The Tech Interactive
An engaging, hands-on science and technology museum in San Jose, featuring interactive exhibits and an IMAX Dome theater.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
The Tech Interactive
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An engaging, hands-on science and technology museum in San Jose, featuring interactive exhibits and an IMAX Dome theater.
"A must-go interactive museum in San Jose, CA, with something for all ages!"
🎯 Explore Beyond the Exhibits
Don't miss the Plaza de Cesar Chavez outside for illuminated Alebrijes art, especially at night!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be on your feet exploring three floors of exhibits, so wear comfy shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dream Garden
Immersive Exhibit
An AI-powered wonderland where your movements bring nature to life. Interactive and whimsical!
IMAX Dome Theater
Attached Theater
Experience films on a massive, wrap-around screen for an unparalleled immersive viewing adventure.
Robo Dogs (Gadget & Gizmo)
Various Exhibits
Adorable and interactive robot dogs that are a hit with visitors of all ages, especially kids.
Body Worlds Exhibit
Special Exhibits
A fascinating and life-like exploration of the human body, informative and a bit awe-inspiring.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
IMAX Dome: Book Ahead!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore Beyond the Exhibits
Don't miss the Plaza de Cesar Chavez outside for illuminated Alebrijes art, especially at night!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be on your feet exploring three floors of exhibits, so wear comfy shoes!
📱 Download Their App
Check for event schedules and exhibit info on their official app or website before you go.
🚗 Validated Parking Available
Parking at nearby garages is validated, making it almost free.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore Beyond the Exhibits
Don't miss the Plaza de Cesar Chavez outside for illuminated Alebrijes art, especially at night!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be on your feet exploring three floors of exhibits, so wear comfy shoes!
📱 Download Their App
Check for event schedules and exhibit info on their official app or website before you go.
🚗 Validated Parking Available
Parking at nearby garages is validated, making it almost free.
👶 Toddler-Friendly Zones
The Tech Interactive has expanded its offerings for younger children, making it great for families. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Tech Interactive for its engaging, hands-on exhibits that appeal to both children and adults. The IMAX Dome theater is a major highlight, offering an immersive viewing experience. While some find the exhibits not overly technical, the overall consensus is that it's a fun, educational, and well-maintained museum for a family outing or a curious adult visit.
"It was good, not just for kids but also for adults. Don't expect the exhibition to be too technical as I guess it was catered to kids and those who are not too tech savvy. And also, don't expect too much for the value you paid. I wish there's more as I really enjoyed each exhibit. And, I love how the shop will give tantrums to kids after few NO's. 😂 Although, I myself couldn't refuse buying.
I was hoping the chairs in the Imax dome are reclining cause it would've been a better user experience. Overall, good value for money."
Rose A
"We had great time here. The whole experience was very enjoyable and fun for both kids and adults. There are many cool exhibitions. My personal favorite was the new exhibit, Dream Garden, where we got to play with the animation with our whole body.
The IMAX dome theater is also a must-visit even though you already get a free one-time admission when purchasing the tickets to the museum. We love the Blue Whale documentary. Very educational and entertaining!"
Judy Margaret Chen
"If you are in downtown San Jose, take the opportunity to visit the interactive museum. You can spend a few hours and have fun, even better if you are with your children, as it is guaranteed fun."
Grupo MD Networking
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tech Interactive is located in downtown San Jose. It's easily accessible by public transportation, including VTA light rail and bus lines. If driving, there are several parking garages nearby, and the museum offers parking validation for a significantly reduced rate.
Yes, parking is generally easy. There are large parking lots and garages adjacent to the museum, such as the Convention Center and 2nd & San Carlos Street garages. The Tech Interactive validates parking, making it very affordable.
Absolutely! Downtown San Jose is well-served by VTA light rail and bus services, making it convenient to reach The Tech Interactive without a car. Check the VTA website for routes and schedules.
From San Francisco, you can take Caltrain to the San Jose Diridon Station, and then it's a short VTA bus ride or a walk to The Tech Interactive. Alternatively, driving is an option, but be mindful of traffic and parking costs.
