If you’re visiting Silicon Valley, I highly recommend spending time in Sunnyvale—it’s where tech innovation meets that laid-back California lifestyle. When I’m here, I love how I can go from a business meeting to a sunny park picnic or grab amazing global eats all in one day. Whether you're biking around, exploring with family, or just soaking in the sunshine, I think you’ll find Sunnyvale checks a lot of boxes.
Best Time to Visit
Honestly, you can’t go wrong any time of year thanks to Sunnyvale’s mellow Mediterranean climate. But if I had to pick favorites, I’d say spring and fall—March to May and September to November—feel especially nice. I’ve enjoyed patio brunches, light hikes, and evening strolls through the parks without ever needing more than a light jacket.
How to Get There
- By Car: I usually drive in via US-101 or I-280. It’s about 45 minutes from San Francisco or 20 from San Jose, depending on traffic. If you’re used to Bay Area roads, it’s a smooth trip.
- By Train: I’ve taken Caltrain straight into downtown Sunnyvale—it’s super convenient if you’re coming from SF or nearby cities. I like being able to walk from the station to cafés and shops.
- By Plane: I usually fly into San Jose International (SJC)—it’s just 10 miles away, and I’m in Sunnyvale in no time. If flights are cheaper, San Francisco or Oakland airports work too.
Where to Stay
- The Grand Hotel – I’ve stayed here for work trips and loved the spacious suites. You’ll appreciate the breakfast spread and the pool if you’re looking to unwind a bit.
- Aloft Sunnyvale – I like this one for the modern vibe and how walkable everything is downtown. If you’re into sleek design and smart features, it’s a solid pick.
- Wild Palms, a JdV by Hyatt Hotel – I once booked this for a quick weekend escape, and it felt like a mini tropical getaway. The courtyard is great if you just want to sit outside and relax.
Top Attractions in Sunnyvale, California
Unplug and Unwind with Bay Views at Baylands Park - Expansive green space with picnic areas, trails, and marsh views near the San Francisco Bay.
Step Into the Stories That Built Sunnyvale at Heritage Park Museum - Learn about the city's agricultural and tech roots in a restored historical home.
Climb Higher, Move Stronger at Movement Sunnyvale -
Game, Putt, Splash - Family Fun Lives Loud at Golfland, USA -
Fuel Up on Crispy Innovation at Starbird -
Play Big, Stay Cool at Seven Seas Park -
Tee Off with a Local Twist at Sunnyvale Golf Course -
Savor Bold Middle Eastern Flavor at Dishdash -
If You Crave Crunch, Spice, and Street Food Soul, Then Falafel STOP Is Your Go-To -
St. John's Bar and Grill -
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Unplug and Unwind with Bay Views at Baylands Park
- • Step Into the Stories That Built Sunnyvale at Heritage Park Museum
- • Climb Higher, Move Stronger at Movement Sunnyvale
- • Game, Putt, Splash - Family Fun Lives Loud at Golfland, USA
- • Fuel Up on Crispy Innovation at Starbird
- • Play Big, Stay Cool at Seven Seas Park
- • Tee Off with a Local Twist at Sunnyvale Golf Course
- • Savor Bold Middle Eastern Flavor at Dishdash
- • If You Crave Crunch, Spice, and Street Food Soul, Then Falafel STOP Is Your Go-To
- • St. John's Bar and Grill