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About 25 years ago, antiquing was all the rage. Flea markets, hole-in-the-wall antique stores, and estate sales filled with young adults looking to fill their home with rare items were quite the norm. Then came the mass-production phase ushered in by Target, IKEA, and other brands. Affordable furniture became the new trend, but ultimately the short lifespan of cheaper materials brought about a newfangled interest in antiques. Fortunately, San Jose has one of the best antiquing scenes in the country thanks to the famed Antiques Row and other stores. Here are a few places in which you can find a one-of-a-kind item. Briarwood Antiques & Collectibles Located on Antiques Row at 1885 W. San Carlos St., Briarwood Antiques & Collectibles is one of the oldest antique stores in San Jose. An old bakery houses this antique store, adding to its charm and providing an excellent backdrop for your shopping excursion. more Over 30 dealers exhibit an array of items such as apparel, jewelry, furniture, antique signs, and more at Briarwood. The large variety of dealers ensures that you will be provided with different and new merchandise every time you visit the store. There's a reason this antique mall was voted as one of the 10 best places to shop in San Jose. Briarwood Antiques & Collectibles is open from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Colony Antiques Located two doors down from Briarwood at 1881 W. San Carlos St., Colony Antiq ues is the largest antique store in San Jose, offering an assortment of furniture, art, clothes, and vintage toys. The store has 50 dealers and covers over 9,000 square feet — you could easily take days to peruse its contents. What makes Colony Antiques even more impressive, is the range of styles you can find in its stores. Boasting everything from European furniture to Asian pottery to ephemera from yesteryear, there's something for everyone's style. Colony Antiques is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Whatnots & Doodads Not sure what you're looking for? Head on over to the aptly named Whatnots & Doodads. Voted the best antique store in San Jose in 2012, this collective of 23 dealers is always stocking that unique piece for your home or an excellent gift for a loved one. What separates them from the pack is the dealer wish list. If you can't find an item here, their dealers will put it on their watch list. When they find it, they'll contact you and arrange a purchase and pickup. There's no easier way to find something you've wanted for your home. Whatnots & Doodads is located at 1330 Lincoln Ave. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. The store is closed on Mondays. From fancy chandeliers to beautiful oak armoires, San Jose's antique markets have everything you could ever want. All you need to do is exercise a bit of perseverance in your search, and you'll end up with decor that's the envy of all your friends. Photo by docoverachiever | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

The Fusion and Taurus are two of the most popular Ford cars on the road today. Which Ford sedan is a better buying option? This guide will help you evaluate the best car choice for your driving needs. Interior A comfortable and functional interior is important to most drivers. The 2018 Ford Fusion comes with a leather interior and a driver-inspired cockpit. The Ford Taurus also has a leather interior but with the addition of SHO seating and trims. Both cars are fairly roomy for a sedan, but the Fusion has approximately 16 cubic feet of interior cargo space, whereas the Taurus comes with a bit more at 20.1 cubic feet. more Exterior The biggest differences between the 2018 Fusion and Taurus would fall into the exterior design category. Although at first glance it might be difficult to distinguish one from the other, you can notice a significant difference once you get closer. The Ford Taurus, for example, has a longer body style and is approximately one foot longer in length than the Fusion. The Taurus has a cleaner and more sleek exterior design, while the Fusion features sharper angles and aerodynamic-inspired lines. The Taurus also has the exclusive SHO grille which sets it apart from the Fusion. Finally, the Fusion has an available power moonroof upgrade. Performance The 2018 Ford Fusion comes standard with a 2.7-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine that produces 325 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. The 2018 Ford Taurus features a standard 3.5-liter VCT engine with 288 horsepower with 254 pound-feet of torque. Both cars come standard with an all-wheel-drive system that is ideal for handling all road conditions. The standard model Taurus produces an added element of power and control. Technology Both the Fusion and Taurus are Ford vehicles, meaning technology properties are going to be somewhat similar. Both vehicle choices have the availability of the Sync 3 system, which gives you hands-free access to phone calls, text messages, and turn-by-turn navigation. Both cars also have FordPass, a mobile experience for locating parking, locking and unlocking your car remotely, and comparing fuel prices. One significant difference, however, is that the 2018 Ford Fusion is available in