The only place in North America dedicated solely to the works of Ludwig himself, this museum contains a wealth of material, including the much-heralded lock of Beethoven's hair. Original manuscripts, books, recordings, autographed materials, masks, sculptures, stamps, films and all sorts of things are here. The center sponsors many concerts and lectures throughout the year and several things are for sale, like coffee mugs, scores and a bibliography database. This is an excellent place for scholarly research.
Thousands visit this park each year to view the beautiful varieties of roses in a profusion of colors and types. A resplendent sight to behold, the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden also includes a few fountains and a reflecting pool, making it a great spot for a quiet stroll even if you aren't a rose aficionado. Take a look at the map of the place, which lists the names of all the varieties of roses, some of which are rare kinds.
This urban farm covers an impressive 47 acres (19.02 hectares). It has school tours, orchards, a barnyard, picnic areas and places to fly kites. It is a great place to bring kids, especially if they like animals as there are numerous breeds of rabbits, chickens, geese and ducks for them to befriend. The property was originally given to the city of San Jose with the intent that it be used as an agricultural learning center, and in this respect, it succeeds admirably. Admission is free.
Santana Row is an urban district, a magnet for shopping, dining, entertainment and accommodations in North San Jose. There is something for the entire family: 14 full service restaurants; twice-weekly farmers market; WiFi Internet access zones; Hotel Valencia, a world-class boutique hotel; outdoor cafes, public parks, gardens, plazas and courtyards; and a six screen CineArts complex. Developed by Federal Realty Investment Trust, Santana Row is a project that successfully combines the best elements of an urban plaza with the convenience and variety of a mall. It is a place like no other.
Children's Discovery Museum has two floors worth of exhibits and activities, including a history of bubbles, face painting and all sorts of things to keep children busy and thinking. The museum is a giant structure straddling the Guadalupe River Park, so picnics are common for visitors. It is located right on the light rail station, which makes public transportation a snap. The museum offers facilities for birthday parties and special events for all sizes of groups, from small gatherings of 10 to large groups of 1000.
Established in 1872, the Alum Rock Park is by far the oldest municipal-operated urban park in all of California. Located at a distance of just 6.3 miles (10.2 kilometers) from the heart of San Jose's urban surroundings, this oasis of greenery is clasped on the slopes of Diablo Range's verdant valleys. Spanning nearly 720 acres (291.37 hectares), the park's grounds are traversed by the roads and trails of Alum Rock Falls, Calaveras Fault, and Sierra, making every corner of its protected lands accessible for avid hikers. The park is dotted with classical wood-carved trail signs that add a rustic vibe to your overall outdoor experience. Wildlife includes red-tailed hawk, Cooper's hawk, turkey vulture, black-tailed deer, and mountain lions.
The only place in North America dedicated solely to the works of Ludwig himself, this museum contains a wealth of material, including the much-heralded lock of Beethoven's hair. Original manuscripts, books, recordings, autographed materials, masks, sculptures, stamps, films and all sorts of things are here. The center sponsors many concerts and lectures throughout the year and several things are for sale, like coffee mugs, scores and a bibliography database. This is an excellent place for scholarly research.
Digital DNA is a contemporary egg-shaped sculpture installed in downtown Palo Alto. The eccentric-looking egg, which stands seven feet (2.1 meters) tall, is made up of quilted-together circuit boards, and its egg shape alludes to Silicon Valley's important role as the birthplace of new technology. It was created by Adriana Varella and Nilton Malz, and though the original sculpture was destroyed by fire, but was reconstructed in 2005 and moved to its present location in Lytton Plaza.
Established in 2006, Lindencroft Farm is the labor of love of Linda and Steven Butler. This sustainable and organic farmland grows top quality produce which includes vegetables, herbs, flowers and fruits. They have a program called Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) where you can become a member by buying shares and get a weekly box of fresh harvest.
Artik Gallery is run by Artik Art and Architecture, an architectural firm specializing in public art and the design of schools and colleges. This gallery showcases a range of art forms including mixed media works, paintings and sculptures. Most of the artworks are minimalist, though-provoking and exhibit influences from the world of design and architecture. Hence, you might well have a sculpture of a man interspersed with buildings, depicting the effects of urbanization, or works created using engineering objects and everyday materials. Check the website to remain updated about the latest shows.
A special museum dedicated to buses, the Pacific Bus Museum of Fremont is located on Shinn Street. On display are up to 20 buses of different sizes belonging to different eras. Explore vintage coaches and browse through well-preserved equipment, mementos, photos, and other displays here. Details about the opening hours and upcoming events is available on the museum’s website.
At 24 acres (9.7 hectares), this is one of the larger parks in Morgan Hill, sitting south of the city center. The park has a host of sports amenities, equipped with eight tennis courts, fields, and a basketball court. The park also has an expansive area for dogs and is a big draw for the city's pet owners.