Temperatures are rising, flowers are blooming, and ice cream trucks are making the rounds in Santa Clara again. You know what that means… springtime is here. 

The best way to embrace the season of rejuvenation and awakening is to spend time outdoors, soaking up the sun and breathing in the fresh air. If you live, work, or just love spending time in Santa Clara, Neighborhoods.com has rounded up a list of things to do.

George F. Haines International Swim Center

George F. Haines International Swim Center photo courtesy of City of Santa Clara

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a pool in their backyard. Fortunately, there’s a huge one available for public use in Santa Clara. The George F. Haines International Swim Center is run by the Santa Clara Swim Club. This swim center is actually home to the Santa Clara Aquamaids, who have produced 24 Olympic synchronized swimmers. If you want to practice your breaststroke, lounge by the poolside, or rub shoulders with future Olympians, hang out here. 

California’s Great America

Photo courtesy of California’s Great America

Every person who grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area knows the thrill of going to California’s Great America. This 100-acre amusement park has been around since 1976 and even made cameo appearances in films such as “Beverly Hills Cop III” and “Getting Even with Dad.” The park offers dozens of different rides, with the Gold Striker wooden roller coaster being especially popular. Adrenaline seekers will also love the Centrifuge, Berserker, and Drop Zone: Scream Zone attractions.

Levi’s Stadium

Photo courtesy of Levi’s Stadium

Levi’s Stadium has already made history as the setting of the 50th Super Bowl, but high-profile football games aren’t the only events held here. From the upcoming Monster Jam to Taylor Swift’s Reputation Tour, Levi’s plays host to major events all throughout the year. Keep tabs on the website’s event calendar to see what’s coming up. 

Santa Clara Central Park

Photo courtesy of Santa Clara Central Park

This 52-acre Central Park may not be as large or famous as the one in New York City, but you can bet there’s still plenty to do here. Visitors have access to picnic facilities, a children’s play area, amphitheater, lighted tennis courts, basketball courts, and a 30,000-square-foot community recreation center. The park is divided in two by Saratoga Creek and you’ll find lots to do on either side. It’s a good spot to soak up some sunshine, relax and enjoy the fresh air, or have a picnic. The park is also home to the City of Santa Clara’s Avenue of Flags, which displays 57 United States flags on designated holidays.

San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail

Photo courtesy of San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail

Want to get some exercise while enjoying the great outdoors? Running from Santa Clara to Sunnyvale and beyond, the San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail is one of the feeder trails to the San Francisco Bay Area Trail. There are multiple different route options you can take, depending on whether you’re walking or biking the trail. Check out the website to find out which trails are best suited for you and where you live. Dogs are welcome, so bring them along for the run.