Bill's Backyard: A Nature Oasis for Kids
Discover a world of outdoor adventure at Bill's Backyard, where kids connect with nature through hands-on exhibits, fostering curiosity and creativity in the heart of San Jose's vibrant downtown.
Bill's Backyard, an integral part of the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose, offers a unique outdoor learning environment designed to connect children with nature. This half-acre space features a variety of engaging exhibits, including a tree climber, a lookout tower, and a digging pit, all aimed at fostering curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills. It's a place where kids can get their hands dirty, explore the natural world, and learn about where their food comes from. The space is designed to be accessible and welcoming to children of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds, making it a must-visit destination for families in the Silicon Valley area. With its focus on hands-on learning and exploration, Bill's Backyard provides a refreshing contrast to the museum's indoor exhibits, offering a balanced and enriching experience for young visitors. The exhibits feature trilingual signage: English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, reflecting the diverse community of Silicon Valley.
A brief summary to Bill's Backyard
Local tips
- Prepare for outdoor play by bringing a backpack with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and extra layers of clothing, ensuring a comfortable visit in any weather.
- Check the museum's calendar for special events and themed exhibitions to enhance your visit and discover new and exciting activities.
- Take advantage of the trilingual signage (English, Spanish, and Vietnamese) to engage with the exhibits in multiple languages and learn about the diverse community of Silicon Valley.
- Explore the surrounding Guadalupe River Park for a picnic and extended outdoor fun, making it a full day of adventure.
- Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid crowds and maximize your child's engagement with the exhibits.
Getting There
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Public Transport
For those using public transportation, the VTA Light Rail (Alum Rock-Santa Teresa line) offers a convenient option. Take the light rail to the 'Children's Discovery Museum' station, which drops you off right at the museum's doorstep. VTA bus lines also have stops on Almaden Boulevard, a short walk from the museum. A single VTA light rail or bus fare is typically around $2.50.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 180 Woz Way, San Jose, CA 95110. Several public and private parking lots are available in the vicinity. Lots on Woz Way, Auzerais Street, and Almaden Boulevard are within easy walking distance. Parking rates generally start at $7.00, but can increase to $25 during high-demand events like FanimeCon. Check for special event parking rates in advance. Limited free parking for people with disabilities is available in the drop-off lane on the museum's west side (enter Woz Way from Almaden).
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) provide a direct route to the museum. Simply provide the driver with the address: 180 Woz Way, San Jose, CA 95110. Expect to pay between $10-$15 for a ride from most downtown San Jose locations, depending on traffic and surge pricing.
Discover more about Bill's Backyard
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