a hybrid model. The 2018 Ford Fusion Hybrid uses advanced smart gauges and an EcoGuide to optimize the efficiency of the drive by providing improvement tips. It also features an all-electric drive mode, leading to better fuel efficiency in the Fusion. Safety Because both vehicles are Ford made, we can also expect the included safety features to be similar. Both cars come with optional adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, cross traffic monitor alert, and a large selection of additional safety features. Both Ford options are considered to be a safe choice. You cannot really say that one or the other is better. Each car has its own set of advantages and appeals to a different driver. Come by The Ford Store Morgan Hill to see the current inventory of the 2018 Ford Fusion and Ford Taurus. Photo by The Webhamster |Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

San Jose is a hilly city in Northern California. It is often known for its warm weather and consistent sunshine. You might be surprised to learn that some of your favorite TV shows and movies were set right in San Jose. Flubber We all remember Robin Williams and his comedic scientific role in "Flubber." The 1997 movie was a remake of "The Absent-Minded Professor" from 1961. Williams lived in nearby San Francisco, which could have influenced the film's location. There are actually a few different scenes in "Flubber" that are shot in actual San Jose locations. more The "Flubber" main characters live in a house in the Rose Garden district of San Jose. Some home scenes are also shot on University Avenue nearby the house. Many of the academic movie scenes are also shot right in a classroom at San Jose State University. Silicon Valley Silicon Valley is often known as the technology hub of Northern California. It has produced some of the leading technology designers and companies of today. It is no surprise then, that many of today's tech-based movies and TV shows, including "Silicon Valley" are also filmed here. "Silicon Valley" follows the life of a computer programmer that wants to reinvent the internet. Other scenes in "Silicon Valley" are filmed throughout the Bay area, including in Los Angeles and Palo Alto. Additional tech shows filmed in the San Jose Silicon Valley area include "Betas," "MythBusters," "The Social Network," and "Steve Jobs." Beverly Hills Cop III It does not matter that it took it until the third installment of "Beverly Hills Cop" to film in San Jose, many locals were excited at the additional filming location. This 1994 movie featured Eddie Murphy on an action-packed experience as a Beverly Hills Cop. One particular scene in the movie portrays him dangerously hanging from a large Ferris wheel called the Spider. The actual Ferris wheel filmed was called The Triple Wheel and was a part of Paramount's Great America Park. Although you can no longer ride The Triple Wheel, you can still see it in "Beverly Hills Cop III." Winchester You might not yet recognize this movie name because it was just released this year. Much of the filming of the thrilling horror movie "Winchester" took place right in San Jose. The movie is claimed to be inspired by true events and involves the mysterious events at a local haunted house. The haunted house is a prison for ghosts seeking revenge on the Winchesters. Not only does the haunted house reside in San Jose, California, but you can also book a tour. Sarah Winchester is a real person and the house is a real place. You can tour the 110 rooms of the large mansion, which includes mysterious items like a window on the floor, doors that open into nothing, and the number 13 randomly scattered around the house. You do not have to head to Los Angeles to see the film sight of some of your favorite movies and TV shows. Many of them were filmed right here in the city of San Jose, California. Photo by the_tahoe_guy | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

When you hear a screech, clank, clatter, or other noise emanating from your car, it's always a cause for concern. Even diligent and scheduled maintenance isn't always enough to stave off problems, but sometimes a fix is cheaper and easier than you may think. Tune-ups are an awesome way to restore top-notch performance to your vehicle and eliminate any sounds or other issues with your car. Before you take your vehicle to the shop in panic mode, here are a few signs that your car might need just a tune-up. Rough Idling and Late Acceleration If your entire car starts to shake when you're at a stop or if pushing the accelerator to the floor results in a late burst of speed, it could be time for a tune-up. There are many reasons for these problems, but a clogged fuel filter, faulty spark plugs, or a soiled air filter are the main offenders. During a tune-up, all of these parts are cleaned or replaced, eliminating the car shakes and providing a better overall performance. more Massive Drop in MPG After driving your car for awhile, you're familiar with about how far you can go on a tank of gas. If this fuel economy starts to drop without reason, it's a sign you need to schedule a tune-up service. Typically, a dip in fuel economy will happen gradually, and you may not even notice it at first. However, if you find yourself at the pump more often, the