San Jose is the country’s capital and largest city in Costa Rica. It draws people from all over the world to experience its
From historical museums to bustling city streets, San Jose has something for everyone. You can shop like a local at daily markets, drink the nation’s most popular coffee, and experience live music and rowdy nightlife.
San Jose is close to numerous iconic outdoor sites, including waterfalls, rainforests, and volcanoes. Most of these destinations are an easy trek in the car, making San Jose a hub for tourists worldwide.
Exploring Costa Rica’s largest city is sure to be filled with memories you’ll never forget. This post contains all the best things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica.
Keep reading to learn the best and most fun things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica. Whether you’re searching for the top things to do in San Jose or cool San Jose tourist attractions, this post has everything you’ll need to create the Costa Rican trip of a lifetime.
National Theater of Costa Rica
The National Theater has been a source of pride for over 120 years in Costa Rica. Since its inception in 1897, people have traveled from all over the country and world to witness the spectacular architecture of this iconic landmark and celebrate San Jose’s history.
You’ll have the option of an English or Spanish-speaking guided tour to fully immerse yourself in the culture and history of the theater. Explore the exquisite interior and lavish decor that was heavily influenced by the Spanish and French cultures of the time period.
If you want to experience a live show, the theater has afternoon and evening performances several days a week, primarily on the weekends. You’ll witness shows filled with aerialists, dance, juggling, and more.
Performances include Henrietta the Musical, which provides tourists with an accurate depiction of life in Costa Rica in the 1940s.
Other musical performances include sounds by the Heredia Symphony Orchestra, local musicians, and the Costa Rican concert band ensemble. Check out the National Theater performance schedule here.
While at the National Theatre, stop at the Alma de Café for a cup of delicious, classic Costa Rican coffee. You can also enjoy fresh bread and handmade artisan pastries.
The theater is one of the coolest things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica, for its history and entertainment. The National Theater is open from 9 am to 5 pm. Guided tours are around $5.50 for visitors. Children under 12 can visit for free. Plan your visit here.
Arenal Volcano
The Arenal Volcano is a resting volcano located about 56 miles (90 km) northwest of San Jose in La Fortuna, Alajuela Province, El Castillo. This larger-than-life volcano is about 5,358 feet high and is estimated to be less than 7,500 years old.
Also known as “Volcan Costa Rica” and “Guatusos Peak,” the volcano has been dormant since 2010. It’s one of the more popular Costa Rican tourist attractions because of its surrounding jungle and many enjoyable activities. If you are visiting San Jose and planning any day trips, the Arenal Volcano should be at the top of your list.
Visitors can access views of the volcano from the Arenal Volcano National Park. The park is filled with walking trails that can be explored on days when volcano activity is considered safe. You’ll be able to see Lake Arenal, which supplies 12% of Costa Rica’s hydroelectric energy and is the largest lake in Costa Rica.
If you love to fish, Lake Arenal is a fantastic spot to catch a bite. Rainbow bass inhabits Lake Arenal, so if you’re feeling lucky, cast out while you’re there. You can also see the lake by boat tour, kayaking, sailboarding, and windsurfing.
As you explore the national park and its surroundings, keep an eye out for some interesting wildlife on the hiking trails, including deer, tapir, howler, and white-faced monkeys, snakes, parrots, and orioles.
Because of its distance from San Jose, a guided tour is the ideal way to experience Arenal Volcano with locals who know the history and activity of the region. Explore the Arenal volcano, zip lining, and hot springs on this day tour. It’s one of the top attractions in San Jose, Costa Rica, and should definitely be on your travel itinerary.
La Sabana Metropolitan Park
La Sabana Park (Parque la Sabana) is the largest park in San Jose and takes a place of pride in the city often referred to as La Sabana “the lungs of San Jose.”
Located in downtown San Jose along the Avenue of the Americas, La Sabana Park is a breath of fresh air in a very busy city. You’ll find the beautiful National Stadium at one end of the park. There are many sports fields and paths for walking, running, or biking. The park is home to baseball and soccer fields, tennis courts, skate tracks, and cycle paths.
Many local families spend time together at this public park. You’ll see a lovely wooden sculpture garden on the walking path, with interesting sculptures of wooden birds to admire during your stroll.
