The best things to do in Santa Clara County

“Nestled atop the Milpitas hills, Bay View Golf Club pairs an 18-hole par-72 challenge with ridiculous Bay panoramas. Sneak in a round, tune up with Bay View Academy, or just post up on the patio at The Restaurant at Bay View for Chef Kreg’s grill favorites and sunset therapy.”

From the Milpitas newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Looking for a place where your short game and your weekend plans both improve? La Rinconada Country Club pairs a high-caliber course and state-of-the-art practice facility with resort-style perks like a pool, open-air fitness and yoga, junior programs, and elegant event spaces for real-life milestones.”

From the San Jose newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing a silky drive, a solid backhand, laps that clear your head, or a dinner that feels like a reward, Los Altos Golf & Country Club serves up championship golf, racquets, aquatics, wellness, and lively social dining since 1923. Consider it Silicon Valley’s classic reset button this week.”

From the Cupertino newsletter, October 9, 2026

“Gilroy Rodeo keeps Western heritage alive with CCPRA Buckin Bash action, junior and ranch events, and an Exceptional Kids Rodeo. It always lands the second full weekend in August, so hop on their site this week to get involved as a volunteer, sponsor or vendor.”

From the Hollister newsletter, October 4, 2026

“Just over in Gilroy’s oak-studded foothills, Eagle Ridge Golf Club is a championship 18-hole track open to the public, with generous fairways, multi-tiered greens and natural water features. Great for daily play, friendly competition through their clubs, or a full-on tournament if your crew gets serious.”

From the Watsonville newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Got an hour to spare? Gavilan College Golf Course is a laid-back, beginner-friendly 9-hole, par-31 track in Gilroy where you can walk, groove your swing on a full driving range, and tackle everything from a 90-yard pond carry to a 350-yard tree-lined finisher.”

From the Hollister newsletter, August 28, 2026

“San Jose Municipal Golf Course is a classic William P. Bell 18 that blends rolling fairways with sneaky-fast greens, plus a driving range for tune-ups. Play a round, take a lesson if your slice needs therapy, then refuel on the patio at Muni Bar & Grill...”

From the San Jose newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Jack Nicklaus designed across rolling South Bay hills, Coyote Creek Golf Club delivers 36 holes on the Valley and Tournament courses, a layout that rewards smart swings and good company. Play a round, then grab a draft and a bite at 12 Mile Station.”

From the Morgan Hill newsletter, October 5, 2026

“Happy Hollow Park & Zoo mixes pint-sized rides, a charming puppet theater and real-deal animal moments, including Twix the red panda, plus hands-on education programs that turn curiosity into giggles. Low-stress, high-smile San Jose staple when you need an easy kid win this week.”

From the San Jose newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Golfland San Jose is the low-lift pick-me-up for any weeknight, serving award-winning mini golf backed by over 70 years of family-fun know-how. Round up the crew, trade playful trash talk, and chase that deeply satisfying plunk when your last putt disappears.”

From the San Jose newsletter, October 7, 2026

“Los Altos Community Mural by Cameron Moberg, an Arts Los Altos project, turns an everyday pass through into a bright pause. Swing by this week, soak up the color and community, then get back to your to do list feeling oddly lighter. Check it out.”

From the Palo Alto newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Mural: Be The Change by Cameron Moberg is one of Arts Los Altos’ curated public art pieces bringing fresh energy to our everyday routes. Do a quick micro art walk this week, sip something caffeinated, and let the vibrant palette nudge your brain into a better mood.”

From the Mountain View newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Step out for the 200 Main Street Mural, a vibrant Arts Los Altos piece by Martha Sakellariou that turns an everyday corner into a mood-lifting burst of color and pattern. Perfect for a midweek stroll, quick photo, or just remembering why the Peninsula stays inspiring.”

From the Mountain View newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Whether you're grooving pre-round or escaping the fog, Sandbaggers Golf Spot pairs Foresight Sports simulators with a roomy putting green and league vibes that actually feel friendly.”

From the San Jose newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Take five with Mural Welcome to Redwood Grove by Jorge Juarez, a nature-loving Arts Los Altos installation that sneaks a little calm and a lot of color into your day. Swing by on your next coffee run and call it culture, no spreadsheet required.”

From the Mountain View newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Mural You Are Here. You Are There. by Jose Di Gregorio is part of Arts Los Altos' curated public art that connects neighbors and local businesses, sparks imagination, and strengthens Los Altos' cultural identity.”

From the Menlo Park newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Swap screen time for an adrenaline tune-up this week at K1 Speed Santa Clara, where electric karts hit nearly 45 mph on a grippy indoor track, then cool down with arcade battles and pizza, burgers, or wings at the Paddock Lounge.”