fuel filter, O2 sensors, and air filter need attention. Once you've changed these components, you should notice your mpg returning to normal or even improving. Check Engine Light Comes On The check engine light is on your instrument cluster to notify you when something's not quite right with your car. Instead of covering it with a piece of tape or ignoring it, take your vehicle to the mechanic. These technicians can run a diagnostic test on your vehicle to determine the source of the problem. Sometimes, a tune-up can eradicate the problem and turn off the annoying yellow glow of your check engine light. Loss of Speed Delayed acceleration is a definite sign you need a tune-up, and if your car suddenly becomes a bit sluggish, it's yet another reason to consider a tune-up. Faulty distributor points, clogged fuel injectors, and old air filters are usually the sources of the problem. During a tune-up, these items are replaced, which leads to an increase in speed and acceleration. Unusual Sounds If you begin to hear new, unusual sounds coming from your car, a tune-up could be in store. Engine noise and transmission grinding are two of the most problematic sounds, and without proper care, they can lead to bigger, more expensive problems. The crazier or louder the noise, the more likely you need the help of an expert mechanic. Routine maintenance and oil changes keep your car running smoothly and limit potential problems, but scheduling a tune-up every 45,000 miles or at the first sign of trouble is always a sound decision. Photo by stephenhanafin | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

Looking to enjoy a nice day on the water? Luckily, Morgan Hill is close to numerous beaches along the California coast. Next time you're craving the sun on your face and the sand between your toes head to one of the following beaches just under an hour's drive from downtown. Seacliff State Beac Seacliff State Beach is just 54 minutes from Morgan Hill via CA-152 W, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. Here, you'll find plenty of attractions, including picnic areas, bike trails, windsurfing, geocaching, and more. The beach, however, is best known for more its long fishing pier as well as the remains of the SS Palo Alto. Unfortunately, part of the pier and ship are currently undergoing renovations to make them safe for the public, so you'll have to admire their decaying beauty from afar. Admission to the park is $10 per vehicle per day, but seniors can get in for $9. Dogs are also welcome, but they must be on a leash that's shorter than 6 feet. If you'd like to spend the night, Seacliff also offers a beachfront campground for RVs that provides 26 full hookup and 37 non-hookup sites. Manresa State Beach You certainly won't burn up a tank of gas heading to Manresa State Beach, as it is just 51 minutes away via CA-152 W. When you arrive, you'll want to take in the sweeping vistas of the sea and bluff-backed sand. You'll also enjoy gazing at the Santa Cruz Mountains to the northwest and the lush trees in the southwest on the Monterey Peninsula. Many families flock here to camp at one of the 60 walk-in tent sites, fish for California halibut and striped bass, or spend the day picnicking at many of the tables along the bluff. Kids can join the Junior Lifeguard program to test their skills, learn more about aquatic safety, and brush up on key environmental awareness issues. As with Seacliff, there is a $10 vehicle fee, and dogs are also permitted. Sunset State Beach Is CA-152 W too jammed with traffic? Escape the hustle and bustle and head on US-101 S to reach Sunset State Beach in just 52 minutes, as it's further south than the other options. This beach is known for the peaceful pines that surround the sand, creating a pristine and idyllic atmosphere that's perfect for a mid-day picnic. You might also enjoy tackling the numerous hiking trails; fishing for surfperch, striped bass, or sardines. You might also like camping in one of the 90 family sites, which accommodate RVs up to 31 feet long, or you can set up your tent. The admission fee is $10 per vehicle, and dogs can walk the beach as long as they are leashed. It's great that Morgan Hill is so close to the coast, as it gives both residents and visitors a chance to relax by the sea. Whether you're planning a day trip, weekend getaway, or two-week family vacation, these beaches are all prime options. Photo by fogcat5 | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

Just hearing the word Shelby evokes images of a fast car that's ready to race. Ford's 2018 Shelby GT does not disappoint. It's ready for the road and the track. Here's everything you want to know about the latest Shelby GT inside and out. Performance The 2018 Shelby GT is ready for the track and the road. Ford outfitted it with a non-turbocharged 5.8-liter V-8 engine with 526 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque. It also has race-tuned adaptive suspension, brakes set for high performance, and a few different powertrain upgrades. The engine is fairly flexible and accelerates well without any hesitation. The Shelby's true power is very impressive once released, and the sound the engine makes is unlike anything else out there. more In driving tests, the Shelby 350 GT proves to handle