BioDesign Studio: Where Biology Meets Imagination
Explore the intersection of art and science at BioDesign Studio in San Jose, a unique exhibit showcasing innovative bio-design concepts and hands-on activities for all ages at The Tech Interactive.
The BioDesign Studio, nestled within The Tech Interactive in downtown San Jose, is an engaging exhibit that sparks curiosity and confidence in the burgeoning fields of synthetic biology and bioengineering. It's a place where visitors of all ages can explore, tinker, and design with the building blocks of life, demystifying complex scientific concepts through interactive displays and hands-on activities. From coding animal fur patterns to creating virtual lifeforms and experimenting with colorful DNA, the studio offers a unique opportunity to personally create with biology and inspire the next generation of innovators. It's more than just a museum exhibit; it's a bio-sandbox for experimentation and exploration.
A brief summary to BioDesign Studio
Local tips
- Check The Tech Interactive's website for daily schedules of demonstrations and activities in the BioTinkering Lab to make the most of your visit.
- Consider visiting during off-peak hours (weekdays or late afternoons) for a less crowded experience, especially if you plan to spend time in the interactive exhibits.
- The Tech Interactive offers parking validation at nearby garages, so be sure to bring your parking ticket for a discounted rate.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Tech Interactive, home to BioDesign Studio, is conveniently located near the VTA Convention Center light rail and bus stops. From the VTA Convention Center station, it's a short 5-minute walk to the museum. VTA local fares are around $2.50 for a single ride. Several bus lines also stop nearby. Check the VTA website for the most up-to-date schedules and routes.
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Walking
If you are already in downtown San Jose, walking to The Tech Interactive is a great option. It's located at the corner of Park Avenue and Market Street. From Plaza de Cesar Chavez, head south on Market Street for a few blocks. The museum's distinctive mango and azure building is hard to miss.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available in San Jose. A short ride from San Jose Diridon Station (Caltrain/ACE/Amtrak) to The Tech Interactive will typically cost between $10-$15, depending on traffic and demand. The drop-off point is usually right in front of the museum on Market Street.
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Driving
If driving, there are numerous parking garages and lots near The Tech Interactive. The museum offers parking validation at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center Garage (150 W. San Carlos St.) and the 2nd and San Carlos Garage (288 S. 2nd St.). Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $20-$30 for a few hours, before validation. Street parking is also available, but can be limited and metered.
Discover more about BioDesign Studio
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
San Jose Downtown Historic District
0.6 km
Explore the San Jose Downtown Historic District: A captivating blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy in California's heart.
Birthplace of A.P. Giannini - San Jose History Walk #12 Marker
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Monument to the Founders of San Jose
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Luis María Peralta Adobe
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St. James Park - San Jose History Walk Marker #23
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Trinity Cathedral
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Gonzales-Peralta Adobe & Fallon House Historic Site
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Historic Tower Hall
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San Jose City Hall
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César Chávez Monument
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Roberto Adobe & Sunol House
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El Pueblo De San José De Guadalupe Historic Site
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Ashworth-Remillard House
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Hill House
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History Park (operated by History San Jose)
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Unmissable attractions to see
Plaza de Cesar Chavez
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The Caravan Lounge
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San Jose Museum of Art
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San Jose Center for the Performing Arts
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Essential places to dine
Crepes Bistro
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Round Table Pizza
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The Hut
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Habitant
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The Cheesecake Factory
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Hungry Hound
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Fiorillo's Restaurant and Banquet Facilities
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Yuki Sushi Santa Clara
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Mio Vicino
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Homeroom
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Local Kitchens
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The Melt at Local Kitchens
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White Elephant Thai Cuisine
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Euro Grill
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Sara's Kitchen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Petite Galleria
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Moon Zooom
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Build-A-Bear Workshop
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Au La La Design
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Game Kastle (Santa Clara)
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Cartier
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Bloomingdale's
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Free People
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Christian Louboutin Santa Clara
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Westfield Valley Fair
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Montblanc
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Tiffany & Co.
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DIOR Santa Clara Valley Fair
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The North Face Westfield Valley Fair Mall
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Lush Cosmetics Valley Fair
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Normandy House
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Koja Bar
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Lobby Lounge
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Taplands
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Rocco's Ballpark
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Broncos Cocktail Lounge
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Da Silva's Bronco's Pub
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thirsty.bar
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The Sportsmen's Lounge
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Aces Icehouse
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Khartoum Lounge
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Court's Lounge
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Cardiff & Cocktails
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Coach's Sports Bar & Grill
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
NOVA Nightclub
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Miami Beach Club
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Maria's Night Club
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Red Stag Lounge
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Lily's Bar & Night Club
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JJ's Lounge
6.1 km
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Y&T
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Evolution Night Club
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Pure Nightclub
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Alberto's Night Club
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Monte Carlo Restaurant & Bar
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Coyote's Keep
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Willis Lounge
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The Mojo Lounge
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