There’s a small lake to enjoy with the option to rent paddle boats to spend some time on the water. If you’re looking for a space to spend the afternoon, there is a BBQ area with picnic tables.
La Sabana Park was the site of the country’s first international airport; La Sabana International Airport functioned for 44 years until the opening of the current Juan Santamaria International Airport.
We recommend taking a San Jose city tour at night that will guide you through various tourist attractions in the city, including La Sabana Metropolitan Park. Book it here.
La Sabana Park is a great place to spend the afternoon for a fun, free activity in San Jose, Costa Rica. If you’re looking for a convenient hotel near downtown San Jose and a quick drive to Sabana Park, check out the Holiday Inn.
Central Market
For a taste of Costa Rican city culture and local cuisine, the Central Market (Mercado Central) is the best place to be. Central Market began in 1880 and is one of the oldest landmarks in Costa Rica.
It’s located in downtown San Jose and can be easily accessible by foot if you’re staying close by. If you need a ride, take a taxi or an Uber. There’s limited parking nearby, so plan to walk or get dropped off for the best experience.
You’ll find fresh fish, fruits and vegetables, meats, and many other foods at the Central Market. Browse the stalls and shop for traditional herbal medicines, coffee, and local fruits like guanabana and juicy mangoes.
Try some of the famous Costa Rican coffee at the Central Market, with many stalls offering samples, so you can find your favorite blend.
If you want an authentic meal in San Jose, the Mercado Central food vendors provide a tasty experience for just a few bucks. Try the Gallo pinto (Costa Rican rice and beans), carne en sala (steak with sauce), and tortillas at Soda Tala.
Other food vendors sell fresh ceviche, ice cream, smoothies, sandwiches, and much more. You can easily enjoy several meals and snacks at the Central Market.
The Central Market is open Monday through Saturday from 6:30 am to 6 pm. If you’d like to experience the Central Market from a local perspective, try this guided tour.
National Museum of Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s history is widely celebrated and explored at the National Museum in San Jose. The museum opened in 1887 to deposit, classify and study natural and artistic products. Since its inception, the National Museum of Costa Rica has advocated for scientific research, education, exhibition, and preservation of the nation’s culture and heritage.
You’ll learn about the history of Costa Rica beginning in the 16th century. Discover noteworthy events in science, politics, health, agriculture, and education and how they affected Costa Ricans’ lives and shaped their society.
In the Memories in Stone exhibit, you’ll see fascinating stone sculptures made by the civilizations that inhabited the Costa Rican territory thousands of years ago.
Visit the House of Commanders, a room that exhibits the architectural heritage and beauty of San José. Note how the unique window frames, floors, and hardware show different styles, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Eclectic.
While touring the National Museum, you can’t miss the stunning butterfly garden. It’s one of the first exhibits you can tour and features 14 species of butterflies, along with various nectar-producing plants.
Tour the historic Bellavista barracks that acted as a training base for Costa Rican military recruits and a warehouse for army weapons.
The National Museum of Costa Rica is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, and Sunday from 9 am to 4:30 pm. Tickets are $11, and children under 12 get in free. Plan your museum visit here.
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
Located at the Plaza de la Cultura, the Gold Museum is one of San Jose’s top attractions for its enthralling history.
The Gold Museum features one of the largest collections of gold artifacts in Latin America — some items on display are more than 1,500 years old. These artifacts tell the story of the ancient tribes and civilizations that inhabited the country centuries ago.
At the museum, you’ll see Costa Rica’s first coin, Media Escudo, from the 1800s. Additionally, many statues, religious icons, animal figurines, and other Pre-Columbian artifacts represent the culture and time period.
Be sure to explore the permanent exhibit, the History of Currency in Costa Rica, which displays nearly 300 objects that depict the economic history of Costa Rica from pre-Columbian times to the present.
Discover how social and economic climates affected the artifacts of various periods in historical pre-Columbian Costa Rica and gain a unique glimpse at the evolution of a culture over time.
The Gold Museum has over 600 ancient artifacts on display and is a great way to spend a few hours in San Jose. It’s easily one of the most historic places to visit in San Jose. The Gold Museum is open Monday through Sunday from 9:15 am to 5 pm. Plan your visit here.
