San Jose, Calif.gem in the west

Founded in 1872, San Jose’s 720-acre Alum Rock Park is not only the oldest and largest park but also the first municipal park in California. The hot mineral springs were a nationwide draw around the 1930s as a health resort. Since then, the park has become known more for its hiking, running and biking trails, as well as the beautiful stone bridges. There are an array of picnic areas with barbecue grills and two playgrounds, if you would rather stay put and not give the trails a try. Plenty of wildlife roams through the park, and horseback riding is allowed. If you’d rather not spend the $6 to drive into the park, there is free parking in the surrounding area.