quite well and is at home on any racetrack or winding mountain road. But it'll also do well as a daily driver outside of its racing performance capabilities. Trims and Features The 2018 Shelby GT comes in two trim levels, the 350 and 350R. The base trim is well-equipped with 19-inch wheels, a six-speed manual transmission, Brembo brakes, adaptive suspension dampers, a Torsen rear differential, and a front-suspension tower brace. Shelby's exterior also features a rear spoiler and diffuser. The 350 GT received refreshed styling on the exterior for the 2018 model year and the vehicle retains the distinctive Shelby look. On the inside, the standard Shelby GT looks as sleek as it does outside. It features Recaro front seats with suedelike inserts, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 4.2-inch center display, Bluetooth, a six-speaker sound system, smartphone app integration, Sync technology, and two USB ports. However, adding the electronics package as an upgrade is highly recommended on both trims. The Shelby GT 350R comes with a lot of the standard features but is really built for racing. The 19-inch carbon fiber wheels with specialist Michelin tires are also part of the upgrade. It has revised suspension tuning, a carbon-fiber rear wing and front chin splitter on the body. It also lacks creature comforts like air-conditioning and others such as floor mats, the sound system, rearview camera, and a rear seat. These features plus dual-zone climate control, Sync 3 with an 8-inch touchscreen, and an 8-speaker sound system are part of an optional R-electronics package. Smartphone integration is also supported in the Shelby GT. Comfort and Utility Despite being built mainly for speed, the Shelby GT is a comfortable ride for daily driving. The seating is comfortable over long distances and doesn't interfere with the shifting of gears. The cabin is also relatively quiet. The transmission handles almost any road condition with normal or sport mode while maintaining excellent body control. Track mode is also good without being punishing. The car offers decent cargo space and storage, though there isn't a lot designated for small item storage. The 2018 Shelby GT 350 is a fast vehicle built for the track with the horsepower to back it up. It also has a good mix of comfort and features to make it a great daily driving option outside of the track. Photo by DaMongMan | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

One good way to bond with your family is to spend time in nature. Getting outdoors lets you enjoy the fresh air and get away from the stresses and demands that ordinarily keep you apart. Consider the following family-friendly parks near Morgan Hill the next time you want to enjoy outdoor activities. Calero County Park Head to Calero County Park to enjoy 4,471 acres of land nestled along the Santa Cruz Mountains and the California Oak backcountry. There's also a large reservoir, which offers a number of great recreational water activities, including power boating, kayaking, jet skiing, and sailing. If you've come for fishing, just keep in mind that the reservoir is catch and release. more Once you've cooled off on the lake, head to the backcountry to enjoy 18.9 miles of trails for hiking, horse riding, or walking your dog. You can even take the Serpentine Loop Trail to get to the nearby Cañada del Oro Open Space Preserve. End the day with a nice meal at one of the many picnic and barbecue sites that are located in the park. Uvas Reservoir County Park For a quieter experience, the Uvas Reservoir County Park makes a nice stop. This park, which is located in the shadows of the Santa Cruz Mountains, offers you 1,017 acres to explore. Because the reservoir is used for underground aquifers, no boating or swimming is allowed. This results in a peaceful atmosphere that's great for family relaxation, fun, and unwinding. Spend the day fishing, enjoying a nice picnic, or walking your dog around the lake. Public facilities are limited at this park, so plan on using your imagination to entertain yourself. Bring a football or Frisbee to toss around, as well as a camera to capture some amazing nature shots. Anderson Lake County Park Anderson Lake County Park includes Santa Clara County's largest reservoir, which offers nearly limitless opportunities for a fun day on the water. This 4,275-acre park and 953-acre lake provide a mix of land- and water-based activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, horse riding, picnicking, and more. One of the most popular things to do is cruise along the lake, as power boats are permitted. Keep in mind that water levels vary and are sometimes too low for boats, so check with the Santa Clara County Parks website before you head out with your speedboat in tow. In the meantime, why not try your hand at fishing? Just keep in mind that, like Calero Park, it's a catch and release lake. Anderson Lake also provides numerous hiking trails, most notably a 15-mile paved trail that runs along Coyote Creek and connects to Coyote Hellyer County Park. The trail is mostly flat, making it great for smaller members of the family to ride their bikes, run, and play. These are just a few of the parks in the area. Spend some time going to each to find your favorite spot, and make it a