Santa Clara's Old Town: A Glimpse into the Past
Discover the charm of yesteryear in Old Town Santa Clara, where history comes alive amidst vibrant shops, diverse eateries, and cultural landmarks, offering a unique Silicon Valley experience.
Old Town Santa Clara offers a captivating journey into the heart of California's history. This charming district, centered around Franklin Street, showcases a blend of preserved architecture and vibrant community life. Visitors can explore local shops, diverse eateries, and cultural landmarks, all while soaking in the atmosphere of a bygone era. From its roots as a settlement near Mission Santa Clara to its evolution through periods of growth and urban renewal, Old Town holds stories of early settlers, agricultural innovation, and the rise of Silicon Valley. Today, it's a place where history and modern life intertwine, offering a unique experience for those seeking a taste of Santa Clara's heritage. Stroll through its streets, discover hidden gems, and connect with the spirit of this evolving city.
A brief summary to Old Town Santa Clara CA Downtown
- 1595 Franklin St, Santa Clara, California, 95050, US
Local tips
- Check the calendar for seasonal events and farmers' markets, which often bring added vibrancy to Old Town.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the best way to explore Old Town is on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the architecture and atmosphere.
- Visit the Mission Santa Clara de Asís on the Santa Clara University campus for a glimpse into the area's early history.
- Explore the diverse culinary scene in Old Town, with options ranging from casual cafes to international cuisine.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity of the Santa Clara University campus, you can easily walk to Old Town Santa Clara. Head north on North Winchester Boulevard, then turn right onto Franklin Street. Continue straight for about 15 minutes until you reach 1595 Franklin St. The area is pedestrian-friendly, and you can enjoy the local sights along the way.
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Public Transport
From the Santa Clara Transit Center, several VTA bus lines provide access to the Old Town area. Check the VTA website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. The bus will drop you off within a short walking distance of Franklin Street. A single VTA bus fare is $2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Santa Clara. A ride from a nearby location, such as the Santa Clara Caltrain station, to Old Town Santa Clara will typically cost between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 1595 Franklin St, Santa Clara, CA 95050. Limited street parking is available in the Old Town area, and there are also several parking lots nearby. Parking fees in these lots typically range from $4 per hour to $6 for all-day parking. Be aware of time limits posted on parking signs.
Discover more about Old Town Santa Clara CA Downtown
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Town Santa Clara CA Downtown
0.0 km
Discover the historical charm of Old Town Santa Clara, where vibrant streets, preserved architecture, and a lively community blend seamlessly to offer a captivating glimpse into California's past.
Fremont Park
0.4 km
Discover a vibrant community hub in Santa Clara's Fremont Park, offering recreation, relaxation, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages amidst beautiful gardens and modern amenities.
Santa Clara Campaign Treaty Site
0.6 km
Discover the Santa Clara Campaign Treaty Site, a landmark commemorating a pivotal truce in the Mexican-American War, honoring Californian rights and heritage.
Charles Copeland Morse Residence
0.8 km
Explore the grandeur of the Charles Copeland Morse Residence in Santa Clara, a beautifully preserved Queen Anne Victorian mansion and a testament to the legacy of the Ferry-Morse Seed Company.
Plaza de Santa Clara
0.8 km
Discover Plaza de Santa Clara: A serene urban park in Santa Clara, CA, offering a peaceful escape and a touch of community spirit amidst the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Universal Child
1.0 km
Discover the rich history and cultural significance of Universal Child, a historical landmark in Santa Clara, California, perfect for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.
Headen-Inman House
1.1 km
Step back in time at the Headen-Inman House, a beautifully preserved 1913 Craftsman bungalow showcasing Santa Clara's history and the legacy of its pioneering families.
Jamison-Brown House
1.1 km
Discover Santa Clara's history at the Jamison-Brown House, a beautifully preserved 1866 landmark showcasing local heritage and architectural evolution within the serene Triton Museum grounds.