The Tech Interactive is committed to accessibility. The museum is generally wheelchair accessible, and they offer accommodations for visitors with disabilities. It's always a good idea to contact them directly for specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but general admission typically covers access to the museum's exhibits. Special exhibits or IMAX films may have separate or bundled pricing. Check their official website for the most current pricing and any available discounts.
Yes, look out for potential discounts like 'Free Bank of America Days' or special promotions. It's always worth checking their website or social media for any ongoing offers.
It is highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially for popular times or special events, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
The Tech Interactive typically has daily operating hours, but these can vary, especially on holidays or for special events. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Often, museum admission includes a one-time pass to the IMAX Dome theater, but this can vary. It's advisable to confirm this when purchasing your tickets or upon arrival.
🎫 🔬 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the new AI-powered Dream Garden, the immersive IMAX Dome Theater, interactive robotics exhibits, and the fascinating Body Worlds display. There are also many hands-on activities for all ages. +3
Absolutely! While family-friendly, adults will enjoy the innovative exhibits, the IMAX Dome, and special 'Tech at Night' events which often include wine tasting and music.
Dream Garden is a new, immersive AI-powered exhibit where visitors' movements influence a whimsical, digital natural world, featuring elements like waterfalls and butterflies. 
Yes, The Tech Interactive has dedicated zones and activities suitable for toddlers and younger children, including interactive play areas and workshops. +1
The IMAX Dome features a variety of documentaries, often focusing on science, nature, and space exploration, as well as popular films like 'Demon Slayer'. +2
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located at the entrance offering a selection of healthy options for visitors.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum. It's best to consume them before entering or utilize the cafe facilities.
The cafe offers a healthy menu, suitable for a quick bite or a meal while visiting the museum.
Being in downtown San Jose, there are numerous restaurants and cafes within walking distance of The Tech Interactive, offering a wide range of cuisines.
Yes, the cafe is designed to be family-friendly, with options that appeal to both children and adults.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed inside The Tech Interactive. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibits to protect the displays.
The Dream Garden exhibit offers visually stunning and interactive backdrops. The IMAX Dome screen, when not in use for a film, can also provide unique photo opportunities.
The Dream Garden, the Alebrijes outside the museum, and the various interactive displays that react to movement or sound are great for capturing unique photos.
Similar to photography, personal videography is usually permitted, but it's always best to be mindful of other visitors and any posted restrictions.
You can find many photos on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram by searching for #TheTechInteractive or related hashtags, as well as on the museum's official website. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧑🎓 STEM Enthusiasts & Adults
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Interactive Exhibits
Recent additions like the Dream Garden showcase the museum's commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technology, such as AI, into its displays. This immersive experience allows visitors to interact with a digital ecosystem, demonstrating how technology can blend with art and nature. The jetpack chair and the robo dogs are also consistently popular, offering fun and memorable interactions.
+2Visitors often highlight how the exhibits are not overly technical, making them accessible and enjoyable for a broad audience, including children and those new to STEM concepts. The emphasis is on play, experimentation, and discovery, fostering a love for science and innovation in a fun, engaging environment.
The IMAX Dome Experience
Many visitors rave about the quality of the films shown and the unique viewing angle provided by the dome format. Documentaries like 'Blue Whale' have been specifically mentioned as educational and entertaining. The theater is a significant draw, often considered a must-visit part of the museum experience.
While museum admission may sometimes include a one-time IMAX ticket, it's advisable to check showtimes and consider booking in advance to ensure you get a seat for your desired screening. The sheer scale and visual impact of the IMAX Dome make it a memorable part of any visit.
Special Events and Adult Nights
A popular offering is 'Tech at Night' (or similar adult-focused events), which transforms the museum into a 21+ venue. These evenings typically feature live DJs, art workshops, whiskey tasting labs, and access to exhibits, offering a sophisticated and fun night out. These events are a great way for adults to enjoy the museum without the daytime crowds.
Other events might include science demonstrations, workshops like solar s'mores during summer, or even large-scale displays like domino toppling events. Keeping an eye on their event calendar is key to catching these special happenings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit