Rotary Playgarden — these days, every big city has a big place where kids are free to play. The Rotary Play Garden is as good as they get.
Happy Hollow Zoo, a few miles from downtown, is another favorite place for kids and their parents. This is a San Jose tradition.
Another lesser-known but magical places is Ryland Park and Pool, 415 N. First St.
For kid-friendly eats, try Old Spaghetti Factory, Candy Kitchen and a number of cookie places dotting the very walkable and stroller-able downtown landscape.
One more tip: Stop by the New Ballet School and The Studio climbing facility to collect information about classes and programs. (maybe that’s two tips?)