tradition to visit it whenever your family is in need of an outing. Photo by donjd2 | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Spring is here, with summer right around the corner. That means fresh air and farm-fresh food. If you're looking for a great way to spend some time outdoors, consider spending an afternoon at one of the San Jose area's amazing farmer's markets. You'll find a lot to love at each of these, so the hardest part is going to be deciding which one to visit next. Campbell Farmers Market The farmers market in Campbell has been voted one of the best open-air markets in the area. You'll find fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers here, as well as an exciting calendar of events. There's always something new going on at the Campbell Farmers Market, including festivals, live performances, and arts and crafts lessons. more The Campbell Farmers Market is open every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Downtown San Jose Farmers Market From May to November, every Friday, San Jose's San Pedro Square transforms into a lively open-air farmers market. More than 30 local growers come to the Downtown San Jose Farmers Market to sell their wares every year, and you'll always find the freshest seasonal produce available here. If you can't wait to get home and cook up some delicious meals with your purchase, there are plenty of hot food vendors offering up some truly tasty menu options, so you never have to go hungry during your trip. There are plenty of other live events taking place downtown as well, so a trip to the farmers market is a great way to see everything there is to experience. The Downtown San Jose Farmers Market is open every Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Santa Clara Farmers Market The Santa Clara Farmers Market has one feature that sets it apart from many other open-air markets in the area. It opens every Saturday, rain or shine, all year long. While most other farmers markets in the area close during the winter months, this is one place you can count on all the time. Even better is the fact that the market is open on Thanksgiving weekend, Christmas weekend, and New Year's Eve weekend. Located in the heart of downtown Santa Clara, the market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunnyvale Farmers Market The Sunnyvale Farmers Market is located on Murphy Avenue at Washington and offers fresh produce from many of the same local growers you'll find at the Santa Clara market. Also similar to its sister market in Santa Clara, the Sunnyvale Farmers Market only closes once a year, for the annual Art and Wine Festival. The Sunnyvale Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. With so many great open-air farmers markets in the San Jose area, you've got plenty of reason to get out and enjoy the region's beautiful weather. This is also a great opportunity to meet some new people and explore the area's local culture. California and the San Jose area are well-known for top-notch community events, and visiting a local farmers market is a great way to discover everything else going in the area. Photo by gmtbillings | Licensed under cc by 2.0

Ford Motor Co. has been leading the charge in vehicle modernization for over 100 years. The Ford EcoBoost engine is just one way the company is innovating in areas such as performance and fuel efficiency. There are a lot of engines on the market that claim they can boost your vehicle's performance in these areas, so what makes the Ford EcoBoost engine so amazing? Here is everything you need to know about the Ford EcoBoost Engine. Twin-Independent Variable Cam Timing Traditional engines run combustion on a consistently timed piston rotation. This means no matter what kind of load is being placed on the engine, your engine valves are opening and closing at the same speed. Even the most finely tuned traditional engines don't take the current workload into account and, by their very nature, fuel efficiency optimization is somewhat limited by the overall design of the engine. more The Ford EcoBoost does take current conditions into account. What this means is, when you're putting more demand on the engine, your valves will begin to open and close more quickly and, when the workload is lighter, this rotation will slow down. The result is greater performance when you need it and better fuel efficiency when you don't. Improved Performance With Turbocharging In the Ford EcoBoost engine, vehicle exhaust is stored in a rotating turbine, rather than being expelled, as with most traditional engines. This is important because there is still potential energy in that exhaust that can be harnessed, and that's exactly what EcoBoost does. The turbine that stores this exhaust is connected to a compressor that feeds the pressurized air from the exhaust back into the combustion chamber, which provides a boost of power when your vehicle needs to use this extra energy. Direct Fuel Injection The combustion chamber in your engine doesn't need a lot of fuel at one time to provide maximum power. With this in mind, the EcoBoost engine delivers fuel to the engine in the form of a fine mist, rather than a steady stream. This provides the engine with exactly as much fuel as it needs to achieve proper combustion, generating all the power you need while increasing the overall fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Digital Engine Performance Optimization All of these innovative features are managed by the engine's integrated computer system, which constantly monitors performance and fuel consumption. The algorithms built into the Ford EcoBoost engine's systems are specifically designed to provide you with the right amount of power while maximizing fuel efficiency by only using exactly as much as the engine need when it needs it. If at any time the onboard computer detects an increase in fuel efficiency, it will automatically adjust performance to compensate. The Ford EcoBoost engine is a work of mechanical genius. This is an impressive engine that is beginning to show up in more and more of Ford's most popular models. The next time you're shopping for a car, make sure to look for one that includes this amazing engine. Photo by Sim Br | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

Museums aren't just about ancient history. The San Jose area has a surprising variety of museums that feature exhibits ranging from prehistoric fauna to modern art and technology. We've compiled this short list of our favorites to help you plan your day on the town. The Tech Museum of Innovation Visit The Tech Museum of Innovation to learn about modern science and technology in a hands-on, family-friendly manner. The organization's interactive exhibits will give you the chance to glimpse the frontier of cutting-edge science. more For example, the BIO Design Studio allows visitors to experiment with the “building blocks of life” by applying the principles of bioengineering. The Social Robots exhibit involves designing and building your very own robot utilizing sensors, controllers, and actuators. Computer-savvy guests are likely to enjoy the Cyber Detectives exhibit, which demonstrates the strides that cybersecurity professionals have made in recent years. If you prefer a more passive experience, the museum also has an IMAX theater. San Jose Museum of Art Modern and contemporary art is the focus of this museum, which receives about 100,000 visitors per year. The organization strives for inclusivity by representing the work of artists from many cultures and backgrounds. The museum also makes contributions to art history scholarships and programs. Visit during the spring and summer of 2018 to see paintings of California landscapes by Raimonds Staprans, as well as a collection of American lithographs and wood engravings gathered from early 21st-century history. Another must-see exhibit is The Propeller Group's examination of global culture, presented through video footage and staged reenactments. The Propeller Group represents a cooperation between artists based in both Los Angeles and Vietnam. Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose If you have children, you won't want to miss this unusually interactive museum experience. The Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose places emphasis on allowing its guests to get hands-on with all of its exhibits. Guests won't be constrained to just looking at an art gallery; they'll also have the opportunity to create their own artwork. Scientifically-inclined children are sure to be drawn to the Mammoth Discovery exhibit, where they can see a mammoth skeleton and practice fossil excavation in the museum's special dig pits. The museum even caters to the youngest children, who can climb artificial trees and crawl through tunnels in the Bill's Backyard exhibit. Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum Featuring the largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in western North America, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is a great example of a classic ancient history museum. A visit to this museum will reward you with fascinating information about this culture's burial practices and mummification. There are exhibits focused on Ancient Egypt's gods, religion, and belief in an afterlife. But some of the more mundane artifacts are even more interesting, as they provide visitors with a look into the daily life of regular Egyptian citizens. Visiting a museum is usually an educational experience, but that doesn't mean it has to be dry or boring. Any one of these San Jose museums will give you an experience that's both engaging and interactive. Photo by donjd2 | Licensed under cc by 2.0

If you haven't heard of Morgan Hill, California, you're in for a treat. This Silicon Valley city is home to abundant wineries and nature trails, but it's the hidden gems that really bring an air of surprise and amazement to locals and tourists alike. Here are a few treasure troves worth checking out in the area. Vietasia Restaurant Located on East Dunne Avenue, Vietasia Restaurant is the go-to spot for authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Guests rave about the clean and casual setting as well the reasonably priced foods. The affordable dishes make it seem like you're getting a fancy dining experience, but without the high prices. more Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Vietasia Restaurant has a diverse menu that offers both classic Vietnamese dishes and flavors from around Asia, including Korea, China, and Thailand. Popular items include beef pho, shrimp spring rolls, imperial crab eggrolls, and tempura-fried sweet potato fries. However, you can also find a large selection of noodle-based dishes, rice plates, vegetarian options, and exquisite tea flavors. Murphy's Mercantile Located on Monterey Road in Morgan Hill, Murphy's Mercantile is a lovely hidden gem with a large selection of antique and vintage wares. Sisters Honnie and Melissa Murphy opened the shop as a way to share their love for collectibles with others, and you certainly get a glimpse of this passion with the lovely displays of hand-crafted, collectible items arriving regularly from antique shows and estate sales. Whether you're looking for goods to gift to others or hunting for your own personal treasures, this shop has affordable items packed with one-of-a-kind charms you won't want to miss out on. These include household decorations, furniture, jewelry, artwork, vases, tea sets, and antique cookware. You'll even find seasonal items such as miniature trees with vintage ornaments, fall flower arrangements, and other adorable themed trinkets. If you're interested in stopping by, Murphy's Mercantile opens Tuesday through Saturday (and sometimes on Sundays) at 10 a.m. Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve If you want a ridgetop view of Coyote Valley and natural peaks such as Mount Hamilton and Mount Umunhum, this final spot on our list beckons a visit from outdoor enthusiasts. Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve is a rural patch of land at the end of Palm Avenue between Morgan Hill and San Jose that sits adjacent to the Cinnabar Hills Golf Club. Spread out among 348 acres of natural landscape is a four-mile, multi-use Arrowhead Loop trail that's ideal for jogging, hiking, biking, and equestrian riding. You'll also find picnic tables, a bridge, educational panels, and lots of scenic views. If you're looking to plan a trip to Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve, you'll find it offers a day full of exploration and adventure from sunrise to sunset. We know you can't visit every attraction in Morgan Hill, but don't let these hidden gems fall under the radar. While you're in Santa Clara County, stop by these three destinations and find out for yourself what makes each so unique. Photo by donjd2 | Licensed under cc by 2.0

If you're looking for something fun to do in San Jose, California, make a plan to root for the home team at a Sharks game. The San Jose Sharks play in the National Hockey League at SAP Center. Along with the games, the team hosts various events throughout the season to get fans excited and draw bigger crowds. Check out these fun events to build team spirit and enjoy time with your loved ones. Fan Appreciation Night On April 7, the San Jose Sharks will celebrate their appreciation for the fans at this annual event. The game is against the Minnesota Wild, and everyone who attends will receive a bobblehead of Burns and Thornton, two of the top players on the Sharks. Display your bobblehead with pride to show how true of a fan you are when you attend this exciting matchup. Tickets are available starting at $49. more Summertime Social Events During the summer months, the Sharks host several social events to connect with their fans and create a fun atmosphere where fellow fans can meet one another. Last year, some of these social events included a Paint Night, where those in attendance could express their creativity and paint a masterpiece, and a golf tournament at the local Cinnabar Hills Golf Course. The Bowlero event was another popular option for Sharks fans, in which they came together to bowl for a good cause. Keep an eye out for upcoming social events this summer and register to participate if you want to take the opportunity to get to know other Sharks fans. Business Events The San Jose Sharks also have a strong presence in the business community, hosting several events that helped the team form relationships with businesspeople throughout the area. These events can also help the Sharks generate sponsorships, which help to keep ticket prices affordable and allow the team to continue to host these types of events. In mid-August, the team hosted an event at a local driving range. A wine tasting event was another fun business opportunity, which took place in late September. Ticket Packs If you're looking for a fun and affordable family day out, check out the available family ticket packs. You can score tickets to a hockey game, along with hot dogs, chips, and drinks for four people, available at a more reasonable price than if you purchased everything separately. Another ticket pack option is the Chum pack, which gets you a beer for every ticket you buy. For certain games, the team will also give away gear and swag to help fans get decked out and root on the Sharks. For example, when the Sharks play the St. Louis Blues in March, tickets purchased through the Earthquakes Night package will include two themed scarves: one for the Sharks and one for the local MLS team, the Earthquakes. With so many fun events happening at SAP Center, San Jose Sharks fans will love participating and cheering for their favorite hockey team. Reserve your tickets to take part in the upcoming events. Photo by pointnshoot | Licensed under CC BY 2.0