San Jose, long the Bay Area’s wayward child, has been transformed by the tech boom into a full-fledged, ultra-cool destination. I wanted a getaway with good food, wines and substance. My freeway denizen husband didn’t want to drive. The city, the third largest in California, met all our requirements. With plenty to see and distances short — even the Mineta Airport is nearby — we challenged our inner millennial by taking Uber or walking.

The tab: $420 for two nights at the Hotel Valencia, $410 for food and wine, and $40 for Uber.