21 Things To Do In Santa Clara That Are Instagram-Worthy
Tucked in the heart of Silicon Valley, Santa Clara is often overshadowed by its tech-giant neighbors—but don’t let that fool you. This vibrant city is more than just microchips and business parks. It’s a hidden gem packed with history, family-friendly attractions, cultural pockets, and a surprising dose of outdoor adventure.
Home to the San Francisco 49ers' Levi’s Stadium and the iconic California’s Great America theme park, this city balances modern excitement with deep cultural roots. Wander through beautifully preserved Spanish missions, explore lush parks and tech museums, or catch a sunset over Ulistac Natural Area. Santa Clara invites visitors to slow down, explore, and discover a more relaxed side of Silicon Valley. With its sunny climate, walkable neighborhoods, and central location near San Jose and Palo Alto, it's the perfect weekend base—or even a quick day trip for curious travelers looking to go beyond the usual Bay Area spots.
In this guide, we’re breaking down the best things to do in Santa Clara, CA, from can't-miss landmarks to hidden gems only the locals talk about.
1. Ride the Roller Coasters at California’s Great America
📍 Location: 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, CA
🎢 Best for: Families, thrill-seekers
California’s Great America is one of the top amusement parks in Northern California, offering adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, kid-friendly rides, and a water park during summer.
From the wooden rattle of Gold Striker—often ranked among the best wooden coasters in the country—to the twisting steel of Flight Deck, a suspended coaster that simulates the rush of aerial combat, each ride is designed to deliver high-speed thrills and gravity-defying drops.
One standout for coaster enthusiasts is RailBlazer, a single-rail coaster that gives riders the sensation of flying solo as they zip through tight turns and near-vertical drops. If you're into airtime hills, Patriot delivers with smooth inversions and an open-floor design that amplifies the thrill factor. Even families can get in on the fun with more gentle coasters like Woodstock Express, proving there's something for everyone.
Pro Tip: Visit during Halloween Haunt in October for spooky fun or WinterFest in December for festive lights and ice skating.
2. Explore the Intel Museum (A Tech Enthusiast’s Dream!)
📍 Location: 2200 Mission College Blvd, Santa Clara, CA
🤖 Best for: Tech lovers, families
If you're a tech enthusiast—or just curious about the microchips powering your everyday devices—the Intel Museum in Santa Clara is an unexpectedly fascinating stop. Tucked inside Intel’s headquarters, this free museum takes visitors on a journey through the evolution of modern computing, from the world’s first microprocessor to today’s AI-driven chips.
The exhibits are interactive and surprisingly hands-on. You can explore how silicon wafers are made, step virtually into a clean room, and even try your hand at designing a microchip. There’s a full-scale replica of a fabrication facility, displays of ultra-rare processors, and bite-sized science lessons that break down complex engineering concepts into fun, digestible moments—perfect for kids and adults alike.
What sets the Intel Museum apart is how it blends storytelling and innovation. You'll leave with a deeper appreciation for how this quiet corner of Santa Clara helped launch a global tech revolution. For travelers wanting to tap into the real Silicon Valley beyond the buzzwords, this museum is a must.
Pro Tip: Admission is free, making it a great budget-friendly activity.
3. Catch an NFL Game at Levi’s Stadium
📍 Location: 4900 Marie P DeBartolo Way, Santa Clara, CA
🏈 Best for: Sports fans
Nothing captures the energy of Santa Clara quite like game day at Levi’s Stadium. Home to the San Francisco 49ers, this state-of-the-art venue is more than just a football field—it’s a full-blown fan experience.
Opened in 2014, Levi’s Stadium is one of the greenest and most technologically advanced stadiums in the league. Its sleek, open design offers stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, and the in-stadium Wi-Fi means you won’t miss a highlight even while grabbing garlic fries or craft beer from one of the many local vendors.
The vibe? Electric. Tailgating in the parking lot starts hours before kickoff, with music, BBQ, and fans decked out in red and gold. Inside, the energy builds with every snap, especially during rivalry matchups. And if football isn’t your thing, the stadium also hosts concerts, international soccer matches, and special events year-round.
Pro Tip: Visit the 49ers Museum inside the stadium for an in-depth look at the team’s history.
4. Visit the Historic Mission Santa Clara de Asís
📍 Location: 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA
⛪ Best for: History buffs, architecture lovers
Tucked within the serene campus of Santa Clara University, Mission Santa Clara de Asís is a tranquil escape and a window into California’s rich Spanish colonial past. Founded in 1777, it's one of the original 21 California missions and stands as a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and quiet reflection in the heart of the city.
The mission you see today is actually the sixth structure built on this site—fires and earthquakes destroyed the earlier versions—but its current form, rebuilt in 1928, faithfully echoes the original Spanish-style design. With its red-tiled roof, adobe walls, and bell tower, it’s a favorite spot for history buffs, architecture lovers, and photographers drawn to its peaceful courtyard gardens and rose-lined walkways.
Step inside and you’ll find a lovingly restored sanctuary filled with intricate woodwork, religious art, and stained glass that tells the story of the mission’s role in shaping early California. It’s also an active chapel, so visitors often stumble upon weddings or quiet services that add to the atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Stop by the de Saisset Museum next door to see art and historical exhibits.
5. Step Back in Time at the Harris-Lass House Museum
📍 Location: 1889 Market St, Santa Clara, CA
🏡 Best for: History lovers
For a peek into Santa Clara’s pre-tech past, the Harris-Lass House Museum is a charming, underrated stop that transports you straight to the late 19th century. Built in 1865, this beautifully preserved Victorian Italianate farmhouse is the last remaining structure from Santa Clara’s once-thriving agricultural era—back when orchards, not offices, defined the landscape.
The house was home to generations of the Harris and Lass families, and stepping inside feels like visiting a living time capsule. Period furnishings, original family artifacts, and antique tools fill every room, offering a detailed glimpse into domestic life from over a century ago. Volunteer docents lead small, personal tours packed with quirky stories and historical tidbits that make the experience feel intimate and authentic.
Outside, you can explore the carriage house, tank house, and landscaped gardens that reflect the site’s farming roots. It’s a peaceful, educational visit that’s ideal for families, history enthusiasts, or anyone curious about what Santa Clara was like before the boom of Silicon Valley.
The museum is only open seasonally and on select days, so be sure to check the schedule in advance. It’s a true hidden gem—one that locals cherish and travelers are delighted to discover.
Pro Tip: It’s one of the last farmhouses in Santa Clara—perfect for a unique historical experience!
6. Experience the Winchester Mystery House
📍 Location: 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA (just outside Santa Clara)
👻 Best for: Mystery lovers, ghost hunters
Just a few minutes’ drive from downtown Santa Clara, the Winchester Mystery House in nearby San Jose is one of the strangest and most captivating attractions in Northern California. This sprawling Victorian mansion, once home to Sarah Winchester—the heiress to the Winchester rifle fortune—is famous for its labyrinthine layout, architectural oddities, and spine-tingling backstory.
Built continuously over 38 years, the house features over 160 rooms filled with bizarre design choices: staircases that lead to nowhere, doors that open into walls, and secret passages hidden behind panels. Sarah, convinced she was haunted by the spirits of those killed by her family's invention, reportedly built the house under constant construction to appease or confuse the ghosts.
The guided tours blend eerie legends with real historical context, and the intricate craftsmanship—ornate woodwork, stained glass, and period décor—adds depth to the mystery.
The gardens and gift shop are worth lingering in, and seasonal events like candlelight tours or Friday the 13th specials give the house an even more haunted ambiance. For fans of history, architecture, and the just plain weird, the Winchester Mystery House is a can't-miss stop.
Pro Tip: Try the candlelight tour for an extra spooky experience.
7. Stroll Through Central Park
📍 Location: 909 Kiely Blvd, Santa Clara, CA
🌳 Best for: Families, nature lovers
Santa Clara’s Central Park is the kind of place that locals quietly adore and visitors often stumble upon with pleasant surprise. Spanning over 50 acres in the heart of the city, it’s a green oasis offering everything from peaceful walking paths to lively community events—perfect for travelers looking to slow down and soak in a more relaxed side of Silicon Valley.
