There is so much to see and do here in the South Bay—arts, entertainment, dining, hiking, you name it!—so I thought I’d share a few not-so-famous spots that capture the cultural depth of our vibrant neighboring communities.
These three hidden gems are truly worth a visit:
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
Located near the famed Rose Garden neighborhood in San Jose, this incredible museum offers a shockingly rich inventory of all things Egyptian. Featuring hundreds of artifacts, including jewelry, sarcophagi, a mummy, and much more, the Rosicrucian Museum is the best place to learn about Egyptian history in the Bay Area. The museum is open Fridays from 10AM-5PM and weekends from 11AM-6PM. Plus, all tickets are $10 and under!
Montalvo Arts Center
You can find this stunning arts center tucked amidst the rolling hills of Saratoga. Anchored by historic Villa Montalvo, the property provides visitors with access to walking trails, stunning gardens, live music events, classes, and more. It’s a fantastic option for having picnics, hosting day outings, or just enjoying a nice nature stroll. The center is open 8AM to sunset daily with free admission and parking.
The GrandView Restaurant
Far removed from the Bay Area bustle, the GrandView Restaurant on Mount Hamilton Road serves private, upscale dining with breathtaking panoramic views of the Santa Clara Valley. Featuring an unbeatable selection of steak and seafood plus Italian and Californian wines, the GrandView is perfect for a romantic date night or fancy celebration.
Do you know of some other local hidden gems I should know about? Please share and I’d be delighted to give them a try!