Though part of the high-tech corridor known as Silicon Valley, Sunnyvale hasn’t forgotten its small-town history and agricultural roots. Farmer’s markets, small wineries and fresh-food eateries define the foodie scene in Sunnydale, while parks, hiking trails and museums offer a dose of local culture.
Things to do in Sunnyvale
Sustainable farming shows itself in the farmer’s markets and at Olsen’s, where you’ll find freshly-plucked bing cherries and Blenheim apricots, as well as dried fruits, nuts, jams and fruit-based chocolates. You can also visit vineyards and wineries, such as Picchetti Winery and Naumann Vineyards, both within a 30-minute drive, or do some wine tasting in town at Grab Your Glass and Rabbit’s Foot Meadery.
If you’re travelling with children, head over to Las Palmas Park for some fun with playgrounds, picnics and barbecue pits. For hiking and birding, traverse the trails at Baylands Park or hit the Sunnyvale Bay Trail to find wetlands, wildlife, flora and fauna.
Visit the Lace Museum, dedicated to the ancient art of lacemaking, before checking out the Sunnyvale Heritage Park Museum for artefacts and photographs of the town’s past. Pick up a map in a local store and go on a city treasure hunt for more than 100 pieces of public art, including the El Paseo de Los Suenos bronze sculpture and the Metal Flowers exhibit.
Check the schedule at Sunnyvale Theater for performing arts and musical concerts and discover authentic Persian cuisine, culture and art at Chelokababi restaurant. Head over to Rooster T. Feathers Comedy Club for live comedy acts and cocktails.
Getting around Sunnyvale
Buses and light rail services make stops in Sunnyvale, while private taxis, shuttles and rideshares offer alternate transportation. You can pick up a rental car at San Jose International Airport, about a 10-minute drive from Sunnyvale.