From the Santa Clara newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Swing by CineLux Morgan Hill for fresh releases plus curated picks, Flashback Cinema, and those occasional operas you swear you’ll get into, all with local beer, wine, cocktails, and solid snacks. Perfect for a quick Gilroy escape that still feels local.”

From the Morgan Hill newsletter, September 19, 2026

“California Theatre blends 1927 movie-palace opulence with modern production tech, so shows actually look and sound sharp. It regularly hosts Opera San Jose, Symphony San Jose and more, and you can even rent it for weddings or special events when you want your big night to feel cinematic.”

From the Santa Clara newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Indoor trampoline center featuring an open jump arena, a foam cube pit, dodgeball & basketball.”

“South Bay Shores is the easy way to cool off close to home this week, with splashy slides, kid-friendly soak zones, and sunny hangout vibes. Call it a mini-vacation you can squeeze between errands, because sometimes you just need water and zero decisions.”

From the Santa Clara newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Vast marshland with 15 mi. of trails for walking, running & biking, plus bird-watching & kayaking.”

“This renovated 1915 Art Deco-style cinema offers 2 screens with state-of-the-art digital facilities.”

“Sprawling entertainment venue with a high-tech driving range & swanky lounge with drinks & games.”

“Sunnyvale Municipal Golf Course brings a classic 18-hole layout that blends relaxing scenery with just-enough challenge, plus a legit pro shop and a clubhouse restaurant for the post-round debrief. Book a tee time, chase a personal best, then brag to your group chat.”

From the Sunnyvale newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Whether your short game needs love or you just want to linger over a meal with a view, Boulder Ridge Golf Club delivers. Pristine 18-hole course, San Jose’s sun-soaked hills, an outdoor dining patio, and a spacious pavilion for reconnecting with the crew make it an easy local escape.”

From the San Jose newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Dial in your swing at Santa Teresa Golf Club on the driving range, then sneak in the 9-hole Short Course or book a lesson if the slice is winning. Solid instruction, a friendly vibe, and an on-site bar and grill mean you can make a proper afternoon of it.”

From the San Jose newsletter, September 24, 2026

“Golfland USA brings easy wins for a midweek reset with two challenging mini golf courses, a huge video game arcade, and a delicious snack bar. Water slides and a splash pad are open for the summer, so gather the crew and let friendly competition decide who grabs snacks.”

From the Cupertino newsletter, October 3, 2026

“West Wind Capitol Drive-In keeps the retro magic alive with first-run movies on a giant outdoor screen, with audio coming through your car’s FM radio. Load up the crew, snag popcorn from the concession stand, crack the windows, and call it the easiest weeknight plan you’ll actually look forward to.”

From the Los Banos newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Remember what movies feel like on a towering screen with a packed crowd this week. Stanford Theatre is running its Summer Film Festival, including a Marilyn Monroe at 100 celebration, in a historic 1925 theatre that nails Golden Age vibes... plus that glorious Wurlitzer Organ for extra sparkle.”

From the Palo Alto newsletter, October 9, 2026

“Step onto a real studio set with a live host at Great Big Game Show San Jose in Valley Fair this week, where rotating mini-games mix trivia, speed tests, foam-blaster chaos, and giant-block stacking into joyful mayhem, perfect for team outings, birthdays, or a just-because night with friends.”

From the Santa Clara newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Theater complex with multiple screens, all-stadium seating & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Dial in your swing at the golf academy, play nine or the full 27, then park it on the patio for post-round bites. Cinnabar Hills Golf Club nails the local trifecta of practice, play, and hangout, with a handy pro shop, making it an easy nearby go-to when the golf itch hits.”

From the Morgan Hill newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Need an easy plan this week? Memorial Park Amphitheater delivers summer concerts, Shakespeare in the park, and other cultural happenings you can enjoy with a picnic blanket, a friend, and that neighbor who inexplicably knows every chorus.”

From the Cupertino newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course is a friendly, playable track with quick online check-in, lessons that actually help, and even Foot Golf when you want to mix it up. Solid for juniors and league players too, plus tournaments and camps keep the calendar interesting for your crew.”

From the Ceres newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Need an easy weeknight win with the kids or your competitive coworkers? Golfland has mini golf, a big arcade, bumper cars, laser tag, a sneaky Lazer Maze, and summer water slides with a splash pad, plus snacks for the rematch... perfect when you want low-stress, high fun close to home.”

From the Milpitas newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Round1 Bowling & Arcade is the all-ages spot for chasing high scores, rolling strikes, belting off-key bangers, and grabbing a drink while friends battle it out at billiards. Easy choice for parties or those nights when you need a quick plan that actually gets everyone off the couch.”

