"At the Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose, kids of all ages engage their imagination through vibrant, interactive exhibits that spark creativity and curiosity. Located in a striking purple building near downtown, this award-winning museum is a hub for hands-on learning, discovery, and fun."

Recommended for

Young children & families
Explore sensory-rich exhibits, art spaces, and hands-on science activities for kids of all ages

Educators & caregivers
Discover programs and resources that support learning both at the museum and in the classroom

Creative minds
Get inspired through art, movement, theater, and the science behind everyday experiences

Local & visiting explorers
Convenient location near downtown San Jose, with connections to other family-friendly attractions

Things to See & Do

  • Wonder Cabinet: A colorful early learning zone for infants to age four, featuring art, forest-themed play, and crawl spaces
  • Art Loft & Gallery: Create your own art with a focus on the process, or admire pieces by children and professional artists alike
  • Bubbles Exhibit: Learn the science of surface tension and geometry while enjoying whimsical bubble play
  • Bill’s Backyard: An outdoor nature space for climbing, digging, and connecting with the natural world
  • Waterways: Experiment with water flow, pressure, and buoyancy in this immersive water play exhibit
  • Secrets of Circles: Discover the power of this simple shape through math, dance, engineering, and scavenger hunts
  • Streets Exhibit: Explore the built environment with role-play activities about city life, power, and transportation

Specialized Exhibits

  • Mammoth Discovery: Hands-on fossil investigations and life-size mammoth replicas highlight San Jose’s prehistoric past
  • Rainbow Market: Role-play a shopping experience while learning about healthy eating and food preparation
  • West Wing Exhibits: Rotating installations like The Amazing Castle allow kids to take on creative roles and tasks

Performing Arts

  • Brandenburg Theater & Cadence Amphitheater: Enjoy performances and programs celebrating dance, music, and global cultures
  • Cultural Festivals: Celebrate traditions from around the world with interactive events and performances

Events

  • Daily Activities: Story times, garden exploration, and creative crafts
  • Weekly Events: Sunday Matinees, family nights, and music programs
  • Special Events: Artist visits, seasonal celebrations, and community-wide programs—check the calendar for updates

Educational Programs

  • School Field Trips: Curriculum-connected experiences and hands-on activities
  • Discovery Youth Programs: Media-making, volunteering, and Summer of Service for middle and high schoolers
  • Family Science Nights: Evening science explorations for younger kids and their families
  • Special Needs Programs: Inclusive experiences tailored for learners of all abilities

Good to Know

  • Location: Just blocks from downtown San Jose and the Tech Museum of Innovation
  • Getting There: Accessible via Light Rail and bus; parking available nearby (not onsite)
  • Dining: Healthy meals and snacks available at the on-site café, the FoodShed
  • Plan Ahead: Check museum hours and events online before your visit

Map & Location

Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose, 180 Woz Way, San Jose, CA 95110 – Phone: 408-298-5437
Located near downtown San Jose, walkable to other museums and family attractions

Plan Your Trip