DOWNTOWN. The Children's Museum, a contemporary structure whose purple façade is fairly easy to spot, was designed with three concepts in mind: Community, Connections, and Creativity. Indeed, kids ­ and their parents ­ are invited to participate in various interactive exhibits, ranging from technology to the arts. Many of the patrons' favorite exhibit is "WaterWays," an exhibit that teaches about the properties of water and includes a working canal system.

DOWNTOWN. This open-air museum focuses on the history of the city and the Valley. Within its approximately 25 acres are a replica of San Jose's original Main Street, a fire station, and an old-fashioned ice-cream parlor. You can also visit a hotel, print shop, doctor's office, blacksmith, and one-room schoolhouse. In addition, the campus boasts an exhibit gallery and hosts several special events throughout the year.

The Intel Museum, despite its modest size, is an interesting place for adults and children of all ages. At this museum, you can learn a little about the history of both the Intel Corporation and Silicon Valley as a whole, including an interesting exhibit that explains the genesis of a computer chip. The museum store is located across from the museum and carries a nice selection of souvenirs and gift items.

The Center for Beethoven Studies finds its home on the campus of San Jose State University. If you are an aficionado of classical music, especially that of the great German composer, then this museum is a definite "must see." Included in the collection are early editions of his music, memorabilia, and original manuscripts.

DOWNTOWN. A museum dedicated to folk art from the Americas' native cultures is located in San Jose's Inca Gardens Restaurant. This museum is noteworthy for its beautiful collection of clothing, jewelry, musical instruments, and toys. Machu Picchu and the Museum of the Americas's store is a great place to find exquisite craft-items, books, and gift items. The museum also hosts music nights that feature, for example, Andean folk music.