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When a massive truck just isn't big enough for your taste, take a look at the 2018 Ford F-450 Super Duty. This behemoth pickup is a towing beast, mobile office, and family hauler all in one. Perfect for the job site, tailgating, and family gatherings, the F-450 is in a class all its own. Here are just a few reasons to become an F-450 owner. Unbeatable Power The gargantuan 2018 Ford F-450 Super Duty is impressive in stature, so it's no surprise that it comes with an equally as impressive engine. Beneath the sheet metal of the beast lurks the legendary 6.7-liter, Power Stroke V-8 diesel engine. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the F-450 supplies a whopping 440 horsepower and up to 925 pound-feet of torque. That's good enough for a 0-60 time of just 8.0 seconds, a top speed of 88 mph, and a best-in-class 32,500-pound towing capacity. more Enhanced Safety Many pickups lack modern safety features, relying on their size to mitigate the damage of an accident. Unfortunately, this isn't always enough to protect you from accidents or injury. To set the bar a bit higher for the class, the F-450 offers a comprehensive set of standard safety features including multiple airbags, a safety canopy system, child tethers, a trailer brake controller, and a post-crash alert system. It's also the first super-duty truck to offer driver-assist safety features. With the available adaptive cruise control, the F-450 automatically slows when it gets too close to cars in front and returns to full cruise control speed when you pass them. The collision warning with brake support applies the brakes when you're late to respond, preventing potential accidents. More Room With its mammoth interior, the Ford F-450 Super Duty accommodates more passengers and cargo than its competition. Four doors make it easy for you to accommodate up to six passengers, and each will enjoy best-in-class headroom of 40.8 inches and legroom of 43.9 inches. Three cab choices — Regular, Super, and Crew — provide even more storage capacity, ranging from 11.6 inches to 52.1 inches depending on your selection. Luxurious Interior Amenities Although the F-450 is a true workhorse, the interior of the truck is nothing short of spectacular. Luxurious features include two-tone leather seating, a suede headliner, dual-zone automatic climate control, wood-grain accents, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. If you're a tech guru, you'll love the updated features available on the F-450. Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system gives you instant access to apps and other features. Other highlights are SiriusXM satellite radio, a Sony premium audio system with 10 speakers and a subwoofer, navigation, and both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can hook your phone into the car's head unit for instant access to communication, entertainment, maps, and everything else that you love on your phone. From a construction site to urban landscapes and everywhere in between, the Ford F-450 Super Duty is the truck that belongs in your driveway. Photo by JeepersMedia | Licensed under cc BY 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

Ford has redesigned the Fusion for the 2018 model year. Families gravitate to this midsize sedan for its ability to haul multiple people around. In addition to being practical, the 2018 Ford Fusion comes in five different trims with multiple package options to make it your own. Here's why the Ford Fusion is an upscale family vehicle. A Smooth and Powerful Ride One of the key things to note about the 2018 Ford Fusion is that it is enjoyable to drive. The brakes respond well when engaged and the transmission switches smoothly between the six speeds. more There's also the power aspect of the car. Fusion's engine type depends on the trim level chosen. However, the higher trims have powerful engines like the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine in the Sport trim. It produces 325 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. This power means going from zero to 60 in under 5.5 seconds. All-wheel drive is also part of the Sport trim, a rarity for other vehicles in the same class. Comfort Having a comfortable ride is a significant consideration when purchasing a family sedan. Ford kept this in mind across all trims. Cloth seating is standard in the base model with enough padding underneath. The balance of comfort and support is welcome where the leather options are slightly stiffer. With family in the car, it feels solid driving on the road beneath. The feeling is less when driving solo but it's still a pleasurable experience nevertheless. The cabin is quiet overall. Only small amounts of wind or road work noise filter in, making it that much easier for kids to sleep during a drive. Interior and Storage In addition to a comfortable and quiet cabin, the Fusion's interior has a good layout and is spacious. The driver's position is adjustable, it's easy to get in and out of the car, and the Fusion's front seats easily accommodate tall people. There's also plenty of storage in the center console with a storage bin under the center armrest, another bin forward of the shifter knob, and a larger bin under the center stack as well as the glove box and door-panel bins. The trunk is also spacious, easily fitting a compact stroller and other large items, with rear split seats for larger items. Technology and Safety Features An interesting thing to note about the 2018 Ford Fusion is that the automaker opted to use a shift knob instead of a regular shifter. The vehicle uses SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration and an easy-to-use touchscreen with large graphics and supplemental buttons and knobs underneath on the Sport trim. SYNC is standard on base trims. The vehicle comes with a rearview camera, individual tire pressure monitoring system, electronic stability control, and a LATCH system for car seats with other safety technology options available on other trims. The Ford Fusion is a vehicle that families will love to ride in, with plenty of options and trim levels to make it an upscale choice. Check out our available inventory and schedule a test drive to experience the 2018 Ford Fusion for yourself. Photo by RL GNZLZ | Licensed under cc BY-SA 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

