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Cool Things to Do in Downtown San Jose

There’s never a shortage of things to do in San Jose. Whether you’re an art lover or nature enthusiast, into technology or want to explore the colorful history of this, the 3rd largest city in California, San Jose has something for you. If you are looking for the best hotel in downtown San Jose, look no further than The Arena Hotel in Downtown San Jose.  It’s located right in the middle, two short blocks from the SAP Center.

If you are traveling to downtown San Jose, here are some activities to consider:

  1. Explore the Winchester Mystery House

If the paranormal intrigues you, then a stop at the Winchester Mystery House is a must. The mansion was continuously under construction during the life of Sarah Winchester. It is not only something to marvel at because of its sheer scale but more so because of its unusual features. Not all 2,000 doors can be walked through, staircases lead straight to ceilings, and there are countless secret passages. To discover why Mrs. Winchester demanded constant changes to her very large house and in such peculiar fashion come discover it for yourself.

A Mansion Tour, Garden Tour, and “Behind the Scenes” tour are all available. There are also Flashlight Tours around Halloween and every Friday the 13th. (Behind the scenes tour not available for children under nine.)

The house and Sarah’s story are featured in the 2018 film Winchester.

  1. Discover Art Exhibits in San Jose

There is a plethora of great art in San Jose. From the gorgeous street murals that have infused identity and color in downtown San Jose to the modern and contemporary art exhibits at the San Jose Museum of Art and the hip art galleries in the South First neighborhood. Some of the cool spots you may want to include, MACLA (Movimiento de Arte y Cultura Latino Americana), Anno Domini, and the San Jose Musem of Quilts and Textiles.

  1. San Jose is for Music Lovers

Downtown San Jose has several wonderful music and theater venues, including the beautifully restored 1927 California Theatre, home of Opera San Jose and Symphony Silicon Valley.   The SAP center is a short walk from The Arena Hotel, a boutique hotel in downtown San Jose, and has many national acts performing throughout the year.

  1. Municipal Rose Garden

San Jose’s five-and-a-half–acre Municipal Rose Garden is one of the greatest places in town to unwind, enjoy the quiet, and smell the roses – the garden is now entirely dedicated to members of the rose family, more than 4,000 of them. This sweet-smelling paradise is one of the biggest and the most beautiful rose gardens in the world. Definitely worth a visit.

  1. Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose

Located on Woz Way in downtown San Jose, the Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose is dedicated to educate, stimulate and arouse curiosity and creativity. The Children’s Discovery Museum is one of the top children’s museums in the U.S., and it is also one of the world’s top science centers. The Museum facilitates interactive exploration. Expect to test, listen, poke and tinker.

Downtown San Jose is a wonderful place and has something for everyone to enjoy. If you want to walk to all the attractions and make the most of your stay, the best advice is to stay right in heart of it all at a downtown San Jose hotel. We recommend the The Arena Hotel, comfortable, affordable, newly renovated and free breakfast daily!