Finding Your Way: San Jose
January 5th, 2010 by Myer Thompson, under Vacations. No Comments
San Jose doesn’t figure prominently with most people’s idea of a tourist destination. That’s easy to understand given the fact that the Golden State has its fair share of world-renown attractions. Between Hollywood Boulevard (which is under-whelming in its lack of glitz and glamor) and the Golden Gate Bridge (again, somewhat of a let-down), most people come to California expecting to rub shoulders with the stars.
There is a mystic allure to California. The truth of the matter is that it’s kind of like most other states — expect there’s more going on. There’s movie magic in the south and quaint Bohemia in the north. The stage is set for a city like San Jose. It’s big enough to qualify as a big city, but still quaint enough to convey a small-town feel. Most people, even native Californians, fail to realize San Jose is the third largest city in the state.
So, you’re in town — where do you go? What to do? First off, let’s make sure you’ve got your lodging squared away. Most hotels in San Jose managed to blend the best aspects of the city: cozy, but with scope. The perfect spot all depends on what your fun targets are. If you’re looking forward to an NHL game, for example, you’ll want a hotel in the vicinity of the Shark Tank, nestled in the wake of the Norman Mineta International Airport.
If you want that quintessential California experience of cruising down palm-tree lined boulevards while digging on breathtaking views of the harbor are more you delight, you can’t go wrong saddling up to the Lakewood and Renaissance neighborhoods. You’ll be surprised to find a host of landmarks that can go toe-to-toe with the Hollywood sign or Russian Hill. The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum comes to mind. Ever wonder what it would be like to walk the Temple at Thebes? The museum is probably the closest you’re going to get.
Are you a history buff? Love architecture? For a gorgeous glimpse of Spanish colonial architecture, you should swing by the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph. This Californian marvel was built in 1803, making it the first church built in the state not affiliated with a mission. And yes, San Jose is Spanish for Saint Joseph. If you happen to be visiting in the summer or spring, you should have a refreshing splash at the Plaza de Cesar Chavez. Just be sure you bring a towel.
If you’re searching for hotels in San Jose, you can book and tour the best and most affordable online.
