Top 15 Attractions in Campbell, California

Campbell is a city with a population of approximately 42,000, located within the renowned Silicon Valley of Santa Clara County. This suburb of San Jose is celebrated for its pleasant climate year-round and its advantageous proximity to the neighboring cities of Los Gatos and Saratoga.

The city includes an array of parks, dining establishments, cafes, and shopping venues, notably Pruneyard Shopping Center, Campbell Plaza, and Kirkwood Plaza.

Throughout the year, multiple festivals and events are hosted in Campbell, including Oktoberfest, Boogie: Campbell’s Music Festival, and the Downtown Campbell Festival of Lights.

Below are 15 compelling activities to engage in while visiting Campbell, California.

1. Learn About Local History at the Ainsley House

Since the early 1990s, the Ainsley House has functioned as a living history museum, welcoming numerous visitors.

This Tudor Cotswold cottage-style residence, built in 1925, was formerly the home of John Colpitts Ainsley.

Currently, this historic property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is accessible to the public on designated days of the week.

During your visit, you will have the opportunity to view rooms that reflect the original furnishings as they were when the Ainsley family resided there. Furthermore, numerous artifacts, photographs, antique furnishings, and items belonging to family members are on display. Guided tours are available.

Throughout the year, various special exhibitions are organized that focus on the lifestyle in Campbell during the early 1900s.

2. Spend an Afternoon in Campbell Park

Campbell Park serves as a community hub, offering an ideal environment for relaxation or enhancing your fitness regimen.

The park features several illuminated basketball courts, horseshoe pits, picnic areas, benches, and a playground.

Additionally, access to the Los Gatos Creek Trail is available, and restroom facilities are provided.

3. Catch a Live Performance at the Heritage Theatre

The Heritage Theatre, a historic structure in Campbell, was established in 1938. After undergoing complete refurbishment, it reopened as a performing arts venue and is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.

This theatre boasts a large stage, an orchestra pit, and seating for approximately 800 individuals. A diverse array of performances is hosted throughout the year, including concerts, musicals, theatrical plays, comedy shows, and dance performances.

4. Dine on Traditional Italian Fare at A Bellagio Italian Restaurant

Dine at A Bellagio Italian Restaurant in downtown Campbell, where patrons can enjoy a spacious and inviting atmosphere, with the option to eat outdoors on the terrace.

Offering both lunch and dinner, each dish is crafted using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients available. All meats are free from chemicals and hormones, and the vegetables are sourced organically.

The extensive menu features traditional Italian cuisine with a broad selection of appetizers, salads, pasta dishes, seafood specialties, and main courses such as pollo al carciofi, gamberi, pesce del giorno, and saltimboca alla romana.

The wine selection includes numerous Italian and domestic vintages.

5. Visit San Jose’s Municipal Rose Garden

The Municipal Rose Garden in San Jose first opened to the public in the late 1930s and has since remained a beloved attraction in the area.

This 5.5-acre botanical garden is located on what was previously a prune orchard. The site retains some original features, including a reflection pool, water fountain, arbor, and rose beds.

As you wander through the garden, you will encounter over 4,000 rose plants, representing 189 varieties, including grandifloras and floribundas.

The peak blooming season occurs in May; nevertheless, visiting anytime from April to November is recommended.

6. Wander Around the Historic Saratoga Village

The Historic Saratoga Village is actually the downtown area of nearby Saratoga. This locale presents an ideal opportunity for a leisurely exploration experience.

Visitors can meander the streets, admire the architecture, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Alternatively, one may opt to explore the charming boutiques, enjoy dining at popular restaurants, or relax with a caffeinated drink and dessert at a cozy cafe.

At the end of the main thoroughfare lies a lovely park that features a creek and serene neighborhood streets. As you explore the village, you’ll also encounter intriguing thrift stores and ice cream parlors.

7. Browse the Downtown Campbell Farmers’ Market

Almost every week, rain or shine, the Downtown Campbell Farmers’ Market is held.

This vibrant marketplace showcases a diverse selection of fresh, locally sourced fruits and vegetables sourced from farms throughout the region.

In addition, visitors can explore an array of arts and crafts, flowers, homemade baked goods, and other delights. Food and beverage vendors offer selections from local eateries and coffee shops as well.

8. Get a History Lesson at the Campbell Historical Museum

Established in 1964, the Campbell Historical Museum has been dedicated to acquiring, preserving, and showcasing items of historical and cultural significance to Campbell from the early 1800s to the present day.

The museum offers both permanent and temporary exhibits. Visitors will see various artifacts, photographs, and documents illustrating the area’s contributions to agriculture, technology, sports, and beyond.

9. Enjoy a Wine Tasting at Byington Vineyard and Winery

At Byington Vineyard and Winery, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through nearly 100 acres of picturesque vineyards, complemented by breathtaking views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, a tour of the winery, and a tasting experience.

Following the tour, guests may sample five different wines produced at the facility in the on-site tasting room. A picnic area is also available for those who wish to relax while enjoying their selections outdoors.

On designated days, visitors have the opportunity to explore the wine cave, where wine is stored in barrels 40 feet underground.

10. Visit the New Museum of Los Gatos

The New Museum of Los Gatos offers a comprehensive exploration of the history, culture, and arts of the nearby area.

Exhibitions presented on-site showcase various artifacts, photographs, and documents that have been collected and preserved over time.

The Artist’s Studio features a rotating gallery dedicated to local artists’ works. Throughout the year, various events occur at the museum, including arts and crafts classes, workshops, and interactive experiences.

11. Take a Hike Along the Limekiln Trail

The Limekiln Trail, part of the nearby Sierra Azul Open Space, is a scenic and well-maintained hiking path suitable for all levels of hikers.

This five-mile trail meanders through hillsides and wooded areas alongside a stream. As you traverse the trail, you will encounter a diverse array of plants and may even spot deer, as they are commonly found in this region.

For those seeking more than a five-mile hike, the Kennedy Trail intersects with Limekiln Trail, offering a combined distance of 14 miles.

12. Sample Local Craft Beer at Strike Brewing Co.

Strike Brewing Co. may be a smaller establishment; however, they have proven adept at producing award-winning, high-quality craft beers.

Since 2019, their taproom in Campbell has become a favored destination for tastings. Available year-round offerings include Colossus of Clout Red Ale, Pastime American Light Lager, The Wheat Spot, and Rained Out.

13. Admire Beautiful Art at the Whitney Modern Contemporary Fine Art Gallery

Located in the downtown district of nearby Los Gatos, the Whitney Modern Contemporary Fine Art Gallery endeavors to engage the public in the arts through its inspiring exhibitions, showcasing remarkable artworks from around the globe.

The displays predominantly feature contemporary works produced by both established and emerging artists.

14. Take a Well-Deserved Break at Elements Massage Campbell

Elements Massage Campbell is recognized as one of the premier massage establishments in the area. It is celebrated for delivering exceptional services that promote balance and rejuvenation at an affordable rate.

A diverse selection of massages is available, including deep tissue, Swedish, hot stone, aromatherapy, and trigger point therapies. Additionally, services such as Himalayan salt stone rejuvenation are customized to meet individual client needs.

15. Take a Fun and Historic Ride on the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad

In nearby Los Gatos, individuals of all ages can partake in a memorable ride on the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad.

This authentic and historic steam engine has been providing scenic journeys around Oak Meadows Park and Vasona Park since the late 1960s. Appreciate the picturesque landscapes of both parks as you embark on this unique and engaging adventure.

Accompanying facilities include eateries, retail shops, and a historic carousel that boasts over a century of existence.