures.