Plaza de Cesar Chavez: San Jose's Historic Heart
Discover the historic heart of San Jose at Plaza de Cesar Chavez, the oldest public space in Northern California, surrounded by museums, theaters, and vibrant cultural events.
Plaza de Cesar Chavez, located in the heart of downtown San Jose, is the oldest public space in Northern California, dating back to 1797. Originally the plaza mayor of the Spanish Pueblo de San José de Guadalupe, it has served as a focal point for the city for over two centuries. Renamed in 1993 to honor the civil rights activist Cesar Chavez, the plaza is surrounded by prominent institutions like The Tech Interactive, the San Jose Museum of Art, and St. Joseph's Cathedral. Today, the plaza hosts a variety of events, including music festivals, cultural celebrations, and the annual Christmas in the Park, making it a vibrant gathering place for locals and tourists alike. With its rich history and central location, Plaza de Cesar Chavez offers a blend of cultural experiences and community engagement, making it a must-visit destination in San Jose. Visitors can enjoy the landscaped flower beds, water fountains, and open-air theater, ensuring a memorable experience.
A brief summary to Plaza de Cesar Chavez
- 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose, Central San Jose, California, 95113, US
- +1408-535-3570
- 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
- Check the event calendar before your visit; Plaza de Cesar Chavez hosts numerous festivals and concerts throughout the year.
- Visit during the Christmas in the Park event for a festive winter experience with lights, decorations, and a large Christmas tree.
- Explore the nearby Tech Interactive and San Jose Museum of Art to enrich your visit with science and culture.
- Take advantage of the plaza's central location and use public transportation to easily access other attractions in downtown San Jose.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch on the lawn or relax by the water fountains for a peaceful break in the heart of the city.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Plaza de Cesar Chavez is easily accessible via public transportation. From San Jose Diridon Station, transfer to the VTA Light Rail and take either the Green Line or the Blue Line. Exit at the Convention Center station, which is just a short walk from the plaza. Alternatively, several VTA bus lines, including the 22, 23, 500, 522, and 523, stop near the plaza. A single ride on VTA costs $2.50, or you can purchase a day pass for $7.50. Remember to have exact change if paying with cash on the bus.
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Walking
If you are already in downtown San Jose, Plaza de Cesar Chavez is easily reachable on foot. From the intersection of Santa Clara Street and Market Street, walk south on Market Street for a few blocks. The plaza will be on your left, surrounded by landmarks such as The Tech Interactive and the San Jose Museum of Art. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Jose. A short ride from San Jose Diridon Station to Plaza de Cesar Chavez typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Simply provide 'Plaza de Cesar Chavez, San Jose' as your destination to the driver.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 1 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose, CA 95113. Parking near Plaza de Cesar Chavez is available in several nearby garages and metered street parking. Garages like the 50 West Garage and the Fairmont Plaza Garage offer hourly rates, typically around $8 for 2 hours. Metered street parking is available but can be limited, and often free for 2 hours. Be sure to check posted signs for parking regulations and time limits. Note that on-site parking is not available at Plaza De Cesar Chavez.
Discover more about Plaza de Cesar Chavez
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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