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San Jose McEnery Convention Center

Experience the heart of Silicon Valley at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center, a premier venue hosting diverse events from tech conferences to cultural celebrations in a vibrant downtown setting.

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The San Jose McEnery Convention Center, a bustling hub in the heart of Silicon Valley, hosts a wide array of events year-round, from tech conferences and auto shows to comic conventions and galas. Named after former San Jose Mayor Tom McEnery, the center boasts over 550,000 sq ft of space, including exhibit halls, ballrooms, and meeting rooms. Its central location provides easy access to downtown San Jose's attractions, restaurants, and hotels. The convention center is not only a functional space but also an aesthetically pleasing one, featuring public art installations like the 'Idea Tree'.

A brief summary to San Jose Convention Center & South Hall

  • 150 W San Carlos St, San Jose, Central San Jose, California, 95113, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Check the event schedule in advance, as the convention center hosts multiple events simultaneously, and knowing the layout can save time.
  • Utilize public transportation; the Convention Center VTA Light Rail stop provides easy access to various parts of San Jose.
  • Explore nearby dining options; numerous restaurants within walking distance offer diverse cuisines to suit every taste.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From San Jose Diridon Station (Caltrain/ACE/Amtrak), take the VTA Light Rail (Green or Blue Line) towards downtown. The Convention Center Station is directly adjacent to the San Jose McEnery Convention Center. A single VTA Light Rail fare is $2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in downtown San Jose, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to the San Jose McEnery Convention Center typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on distance and demand. Use the 150 W San Carlos St address for accurate routing.

  • Driving

    If driving, approach the convention center via Highway 87 (Guadalupe Parkway) and exit at West San Carlos Street. Several parking garages are available near the convention center, including the Convention Center Garage (401 S Almaden Blvd) and the Market & San Pedro Square Garage (45 N Market St). Parking rates typically range from $20-$30 per day, but may be higher during major events.

  • Walking

    From most downtown hotels, the San Jose McEnery Convention Center is easily accessible on foot. Use West San Carlos Street or South Market Street as primary routes. The convention center is located across from Plaza de César Chávez Park.

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Discover more about San Jose Convention Center & South Hall

The San Jose McEnery Convention Center, often simply called the San Jose Convention Center, stands as a major landmark and event destination in the heart of downtown San Jose. Named in honor of former San Jose Mayor Tom McEnery, who championed its development, the center has become synonymous with Silicon Valley's dynamic spirit, hosting a diverse range of events that reflect the region's innovative and cultural landscape. Originally opened in 1989, replacing an older convention hall at the San Jose Civic, the McEnery Convention Center has undergone significant expansions and renovations to meet the evolving needs of its clients and visitors. A major renovation and expansion, completed in 2013, modernized the facility and added new features. The South Hall, a distinctive metal-framed fabric structure, was added in 2005, further increasing the center's capacity. The convention center boasts an impressive 550,000 square feet of space, encompassing over 165,000 square feet of exhibit space, numerous meeting rooms, and elegant ballrooms. This substantial area allows the center to accommodate large-scale events, including technology conferences, trade shows, conventions, and banquets. The facility can host events for up to 5,000 people, making it a popular choice for both local and national organizations. Beyond its functional aspects, the San Jose McEnery Convention Center also incorporates artistic elements that enhance the visitor experience. The 'Idea Tree,' an interactive public art installation located near the entrance, serves as a visual focal point and a symbol of creativity and innovation. The center's architecture blends modern design with practical considerations, creating a welcoming and efficient environment for attendees. The convention center's location in downtown San Jose offers numerous advantages. It is within walking distance of several hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it easy for visitors to explore the city during their stay. The center is also well-connected to public transportation, including light rail and bus lines, providing convenient access from other parts of the city and the surrounding region. The San Jose McEnery Convention Center plays a vital role in the local economy, attracting visitors and generating revenue for businesses in the area. It also serves as a gathering place for the community, hosting events that celebrate the region's diversity and culture. From technology conferences showcasing the latest innovations to comic conventions celebrating pop culture, the center offers something for everyone. Throughout the year, the San Jose McEnery Convention Center hosts a wide variety of events. Some of the most popular include: * **FanimeCon:** An annual anime convention that draws thousands of fans from around the world. * **Silicon Valley Auto Show:** A showcase of the latest cars, trucks, and SUVs. * **Silicon Valley Comic Con:** A celebration of comics, science fiction, and pop culture. * **Apple Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC):** A conference for developers working on Apple's platforms. * **Facebook F8:** A conference for developers and entrepreneurs building products and services on the Facebook platform. In addition to these large-scale events, the center also hosts numerous smaller meetings, conferences, and banquets. Its flexible space and state-of-the-art facilities make it an ideal venue for a wide range of gatherings. The San Jose McEnery Convention Center is more than just a building; it is a dynamic hub of activity that reflects the spirit of Silicon Valley. Whether you are attending a conference, trade show, or community event, the center offers a welcoming and engaging experience.

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