Must-See Attractions in Silicon Valley, California

Silicon Valley spans over 20 miles of parks, museums, culture, mountains and, of course, technology, with an endless number of things to do and see. From natural landscapes to history and science, here are the must-see attractions dotted across Northern California’s Silicon Valley.
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Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripCentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great priceAfrica
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.The Intel Museum
Building, Museum

Santa Clara Railroad Depot and Tower
Museum
Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve
Natural Feature
Buck's of Woodside
Restaurant, American
Ardenwood Historic Farm
Park
Apple's Company Store and Headquarters
Store

NASA Ames Research Center
Museum, University
Castle Rock State Park
Park
Filoli
Museum, Shop
The Last Spike
Museum, University
New Almaden Quicksilver Mine Museum
Museum

Mt Umunhum
Natural Feature, Park
The Winchester Mystery House
Building, Museum
Peralta Adobe
Building
Kelley Park
Museum, Park, Zoo
Stanford Memorial Church
Church, Memorial, University

San Jose Municipal Rose Garden
Botanical Garden, Park
The Tech Museum of Innovation
Museum
San Mateo County History Museum
Building, Museum
IBM’s New Almaden Research Lab
Building, Library, School, University
Santana Row
Market, Shopping Mall

Hermitage Brewing
Brewery
Absorbed as much technological history as you can handle? Wind down at this chic brewery. Established in downtown San Jose, Hermitage’s first brewpub opened in 1987, and the brand has been brewing some of the finest ales and beers in California ever since. Cellar master Greg blends individual batches from 50-120 barrels, producing frothy tipples with hints of spice, herbs and the customary toasted oak. Visit the Tap Room and be guided through the brewing process, sampling IPAs and American sours – and if any really take your fancy, you can purchase them to take home.
Alum Rock Park
Park
Set in the foothills of the Diablo Range, Alum Rock Park is best experienced on two wheels – on its three-mile (5km) bike trail – or four legs, should its six miles of horse trails be more your speed. If you prefer to walk, the hiking here is classed as “medium level”, meaning it’s suitable for most abilities and ages. The craggy splendor creates essential habitats for a host of wildlife – from black-tailed deer and bobcats to large birds of prey, Northern Pacific rattlesnakes and two species of lizard – and there are several picnic areas offering panoramic views across northern Silicon Valley.
Wine Affairs
Winery
Wine cannot be ignored when exploring the Silicon Valley, and Wine Affairs has enough to keep even the most knowledgeable oenologist on their toes. Conveniently situated on the Alameda – slap bang in the middle of San Jose and Santa Clara – this snug urban bar was once a bike shop and bookstore, before finding its true identity serving California and international wines, along with American porters, stouts, ales and lagers. Drink in the atmosphere, but not before sampling its delightful menu.
Happy Hollow Park and Zoo
Park, Zoo
This park owes its name to a contest held by the San Jose Mercury News in 1957, just four years before it finally opened to the public and ten years before it was expended into a zoo. Kids will love the wide range of animals on show (surprising, considering its small size), but for the unenthralled, there’s also go-karting, carousels and other delightful rides aplenty.
Interested in exploring more of the US? Check out our eight-day adventure to Colorado and Utah – highlights include hiking in Arches National Park and whitewater rafting down the Colorado River. Alternately, browse our collections of Epic Trips, Mini Trips and Sailing Trips to find your next exciting destination.
Additional reporting by Jo Varley.
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