In the beautiful suburb of San Jose, California, sits an iconic landmark that, until recently, has been well-known mostly to local residents. With the upcoming release of the movie inspired by this breathtaking mansion, however, the Winchester House has become famous all over the world. What is it about this house that has everybody so suddenly intrigued? Here are four interesting facts about the Winchester Mystery House. The House Is Named After Its Original Owner A common misconception about the Winchester Mystery House is that it derives its name from the city of Winchester in England. In fact, many people believe that's where the house is located. You may be surprised, then, to discover that the house is actually located on the West Coast of the United States. The mansion was named for its original mistress, Sarah Winchester, who purchased the property when it was nothing more than an unassuming farmhouse. more The House Was Under Construction for Nearly 40 Years When Sarah Winchester bought the original property, she immediately began construction to make it the mansion that exists today. Sarah was so obsessed with the construction of the house that a team of workers worked in rotating shifts nonstop. The house was under construction day and night, seven days a week, for 38 years. Construction would have likely continued indefinitely, had Sarah not passed away in 1922. Accounts of Sarah's death claim that construction stopped so abruptly, there are still half-hammered nails sticking out of walls all over the house. Nobody quite understands why Sarah was so obsessed with the mansion's construction, but many believe she was building out of fear because a psychic medium said her family's money was built on innocent blood. The house wasn't just for Sarah. It was for the souls of the innocents who lost their lives so the Winchesters could build their fortunes. The Entire House Is Designed to Be Confusing The entire mansion is filled with secret doors and passageways. Even those that weren't intentionally hidden are a confusing maze that weaves all over the interior of the home. Sarah was the architect and designer, with no master building plans ever being found, which has led to the belief that Sarah had no specific design in mind for the house. It is believed that the secretive and unusual design was meant to confuse the ghosts Sarah believed lived in the house with her to give her some respite from their constant torment. New secrets are constantly being discovered and it's entirely possible that the house may never be fully understood. The Winchester Mystery House is a conundrum that has stumped paranormal investigators for years. Sarah Winchester is the only one who really understood everything about the house. Since she's no longer around to question, the best that can be done is to rely on the accounts and records that are available for review. For more information, consider visiting the house yourself. Photo by HarshLight | Licensed under cc by 2.0

When you think about what the typical American loves to drive and you have to think truck. The Ford Raptor is no exception. The only problem is that the Raptor has yet to land on American soil. Rumor has it that an American-friendly Raptor is scheduled for arrival soon. This is what consumers can expect from this Ford F-150 doppelganger. What Fuels This New Addition? Overseas, the Raptor currently runs on diesel, which is not the ideal situation for Americans. Ford will need to make changes to accommodate gas as the fuel of choice. The current Raptor has a 2-liter engine that provides 210 horsepower, and Americans would want something similar in order to make the most of their off-road adventures. more How the Raptor Compares to Others in Its Class If the Raptor is going to make a dent in any way on the U.S. market, it needs to up its game where power is concerned. The 2-liter engine might not be enough to power its way through its competitors, as consumers will want at least 308 horsepower. This will allow the Raptor to carve out a spot for itself among the likes of the Chevrolet Colorado. Torque is another aspect to consider and could be a game changer for those deciding between the Raptor and other competitors. Why Fans Love the Raptor Those who have had the pleasure of driving a Raptor state that the suspension is what makes this installment from Ford so special. It handles well in tricky situations which bodes well for those who want to do a bit of off-roading. It also has a high clearance, which means boulders and hilly countrysides are no match for the Raptor. As far as Rangers are concerned, this is one for the outdoorsy types. Don't Confuse It With the F-150 Those who believe the Raptor has already landed on US soil are forgiven for getting their models mixed up. Ford has previously released a Raptor under the F-150 banner, and it is a favorite among those who like powerful and intimidating trucks. It's bigger and more powerful than the Ranger and is a treat to those who need it to work hard, such as business owners and those who take their leisure time seriously. It boasts a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine that offers an incredible 450 horsepower. The Suspense Is Real While Ford envisages a global release of the Ranger Raptor, they are still mum on the release date for the U.S. This places Ford lovers in a predicament, as there is also no mentioned of starting MSRP as yet either. Those who are looking to change their wheels within the next few months will have to await the formal press release before putting their hopes on the Ranger Raptor. They can expect the price range to come in under the F-150 Raptor, and it also needs to compete with Chevrolet and Nissan, which will give potential customers a ballpark figure of what to expect. With Ford being an American brand, it may be tough for some enthusiasts to understand why the Ranger Raptor wasn't introduced to American soil first before making its appearance in Asia. Photo by JeepersMedia | 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