15 Best Places and Things To Do in Santa Clara, California

Santa Clara is a vibrant city in California’s Silicon Valley that offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to high-tech museums and amusement parks, Santa Clara has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places and things to do in Santa Clara

1. California’s Great America

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This amusement park is a must-visit attraction in Santa Clara. With over 100 rides, including roller coasters and water rides, California’s Great America is a thrill-seeker’s paradise. The park also features live shows and events throughout the year.

2. Mission Santa Clara de Asis

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This historic mission was founded in 1777 and is one of the oldest buildings in Santa Clara. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the mission and its beautiful gardens.

3. Intel Museum

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This museum, located on the Intel Corporation campus, showcases the history of the computer chip and the technology behind it. Visitors can see interactive exhibits, virtual reality displays, and demonstrations of Intel’s latest innovations.

4. Triton Museum of Art

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This contemporary art museum features works by local and international artists in a variety of media. The museum also hosts classes, workshops, and events for all ages.

5. Central Park

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This large park in the heart of Santa Clara features a lake, walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

6. Harris-Lass Historic Museum

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This museum is housed in an 1865 Italianate-style farmhouse and showcases the history of Santa Clara and its pioneer families. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and its beautiful gardens.

7. Edward Peterman Museum of Railroad History

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This museum features exhibits and artifacts related to the history of railroads in California and beyond. Visitors can see historic locomotives, model train layouts, and other railway-related items.

8. Santa Clara Convention Center

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This modern convention center hosts a variety of events, including trade shows, conferences, and conventions. It features state-of-the-art facilities and is located near many hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

9. Our Lady of Peace Church

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Our Lady of Peace Church is a Catholic church located in Santa Clara, California. The church was founded in 1956 and has been a cornerstone of the local Catholic community ever since. The church building features beautiful architecture and stained glass windows, and the interior is decorated with religious artwork and statues.

10. Statue of Saint Clare

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The statue of Saint Clare is a prominent landmark in Santa Clara, California. The statue is located in front of the Santa Clara University campus and was erected in honor of the city’s patron saint, Saint Clare of Assisi. Saint Clare was a medieval Catholic saint who founded the Order of Poor Ladies, which later became known as the Order of Saint Clare. She is known for her piety and devotion to God, as well as her commitment to poverty and simplicity.

11. Agnews Historic Park

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Agnews Historic Park is a public park located in Santa Clara, California, that offers a unique look into the history of mental health treatment in the state. The park is situated on the site of the former Agnews Insane Asylum, which was founded in 1885 and operated until the early 1900s.

12. Henry Schmidt Park

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Henry Schmidt Park is a public park located in Santa Clara, California, that offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities for visitors of all ages. The park is named after Henry Schmidt, a local resident who served as a member of the Santa Clara City Council for many years.

13. Jamison-Brown House

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The Jamison-Brown House is a historic landmark located in Santa Clara, California. The house was built in 1866 by James A. Forbes, who was one of the area’s earliest settlers. In 1873, the house was sold to Benjamin and Mary Jamison, who lived there for nearly 20 years.

14. De Saisset Museum

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The De Saisset Museum is a small art museum located on the campus of Santa Clara University in Santa Clara, California. The museum is named after Isabel De Saisset, who bequeathed her estate to the university in 1955 in memory of her brother, Ernest. The museum features a collection of over 12,000 objects, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The collection includes works by well-known artists such as Edward Weston, Ansel Adams, and Diego Rivera, as well as numerous pieces by lesser-known artists.

15. Montague Park

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Montague Park is a public park located in Santa Clara, California, that offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities for visitors of all ages. The park is named after the nearby Montague Expressway, which is a major thoroughfare in the area. The park features a variety of amenities, including several sports fields, a playground, and picnic areas. There are also walking paths and trails that wind through the park, providing a scenic and peaceful setting for visitors to enjoy.

Santa Clara is a diverse and dynamic city that offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors. From amusement parks to museums, natural areas to shopping districts, there’s something for everyone in this exciting and innovative city. Whether you’re interested in history, technology, nature, or culture, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Santa Clara.