Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum & Planetarium, San Jose

The Museum was a fun place to visit. it was really interesting but hard to keep the 8 yr old I took interested. She really liked seeing everything but the mummies can be scary for younger children

I lived in the south bay for 20 years, and only drove by the museum. This was my first time inside. I enjoyed a self-guided tour. I downloaded the MP3 bits and put them on my iPod. Made each stop very interesting. I'm almost 50, and thought I knew quite a bit of history, but I learned a lot there. I loved the mummies, and I loved a lot of the art. As for the planetarium - I liked it because I could take a load off my feet, and get a bit of rest. It was really not all that interesting. I don't think it is interesting for any but the youngest. But back to the museum.... It is definitely wheelchair-accessible throughout. Looks like the front stairs were recently poured over with a ramp. That kind of takes a bit of the look away. I used to like the look of the long set of steps. But hey, now folks in wheelchairs can enjoy, so it's OK with me. I'd have just added a ramp off to the side. The artifacts were a lot of fun to see - everything from toys, to religious artifacts, to musical instruments. Very peaceful to walk around the grounds too. We went when school was out, so I am sure that helped (by not having a thousand kids running about). All in all, I really enjoyed my time there and recommend it. If you want to take photos, no flash. I used a Nikon DSLR with VR lenses, and they worked perfectly for every exhibit. The auto-ISO ended up between 600-1600, and shutter speeds 1/6th to 1/25th. But the VR worked wonders. I assume Canon's IS would be the same. Enjoy!

Great collection excellently displayed. Plan to spend a half of a day.

What a great experience. My wife and I are huge fans of history museums, however we have never been to an Egyptian museum. This museum has great displays, a courteous staff, and is an all around great time. We especially liked the replica stone-carved tomb. The beautiful garden is great for a stroll with your spouse. A step back into history. There is not a better deal in San Jose for $9. Highly recommended field trip for the whole family. We will return.

There was a lot to look at, interesting stuff. I had no idea that it would be so interesting or contain so much. I'll probably go back. Normally, I'd think you'd have to go up to SF for something like this, so it is nice to have this down south.

It was a bit expensive, but the displays were interesting and unique. They don't have a lot of mummies, though, if your kids are expecting them. (Ours were.) Would definitely go again. Don't bother staying for the planetarium show, though. We stayed extra for it, and found it a waste of time. The kids fell asleep, and we almost did, too. Unless your interested in the Rosicrucian Order, it's not worth your time.

I am Egyptian, i felt like home, it looks likethe temple of Karnak, they even have real mummies and temple like structures. Whoever did this I must thank him. It have some or the Pharonict mysteries that you would love to explore yourself. Do not miss out this one

its sooo boring...there was nothing to do but look around...my boring brother would enjoy it

small museum and nothing really interesting to look at. boring!

Wish there was more information about how the period in history they focus on fits in with the enormous Egyptian history. Still, wonderful exhibits!