Start your visit with a leisurely stroll around the large pond, where ducks paddle by and shaded benches invite quiet moments. The park is beautifully landscaped, with wide-open lawns, tree-lined trails, and colorful flower beds that shift with the seasons—ideal for photography enthusiasts or a spontaneous picnic.
But it’s not just about calm and quiet. Central Park is a hub of activity, especially on weekends. You’ll find tennis courts, a playground, barbecue pits, and even a public library nearby. The adjacent Santa Clara Swim Center, once home to Olympic swimmers, adds a unique layer of local pride.
If you happen to visit in the summer, check the schedule for live music or cultural festivals hosted right on the park grounds.
Pro Tip: Visit in spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom!
8. Hike at Ulistac Natural Area
📍 Location: 4901 Lick Mill Blvd, Santa Clara, CA
🥾 Best for: Bird watchers, nature lovers
For nature lovers looking to trade city streets for wildflower meadows and bird calls, Ulistac Natural Area is Santa Clara’s best-kept secret. This 40-acre ecological preserve sits quietly along the Guadalupe River and offers a rare glimpse into what the Santa Clara Valley looked like before tech campuses took over the landscape.
Ulistac isn’t your typical manicured park. It’s a raw, restored habitat made up of native grasslands, oak woodlands, riparian zones, and butterfly gardens—all part of an ongoing community-driven conservation project. The trails are simple and unpaved, making it feel more like a nature reserve than a city park. It’s a favorite among birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone craving a moment of natural stillness.
Interpretive signs along the path share insights about the native flora and fauna, and if you visit in spring, you’ll likely spot vibrant wildflowers and monarch butterflies drifting between milkweed patches. Bonus: the area has deep cultural roots—it’s named after the Ohlone word for “place of the coyote,” and was once a site of seasonal settlement for Native American tribes.
Pro Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching—over 180 species have been spotted here!
9. Try Authentic Portuguese Food at ADEGA
📍 Location: 1614 Alum Rock Ave, San Jose, CA
🍽️ Best for: Foodies
For a culinary experience that blends old-world flavors with modern flair, a visit to ADEGA in nearby San Jose is an absolute must. As the first Michelin-starred Portuguese restaurant in California—and one of only a handful in the U.S.—ADEGA offers an exceptional dining journey that celebrates the rich, soulful cuisine of Portugal just minutes from Santa Clara.
Tucked away in the Little Portugal neighborhood, the restaurant is warm and inviting, with whitewashed walls, cork accents, and a world-class wine cellar showcasing one of the most extensive Portuguese wine collections outside of Europe. The menu is a love letter to tradition, featuring elevated versions of classics like bacalhau à brás (salt cod with potatoes and egg), polvo à lagareiro (grilled octopus), and indulgent pastéis de nata for dessert.
What sets ADEGA apart is the attention to detail—from house-made bread and olive oil to creative plating that honors both flavor and artistry. The tasting menus are thoughtfully curated, making it a top pick for special occasions or food travelers hunting for that hidden gem off the typical foodie radar.
Pro Tip: Make a reservation well in advance—this spot books up quickly!
10. Visit the Santa Clara Farmers Market
📍 Location: Jackson St & Benton St, Santa Clara, CA
🍏 Best for: Food lovers, families
If you want to experience Santa Clara like a local, spend a morning wandering through the Santa Clara Farmers Market. Held weekly in the city’s quaint downtown area, this open-air market is more than a place to pick up fresh produce—it’s a lively community hub where farmers, artisans, and neighbors gather under the California sun.
The market bursts with seasonal fruits and vegetables, many of them grown just miles away in the fertile Central Valley. Think juicy strawberries in spring, heirloom tomatoes in summer, and crisp apples in fall. But the offerings go beyond produce—you’ll also find farm-fresh eggs, honey, handmade cheeses, cut flowers, and small-batch jams that make perfect edible souvenirs.
Foodies will love the ready-to-eat bites from local vendors, ranging from tamales and Korean BBQ skewers to vegan pastries and fresh-pressed juices. Live music often fills the air, giving the whole scene a laid-back, festive vibe that invites you to linger.
