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Bill's Backyard: A Nature Escape in San Jose

Explore nature's playground at Bill's Backyard, an interactive outdoor exhibit at the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose.

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Bill's Backyard, located at the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose, is a half-acre outdoor learning environment designed to connect children with nature. It features a variety of engaging activities, including a tree climber, a dig pit, and a junior ranger station, providing a safe and welcoming space for exploration and discovery.

A brief summary to Bill's Backyard

Local tips

  • Pack water and snacks, though refills are available inside the museum and you can enjoy snacks in the Discovery Meadow.
  • Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes for outdoor play, and bring sunscreen and sunglasses for sunny days.
  • Consider visiting during less crowded times, such as weekday afternoons, for a more relaxed experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown San Jose, take the VTA Light Rail Alum Rock-Santa Teresa line to the Discovery Museum station. Single ride fare is $2.50. Alternatively, several County Transit bus lines stop on Almaden Boulevard near the museum.

  • Walking

    If you are near the San Jose Convention Center, Bill's Backyard is a short walk away. Head south on Almaden Boulevard, then turn left onto Woz Way. The museum will be on your right.

  • Driving

    From Highway 87, exit at Park Avenue and head east. Turn right onto Almaden Boulevard, then left onto Woz Way. Several public and private parking lots are available in the vicinity. Parking starts at $7.00, but rates may increase during high-demand days.

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Discover more about Bill's Backyard

Bill's Backyard is a unique outdoor exhibit at the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose, offering a space where children can connect with nature through hands-on exploration and play. This half-acre environment is designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills in kids. The exhibit includes several distinct areas. The Tree Climber features tall trees connected by sky bridges, allowing children to climb and see the world from a new perspective. The Dig Pit provides hours of entertainment with smooth stones for digging and scooping. The Junior Ranger Station orients children to the natural features and creatures they might encounter. There is also a Lookout Tower and Tunnel, where kids can jump, roll, and scurry like animals exploring their habitats. Bill's Backyard aims to reverse the trend of 'nature deficit disorder' by bringing nature to children in an urban setting, encouraging them to become environmental stewards. The space also includes a garden where children can help prepare soil, plant seeds, and learn about where food comes from. The exhibit is wheelchair accessible and offers multi-sensory experiences for children of varying developmental stages.

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