San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles
A vibrant hub for textile art, showcasing everything from historical quilts to contemporary fiber creations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant hub for textile art, showcasing everything from historical quilts to contemporary fiber creations.
"The staff are super friendly and genuinely happy people, and they were honestly the highlight of visiting this museum."
Check Exhibit Schedules First
Exhibits rotate, so confirm what's on display before you go! :calendar:
Allow at least an hour
You might need more time if you're a textile enthusiast! :stopwatch:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rotating Textile Exhibits
Main Galleries
Discover diverse and inspiring exhibitions, from historical Hawaiian quilts to contemporary fiber art.
Kay Sekimachi Exhibit
Gallery Space
Explore the intricate and innovative woven art of this renowned textile artist.
"You May Recognize Yourself"
Gallery Space
A poignant show of sewn portraits reflecting on women's roles and identity through household textiles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Exhibit Schedules
Plan Your Visit Duration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Exhibit Schedules First
Exhibits rotate, so confirm what's on display before you go!
Allow at least an hour
You might need more time if you're a textile enthusiast! :stopwatch:
Look for 'Discover & Go'
Check if your local library offers free passes for admission. :ticket:
Staff are a highlight
Visitors rave about the friendly and welcoming museum staff. :star:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Exhibit Schedules First
Exhibits rotate, so confirm what's on display before you go!
Allow at least an hour
You might need more time if you're a textile enthusiast! :stopwatch:
Look for 'Discover & Go'
Check if your local library offers free passes for admission. :ticket:
Staff are a highlight
Visitors rave about the friendly and welcoming museum staff. :star:
Gift shop treasures
Find unique quilts, jewelry, and scarves. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the museum's friendly and welcoming staff, who are frequently cited as a highlight. The curated exhibitions are generally well-received, showcasing impressive textile art and craftsmanship. However, some visitors have expressed disappointment when quilts were not prominently featured, given the museum's name, and one review noted an unexpected interruption to their visit due to staff breaks.
"This place is very welcoming. The staff are super friendly and genuinely happy people, and they were honestly the highlight of visiting this museum. The reason for my 3-star review is that there were no quilts on display, which was the sole reason why I went. I understand that exhibits rotate, but I feel there should be a year-round staple of quilts on display in at least a small part of the museum since "quilts" appears before "textiles" in the title of this establishment. I always support the arts, so I don't regret going. I was told there will be quilts coming in September, but I live in OC. There was ample street parking when I went, and you don't need more than an hour inside (it's a small museum)."
Sana Sayed
"Their permanent collection is quite beautiful. And the exhibitions always bring new charms."
Rajarshi Chaudhuri
"My wife and I went to see the Kay Sekimachi exhibit yesterday, Friday August 29th. The advertised hours were: open 1-5 pm. We paid our admission and entered at 2:30. We enjoyed the first room very much, but at 3pm a staff member came in and told us that we were the only visitors at the museum, we had to leave and if we wanted to, we could return at 4pm to be re-admitted. The reason was that the staff wanted to "take a one hour break". This did not fit into our plans. We were not warned about this when we paid our admission, nor were we offered any refund. We had to zip through the second room of the exhibit, didn't see the second exhibit, nor get to watch the video about Sekimachi and her husband. BE AWARE: you might get thrown out also."
Daniel Tuerk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 520 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113. It's accessible by public transportation, and street parking is often available.
Yes, visitors have noted ample street parking is usually available.
The museum is centrally located in downtown San Jose, making it accessible via various VTA bus and light rail lines. Check the VTA website for specific routes and schedules.
While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the museum, most modern cultural institutions strive for accessibility. It's recommended to call ahead if you have specific needs.
San Jose has a growing network of bike lanes. The museum is in a downtown area, so biking is a viable option for those coming from nearby neighborhoods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, and it's best to check the official museum website for the most current pricing. Some visitors have utilized library passes like 'Discover & Go' for free admission.
The museum typically operates on weekends, often from 11 AM to 5 PM, and may have different hours on weekdays. Always verify the current hours on their website before visiting.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance can save time, especially during peak visiting hours or special events. Check the museum's ticketing page online.