It’s a great stop for travelers looking to taste the region’s agricultural roots while supporting small businesses. Grab a cold brew, chat with the vendors, and stock up for a park picnic or hotel room snack spread—you’ll walk away with both goodies and a sense of local flavor.
Pro Tip: Try the fresh tamales—locals swear by them!
11. Discover Japanese Culture at the Japanese Friendship Garden
Step into a peaceful slice of Japan without leaving Silicon Valley at the Japanese Friendship Garden, located in San Jose’s Kelley Park—just a short drive from Santa Clara. This tranquil, six-acre garden is a symbol of the sister-city relationship between San Jose and Okayama, Japan, and it offers a serene, culturally rich experience that feels worlds away from the tech-fueled pace of the Bay Area.
Winding stone paths lead you past koi-filled ponds, arched wooden bridges, and meticulously landscaped cherry blossom trees and bonsai-like pines. The design draws inspiration from Okayama’s famous Korakuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, and the attention to balance, flow, and natural beauty is truly meditative.
Seasonal highlights like blooming azaleas in spring and fiery maples in fall make it worth a return visit.
It’s especially enchanting during cherry blossom season—though less crowded than the more well-known spots in San Francisco. If you’re craving a cultural experience that’s both authentic and soothing, the Japanese Friendship Garden is an underrated gem that invites you to slow down and breathe.
12. Visit the Triton Museum of Art
📍 Location: 1505 Warburton Ave, Santa Clara, CA
🎨 Best for: Art lovers, culture seekers, quiet explorers
For a refreshing dose of creativity, make your way to the Triton Museum of Art—a hidden gem tucked right in the heart of Santa Clara. This free-admission museum showcases a diverse range of contemporary and historical works, with a special focus on California artists. From thought-provoking exhibitions to bold visual storytelling, the Triton offers a surprisingly rich art experience without the crowds or fuss.
What makes it stand out? The museum balances community-focused programming with high-caliber rotating exhibits, often featuring underrepresented artists and emerging voices. Its modern architecture and peaceful sculpture garden also make it a lovely spot for a slow afternoon stroll or some quiet reflection.
Pro Tip: Check their calendar for free artist talks, workshops, and cultural events—they're often overlooked but absolutely worth attending if you're in town.
13. Play Mini Golf at Golfland USA
📍 Location: 855 E El Camino Real, Sunnyvale, CA (Just minutes from Santa Clara)
⛳ Best for: Families, date nights, nostalgic fun
Sometimes, the best memories come from simple pleasures—and Golfland USA is exactly that. This classic mini-golf spot just outside Santa Clara offers whimsical courses full of colorful castles, tricky obstacles, and glowing nighttime lights that add a magical touch after sunset.
More than just mini-golf, Golfland USA also features a retro arcade, bumper cars, laser tag, and water slides in the summer months.
Pro Tip: Weeknights are quieter if you want to avoid weekend crowds. And yes, the soft-serve ice cream is totally worth it after a round or two!
14. Take a Brewery Tour at Barebottle Brewing Company
📍 Location: 2520 Mission College Blvd, Santa Clara, CA
🍺 Best for: Craft beer lovers, social travelers, chill evenings
If you’re the kind of traveler who believes a city’s soul is found in its local brews, then a stop at Barebottle Brewing Company is non-negotiable. This Santa Clara outpost of the beloved San Francisco-born brewery brings bold, experimental beers to the heart of Silicon Valley—and trust us, they know their hops.
Barebottle’s taproom feels like a cool neighborhood hangout, with communal tables, ping-pong, and a rotating lineup of food trucks. Their beer selection changes frequently, with creative concoctions like guava IPAs, milkshake stouts, and seasonal sours that keep things exciting. Not sure what to try? Opt for a tasting flight—you’ll likely discover a new favorite.
Pro Tip: Check their calendar for trivia nights, release parties, or live music events—they’re perfect for mixing with locals and soaking in the laid-back vibe.
