When one thinks of Silicon Valley, high-tech businesses and innovative technology generally come to mind. Located at the southern end of the San Francisco Bay Area, Silicon Valley is much more than a world center for the creation of the latest technology.
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For outdoor fun San Jose, in the heart of the region, is home to some of the loveliest parks and gardens in the area. Fish along the shores of the 32-acre lake at Almaden Lake Park. Visit Kelley Park's Japanese Friendship Garden and cultural centers devoted to local immigrant populations. Both the exquisite Hakone Japanese Gardens in the Saratoga Hills and the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden with its award-winning displays are a photographer's dream. For golf fans, the beautiful Deep Cliff Golf Course west of Cupertino is ideal for both novice and expert. The Jack Nicklaus-designed Coyote Creek Golf Course in south San Jose features the Tournament Course for advanced golfers and the more accessible Valley Course.
Culture enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Allied Arts Guild in Menlo Park. Stroll through beautiful, colorful gardens surrounded by artist-inspired Spanish architecture. Home to artists' studios, the Allied Arts Guild offers the public an opportunity to see artists at work and to purchase art directly. The contemporary San Jose Museum of Art and the San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles display the work of area artists. Visit the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum with its collection of thousands of ancient artifacts, and landscaped with an Egyptian theme. For the techie there is the Tech Museum of Innovation with hands-on exhibitions and an IMAX theater. The nearby Intel Corporation's Intel Museum features the history of the semiconductor.
Silicon Valley is home to some of the best small vineyards in California. Highly recommended by locals, the Mountain Winery located in the hills above Saratoga, offers wine-tasting Thursdays, intimate surroundings and special jazz nights with live entertainment. Situated on the former Paul Masson property, the Mountain Winery features Bordeaux and Burgundy. Tour the many Livermore Valley vineyards, home of award-winning wines. In addition to wine tasting, special events include art shows, gourmet dinners and celebrations.
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Wander through the famous Winchester Mystery House in San Jose. Built by Sarah Winchester, widow of the Winchester rifle manufacturer, the house with its maze of rooms, twisting staircases and secret passages was added to and altered for nearly 38 years.
Silicon Valley is a destination sure to delight the most discriminating of travelers. For the older adult, a visit to the region will be both enjoyable and educational.
More information:
- Divine Distractions and Exciting Attractions in Silicon Valley 2012/2013
- From Pinterest Silicon Valley Things To Do
- Lodging recommendation
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