Silicon Valley
California, CA
Once a lush valley known for its world-renowned stone fruit orchards, Silicon Valley is now the heart of global tech innovation. It’s the birthplace of many big tech companies and start-ups, most prominent among them Google, Apple, and Facebook. But there’s more to it than that: Bordered by nature preserves and bookended by the cultural hubs of San Jose and San Francisco, Silicon Valley is a wonder to explore.
The basics
More of an economic region than a physical one, Silicon Valley can be hard to define. But walking through the campuses of Stanford University and big tech companies, you know it when you see it. Learn about the rise of the tech industry—and what’s next—at the Computer History Museum and the family-friendly The Tech Interactive, or by taking a tour of the campuses themselves.
Peek behind the silicon curtain and you’ll find the region stays true to its roots. Catch big California skies and rolling hills scattered with oak trees at the area’s many parks, or visit a weekend farmers market to see the bounty the valley still provides.
Things to know before you go
Spend anywhere from a few hours to a few days exploring Silicon Valley’s towns and sights.
Silicon Valley is roughly one hour south of San Francisco, making it a popular destination for a day trip.
While you can get around on public transit, many parks and tech campuses are only accessible by car.
San Jose is the biggest city in Silicon Valley and where you’ll find the most cultural attractions, including art galleries and performance venues.
How to get there
San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC) is the closest airport servicing Silicon Valley, though many visitors fly into the nearby San Francisco or Oakland airports. The region is well connected through the Caltrain system, which runs from Morgan Hill to San Francisco, and the VTA bus and light rail system. That said, most people get around by car, including options for self-driving rideshare apps.
When to get there
Part of Silicon Valley’s appeal is its climate—mild and sunny year-round. Time your visit for spring or summer to catch farmers markets in full frenzy and annual events like the San Jose Jazz Summer Fest. Expect some drizzles if you visit between November and March; be sure to check the forecast in advance.
Why Silicon Valley is a tech haven
Silicon Valley’s rapid rise is a topic of debate and legend. Many say that it’s due to the area’s perfect positioning close to major research universities, such as Stanford, and easy access to government funding—though the climate doesn’t hurt, either. Once major legacy companies like Hewlett Packard established themselves in the area, the region started to attract top talent and accumulate wealth that funneled into start-ups.
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