Issue link: http://globelitetravelmarketing.uberflip.com/i/782043
84 2 0 1 7 T R A V E L G U I D E T O C A L I F O R N I A B Y L A U R A D E L R O S S O S an Jose and Silicon Valley, known worldwide for technology inno- vation, have come of age as centers for the arts, culture and attractions. Downtown San Jose's vibrant urban scene continues to grow with museums, galleries and robust dining and nightlife. San Jose Jazz, which presents more than 100 live music events annually, is one of many dynamic cultural groups. The valley has undergone a dramatic change since the mid 20 th century when farms, orchards and ranches lined what was then called Santa Clara Valley, or "The Valley of Heart's Delight." With the technology boom came the development of acres of office parks and an influx of bright, young entrepreneurs—and the new name, Silicon Valley. In the last decade, the vigorous economy led to a revitalization of cities whose residents are known more for their long workdays than nights on the town. Visitors find pedestrian-friendly burgs, such as charming Saratoga and Los Gatos, with Michelin-starred restaurants and chic shops. Mountain View's Castro Street and Palo Alto's University Avenue are hopping, and San Jose's downtown is filled with nightlife and attractions, including the Tech Museum, which pays homage to the valley's innovative spirit. During the valley's warm evenings—and there are many, with an average of 300 days a year of sunshine—visitors fill Santana Row, a chic shopping PETE NIESEN/SHUTTERSTOCK . OPPOSITE: DANIEL HARTWIG/CREATIVE COMMONS/FLICKR ; ED BIERMAN/CREATIVE COMMONS/FLICKR SAN JOSE & SILICON VALLEY TOP CITIES San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Los Gatos, Saratoga, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Los Altos INTERNATIONAL GATEWAYS San Jose International Airport (SJC), 4 miles (6 km) north of downtown San Jose San Francisco International Airport (SFO), 36 miles (58 km) north of downtown San Jose TOURISM WEBSITES sanjose.org santaclara.org smccvb.com POPULATION 1.8 million SAN JOSE & SILICON VALLEY Center for high-tech, innovation, museums and more