15. Experience Virtual Reality at Sandbox VR
📍 Location: 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd Suite 2173, Santa Clara, CA
🕶️ Best for: Gamers, groups of friends, tech lovers
Looking to level up your travel experience? Step into another world—literally—at Sandbox VR, one of the most immersive virtual reality spots in Silicon Valley. Located inside Westfield Valley Fair Mall, this isn’t your average VR arcade. It’s full-body, high-tech, mind-blowingly realistic gameplay that feels more like starring in your own sci-fi movie.
Choose from a variety of action-packed adventures—battle zombies, explore alien planets, or go on a pirate quest—all while moving freely in a fully interactive environment. It’s a perfect group activity, especially for travelers who want something out-of-the-box (and indoors!).
Pro Tip: Book ahead online—time slots fill up fast, especially on weekends. And don’t worry if you're new to VR; the staff walks you through everything before you dive in.
16. Unleash Your Inner Scientist at The Tech Interactive
📍 Location: 201 S Market St, San Jose, CA (Just 10 minutes from Santa Clara)
🔬 Best for: Families, curious minds, STEM lovers
Just a short drive from Santa Clara, The Tech Interactive in downtown San Jose is a hands-on science and technology museum that’ll ignite your curiosity—no matter your age. Packed with interactive exhibits, immersive labs, and a massive IMAX dome theater, it’s the kind of place where you can build a robot, simulate an earthquake, and learn about biotech all in one afternoon.
Perfect for kids, teens, and lifelong learners, The Tech is especially ideal for those fascinated by Silicon Valley’s innovations. It’s educational without ever being boring—and honestly, you might find yourself geeking out more than you expected.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Body Worlds Decoded exhibit—it’s equal parts fascinating and mind-blowing, using augmented reality to bring human anatomy to life.
17. Explore the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
📍 Location: 1660 Park Ave, San Jose, CA (About 10 minutes from Santa Clara)
🏺 Best for: History buffs, families, culture lovers
Step into the world of pharaohs, mummies, and ancient mystery at the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, just a quick hop from Santa Clara. This one-of-a-kind museum houses the largest collection of authentic Egyptian artifacts on the West Coast—and it’s far more immersive than you might expect.
Designed in the style of an ancient Egyptian temple, the museum features everything from real mummies and intricate jewelry to massive sarcophagi and replicas of tombs. You’ll get a fascinating look into daily life along the Nile, the science of mummification, and even the mythology that shaped ancient civilizations. It’s surprisingly engaging for all ages, with hands-on exhibits and peaceful gardens that make for a relaxing afternoon.
Pro Tip: Time your visit around one of their weekend planetarium shows or educational workshops—they’re low-key and fascinating.
18. Cheer on the San Jose Earthquakes at PayPal Park
📍 Location: 1123 Coleman Ave, San Jose, CA (Less than 10 minutes from Santa Clara)
⚽ Best for: Soccer fans, sports lovers, energetic nights out
If you're visiting Santa Clara during MLS season, catching a San Jose Earthquakes match at PayPal Park is a must. This modern, open-air stadium offers an unbeatable game-day vibe—with panoramic views of incoming planes from nearby SJC and the largest outdoor bar in North America. Yep, it’s got serious Silicon Valley flair.
The Quakes have a loyal fan base, and their supporters' section is where the magic happens: think constant chants, flying scarves, and a contagious energy that pulls you right into the action. Not into hardcore fandom? The family zone offers games, inflatables, and interactive booths perfect for younger fans or first-timers.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to grab food truck bites and local craft beer from the pre-game fan zone—this stadium’s got way more flavor than your typical ballpark fare.
19. Test Your Racing Skills at K1 Speed Indoor Karting
📍 Location: 2925 Mead Ave, Santa Clara, CA
🏎️ Best for: Adrenaline junkies, competitive friends, thrill-seekers
Feel the rush of real racing at K1 Speed, where electric go-karts and a sleek, professionally designed track bring out everyone’s inner driver. These high-performance karts can reach speeds up to 45 mph, making every lap feel like a shot of pure adrenaline.
Lap timing, leaderboards, and just the right amount of bragging rights make this spot a favorite for locals and visitors alike. First-timers, casual racers, and die-hard competitors all find something to love here.
Pro Tip: Use the “Arrive & Drive” option to jump into a race on the spot. Just try to show up early—this place gets busy fast!
20. Discover Space Exploration at NASA Ames Visitor Center
📍 Location: Moffett Blvd, Mountain View, CA (About 15 minutes from Santa Clara)
🚀 Best for: Space enthusiasts, STEM lovers, curious minds
For anyone who's ever looked up at the stars and wondered what’s out there, the NASA Ames Visitor Center is a must-visit. This small but mighty center offers a fascinating peek into the world of space exploration, straight from one of NASA’s premier research facilities.
Inside, you’ll find real moon rock samples, a full-scale Mars Rover model, and interactive exhibits that dive into the science behind missions, robotics, and life in space. It’s inspiring, educational, and just plain cool—especially for kids and science fans.
Pro Tip: Admission is completely free, making this one of the best low-cost gems near Santa Clara. Stop by on your way to downtown Mountain View or pair it with a visit to Shoreline Park nearby
21. Relax and Unwind at Koreatown’s Spa and Karaoke Spots
📍 Location: El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA
🎤 Best for: Relaxation, night owls, cultural explorers
After a busy day exploring Santa Clara, nothing beats the deep, satisfying calm of a traditional Korean jjimjilbang (spa). Santa Clara’s Koreatown, centered along El Camino Real, is a low-key cultural hub where locals unwind with steaming spa treatments, sizzling Korean BBQ, and late-night karaoke fun.
Start your evening at Imperial Spa, where you can soak in herbal baths, sweat it out in a charcoal sauna, or enjoy a restorative body scrub. Once you’re fully relaxed, head to Music Tunnel KTV or another karaoke lounge for a night of private-room singing sessions—complete with neon lights and all the latest K-pop hits.
Pro Tip: Pop into a nearby Korean café afterward and order a honey citron tea. It's warm, zesty, and the perfect end to a day packed with activity.
Conclusion
From adrenaline-pumping go-kart races to ancient Egyptian artifacts, and late-night karaoke to serene art galleries, Santa Clara packs an incredible variety of experiences into one vibrant, sun-soaked city. It’s a place where high-tech innovation meets deep cultural roots, and where every street offers something a little unexpected.
What makes this destination truly special isn’t just the attractions—it’s the mix of energy, creativity, and community spirit that gives the city its heart.
So go ahead—ride the coasters, walk with mummies, sip on craft beer, or belt out your favorite song in a neon-lit karaoke booth. Santa Clara is full of surprises. And now? You’re ready to experience them all.
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FAQs
1. What is Santa Clara known for?
Santa Clara is known for its role in Silicon Valley, Levi’s Stadium (home of the 49ers), and California’s Great America amusement park. It’s also home to several tech campuses, cultural museums, and a thriving international food scene.
2. Is Santa Clara worth visiting?
Definitely. With a unique mix of tech history, thrilling attractions, art and science museums, and relaxing spas, Santa Clara offers plenty for all types of travelers. It’s a fantastic base for exploring the wider Bay Area too.
3. What is the best time to visit Santa Clara?
Spring and fall are ideal for visiting Santa Clara. These seasons offer mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and seasonal events. Summer can be fun too, especially if you're planning to visit California’s Great America or attend festivals.
4. How far is Santa Clara from San Francisco?
Santa Clara is about 45 miles south of San Francisco. The drive takes roughly 50 minutes to an hour, and public transportation via Caltrain or BART (with transfers) makes it an easy day trip destination.
5. What is the weather like in Santa Clara?
Santa Clara enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool, mild winters. Average summer highs are in the 80s°F, while winter temperatures typically stay in the 50s°F.
6. Is Santa Clara family-friendly?
Yes, Santa Clara is incredibly family-friendly. California’s Great America, Central Park, and the Intel Museum are great for kids. Many attractions are designed with all ages in mind, and the city is easy to get around.
7. Does Santa Clara have public transportation?
Santa Clara is served by VTA light rail and bus lines, making it easy to get around the city and nearby areas like San Jose. Caltrain also connects Santa Clara to San Francisco and the Peninsula, making it convenient for regional travel.