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Monopoly in the Park: A Life-Sized Board Game Adventure

Experience the world's largest permanent Monopoly board in downtown San Jose! A unique, interactive attraction for all ages, perfect for families, tourists, and corporate events.

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Step into a world of oversized fun at Monopoly in the Park, a unique San Jose attraction that brings the classic board game to life. This 930-square-foot permanent, granite game board, certified by the Guinness Book of World Records, offers a playful and interactive experience for all ages. Stroll through Discovery Meadow in Guadalupe River Park, admire the colorful murals and whimsical animal sculptures, and snap photos with the jumbo dice and token hats. Whether you're a die-hard Monopoly fan or simply seeking a lighthearted outdoor activity, Monopoly in the Park promises a memorable escape in the heart of downtown San Jose. While playing a full game requires advance booking, visiting the park and viewing the board is free and open to the public during park hours. It's a perfect spot for families, tourists, and anyone looking to reconnect with their inner child.

A brief summary to Monopoly in the Park

  • 330 W San Carlos St, San Jose, Central San Jose, California, 95110, US
  • Visit website
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays for a less crowded experience and more opportunities to take photos without waiting.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Children's Discovery Museum for a full day of family fun.
  • Check the Friends of San Jose website for information on renting the board for a unique group event.
  • Take public transportation or utilize nearby parking garages, as street parking can be limited.
  • Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the park offers limited shade during sunny days.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    For those arriving via public transport, the VTA Light Rail is a convenient option. Take either the Blue or Green Line to the Convention Center Station, which is a short 5-minute walk to Monopoly in the Park. From the station, walk east on W San Carlos Street. The park will be on your left. A single VTA Light Rail fare costs $2.50.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 330 W San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95110. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks of the park. The Convention Center Garage (entrances on Almaden Blvd and Market Street) and the Second & San Carlos Street Garage are both within easy walking distance. Parking rates typically range from $1 per 15 minutes, with a daily maximum of $25-$30. Special event rates may apply. Limited street parking is also available, but can be difficult to find.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) provide a direct and convenient option. Simply request a ride to 330 W San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95110. Fares from downtown San Jose typically range from $8-$15, depending on traffic and demand.

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Discover more about Monopoly in the Park

Nestled within Discovery Meadow in the heart of downtown San Jose, Monopoly in the Park offers a whimsical and interactive experience that transforms the classic board game into a life-sized adventure. This unique attraction, certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's largest permanent Monopoly board, invites visitors of all ages to step into a world of oversized fun and nostalgia. The journey of this granite behemoth began not as a park attraction, but as an exhibition piece. The board was originally crafted in 1992 by a local San Jose company, Cypress Granite and Memorials, for the San Francisco Landscape and Design Show. Visionaries at San Jose Beautiful recognized its potential and procured it for the city. However, there was a significant pause; although created in 1992, the board wasn't officially installed and opened in Discovery Meadow until July 26, 2002. Spanning 930 square feet, the meticulously crafted granite game board replicates every detail of the iconic Monopoly layout, from Mediterranean Avenue to Boardwalk. Each property square is designed to scale, with side properties weighing 140 pounds and corner properties a hefty 236 pounds. Adding a local touch, some property squares feature charming San Jose-themed adaptations, such as "Santa Cruz Boardwalk" or the "County of Santa Clara Department of Corrections" for Jail, grounding the game in its San Jose setting. Beyond the impressive game board, Monopoly in the Park boasts a vibrant and playful atmosphere. Colorful murals adorn the surrounding area, while whimsical animal sculptures created by Michael Boris add to the park's enchanting ambiance. Visitors can pose for photos with the oversized dice and don hilarious, token-shaped hats, transforming themselves into the car, the shoe, or other classic Monopoly pieces. While simply viewing and photographing the board is a popular activity, the true Monopoly in the Park experience involves renting the space for a full-fledged, life-sized game. For a fee, groups can reserve the board and game pieces for corporate team-building events, family gatherings, school field trips, and other special occasions. Renters receive exclusive playtime on the board, along with custom-designed, to-scale game pieces, including houses, hotels, and wearable token hats. The game is officiated by a referee who ensures fair play and keeps the energy high. Playing Monopoly in the Park follows official Monopoly short game rules, with a few modifications to accommodate the larger scale. Each team is given three properties to start, and hotels can be purchased after only three houses. Participants roll gigantic dice and move around the board, trading properties, collecting rent, and trying to avoid landing in jail. The experience is both engaging and entertaining, fostering friendly competition and creating lasting memories. Monopoly in the Park is managed by Friends of San Jose, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting this unique community asset. Proceeds from rentals go towards park improvements, neighborhood enhancements, landscaping projects, and children's environmental education programs. The organization also relies on volunteers to maintain the board and ensure its availability for future generations. Located in Discovery Meadow within Guadalupe River Park, Monopoly in the Park is conveniently situated near other popular attractions, including the Children's Discovery Museum, the Tech Interactive, and the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts. Visitors can easily combine a trip to Monopoly in the Park with a visit to these nearby destinations, creating a full day of fun and exploration in downtown San Jose. Whether you're a lifelong Monopoly enthusiast or simply seeking a unique and memorable experience, Monopoly in the Park offers a delightful escape from the ordinary. Step onto the giant game board, roll the dice, and immerse yourself in a world of oversized fun and friendly competition. It's an experience that will leave you feeling like a kid again, with a newfound appreciation for the timeless appeal of this classic board game. Monopoly in the Park is more than just a game; it's a symbol of community, creativity, and the power of play. It's a place where families can connect, friends can compete, and visitors can rediscover the joy of simple pleasures. So, come on down to Discovery Meadow and experience the magic of Monopoly in the Park for yourself. You might just find yourself saying, "I'll buy that!"

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