From community-run museums and a year-round farmers’ market to beloved Korean kitchens, indie brewers, and an old-school donut icon—here’s Santa Clara at its most local, flavorful, and fun.
Things to Do in Santa Clara (2025)
10 Places
From community-run museums and a year-round farmers’ market to beloved Korean kitchens, indie brewers, and an old-school donut icon—here’s Santa Clara at its most local, flavorful, and fun.
Triton Museum of Art
Art museum
Free-admission and deeply local, Triton champions California artists with rotating exhibitions, talks, and classes. Praised by regional arts writers and featured by the City of Santa Clara, it’s a welcoming anchor for the community.
Harris Lass House Museum
Museum
Santa Clara’s last farm site offers docent-led tours March–November. Operated by local volunteers, it’s often highlighted by city heritage guides for its Italianate home, barn, and orchard—an intimate look at Mission City history.
South Bay Historical Railroad
Museum
Run by the South Bay Historical Railroad Society, this depot museum opens Saturdays and Tuesday evenings with working HO and N scale layouts and local rail artifacts. Noted by the City of Santa Clara for hands-on learning.
Intel Museum
Technology museum
Free, interactive exhibits trace Silicon Valley innovation—from chipmaking to AI. Frequently cited by local visitor bureaus and tech press as a must for families and tech-curious travelers; check weekday hours before you go.
Santa Clara Farmers Market
Farmers' market
Every Saturday, year-round, small farms and local makers fill Jackson Street. Listed by Edible Silicon Valley and Urban Village, it’s where residents shop for peak-season produce, fresh flowers, and regional specialties.
Taplands
Bar
An indie taproom-brewery beloved for its rotating list, house beers, and community events—from watch parties to beer week takeovers. Spotlighted by regional food editors for celebrating the South Bay’s craft scene.
Stan's Donut Shop
Donut shop
Family-run since 1959, this counter-service classic turns out warm glazed donuts that Bay Area food writers regularly celebrate. Featured by the San Francisco Chronicle and local TV, it’s pure Santa Clara nostalgia.
Sumiya Japanese Charcoal Grill - Yakitori
Yakitori restaurant
A beloved izakaya specializing in binchotan-grilled skewers and bento. Frequently recommended by local dining guides for its focused yakitori, lively atmosphere, and consistent quality—arrive early or join the waitlist.
Jang Su Jang
Korean barbecue restaurant
Longtime Korean standard for tabletop BBQ, stews, and naengmyeon. Consistently recommended by Eater SF and noted by city tourism guides; a go-to for groups seeking generous banchan and signature grilled meats.
Kunjip
Korean restaurant
A Santa Clara staple for comforting Korean soups and hearty galbi jjim. Cited by Eater SF and loved by locals for soul-warming seolleongtang and generous portions—an essential stop on the city’s Korean food trail.
