Top Things to do in San Jose
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10 Things to do in San Jose That You Shouldn't Miss
Vibrant and packed with Victorian mansions, Costa Rica's rowdy, bustling capital was built on the profits of the coffee trade and working "golden bean" plantations still surround the city. Try freshly roasted local beans at Mercado Central. For shinier gold, visit the Museo del Oro. Many renovated landmarks now house stylish hotels. Usually viewed as a hub, rather than a destination, nightlife is concentrated in Spanish village-inspired El Pueblo. Don't miss the elegant 1897 National Theater.
Restaurants in San Jose
1. Teatro Nacional Costa Rica
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,540 reviews
Since 1897, this elegant theater has been a source of pride.
Reviewed By stjepkog - Gela, Italy
If You Have More then a Day - Visit the Teatro Nacional Costa Rica - It is a Beautiful Theater Built in the 19th Century - Take a Guided Tour.
2. Museo de Arte Costarricense
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 357 reviews
This museum displays works by local artists.
Reviewed By CathyPar
Although this is only small, the building itself is beautiful ( formerly the San José airport) and contains some excellent examples of Costa Rican art including several impressive sculptures in the outside exhibition area.
3. Jade Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,301 reviews
The Jade Museum and of precolumbian culture is positioned as an innovative state-of-the-art cultural proposal in the protection and conservation of archaeological heritage in Central America. Located in the center of Costa Rics's capital, the building was especially constructed to house the museum's collection, its architecture evoking a cut jade block. Its five levels exhibit objects crafted by artisans specialized in solving their daily subsistence needs, their spiritual and political world.
Reviewed By jbourgeo - Seattle, United States
This museum, also reviewed by Trip Advisor visitors under its name, Museo de Jade (ha-day), has an overwhelming collection of jade and pottery (and a few gold works) recovered from parts of Costa Rica. At first I was a bit frustrated by the volume of materials without much information, until I learned that there were supposed to be (and are) computer screens/kiosks which will tell you more; many of them were not working, but many were (I learned). In any case, soon I was immersed in the experience, as there are many informative displays, including dioramas. The "day" and "night" exhibits, and the "memories" exhibit, are stunning. I spent more time than most people (based on being "passed" many times), I was enthralled. Do allow at least a couple hours. There are quite a few activities for young people, I think it's a good family museum, overall. Spanish is of course the dominant language, but there are many signs and subtitles in English. In sum, this museum helped me realize just how complex and complete pre-Columbian Costa Rican culture was. Fascinating art and artisanry, you will make an authentic connection with these peoples.
4. Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,405 reviews
A large collection of indigenous gold art.
Reviewed By F912ZCjosem
It's an excellent option while in San Jose. In particular, during rainy days. This attraction is very affordable and will entertain you and your family for 3-5 hours. I've spent 5 hours in there, but you can make this attraction as long or as short as you want. However, it's a very interesting collection.
5. Museo de los Ninos
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 437 reviews
Reviewed By kingmodiddy - San Diego, United States
This museum blew us away it was unexpected we had some extra time in San Jose with my four-year-old son they had 2 zip lines going across the upper part of the museum as well as two suspended walkways very safe they put on harnesses attach the lines as well as helmets staff on either end of the obstacles. There was a cars movie themed area with all of the cars from the movie and lots of different rooms that showed the historical prison cells it used to be. Highly recommend
6. Parque Nacional Braulio Carrillo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 329 reviews
Reviewed By judybS8317YH - Annapolis Royal, Canada
Beautiful hike in the thick forest protected from the rain. We had rain and sun and a beautiful morning. First hike is about an hour, second one across the highway about 30 min. The friendly ranger pointed out a three toed sloth in a tree near the parking lot . Pack a lunch as there are picnic tables, bathrooms and drinking water.
7. Costa Rica's Craft Brewing Co.
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 120 reviews
We are Costa Rica's first microbrewery and we began the craft beer movement in the country. We have a Brewpub / Restaurant at the back end of our facility where we offer our world class beers, food and tours.
Reviewed By jesss821
This place is worth the drive out of San Jose, especially for the Nubes de Cas (wheat beer made with guava)!
8. Museo Nacional De Costa Rica
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,451 reviews
This 19th-century building contains a well-organized exhibits on Costa Rica's history and culture.
Reviewed By SilverTraveler2 - Castle Rock, United States
First off, children will love this museum because it's a real fort with bullet holes in the walls and all. It's just a short walk from the Gold museum and Theater. Entrance was about $7 per person and you enter the fort in the courtyard that has been turned into a tropical garden. You then ascend up a couple of levels and start the self walking tour. The museum covers it all from pre columbian history through the Spanish conquest. Wonderful exhibits that show a proud history are located throughout the museum. Another must see location.
9. Central Market (Mercado Central)
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 648 reviews
This collection of stalls and restaurants contains the country's first ice cream vendor.
Reviewed By IKI1
This market reminds me of souks in Aleppo or in old Dammam. A vibrant place to visit. It is full of small shops on narrow alleys selling almost everything. You can buy fresh fruits, meat, fish, clothing, haberdashhery, spices and of course Costa Rican Coffee. We bought Tarazzu and Copacolillo coffee beans from Cafe Centrale, a large shop that sells all kinds of coffee beans and also has a coffee bar. It is closed on Sundays.
10. Parque La Sabana
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,106 reviews
The city's largest park.
Reviewed By JPL320 - San Jose, Costa Rica
I live close to Parque la Sabana--and walk my dog there just about every morning. It is a well maintained urban park, with excellent security. We have not had a problem--for years--there are guards and police on foot, bikes, etc. We like it mucho.
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