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Discovery Meadow: San Jose's Playful Heart

A vibrant downtown San Jose park featuring a life-sized Monopoly board, interactive water features, and community events for all ages.

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Discovery Meadow is a vibrant urban park in downtown San Jose, adjacent to the Children's Discovery Museum. It features a life-sized Monopoly board, open lawns, an interactive water feature, and hosts various community events, making it a popular destination for families and visitors.

A brief summary to Discovery Meadow

  • 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

  • Bring water bottles and sunscreen, as the California sun can be strong, even on cloudy days.
  • Pack a picnic blanket to enjoy lunch on the expansive green lawn.
  • If visiting during summer, bring a change of clothes for kids to enjoy the interactive water feature.
  • Weekday mornings are generally less crowded than weekends.
  • Check the city's event calendar for festivals and events that may be happening during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Discovery Meadow is easily accessible on foot from many downtown San Jose locations. From the San Jose Convention Center, walk south on Almaden Boulevard towards Woz Way. The park will be on your left, adjacent to the Children's Discovery Museum. From Plaza de Cesar Chavez, walk east on San Carlos Street, crossing Almaden Boulevard. Discovery Meadow will be on your right.

  • Public Transport

    The easiest way to reach Discovery Meadow via public transport is by taking the VTA Light Rail. Take the Alum Rock-Santa Teresa line to the Children's Discovery Museum station, which is directly adjacent to Discovery Meadow. Several County Transit bus lines also stop on Almaden Boulevard, a short walk from the park. A single VTA light rail or bus fare costs $2.50.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that Discovery Meadow does not have its own dedicated parking lot. However, there are several public and privately-owned parking lots in the vicinity. Public parking is available on Woz Way, Auzerais Street, and Almaden Boulevard. Parking rates typically start at $7.00, but can increase to $25 during high-demand events. Some parking garages nearby are 303 Almaden Blvd Garage ($10) and San Jose Marriott - Valet Kiosk ($29.41). The Woz Way lot accepts $1.00 and $5.00 bills, as well as Visa and MasterCard. The Auzerais Parking Lot has an attendant and accepts cash, debit, and credit cards.

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Discover more about Discovery Meadow

Discovery Meadow, an inviting green space in the heart of San Jose, offers a refreshing escape for visitors of all ages. Situated next to the renowned Children's Discovery Museum, the meadow serves as a dynamic center for recreation, community events, and playful exploration. Originally conceived as an open area to complement the Children's Discovery Museum, Discovery Meadow has evolved into a beloved urban park. Its central location, easily accessible from various parts of the city, makes it a popular destination for families, tourists, and downtown workers seeking a relaxing break. The park's most distinctive feature is undoubtedly the life-sized Monopoly in the Park, a permanent installation that holds the Guinness World Record as the largest Monopoly board. This interactive attraction invites visitors to step into the world of real estate moguls, offering a unique photo opportunity and a fun experience for board game enthusiasts. Beyond Monopoly in the Park, Discovery Meadow boasts expansive lawns perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and casual games. The open space provides ample room for children to run and play, while shaded seating areas offer respite for parents and caregivers. During warmer months, the interactive water feature becomes a focal point, providing a refreshing way to cool off and adding a playful element to the park's atmosphere. Discovery Meadow is more than just a park; it's a vibrant hub of community activity. Throughout the year, the meadow hosts a variety of seasonal events and cultural festivals, drawing crowds from across the region. From outdoor concerts and art fairs to holiday celebrations and food festivals, there's always something happening at Discovery Meadow. Additionally, the park features public art installations, including the Parade of Animals, a set of bronze sculptures representing creatures found along the Guadalupe River.

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