Barrio Escalante
The San Jose neighborhood, Barrio Escalante, has transformed the city’s local food scene and welcomes tourists and locals alike to experience the vast array of flavors of Costa Rica. Experience San Jose like the locals do by exploring Barrio Escalante several times during your trip.
The farmer’s market in Barrio Escalante, Feria Verde de Aranjuez, is filled with fresh fruits, veggies, coffee, kombucha, chocolate, and much more. While chatting with local farmers and vendors, you’ll taste some of Costa Rica’s delicious fresh herbs and produce. Browse Costa Rican art and buy handmade gifts for friends and family back home.
Popular restaurants and eateries in Barrio Escalante include Faqra, Olio, Arbol de Seda, and Al Mercat. Take a break with a refreshing craft beer at Wilk or Costa Rica Beer Factory. Grab a burger at Apotecario, Ramen at Ramenezco, and sandwiches at El Mosaico.
For breakfast and lunch, try Franco, Cafeoteca, and Cafe Barrio. If your sweet tooth is kicking in, don’t miss Dolce Gelato for a creamy treat. Neon Ice is an eclectic nighttime spot for adult slushies and other boozy treats.
Barrio Escalante is one of the most popular neighborhoods in San Jose, and its food scene is off the charts.
Whether you’re looking for authentic Costa Rican cuisine or food from around the world, you’re sure to find something close to it at one of the many spots in the Barrio Escalante neighborhood.
If you are able, visit more than once during your visit so you can experience all this cultural neighborhood has to offer.
Costa Rica Beer Factory
Looking to wet your whistle after exploring San Jose? Sample incredible local craft beer in San Jose at the Costa Rica Beer Factory.
Located in the heart of Barrio Escalante, Costa Rica Beer Factory’s building is over 100 years old and is a local favorite for service, experience, and authenticity.
The establishment is known for its great food, passion for service, and tasty craft beer. Popular beers include the Famous Escalante Red Ale, Dota Apple Beer, Puerto Viejo Sweet Stout, and Tortuguero IPA.
With an in-house brewery, the Beer Factory releases seasonal beers to provide variety and innovation for customers. These particular beers can be found throughout the country and in all Costa Rican supermarkets.
As for food, you’ll be blown away by their menu, featuring elevated bar food, including nachos, massive burgers, pizza, empanadas, and much more. You certainly won’t leave hungry! Enjoy it all from the bar indoors or the quaint patio where you can people-watch and enjoy the perfect weather.
To get a taste of local beer and meet some awesome locals, explore the beer factory here.
Manuel Antonio National Park
If you have a day or two to make the 3-hour trek to Manuel Antonio National Park, it’s definitely worth the trip. Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most popular parks, and you will soon see why!
The park is home to a complex trail system, allowing visitors to explore the hiking trails all over the park. As you hike in the rainforest, you’ll see a wide array of animals and creatures, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, iguanas, squirrel monkeys, and colorful crabs.
On the charming beaches, you can relax in the sand and enjoy the stunning views or take a dip in the ocean. Explore Playa Manuel Antonio, the picturesque half-mile-long, white sand crescent bisecting deep green foliage to one side and a secluded cove to the other.
With views like these, it’s easy to feel like you are thousands of miles from civilization, and that’s part of the appeal of Manuel Antonio National Park.
The national park is located near a butterfly garden and research lab, which preserves the 25 species in Costa Rica while educating visitors on the life cycle of butterflies. Learn more about the butterfly garden here.
Visitors can schedule day and night tours of the park to experience its wonder and beauty through the eyes of a local guide. Manuel Antonio National Park is open every day of the week except Tuesdays. Enjoy the white sand beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park on this highly-rated day trip.
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
Located about 28 miles north of San Jose, La Paz Waterfall Gardens is one of the best things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica, for adventure seekers.
Featuring 5 famous waterfalls and the largest animal sanctuary in Costa Rica, it’s no surprise why La Paz Waterfall Gardens is one of Costa Rica’s top tourist attractions.
At the park, you can explore the lush tropical rainforest, peaceful rivers, breathtaking waterfalls, birds, sloths, monkeys, frogs, and many other creatures as you explore the park’s natural beauty.
Access the stunning waterfalls with the easy hiking trails in the park. The waterfalls are accessible by paved trails and steps with hand railings, so most ages and abilities can manage the walk to witness the natural beauty of the five falls.
The five waterfalls are Templo, Encantada, Magia Blanca, Escondida, and La Paz. Magia Blanca is the largest, at 120 feet high.
This national park also has a freshwater lake and trout fishing for visitors. You can visit the butterfly garden on-site, with over 4,000 butterflies flying at any time.
If you love bird watching, the aviary is a must-see. You’ll witness hundreds of native Costa Rican birds up close in their natural habitat.
With so much to see and do, it’s no surprise that La Paz Waterfall Gardens is one of the best things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica. Don’t miss this spectacular ecological wonderland! Book a day trip here.
Jade Museum
The Jade Museum, or the Museo del Jade, is a hotspot in San Jose for tourists, conveniently located in the heart of the capital city in front of the Plaza de la Democracia on Central Avenue. You can’t miss the building — it resembles a gigantic cut of raw jade stone.
The Jade Museum is primarily an archeological museum that preserves the region’s heritage; it features the world’s most extensive collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts.
Dating back to 500 B.C. and 300 B.C., visitors can see approximately 7,000 jade artifacts on display at the Jade Museum in San Jose. In this time period, jade trade was at its peak.
The Jade Museum offers six exhibits encompassing parts of the pre-Columbian time period, including ecological and historical contexts, along with the economics and trade of jade stone and other artifacts in ancient Mesoamerica.
You’ll learn how jade was used in ancient religion, war, and burials, along with music, history, and technology.
While at the museum, make a stop at the gift shop to purchase unique souvenirs and specialty items to commemorate your visit. Grab some local Costa Rican coffee and wander the museum, taking in the sights and relaxing ambiance.
The Jade Museum is open Monday through Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm. Tickets are $15. Plan your visit here.
Once you’ve toured the best San Jose museums, be sure to stop at the San Jose Cathedral to admire its stunning neoclassical design as it overlooks Central Park.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Located 3 hours from San Jose, Monteverde Cloud Forest is a sight to see, whether you are visiting the area or you’ve lived in Costa Rica for years.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve is a progressive conservation location that is based in biodiversity research and education.
Monteverde preserves over 10,000 acres of Costa Rican land by guarding the well-being of all the wildlife, animals, insects, and other creatures that call the cloud forest home.
There are over eight miles of well-maintained hiking trails for visitors to enjoy, with informational plaques along the way sharing details about the region and what creatures you may see as you explore.
There are many tours available in the cloud forest, including a birdwatching tour, a natural history walk, a night walk, and an educational tour where you’ll learn all about the environmental aspects of the trails and rainforest.
If you get hungry during your journey, stop in for a snack at the restaurant and cafe for a delicious meal. All the food is locally sourced and fresh, making every meal healthy and tasty.
It may be a few hours from San Jose, Costa Rica, but this cloud forest and its incredible views, interesting wildlife, and impressive conservation efforts make it a very worthwhile visit. Plan your visit here.
Costa Rica Children’s Museum
If you’re bringing your kids with you on vacation, the Children’s Museum is a must-see.
With more than 40 rooms filled with interactive activities and exhibits with the objective of learning while playing, the Children’s Museum is a great place to spend a few hours with the family.
The museum focuses on science, history, art, and technology. You’ll find a marine area where children can learn about sea life conservation and why its preservation is vital to Earth.
There’s a geologist exhibit where kids can learn about the earth’s erosion, earthquakes, hurricanes, and other naturally occurring events. Your kids can experience what a real earthquake feels like — this room has its own simulator!
Wander through the space technology exhibit to learn about rockets, technology, and the world of astronomy. Check out the dinosaur exhibit, with four animatronic pieces and a prehistoric environment that allows you to get up close and personal with larger-than-life dinosaurs.
The Children’s Museum also offers day camps, workshops, and other events to engage children and keep their curiosities growing. Grab a snack or meal at the on-site cafeteria if you get hungry.
