Castle in the Air describes itself as a studio for the imagination. Walking into this store makes you feel as though you've stumbled into the pages of a fairy tale which is not so surprising once you realize that their motto is "Believe in the fantasy." And fantastic it all is. Both adults and children can find something to love here, from the fountain pens to unique crafting supplies to puppets and unique paper mache gifts. The store also offers specialty classes ranging from calligraphy to illumination to wreath making and so much more.
As the center of Silicon Valley geographically, it makes sense that San Jose would host a museum entirely devoted to technology and innovation. The Tech Museum of Innovation, lovingly referred to by locals as "The Tech," lives up to it's name with a frequently rotating roster of technology themed installations that always offers something new and interesting for tech savvy locals and tech curious out-of town visitors alike.
Best and worst time to go to the Tech
Locals crowd to the Tech on the first full weekend of every month, when Bank of America sponsors free admission to all card holders, and the venue gets packed. If you are looking for a quieter museum experience, go during summer, between June and August, when local schools aren't in session and you won't run into the otherwise frequent field trip groups.
Must see/do at the Tech
The Tech's IMAX theater is a must visit, as the IMAX experience translates brilliantly to the science and nature films often shown here. The "Earthquake Simulator" found on the first floor is a perennial favorite for Californians especially. And don't miss the "Social Robots" installation, where you can build a real robot for free.
Admission to the Tech
Admission for the museum runs in the $20 range, with an extra fee for IMAX entry. Small discounts are offered for youth and seniors, as well as AAA members and military affiliates. The Tech is a supporter of the "Open Access" policy, and no one will be turned away for lack of funds if entry fees are prohibitive. Check-in at the front desk for discount details.
Parking and public transportation to the Tech
Parking at the Tech usually isn't too hard, with the nearby San Jose Convention Center offering all day parking for $5 with validation. Another lot, located at the corner of Second and San Carlos, has the same rates. VTA lightrail also provides easy access, with the 900 and 902 trains stopping at the McEnery Convention Center less than two blocks away.
Food at the Tech
The Tech Cafe presented by Lunch with Tony, located on the ground floor level of the Tech, has a full menu of soups, salads, sandwiches, and breakfast themed a la carte items. Expect to pay around 10 dollars for an entree, with some discounted kids options. And don't miss the "made from scratch" soups if you are looking for a very impressive bowl of local goodness.
Insider tips for visitors to the Tech
The second Thursday of every month offers a 21+ "After Hours at the Tech Event" where the museum tweaks exhibits to cater to an older audience and serves cocktails. And you get into this event for free if it's the month of your birthday.
Author's bio: Cassidy Kakin is a local cyclist, writer, and entrepreneur. He is passionate about two things: exploring his city and sharing his findings with the world.
Discovered in 1939, the Mystery Spot still eludes explanation of its defiance of the rules of physics and gravity. Be prepared for mind-numbing visual and physical effects on the guided 45-minute tour. Watch objects roll uphill and have your sense of depth skewed in the unique structures. A hot spot on the must-see list for locals and tourists alike. Check their website for details and entrance information, as it varies per day and season.
The 5,800 acres park has natural and developed areas and more than 40 miles of trails and camping at Kumeyaay Lake. Other points of interest include a Visitors and Interpretive Center and amphitheater. It is also the site of the Old Mission Dam, which was built to supply water for Mission San Diego de Alcala.
The recently restored Annenberg Community Beach House has it all: historical value (it was once owned by actress Marion Davies); a pool that's accessible to the public; private party spaces; regularly rotating art exhibits; and large, bright areas used for community discussions.
Practitioners and fans of yoga, volleyball, soccer and aquatics all congregate here on a frequent basis, and with the beach only a couple of steps away, it's no wonder.
The Allied Arts Guild is a historic park area featuring beautiful gardens, shops, artists' studios and the Cafe Primavera restaurant. It is owned and operated by The Allied Arts Guild, which hosts public events and holiday celebrations throughout the year. The area is also available for weddings, receptions and other private affairs.
Formerly Grauman's Chinese Theatre, this landmark was renamed the TCL Chinese Theatre in 2011 after an acquisition by Chinese Theatre, LLC. In 2013 the main auditorium underwent extensive renovations to create the first IMAX theatre in Hollywood, and one of the largest worldwide with more than 900 seats, making it a top choice for Hollywood movie premieres. Also onsite are six other auditoriums showing first-run movies, along with the world-famous hand and footprints. It was honored as a Los Angeles Historical Landmark in 1968 and is THE place to see a movie in L.A.
Parking and public transportation at the TCL Chinese Theatre
Underground parking is available at the adjacent Hollywood & Highland complex. Validation is provided for participating shops, restaurants and the theatre, so take your ticket with you. A flat rate is charged after 10pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Check the Hollywood & Highland website for current rates. Meters are available along Hollywood Blvd. and side streets, but check signs for restrictions. Parking enforcement is strong and tickets will be given. The Metro Red Line has a stop at Hollywood & Highland.
Best and worst time go to the TCL Chinese Theatre
Nights and weekends are the most crowded, although as a top tourist attraction, there are always people out front looking at the hand and footprints. Premieres and special events will make the theatre inaccessible, although you might get a peek at the red carpet.
Admission to the TCL Chinese Theatre
Movie prices vary, with an upcharge for IMAX. 20-minute tours of the theatre are also offered. Call 323-463-9576 for availability and pricing. Walking around the hand and footprints is free.
Must see/do at the TCL Chinese Theatre
Watch an IMAX movie in the main theatre, then put your hands in the cement where Marilyn Monroe's, Steven Spielberg's and George Clooney's were!
Other places to visit near the TCL Chinese Theatre
Hollywood & Highland offers a bunch of shopping and dining options, or walk across the street to another famous theatre: the Disney-owned El Capitan. Right nearby is the 1920s Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel where you can have a cocktail at the poolside Tropicana bar or grab a burger at 25 Degrees, the hotel's diner. And of course the Walk of Fame runs all along Hollywood Blvd.
Insider tip for visitors to the TCL Chinese Theatre
Costumed characters hang out on the sidewalk outside the theatre and Hollywood & Highland complex. They're fun to take pictures with, but be prepared to pay a fee. They don't pose out of the goodness of their heart.
Author's bio: Shelley Graner is a Los Angeles native, food lover and travel writer who has visited 36 countries. She writes for various travel blogs, including her own.
