Address and Contact Details

201 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

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Phone: +1 408-294-8324

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Overview of the Museum

The San Jose Tech Museum, locally referred to as The Tech, aims to demonstrate how technology influences our daily lives. This mission is particularly ambitious in Silicon Valley, a hub for innovation and technology.

First established in 1978, The Tech has expanded into a significant 132,000-square-foot facility featuring permanent galleries themed around green technology, the internet, innovation, exploration, and the enhancement of daily living through technology. The museum emphasizes hands-on interaction and employs virtual technology to engage visitors effectively.

Additionally, The Tech has a gift shop offering unique tech-themed toys, while Café Primavera provides a variety of meal options for hungry visitors.

Tips for Visiting

One of the standout attractions at The Tech is the kinetic sculpture titled “Science on a Roll,” created by George Rhoads. This captivating installation, located just outside the museum’s exit, features a series of balls that roll and tumble in an entrancing display. A video showcasing this Rube Goldberg-style piece can be viewed here.

While visiting The Tech, consider utilizing the “Tech Tag,” a unique barcode on your ticket that can be scanned at specific activities. This allows you to relive interactive experiences, such as 3-D head scans or an earthquake simulation ride.

Photography is permitted, enabling you to capture memories through selfies or photos for social media. However, please note that restrictions apply in certain special exhibitions.

Museum Review

Many visitors wish to like The Tech more than their experiences allow. Despite the impressive high-tech exhibits, some drawbacks have been noted. While the interactive displays can be entertaining, frequent use leads to mechanical issues and downtime, resulting in longer waiting times for visitors. Additionally, some exhibits may appear outdated. Professionals in the tech industry may find the experience less engaging than younger audiences.

A survey of visitors revealed that 60% rated The Tech positively, while a smaller group expressed dissatisfaction.

Visiting Information

It is not necessary to make reservations for general admission to The Tech Museum. However, reservations are recommended for special exhibits and popular IMAX presentations. Plan to spend several hours exploring the museum to better appreciate the exhibits and experiences offered.

An admission fee is required. For the latest information on prices and visiting hours, check the museum’s website.

The museum tends to be busiest during weekends and holidays, with weekday mornings often filled with school groups.

The Tech Museum is conveniently located in downtown San Jose, at the intersection of Market Street and Park Avenue. Parking can be challenging to find during weekdays, although it is more accessible on weekends. Discounted parking options are available at the Second and San Carlos Street Garage and the Convention Center garage with validation.

If using public transport, The Tech is easily reachable via the VTA Light Rail. The closest stations are Convention Center Station and Paseo de San Antonio. For those traveling via Caltrain or Amtrak, disembark at San Jose Diridon Station and walk east along San Fernando Street, then turn right onto Market Street (approximately six blocks). A complimentary shuttle service operates in the mornings and afternoons on weekdays.