Look into local library programs like 'Discover & Go' for potential free admission. The museum may also offer discounts for students, seniors, or members.
One visitor reported being asked to leave for a staff break without a refund. It's advisable to clarify the museum's policy on re-admission or refunds when purchasing tickets, especially if your visit might be interrupted.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases a range of textile art, including historical and contemporary quilts, garments, and other fiber art pieces. Exhibits rotate, so the focus can vary.
While 'quilts' are in the museum's name, exhibits rotate, and there might be periods with fewer quilts. It's recommended to check the current exhibition schedule to ensure quilts are featured.
Most visitors spend about an hour, but enthusiasts of textiles and quilting might spend longer.
The museum's exhibits can be appreciated by all ages, though the level of engagement will depend on the child's interest in art and textiles. Interactive elements are not a primary focus.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's best to look for signage within the museum or ask staff if non-flash photography is permitted.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The San Jose Museum of Quilts & Textiles does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors usually dine at nearby establishments in downtown San Jose.
Downtown San Jose offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries catering to different tastes and budgets. You can find options ranging from casual to upscale dining.
Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside museum galleries to protect the exhibits. There might be designated areas outside or in the lobby for consumption.
For a quick bite, explore the numerous cafes and delis in the downtown San Jose area, many of which are within walking distance of the museum.
San Jose's downtown area features diverse culinary options, including Mexican, Italian, Asian, and American cuisine. Explore local listings for current favorites.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can differ for each exhibition. Look for signs in the galleries or ask museum staff if non-flash photography is permitted.
Flash photography is generally prohibited in art museums to protect delicate textiles and artworks from light damage. Always adhere to museum guidelines.
While the exhibits themselves are the main focus, the museum's architecture or any outdoor spaces might offer good photo opportunities. The gift shop also has unique items.
Exhibits featuring vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and unique textures are often the most photogenic. The 'Excellence in Fibers' and 'SlipCover' exhibits have been visually striking.
Commercial photography usually requires special permission and may incur fees. For personal use, non-flash photography is typically allowed, but always confirm with the museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to allow children more space to explore. Discussing the stories behind the textiles or imagining who might have made them can make the visit more interactive. Check the museum's website for any family-specific programming or workshops that might be available during your visit.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Textile Lovers
Engage with the artist statements and any accompanying materials to gain deeper insights into the techniques and inspirations behind the art. The museum's focus on both historical and contemporary pieces offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of textile art. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the gift shop for unique textile-related souvenirs or art pieces.
🚶 Day-Trippers from the Bay Area
Combine your visit with exploring other downtown San Jose attractions or enjoying the local culinary scene. Remember to check the museum's exhibit schedule beforehand to make the most of your visit. The museum's manageable size makes it perfect for a focused cultural excursion without taking up your entire day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Quilting and Textiles
Exhibitions are a cornerstone of the museum's programming, with a constant rotation of shows that highlight different artists, themes, and historical periods. These can range from deeply personal sewn portraits to grand-scale artistic installations. The museum aims to educate and inspire, providing context and artist statements that deepen the appreciation for each piece.
Whether you're a seasoned quilter, a textile artist, or simply an admirer of fine craftsmanship, the museum offers a unique perspective on how threads and fabrics can tell stories, evoke emotions, and reflect cultural heritage. It's a place where the tangible beauty of textile art is celebrated and shared.
Navigating Exhibits and Collections
Some notable past and present exhibitions have included works by artists like Kay Sekimachi, known for her innovative weaving, and shows like 'Excellence in Fibers' and 'SlipCover,' which explore diverse artistic interpretations of textiles.
+1 Visitors often find that the artist statements and descriptions accompanying the works significantly enhance their understanding and appreciation of the pieces. While the museum is not vast, the quality of curation ensures that each exhibit is thoughtfully presented. Visitors who are deeply interested in fiber arts might spend over an hour, while those with a more casual interest may find an hour sufficient.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit