Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, Sunnyvale, California is way more than just tech offices and startups.
This sun-drenched city boasts a perfect mix of innovative attractions, outdoor adventures, and multicultural eats that’ll surprise even the most seasoned Bay Area explorer.
From secret hiking trails with million-dollar views to retro computer museums that’ll make you nostalgic, we’re revealing the 12 absolute best things to do in Sunnyvale that prove this city punches way above its weight.
Whether you’re a local looking for weekend inspiration or a visitor wanting to see beyond San Francisco, Sunnyvale’s got your next adventure covered!
1. Baylands Park – Best for Sunset Views & Nature Walks
If you think Silicon Valley is all concrete and computer chips, Baylands Park will prove you wrong.
This 120-acre oasis is where locals come to watch epic sunsets over the wetlands, spot great blue herons, and bike along scenic trails that feel miles away from city life.
The 1.5-mile loop trail is perfect for an easy hike or morning jog, while the duck ponds make it a hit with families.
Time your visit for golden hour – the reflections on the water with the mountains in the background are straight out of a postcard.
Local secret: Bring binoculars – this is one of the best birdwatching spots in the South Bay, especially during migration seasons.
2. Computer History Museum – Best for Tech Nerds & Nostalgia Trips
Where else but Sunnyvale can you see a 2000-year-old calculator next to a Google server rack? The Computer History Museum is a time machine through tech, from room-sized 1950s computers to the very first Apple devices.
Don’t miss the working IBM 1401 system (staff demo it daily) or the self-driving car exhibit showing how far we’ve come.
Hands-down the coolest part? The “Where To?” exhibit lets you “drive” historic vehicles through VR.
Budget tip: First Fridays of the month are free admission days – arrive early as it gets packed!
3. Sunnyvale Farmers’ Market – Best for Foodies & Local Flavors
Every Saturday morning, downtown Sunnyvale transforms into a food lover’s paradise at what many call the best farmers’ market in the Bay Area.
Over 100 vendors sell everything from organic stone fruit to fresh-baked sourdough and authentic pupusas made right before your eyes.
The live music and community vibe make it more than just shopping – it’s where locals catch up over coffee and sample the season’s best.
Summer brings heirloom tomatoes and O’Henry peaches, while winter means persimmons and pomegranates.
Pro move: Come hungry and grab breakfast from the crepe stand – their Nutella-banana combo is legendary.
4. Las Palmas Park – Best for Families & Water Play
When the Silicon Valley heat kicks in, Las Palmas Park becomes the place to be.
The spray pad and playground are packed with laughing kids, while parents relax under the mature shade trees.
But there’s more – the park boasts two lakes (stocked for fishing!), tennis courts, and even a skate park.
The 1.3-mile walking path circles everything, making it perfect for stroller walks or dog jogs.
Local hack: Weekday mornings are blissfully uncrowded – ideal for little ones to splash without the weekend rush.
5. Sunnyvale Heritage Park Museum – Best for History Buffs
Housed in a charming 1905 Queen Anne-style house, this free museum tells Sunnyvale’s story from orchard days to tech boom.
See vintage fruit packing equipment, learn about the city’s WWII blimp base, and check out rotating exhibits on local culture.
The heritage orchard outside still produces historic apricot varieties – ask about harvest days when you can taste fruit grown the old-school way.
Photo op: The wraparound porch is straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting.
6. The Sunnyvale Bay Trail – Best for Biking & Jogging
This 10-mile paved trail connects Sunnyvale to Mountain View and Palo Alto along the San Francisco Bay shoreline.
Flat, scenic, and perfect for all skill levels, it’s where tech workers unwind on e-bikes and serious cyclists log training miles.
Time your ride for low tide to spot hundreds of shorebirds feeding in the mudflats.
The views of the Dumbarton Bridge at sunset are worth the pedal power alone.
Rental tip: Grab a Bay Wheels bike at Murphy Park if you didn’t bring your own.
7. The Lace Museum – Best for Unique Culture & Crafts
One of only two lace museums in the U.S., this quirky Sunnyvale gem showcases intricate lace from the 1600s to today.
Even if you don’t know bobbin from needlepoint, the delicate wedding veils and antique collars are mesmerizing.
Check their calendar for free lace-making demos (usually first Sundays) where you can watch experts create magic with thread.
Hidden treasure: The gift shop sells handmade lace ornaments that make unforgettable souvenirs.
8. Full Circle Farm – Best for Hands-On Agriculture
This 11-acre working farm in the middle of suburbia lets visitors pick seasonal produce, meet chickens, and learn sustainable farming.
Kids go nuts for the “Pizza Garden” (all the ingredients needed for sauce!), while adults appreciate the farm stand’s ultra-fresh veggies.
Volunteer days let you get your hands dirty alongside farmers – great for teaching kids where food really comes from.
Harvest calendar: June for strawberries, October for pumpkins!
9. Washington Park – Best for Sports & Recreation
With four baseball diamonds, six tennis courts, and a brand-new skate park, Washington Park is Sunnyvale’s go-to for active fun.
The recently renovated playground has creative climbing structures that look like abstract art.
Early morning tip: The outdoor fitness equipment area is popular with sunrise workout crews.
10. Sunnyvale Community Center – Best for Unique Events
From outdoor summer concerts to cultural festivals, this hub always has something going on.
The annual Art & Wine Festival (despite the name, focused on crafts and food) draws thousands for live music and artisan booths.
Check their calendar for free movie nights on the lawn – complete with food trucks
11. Serra Park – Best for Quiet Picnics
Tucked away in a neighborhood, this lesser-known park has rose gardens, chess tables, and the best picnic spots away from crowds.
The giant heritage oak provides shade so perfect you’ll want to nap under it.
Local love: The little free library is always stocked with good reads.
12. Murphy Avenue Dining – Best for Global Cuisine
Sunnyvale’s main dining drag packs authentic Afghan, Sichuan, Mexican, and more into a few walkable blocks.
Dishdash serves Levantine favorites like smoky baba ghanoush, while Zareen’s dishes out Karachi-style biryani that’ll transport you to Pakistan.
Vegan alert: Good Karma Artisan Ales has an entire plant-based pub menu that even meat lovers rave about.
Final Thoughts
From tech time capsules to fruit-filled farms, Sunnyvale proves there’s way more to Silicon Valley than office parks.
Whether you’re biking bay trails at golden hour or hunting for the perfect farmers’ market peach, this city mixes innovation with small-town charm in the most delightful ways.
So what’s first on your Sunnyvale adventure list? Lace up those walking shoes, charge your camera, and get ready to explore – the heart of Silicon Valley awaits!