If you have a few hours, the Children’s Museum is a great place to take the kids and learn something new. Museum tickets are less than $5 for both children and adults. The Children’s Museum of Costa Rica is open Tuesday through Sunday and is closed on Monday. Plan your visit here.
San Gerardo de Dota
Address: Take Route 2 to San Gerardo, around 50 miles south of San Jose, Costa Rica
San Gerardo de Dota is a small farming town south of San Jose. It’s home to a magical, natural forest off the beaten path of the capital city where you can enjoy nature, watch birds, swim in crystal-clear rivers, and go trout fishing.
The San Gerardo de Dota village is a quaint place that is nothing like San Jose, but that’s all part of its appeal. If you’re a hiker at heart, the cloud forest has impressive trails to explore that are challenging and breathtaking at the same time.
Bird watching is one of the main draws to San Gerardo de Dota, with many fascinating species to be seen and heard.
Keep your eyes peeled for the quetzal, the striking green and red-colored bird. It is most commonly seen in the cloud forest during the breeding season in April and May. You’ll also see peccaries, tanagers, woodpeckers, and hummingbirds.
The dense cloud forests in San Gerardo de Dota must be experienced in real life to fully appreciate. You’ll pass moss-covered oak trees and tropical plants in the diverse ecosystem of this forest. If you love to fish, you may get lucky and catch some trout in the nearby Savegre River.
The drive to San Gerardo de Dota should take around 2.5 hours, making it ideal for day trips or overnight if you want to explore for more than one day. It is worth the trek if you’re in San Jose and have time to explore the surrounding areas.
Costa Rican Coffee Tour
Experiencing the incredible Costa Rican coffee in San Jose is an absolute must. Grabbing a coffee to-go at the Central Market is one thing, but it’s an entirely different experience to enjoy a coffee tour at one of the fantastic coffee farms in Costa Rica.
Doka Estate is one of Costa Rica’s largest coffee plantations, located in the central valley of Costa Rica. It welcomes guests from all over the world to learn about the plantation’s production.
The tour includes information on the harvesting times of the fruit, the type of crop, its characteristics, methods of crop protection, and how all these elements are combined to get a cup of high-quality coffee known worldwide for its full-bodied, savory flavors.
Guests will learn about each stage (separation of qualities, peeling, fermentation tanks, and drying off the beans) and the incredible team that works simultaneously to create coffee for the world to enjoy.
You’ll see the oldest Wet Coffee Storage in the country still in production — moved solely by the force of water, without using any electricity. Because of this machinery, Doka Estate was named a Historical and Architectural Heritage site by the Government of Costa Rica in June 2003.
Doka Estate does a fantastic job of sharing its knowledge with visitors and celebrates the country’s most famous agricultural product. If you’re a coffee lover, this plantation is a must-see while in San Jose, Costa Rica.
Check out this guided tour for a full-day tour, including a fascinating coffee tour at Doka Coffee Farm and a visit to the Poas Volcano.
El Observatorio
You’ll hear all kinds of music as you explore the city during the day — top hits, Latin pop, cumbia, and many more. If you enjoy listening to local bands and musicians, El Observatorio is one of the most popular local restaurants, bars, and music venues for San Jose residents and tourists to come and enjoy food, drinks, and live music.
Experience the unique Costa Rican culture firsthand at a great local spot in the capital city. Whether grabbing a quick bite or staying for the evening, you’re sure to have a great time at El Observatorio.
The venue hosts various musical events, including Salsa and Tango nights, stand-up comedy, karaoke nights, and many talented local musicians. Popular Costa Rican musicians and bands, including Ojo de Buey and Sonumbolo, have performed at El Observatorio to some rowdy, excited crowds.
If you’re coming early to grab a bite to eat, don’t miss out on the menu’s fajitas, flautas, or burritos. There’s also Aztec soup, ceviche, pizza, burgers, nachos, and tapas to share.
Whether you’re enjoying San Jose’s nightlife or looking to hear some local music, El Observatorio provides an exciting place to do both. Who knows, maybe you’ll stay out all night!
El Observatorio is open Tuesday through Saturday from 6 pm to 2 am. Plan your night out here.