Plaza de Cesar Chavez: San Jose's Historic Heart
Discover the historic heart of San Jose at Plaza de Cesar Chavez, a vibrant public space hosting year-round events, surrounded by museums, theaters, and key city landmarks.
Plaza de Cesar Chavez, located in the heart of downtown San Jose, is a vibrant and historic public space. Dating back to 1797, it's the oldest public space in Northern California, originally serving as the plaza mayor of the Spanish Pueblo de San José de Guadalupe. Renamed in 1993 to honor the iconic civil rights activist Cesar Chavez, the plaza hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the San Jose Jazz Festival, Music in the Park, and Christmas in the Park. Surrounded by key landmarks like The Tech Interactive, the San Jose Museum of Art, and the Signia by Hilton, the plaza offers a blend of history, culture, and entertainment. Whether you're looking to relax by the fountains, catch a live performance, or explore nearby attractions, Plaza de Cesar Chavez is a must-visit destination in San Jose. Its central location and accessibility make it a perfect starting point for exploring the city's rich cultural offerings and vibrant downtown scene.
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 to catch one of the many festivals, concerts, or community gatherings held at the plaza throughout the year.
- Explore the nearby museums, such as The Tech Interactive and the San Jose Museum of Art, to complement your visit to the plaza.
- Take advantage of the public transportation options, including VTA bus and light rail, to easily reach the plaza and avoid parking hassles.
Getting There
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Public Transport
For those arriving via public transport, the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) offers several convenient options. Multiple bus lines serve the area, with stops located within a short walking distance of the plaza. Additionally, the VTA light rail has stops at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center and the Federal Building, both just a block or two from the plaza. A single ride on VTA bus or light rail costs $2.50. An 8-hour light rail pass is $5, and a day pass is $7.50. Clipper cards are recommended for easy fare payment.
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Walking
If you are already in downtown San Jose, walking to Plaza de Cesar Chavez is a breeze. The plaza is centrally located and easily accessible from most downtown hotels, restaurants, and attractions. From the San Jose Convention Center, simply walk north on Market Street for a few blocks. From the San Jose Museum of Art, exit the museum and head south across the Circle of Palms Plaza; the Plaza de Cesar Chavez will be directly in front of you.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to reach Plaza de Cesar Chavez. A short ride from San Jose Diridon Station, the city's main transportation hub, to the plaza typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to specify 'Plaza de Cesar Chavez' as your destination to ensure the driver takes you to the correct location. A dedicated drop-off/pick-up location is available in front of the Civic Auditorium on San Carlos Street, adjacent to the plaza entrance.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that on-site parking at Plaza de Cesar Chavez is limited. However, several parking garages are located within walking distance, including the Fourth Street Garage, Market/San Pedro Square Garage, and the Second and San Carlos Garage. Parking fees typically range from $8 to $20 for a few hours, depending on the garage and the time of day. Metered street parking is also available, but spaces are often limited, and time restrictions apply. Check for parking availability and real-time rates online before you arrive.
Discover more about Plaza de Cesar Chavez
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
San Jose Downtown Historic District
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Birthplace of A.P. Giannini - San Jose History Walk #12 Marker
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St. James Park - San Jose History Walk Marker #23
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Trinity Cathedral
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Luis María Peralta Adobe
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Historic Tower Hall
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Gonzales-Peralta Adobe & Fallon House Historic Site
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Monument to the Founders of San Jose
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San Jose City Hall
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César Chávez Monument
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A powerful tribute to César Chávez on the SJSU campus, the Arch of Dignity, Equality, and Justice inspires reflection on social justice and the enduring fight for farmworkers' rights.
El Pueblo De San José De Guadalupe Historic Site
2.3 km
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Roberto Adobe & Sunol House
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Ashworth-Remillard House
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Hill House
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History Park (operated by History San Jose)
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Tech Interactive
0.1 km
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San Jose Museum of Art
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Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph
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The Caravan Lounge
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Divine Wine Merchant & Winery Tasting Room
0.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Crepes Bistro
4.4 km
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Round Table Pizza
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The Hut
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Habitant
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The Cheesecake Factory
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Hungry Hound
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Fiorillo's Restaurant and Banquet Facilities
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Yuki Sushi Santa Clara
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Mio Vicino
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White Elephant Thai Cuisine
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Euro Grill
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Homeroom
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Local Kitchens
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The Melt at Local Kitchens
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Sara's Kitchen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Petite Galleria
1.9 km
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Moon Zooom
3.0 km
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Build-A-Bear Workshop
4.8 km
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Au La La Design
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Game Kastle (Santa Clara)
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Cartier
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Bloomingdale's
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Free People
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Christian Louboutin Santa Clara
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Westfield Valley Fair
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Montblanc
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DIOR Santa Clara Valley Fair
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Tiffany & Co.
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The North Face Westfield Valley Fair Mall
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Lush Cosmetics Valley Fair
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Normandy House
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Koja Bar
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Lobby Lounge
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Taplands
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Rocco's Ballpark
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Broncos Cocktail Lounge
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Da Silva's Bronco's Pub
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thirsty.bar
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The Sportsmen's Lounge
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Aces Icehouse
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Khartoum Lounge
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Court's Lounge
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Cardiff & Cocktails
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EMA Karaoke & Bar
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Coach's Sports Bar & Grill
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
NOVA Nightclub
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Miami Beach Club
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ENSO Bar & Nightclub
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Maria's Night Club
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Red Stag Lounge
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Lily's Bar & Night Club
4.5 km
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JJ's Lounge
6.2 km
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Y&T
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Evolution Night Club
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Pure Nightclub
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Alberto's Night Club
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Monte Carlo Restaurant & Bar
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Coyote's Keep
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Willis Lounge
25.7 km
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The Mojo Lounge
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