Take a Stroll
San Jose is known for being a walking city, and residents pride themselves on maintaining a high level of fitness. In fact, there are more than 150 parks to roam through. Kelly Park is situated just two miles from downtown. At its southernmost end, you can explore a 25-acre area known as History Park that features replicas of turn-of-the-century homes and businesses. It's free and open daily (closed Mondays) from noon to 5 p.m.
History Park at Kelly Park
1650 Senter Rd.
San Jose, CA 95112
(408) 287-2290
historysanjose.org
Go Kayaking
You won't find a more beautiful shoreline than that of nearby Monterey Bay. Kayak Connection rents sea kayaks---allowing you to take in the spectacular view from the water. This company also offers guided tours. On all outings, instructors will provide you with gear, give a training and safety talk, and escort you to the dock. Other popular area destinations for kayaking include Santa Cruz and Moss Landing.
Kayak Connection
413 Lake Ave.
San Jose, CA 95062
(831) 479-1121
kayakconnection.com
Ride in a Glider
This is a thrill if you yearn to see the scenic beauty of the area's mountains and beaches from the air. Bay Area Glider Rides is based in Hollister, which is about 45 miles from Downtown San Jose. The company offers four aerobatic adventures that last from 10 to 60 minutes. Pricing for the rides starts at $139.
Bay Area Glider Rides
30 Airport Dr., Ste. A
Hollister, CA 95023
(800) 696-7627
bayareagliderrides.com
Play a Round of Golf
You'll find 15 local and championship golf courses in and around San Jose. One of the most popular is the Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course. It's located on the east side of town on the site of the old Thunderbird Golf Course. Suited to golfers of all skill levels, there are two sets of tees. The black tees offer 1,418 yards and the gold tees offer 1,122 yards. You'll love the gorgeous layout of the course, as it boasts lush greens and three lakes. Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course also features a fully stocked pro shop and a practice putting green.
Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course
2995 Tuers Rd.
San Jose, CA 95121
(408) 361-0250
ranchodelpueblo.com
Take a Look at Outer Space
One of San Jose's most unique attractions is Lick Observatory, which was built in 1888. It's located on top of Mount Hamilton. Free tours are available every half hour on weekdays from 1 to 4:30 p.m. and weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. They last about 15 minutes, and you'll get to view the heavens through the famous Great Lick Refractor, the second largest refracting telescope in the world.
Lick Observatory
7281 Mount Hamilton Rd.
San Jose, CA 95113
(408) 274-5061
ucolick.org
