Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, San Jose

The grounds are very pretty and I appreciate that there is free entry for the last hour of every day the grounds are peaceful, free to enter, and worth visiting for a picnic lunch. However I was very disappointed in the museum itself for having no information about tours (there is a free Android audio tour- or your can rent a set of headphones for $4- but they don't inform you of this), dates on items (there's a list of the eras on the wall on one of the top galleries- I saw it at the end) a map of the any of the galleries Etc. I was also disappointed to learn that they have planetarium exhibits every day but when I ask them at the desk it had already ended for the day. I was there in time but they did not let me know that it was ending early. Overall staff needs more training and to be more informative.

Was closed the first time we tried to come, so walked around the gardens which are filled with nice plants and neat architecture (photo op!!). When we eventually did see the museum, it was satisfactory — informative and overfilled with items, but not the most modern nor interactive of museums. I loved the little reading nook they have with Egyptian-themed reads, probably my personal highlight. Definitely educational and a good way to spend some down time. Also, AMA members get a discount on the entrance fee, so rememberer to bring + show your card!

Educational, with good displays and knowledgeable staff. Delightful, Egyptian tomb recreation. While you need to pay to visit the museum, the grounds are free to explore. Lovely fountain. Serene​ reflecting pool and lovely plantings interspersed with early twentieth century replicas of ancient Egypt. Great for meditation and quiet walks.

I love my Mummy, I do.. You will too when you go to this museum which I believe has the second largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, mummies, and information. {Largest I believe is in Germany} Plan on spending three to four hours in this multi-level building and the Planetarium next door. {They have movies there that are always interesting}. Plan your visit so you have plenty of time to see the exhibits, the movie, and then return to the exhibits and gift shop. The site has a gift shop, a parking lot out back, a flower and Koi pool garden, and much more. The entry fee is low and the value is tremendous. If you are in the San Jose area for one day, then I recommend going to the Winchester House in the AM, then to the Rose Garden and a restaurant for lunch, and then to this Egyptian Museum in the afternoon . It is a full day, but well worth it.

Pros: Huge (many exhibits). Impressive (variety of carefully curated artifacts). Tour and tour guides are nice. Beautiful, calm outdoor area as well. Reasonably priced. Parking lot across the street is free and easy, and free street parking is available too. Cons: No hands-on or digital aspects, so best for kids who have a high interest and will commit to reading the panels.