A locals-first guide to San Jose’s culture: hands-on making, neighborhood institutions, cutting-edge art, live performance, markets, and standout food and drink—independent, open now, and rooted in community.
Things to Do in San Jose (2025)
12 Places
A locals-first guide to San Jose’s culture: hands-on making, neighborhood institutions, cutting-edge art, live performance, markets, and standout food and drink—independent, open now, and rooted in community.
San Jose Museum of Art
Art museum
Downtown’s contemporary anchor with lively First Fridays, timely exhibitions, and free admission for youth. Noted by the San Francisco Chronicle and praised by local arts writers for community-forward programming.
The Tech Interactive
Museum
Hands-on science and design center with an IMAX dome and 2025’s new AI Sandbox: Dream Garden. Frequently recommended by U.S. News Travel and highlighted by downtown event guides for after-hours experiences.
MACLA/Movimiento de Arte y Cultura Latino Americana
Arts organization
A SoFA hub for Chicano and Latinx art, performance, and community education. Annual Latinx Art Now! exhibition and auction draws regional attention, regularly spotlighted by Visit San Jose and arts calendars.
Institute of Contemporary Art San Jose
Art museum
Free-admission contemporary art space known for experimental, socially engaged shows and SoFA District energy. Open Thursday–Sunday with rotating exhibits that local critics applaud for risk-taking.
Bay Area Glass Institute (BAGI)
Non-profit organization
Book a beginner glassblowing session, date night, or youth camp inside History Park. Community-rooted and often collaborating with San Jose Jazz on live demos and special events.
ANNO DOMINI Gallery
Art gallery
Independent gallery championing urban contemporary art since 2000 and a longtime anchor of South FIRST FRIDAYS. Exhibitions and street-culture programs are frequently featured by Visit San Jose.
Roy's Station Coffee & Tea
Coffee shop
A family-run café in a converted 1930s gas station fuels Japantown’s daily rhythm with espresso, local pastries, and community events. Loved by locals and a perfect stop before exploring nearby museums.
Santo Market Inc
Asian grocery store
Family-operated since 1946, this Japanese-Hawaiian market serves plate lunches, fresh poke, and mochi. Featured by KQED for preserving Japantown flavors while evolving with the community.
Adega
Portuguese restaurant
Little Portugal’s fine-dining standard-bearer returned with a tasting menu and deep Portuguese wine list. Listed by the Michelin Guide and covered by the San Francisco Chronicle for its 2024 comeback.
The San Jose Flea Market
Flea market
A multigenerational marketplace of small vendors, produce, and live music, open year-round on select days. Covered by San José Spotlight and Lonely Planet; operations secured into 2026 while plans evolve.
City Lights Theater Company of San Jose
Performing arts theater
An intimate, nonprofit venue staging adventurous plays and concerts in the SoFA District. A pillar of the local scene with an active 2025–26 season and regular coverage from regional arts press.
Paper Plane
Cocktail bar
Locally owned cocktail bar with a vast spirits list and playful seasonal menus. Featured in Eater’s 2025 guide to the South Bay’s best cocktail bars and popular with downtown service industry folks.
