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St. James Park: A Historic Oasis in Downtown San Jose

Discover the historical heart of downtown San Jose at St. James Park, a green oasis offering a blend of tranquility and historical significance.

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St. James Park, located in the heart of downtown San Jose, is a historic 6.8-acre park that dates back to 1848. Originally designed as St. James Square, it has evolved into a vital urban open space, offering a blend of historical significance and urban tranquility.

A brief summary to St James Park

  • Monday 8 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-7 pm
  • Friday 8 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Check the event calendar for concerts, movie nights, and other community activities happening in the park.
  • Visit the McKinley Memorial to learn about President William McKinley's connection to San Jose.
  • Explore the historic buildings surrounding the park, including the Santa Clara County Courthouse and Trinity Cathedral.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    St. James Park is located in downtown San Jose, easily accessible on foot from nearby hotels, the San Jose Convention Center, and San Pedro Square. From San Pedro Square, walk east along St. John Street, crossing N Market Street. The park will be on your left. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    The Saint James Station is served by the VTA Blue and Green light rail lines. Exit at the Saint James Station, and the park is adjacent to the station platforms. Several bus lines also stop near the park, including lines 22, 23, 522 and 66. A single ride on VTA costs $2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Jose. A short ride from the San Jose Diridon Station to St. James Park typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.

Unlock the Best of St James Park

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Discover more about St James Park

St. James Park, a verdant oasis in the heart of downtown San Jose, offers a serene escape with a rich history. Originally mapped as St. James Square in 1848, the park's development gained momentum after the construction of Trinity Episcopal Church in 1863. The park was formally landscaped in the late 1860s, becoming a focal point for the city's civic and religious life. In 1885, a fountain was installed at the park's center, leading to the area being called St. James Park. The fountain featured a standing female figure with water flowing from an urn, becoming a beloved landmark. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the park flourished as a hub for public gatherings and demonstrations. Major buildings like the Post Office, Santa Clara County Courthouse, and Trinity Cathedral were built around its perimeter, solidifying its importance. However, St. James Park has also witnessed darker moments in San Jose's history. In 1933, it was the site of a notorious lynching. Despite these somber events, the park has also been a place of celebration and remembrance. Following his assassination in 1901, a memorial service was held in the park for President William McKinley, who had delivered a speech there earlier that year. A monument featuring a bronze statue of McKinley was unveiled in 1903, commemorating his visit. Today, visitors can stroll along tree-lined paths, admire the McKinley statue, and reflect on the park's layered history. The park hosts various events, including concerts, movie nights, and community activities. Despite being bisected by a road and light rail tracks, St. James Park remains an important urban open space, offering a green respite in the bustling city.

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