10 Romantic Things To Do In San Jose, California - Updated 2024

romantic things to do in san jose
Annelene
Annelene 
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Be enchanted by the small-town charm of San Jose, situated in the heart of Silicon Valley. Sometimes overlooked by the sparkle of San Francisco, San Jose holds the key to little hidden gems peppered around the city. Whatever you’re craving, San Jose has it. Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the city on a hike, take a gastronomic journey through the streets and restaurants of San Jose or partake in the many outdoor activities the city has to offer. You don’t even have to worry where to stay, there are plenty of hotels with pool and hotels with in-room kitchen for your accommodation needs.

San Jose is a melting pot of cultural diversity and plays host to California’s oldest Spanish civilian settlement. Watch the night come alive in dazzling lights and a vibrant nightlife. Bountiful in sunshine and fun times, San Jose is also the perfect spot to fall in love, rekindle lost love and nurture your love with your partner. Needing some date ideas? Here’s your date guide to a romantic break in San Jose.

1. Shopping spree at Santana Row

2011-09 San Jose 025, Santana Row
Source: Photo by Flickr user Allie_Caulfield used under CC BY 2.0

If you’re looking to get brownie points with the lady, indulge her with a shopping spree at Santana Row. Santana Row is an outdoor shopping mall offering a myriad of activities and opportunities to satisfy all your senses. Boasting a luxurious shopping experience, upgrade her wardrobe in a world-class mix of brands from the swanky stores and chic boutiques. Grab a bite at one of the cafes offering delectable cuisine while the soft tunes of the live performers serenade you.

Santana Row

Address: 377 Santana Row, San Jose, CA 95128, USA

Website: Santana Row

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2. Bike ride through Los Gatos Creek Trail

Los Gatos Creek Trail
Source: Photo by Flickr user Sandip Bhattacharya used under CC BY 2.0

Meander through the serenity of the Los Gatos Creek Trail, a 10 mile (16 km) long trail popular among locals and visitors alike. The beauty of the natural environment matched with the cheerful chirps of the birdlife sets the tone for an ideal afternoon cycle with your partner.

Los Gatos Creek Trail

Address: Los Gatos Creek Trail, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

Website: Los Gatos Creek Trail

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3. Stroll through Kelley Park

Japanese Friendship Garden
Source: Photo by Flickr user HarshLight used under CC BY 2.0

Kelley Park is the perfect location for a romantic stroll amidst the picturesque nature of its surroundings. Once a fruit orchard, this green oasis plays host to a variety of activities to add to your date itinerary. Stroll through the Japanese Friendship Garden opting to feed the koi residing in the ponds. This is also a perfect spot for wedding and engagement photos. Play on the heartstrings of your partner and play with furry friends at Happy Hollow Park and Zoo.

Kelley Park

Address: 1300 Senter Rd, San Jose, CA 95112, USA

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4. Picnic at Alum Rock Park

Alum Rock Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Melissa McMasters used under CC BY 2.0

Pack a picnic bag with your loved one’s favorite treats and head off to Alum Rock Park for a picnic. Located in the foothills of Diablo Mountain Range, Alum Rock Park have many idyllic spots to choose from for your picnic date. Let the love songs of the vibrant birdlife serenade you at one of the secluded picnic spots, opt to picnic along the mineral springs or book one of the nine barbecue pits.

Alum Rock Park

Address: 15350 Penitencia Creek Rd, San Jose, CA 95127, USA

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5. Admire The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph

USA-San Jose-Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph-18
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Eugene Zelenko used under CC BY-SA 4.0

A couple who appreciates the intricacies and wonders of ancient architecture, will enjoy a visit to The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph is a Roman Catholic church featuring awe-inspiring pieces of art among the serenity of the atmosphere. Steeped in rich history, the story of The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph is one of triumph, victory and resilience as the church has been rebuilt four time as a result of earthquakes or fire, and each time has managed to maintain and capture the essence of ancient traditions.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph

Address: 80 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

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6. Meander through the Heritage Rose Garden

San Jose Heritage Rose Garden view 1
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Stan Shebs used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Looking for a grand gesture to proclaim your love? Instead of settling for a bunch of roses, take your loved one to The Heritage Rose Garden. Admire the blossoming flowers radiating in color in the sunlight as the elegant fragrances permeate the air. The Heritage Rose Garden features an extensive collection of over 3,500 flora species and is an extravagant display of color and nature.

The Heritage Rose Garden

Address: 438 Coleman Ave, San Jose, CA 95110, USA

Website: The Heritage Rose Garden

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7. Walk back in history at The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum grounds2
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ginabovara used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

A couple who enjoys mental stimulations and a unique appreciation for history would enjoy a visit to The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum. Learn the fascinating tales of love, war and betrayal of ancient Egypt featuring the largest selection of ancient artifacts from Egypt in the Western United States. Admire the statues of Taweret and Cleopatra IV.

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

Address: 1660 Park Ave, San Jose, CA 95191, USA

Website: The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

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8. Try Beginner Outdoor Rock Climbing (from USD 105.0)

Test the limits of your love with an adventurous beginners rock climb in Castle Rock State Park. You’ll follow an extensive break down on the safety and technical aspect of rock climbing before scaling the sculpted sandstone. No climbing experience is necessary, as the course is designed for beginner climbers. Soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings and come out with a stronger relationship after partaking in this adventurous activity together.

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Beginner Outdoor Rock Climbing - Bay Area

Duration: 4 hours

9. Spend a night in Hayes Mansion (from USD 205)

Hayes Mansion
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Www78 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Nothing speaks romance more than a lavish getaway of exquisite spoils at a hotel. Opulent living awaits you at the Hayes Mansion boasting well manicured emerald green lawns, a relaxing spa and unparalleled service. Steeped in history and tradition, spoil your loved one with a night at Hayes Mansion, exploring the historical architecture and articulate decor of the hotel. This is a perfect romantic getaway as it is in proximal distance from major attractions and features a beautiful garden for picnics and you can savor the aromatic scents of the blooming flowers with the sweeping mountains as your backdrop.

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Hayes Mansion San Jose, Curio Collection by Hilton

Wheelchair accessible

Address: 200 Edenvale Avenue
2.36 km (1.5 mi) from Hellyer County Park

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court

10. Guided Nature Walk and Wine Tasting in Morgan Hill (from USD 149.0)

Morgan Hill - wine tasting
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user City of Morgan Hill used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

San Jose plays host to a dozen wineries featuring a selection of fine wines. When you combine the picturesque beauty of San Jose and fine wine, you get the ingredients for a romantic date. You can customize this tour to your preference ensuring you get the most out of your experience. Walk hand in hand with your loved one as your soak up the sweeping views of the Diablo Range as you get an insight into the rich history of the area. End the tour with a tantalizing lunch matched with a private wine tasting.

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Guided Nature Walk and Wine Tasting in South Santa Clara Valley

Duration: 5 hours

Romantic adventures in San Jose

As the hub of Silicon Valley, San Jose is a perfect place to fall in love. It is a city steeped in vibrant history, beautiful landscapes, and a gastronomic experience through the diverse cultures offering distinct cuisine. Visit this city and discover all the best things that San Jose has to offer, from Korean spas to fun things to do at night.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Annelene is a marketing graduate with a zest for life and a passion for travel. She believes these things help bring new perspective, introduce new cultures and educate us about life.

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