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.
This huge, multi-domed church was originally built in 1877 and was restored to its original splendor in 1990. This is actually the fifth location of the parish seat; the first was built in 1803. The present structure is a monumental building. Incredible stained glass work renders the sanctuary into a lovely, almost mystical space when the sun causes the colors to play across the walls, pews and floor. Masses are held in Spanish and English.
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.
The EcoCenter is managed by the Environmental Volunteers, a non-profit institution that spreads awareness about science and nature among the general public. Acting as the headquarters of this organization, the EcoCenter has been constructed using non-toxic and recycled material, green design principles and eco-friendly practices. This center has interactive exhibits and touchscreen displays through which visitors can learn about climate change, the sky and earth. It conducts tours of the building to educate visitors about sustainable methods of construction and maintenance and also conducts numerous summer camps, classroom and school programs. Boasting of some of the best educational activities in Palo Alto for kids and adults alike, the themes covered include bird watching, hiking, programs and lectures on nature art and natural sciences as well as research training in which visitors generate data that actually helps scientists. Nature lovers can also volunteer at this center or donate money to support its endeavors.
Junction Park is an ideal place for those looking to relax at the beach along the river's shores or to take a refreshing dip in the cool waters. There is a separate green area which is great for playing some sports with your friends or to simply enjoy a nice picnic, as you take in the view.
A beautiful leisure park spread across an area of 10.3 acre of land is a perfect place to visit with family. There are a lot of areas allotted for children’s playing such as the basket ball court, tennis court, baseball courts, grass turfs etc. For senior citizens, there are comfortable benches, drinking water facility and meditation garden where visitors can indulge in physical fitness exercises in a fresh environment. For group picnics also it’s an ideal spot where you can unwind and relax under the green shady trees with kids and pets having their own fun time.
Enjoy a day out in the Cuesta Park, an expansive green space usually frequented by the locals. Boasting of landscaped lawns, and plenty of mature trees adding to the beauty of the park, the Cuesta Park offers the perfect respite from the stresses of urban life. Guests can spend their time seeing their dogs play in the off-leash area, spend quality time with kids in the children's playground or enjoy a round of tennis with friends at the onsite tennis court. If you are in the mood for a memorable time out, then you can be rest assured that a couple of hours at Cuesta Park will not let you down.