From the San Rafael newsletter, September 26, 2026

“CineLux Plaza Theatre brings first-run flicks to a relaxed, neighborhood vibe, with a legit café and lounge pouring local beers, wine, and cocktails. Grab a curated pick or a Flashback Cinema favorite and turn this week’s screen time into actual fun.”

From the Campbell newsletter, October 7, 2026

“CineLux Almaden Café & Lounge is Willow Glen’s easy choice when you want luxury seating, a full café pouring beer, wine, and cocktails, plus actually good burgers and sliders. They mix big releases with indies, so it’s a legit date night or low-key Tuesday unwind without leaving the neighborhood.”

From the San Jose newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Museum & community hub featuring art & history exhibits, plus studio space for workshops & training.”

“Aces Icehouse at Pruneridge Golf Club is the neighborhood hang where classic comfort meets a proper pour. Swing by this week for the famous smoked Tri Tip sandwich, cocktails from the full bar, twelve beers on tap, and easygoing vibes that make post range bites or after work catchups feel actually planned.”

From the Santa Clara newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Take a few minutes this week to stroll by Mural California Birds, a public art piece from Arts Los Altos that celebrates our feathered neighbors and environmental stewardship. It’s the kind of thoughtful public art that turns a coffee run into a moment of calm and hometown pride.”

From the Mountain View newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Stanford Visitor Center has guided campus tours and virtual programs that make even longtime locals notice the gardens, architecture, and 12 art walks in a new light. Slip in for a weekday wander, or register and let student guides share those can’t-miss stories.”

From the Palo Alto newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Bowlmor Cupertino is your local upgrade on bowling night, with 32 slick lanes, an action-packed arcade, and a legit sports bar for food and drinks that make it a full evening. Book a lane, rally the crew, maybe sneak in bocce, then defend your crown next week.”

From the Cupertino newsletter, September 23, 2026

“Hidden behind Hangar 1, The Golf Club At Moffett Field pairs an approachable 18-hole track and solid practice range with Hangar 4 Grill & Brew, so you can chase birdies then burgers. Mountain and Bay views, smooth poa greens, and the occasional cool runway cameo make weekday rounds feel like a mini escape.”

From the Sunnyvale newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Los Lagos Golf Course serves up an 18-hole layout, a legit driving range for dialing in, lessons when the slice shows up, a well-stocked pro shop, and a restaurant to debrief. Bonus, it is a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, so your birdies come with actual birds.”

From the Los Banos newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Known as America’s Best Rose Garden, Municipal Rose Garden packs thousands of roses across five and a half acres, with nearly 200 varieties around a central fountain and rolling lawns. Perfect for a quick reset, slow walks, and photo ops when you need easy beauty close to home.”

From the Santa Clara newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Deep Cliff Golf Course is Cupertino’s easygoing 18-hole hang where you can sneak in a round after work, tune up at the practice facilities, and wrap it up at DC Taphouse. Leagues, lessons, and occasional night golf keep things interesting if your slice needs a distraction.”

From the Cupertino newsletter, September 30, 2026

“Urban Putt San Jose turns date night into sci-fi fun with an 18-hole, San Jose-inspired course starring a crashed UFO and other delightfully weird obstacles. Stick around for shareable bites, pizzas by San Jose chef Chad Ferry, and inventive cocktails you can take onto the course for maximum putt joy.”

From the Santa Clara newsletter, October 4, 2026

“If you're ready to level up your weekly rounds, Almaden Golf & Country Club is a private, member-owned spot in Almaden Valley with an 18-hole championship course framed by the Santa Cruz Mountains. Clubhouse energy, tennis, a swimming pavilion, a fitness center, and a pro shop keep the good rounds rolling.”

From the Salinas newsletter, September 28, 2026

“Whether you’ve got time for an after work quick nine or just want to groove on the covered and lighted double deck range, Pruneridge Golf Club keeps the reps coming rain or shine. Grab a lesson with their video powered coaches, get custom fit, then celebrate at Aces Icehouse, the on site restaurant and bar.”

From the Santa Clara newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Spring Valley Golf Course threads 18 scenic holes through the Milpitas foothills, away from traffic, mixing picturesque par 3s, doglegs, tough 4s, and gettable 5s with water and sand to keep you honest. The newly expanded driving range, reconfigured putting green, and short-game area make this week’s practice fun.”

From the Milpitas newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Landmark's Aquarius Theatre is the rare spot where indie and foreign films meet cushy leather seats, one auditorium with recliners, and grown up concessions like beer, wine, sweet potato fries, 8" pepperoni pizza, and classic hot dogs, perfect when you want something smarter than the usual blockbuster night.”

From the Palo Alto newsletter, September 26, 2026