Discover San Jose: A Neighborhood Guide

San Jose is an exciting metropolis that offers much more to travelers than what first meets the eye.

Divided into 18 distinct neighborhoods that cover 181 square miles, the sprawling area that constitutes San Jose houses the third-largest population in California. With so much ground to cover, experiencing everything in one trip may not be feasible, but this San Jose neighborhood guide is a good starting point.

These are the best neighborhoods to visit in San Jose, whether you’re exploring for the first time or you’re a regular visitor.

Downtown San Jose

Best neighborhood for sightseeing and nightlife

If there’s a community event, new pop-up art gallery, or trendy cocktail bar to visit, it’ll probably be in Downtown San Jose. This central hub of the city allows you to feel the vibrant pulse of people and activities, complemented by peaceful corners in leafy parks.

Downtown is home to some of the best museums, art galleries, and street art (especially in the SoFA District). You’ll also find a variety of mid-range to luxury hotels. It’s the ideal place to explore the city after dark. Whether you want to dance the night away, sip on a pint of craft beer, or enjoy live jazz, all these experiences await downtown.

This area is perfect for first-time visitors to take in all that the city has to offer in a walkable environment filled with main attractions. Additionally, it’s the most connected neighborhood to public transportation, making it easy to navigate other parts of the city and the greater Bay Area.

Willow Glen

Best neighborhood for families and brunch

Tree-lined streets, wide sidewalks, and the delightful aroma of freshly made avocado toast await you in Willow Glen. This neighborhood is best explored on foot, ideally with an appetite. With its pedestrian-friendly streets and historic homes, it’s no wonder this area is a popular hangout for both locals and tourists.

Located in the southwest section of the city, Willow Glen offers a surprisingly residential atmosphere close to bustling Downtown. Lincoln Avenue features cozy bookshops, bubbly brunch spots serving mimosas, and a variety of family-friendly restaurants.

When you’re not enjoying brunch, this neighborhood is perfect for people-watching and mingling with locals. Accommodation options range from budget to mid-range hotels on the outskirts to various vacation rentals right in the heart of it all.

Japantown

Best neighborhood for food and history

Taking up only a few city blocks between Downtown and the San Jose International Airport, Japantown may be small, but it packs in a wealth of cultural richness. Visit with an empty stomach to explore the authentic Japanese culinary scene, as well as Hawaiian diner specialties.

Besides the incredible food, Japantown has a significant history as one of the last remaining authentic Japantowns in the US (the others being in San Francisco and Los Angeles). A visit to the Japanese American Museum can provide valuable insights into this past and the lasting legacy of World War II on the Japanese American community.

Features in this neighborhood include a blend of boutiques, souvenir shops, and karaoke bars where you can enjoy singing into the early hours. Due to its proximity to the airport, various international chain hotels and budget-friendly motels can be found just northwest of the neighborhood.

Santana Row and West San Jose

Best neighborhood for shopping, wine tasting, and day trips

For those looking to indulge in a shopping spree, Santana Row is an excellent choice, featuring a mix of upscale luxury brands and popular national chains. The main street is shaded by trees and lined with fancy hotels, high-end retailers, and a wide variety of restaurants, spas, and salons.

If the 70+ shops along Santana Row don’t meet your needs, there’s an additional shopping area across the street at Westfield. This spot caters to families, back-to-school shoppers, and college students looking for more affordable options.

Moreover, the convenient location of West San Jose on the outskirts of the city makes it a perfect base for day trips. You can visit the iconic Winchester Mystery House, hit the beach in Santa Cruz, enjoy wine tasting in the Santa Cruz Mountains, or drive up the scenic Peninsula.

Keep in mind that accommodations in Santana Row can be pricey. However, venturing just outside the area will yield more budget-friendly and mid-range options.

Almaden Valley

Best neighborhood to escape the crowds

With open spaces, golf courses, and scenic hiking trails, Almaden Valley is the neighborhood where you can relax and unwind.

Be sure to visit the most popular attraction in the area, Almaden Quicksilver County Park. Here, you’ll find picturesque views, rugged hiking paths, and remnants of the area’s mining history. A stroll through the small town of New Almaden allows you to delve into the rich history of what was once the richest mercury mining area in North America.

Concluding your visit at one of the other scenic parks or enjoying a breathtaking view from nearby Mt Umunhum, which towers over 3,400 feet above the Santa Clara Valley, will surely enhance your experience.

As a predominantly residential area filled with greenery, accommodation options may be limited, so consider seeking a vacation rental nearby.