Situated in the San Francisco Bay area, San Jose, California is known as the "Capital of Silicon Valley." Downtown San Jose provides visitors with world-class shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions. The picturesque mountain setting and various parks within the city offer plenty of space for a number of outdoor activities, including hiking, golfing, skating, swimming, boating, camping and tennis.

Be sure to make time for some of these must see attractions:

• Children's Discovery Museum: With two floors of activities and exhibits, this museum is a great family-friendly activity. It is also a great place for picnics.
• Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum: This museum brings ancient Egypt stateside with a variety of exhibits and artifacts as well as a full-scale replica of a temple.
• Happy Hollow Park and Zoo: With rides, playgrounds, animals and attractions, this space is educational and tons of fun.
• San Jose Repertory Theater: Great performances and a location in the center of the city make this destination ideal for everyone who enjoys live theater.
• San Jose Municipal Golf Course: This course is an affordable place for those just starting out in the sport and regular players looking to practice.
• San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art: Unique exhibitions and programs dedicated to modern art in every form can be found at this contemporary museum.

When you are ready to hit the hay, there are a number of great places to stay. From an apartment or condo located downtown to a mountainside villa with exquisite views of the valley, there is a vacation rental here that can accommodate any group size and traveler budget.

The region experiences typically mild seasonal weather year-round, making anytime a good time for a visit. There are a number of annual events you will not want to miss, including the Spring Style Show in April, the Comcast Jazz Festival in August, and the Mountain View Art & Wine Festival in September. If you have some extra time and would like to take a day trip outside of San Jose, be sure to check out the neighboring towns of Fremont and Stanford.