San Francisco Bay Area Recreation and Relaxation

Combine an exceptionally productive business trip with an incredibly relaxing vacation. Santa Clara, proclaimed as Silicon Valley Central, has golf, tennis and Paramount's Great America theme park—all within walking distance of the resort-style Santa Clara Convention Center. Within minutes, you can be relaxing on a picturesque beach, touring pastoral wine country, hiking through the scenic recreation areas or marveling at the majestic California Redwoods.

With nearly 300 days of sunshine every year, Santa Clara enjoys the best weather, and the best location that Northern California has to offer. In the heart of Silicone Valley, Santa Clara's central location between San Francisco to the north, and Monterey and Carmel to the south, makes the Capital of the Silicon Valley a gateway to adventure throughout California. Attractions abound in the Bay Area, from theme parks to museums to wineries. So, plan a few days before or after the show to experience everything this beautiful area has to offer.
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Paramount's Great America Theme Park. Northern California's largest family entertainment destination features 100 acres of thrills, including nine roller coasters. www.pgathrills.com

Intel Museum. Welcome to the world of computer chips. The museum, designed as a self-guided experience, offers hands-on exhibits and a corporate museum store. www.intel.com/go/museum

The Tech Museum of Innovation. The museum features major theme galleries packed with one-of-a-kind interactive exhibits, as well as an IMAX Dome Theatre, educational center, upscale café and retail store. www.thetech.org

The Great Mall of the Bay Area. This mall features Northern California's largest collection of manufacturer and off-price outlets, and includes a 700-seat international food court. www.greatmallbayarea.com

Mission Santa Clara de Assisi. This mission is the eighth of the 21 California missions founded in 1777 by the Franciscans. In 1851, the Jesuits opened a school on the mission site, which became Santa Clara University, the oldest institution of higher learning in California. www.scu.edu/Admissions/HistoricalTour/

Winchester Mystery House. This 160-room Victorian mansion was designed and built by Winchester rifle heiress Sarah Winchester. It is filled with architectural oddities as well as Victorian charm. www.winchestermysteryhouse.com

Wineries. Numerous wineries and vineyards are located throughout the Bay Area. Local venues include J. Lohr Winery, www.scvwga.com/JLohr; and Mirassou Winery, www.mirassou.com.

For additional information on seeing the sights while in Santa Clara, and on the city itself, visit the Santa Clara Chamber of Commerce & Convention-Visitors Bureau at www.SantaClara.org.

For information about lodging and the convention center.
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