Tucked in the heart of Silicon Valley, the city of Santa Clara is so much more than tech headquarters and office parks. With its mix of historic missions, green open spaces, and cutting-edge exhibits, this city offers a unique blend of past and present—perfect for a day of exploration or a weekend getaway. Here’s a journey through Santa Clara CA’s charms, followed by five standout destinations you shouldn’t miss.
Santa Clara California was founded as one of the Spanish missions in California (Mission Santa Clara de Asís), and today the city carries forward that legacy of renewal and community even as it embraces innovation and nature. Whether you’re wandering through a quiet native-plant preserve, picnicking in a spacious urban park, or visiting a museum that charts the evolution of computing power, Santa Clara offers something for nearly every interest.
Mission Gardens
Address: 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95053
Phone: (408) 554-4000 (Santa Clara University Grounds Office)
Nestled within the scenic campus of Santa Clara University, Mission Gardens is a tranquil oasis that captures the area’s Spanish mission heritage. Visitors can stroll through beautifully landscaped grounds filled with fountains, flowering plants, and shaded walkways. It’s a reflective space where history, architecture, and nature meet — offering peace and perspective amid the hum of Silicon Valley.
Why Visit:
Perfect for a quiet walk or a moment of reflection after exploring nearby Mission Santa Clara de Asís.
Ulistac Natural Area
Address: 4901 Lick Mill Blvd., Santa Clara, CA 95054
Phone: (408) 615-3140 (City of Santa Clara Parks & Recreation)
Ulistac Natural Area is Santa Clara’s ecological gem — a 40-acre preserve dedicated to restoring native California habitats. Featuring oak woodlands, grasslands, and riparian areas, this open space provides sanctuary to local wildlife and a refreshing retreat for visitors. The area is maintained by volunteers and showcases California’s natural beauty as it existed before urbanization.
Why Visit:
A must for birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone who wants to experience genuine native California landscapes within city limits.
Central Park
Address: 909 Kiely Blvd., Santa Clara, CA 95051
Phone: (408) 615-3140
Santa Clara’s Central Park is a sprawling 52-acre community park filled with green lawns, shaded picnic areas, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a picturesque pond. It’s a beloved gathering place for families, joggers, and eventgoers. The park also hosts the Community Recreation Center and the Central Park Library, making it a true civic hub.
Why Visit:
An ideal spot to relax, have a picnic, or enjoy outdoor recreation. A local favorite for weekend afternoons.
Intel Museum
Address: 2200 Mission College Blvd., Santa Clara, CA 95054
Phone: (408) 765-5050
Dive into the story of Silicon Valley’s most influential company at the Intel Museum. This engaging and educational museum walks visitors through the history of microprocessors, semiconductor innovation, and how computers transformed the modern world. Interactive exhibits make it enjoyable for both adults and children, offering a rare peek behind the technology that powers our lives.
Why Visit:
A fascinating look at how ideas born in Santa Clara changed global technology. Admission is typically free, making it a great value stop.
Winchester Mystery House
Address: 525 S Winchester Blvd., San Jose, CA 95128
Phone: (408) 247-2000
Just minutes from Santa Clara, the Winchester Mystery House is one of California’s most curious attractions. Built by Sarah Winchester, the widow of a firearms magnate, this sprawling Victorian mansion is famous for its maze-like design, staircases leading to nowhere, and hidden doors. The result is both eerie and awe-inspiring — a glimpse into one woman’s eccentric vision and legacy.
Why Visit:
An unforgettable architectural and historical experience filled with mystery, legend, and a touch of the supernatural.
Click here to read more about the best restaurants in Santa Clara.