Rotary Park
1.2 km
Escape to Rotary Park in Santa Clara: A charming urban oasis offering a children's tot lot, picnic areas, and a peaceful sitting area near the Triton Museum of Art.
Santa Clara Tower
1.4 km
Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Santa Clara Tower, a must-visit landmark in California's vibrant cultural landscape.
Pump It Up Santa Clara Kids Birthdays and More
3.7 km
Experience the ultimate fun at Pump It Up Santa Clara, a top children's amusement center offering unforgettable birthday parties and playful adventures.
Reclaiming Our Downtown Santa Clara
4.0 km
Discover the heart of Santa Clara through volunteerism at Reclaiming Our Downtown, a hub for community engagement and revitalization projects.
El Pueblo De San José De Guadalupe Historic Site
4.3 km
Discover the humble origins of Silicon Valley at the El Pueblo De San José De Guadalupe Historic Site, marking California's first civilian settlement and the birth of San Jose in 1777.
Santa Clara Park
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Gonzales-Peralta Adobe & Fallon House Historic Site
5.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Civic Center Park
0.7 km
Discover Civic Center Park, a lush urban oasis in Santa Clara, perfect for relaxation, family outings, and community events amidst beautiful landscapes.
Mission Gardens
0.9 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical charm of Mission Gardens in Santa Clara, a perfect escape for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Mission Santa Clara de Asís
0.9 km
Explore the rich history and serene beauty of Mission Santa Clara de Asís, a landmark of California's mission heritage and a spiritual retreat.
De Saisset Museum
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Triton Museum of Art
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Santa Clara University
1.3 km
Discover the rich history and beautiful campus of Santa Clara University, a private institution blending tradition and innovation in California's Silicon Valley.
South Bay Historical Railroad
1.5 km
Discover the captivating history of railroads at the South Bay Historical Railroad Museum in Santa Clara, California, a must-visit for history lovers and families.
Central Park
2.2 km
Explore the natural beauty and vibrant community events at Central Park, Santa Clara, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and families.
Central Park Fountain
2.2 km
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The Escape Game San Jose
2.5 km
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Santa Clara Fire Museum
2.5 km
Explore the Santa Clara Fire Museum, where history meets heroism through vintage fire engines and engaging exhibits on firefighting.
Immersive Gamebox - Valley Fair
2.6 km
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Municipal Rose Garden
2.7 km
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Rosicrucian Park
2.9 km
Explore ancient Egyptian artifacts, tranquil gardens, and unique architecture at this peaceful San Jose park founded by the Rosicrucian Order.
Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum
3.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Sara's Kitchen
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Mio Vicino
0.4 km
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Kettle'e
0.6 km
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Hungry Hound
0.8 km
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Restaurant Gish
0.8 km
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Chick-fil-A
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Swaraj Restaurant & BAR(Santa Clara )
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Holder’s Mission City Grill
0.9 km
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Euro Grill
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MOD Pizza
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White Elephant Thai Cuisine
0.9 km
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The Hut
1.1 km
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Rice Junky - Santa Clara (Korean Restaurant)
1.1 km
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China Stix
1.1 km
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Fiorillo's Restaurant and Banquet Facilities
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Fiorillo's Restaurant in Santa Clara – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Franklin Square
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Experience the vibrant shopping and dining at Franklin Square, the ultimate destination for tourists in Santa Clara, California.
Card Shop Santa Clara
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Pierce Gift
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Explore Pierce Gift in Santa Clara: A treasure trove of unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of California's vibrant culture.
Euro Market
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Target
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Santa Clara Town Center
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Experience the vibrant shopping and dining scene at Santa Clara Town Center, where community spirit and retail therapy meet in perfect harmony.
The Fix Kicks
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The Pop Plug
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Gloria's Hallmark Shop
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Store2K - Indian Grocery Store
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Luxury Handicrafts - Bone Inlay, Mother of Pearl & Wood Furniture Store
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L'Amour Shoppe #2 (Santa Clara)
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Game Kastle (Santa Clara)
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Moonlite Center
2.1 km
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Mariposa Shopping Center
2.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
thirsty.bar
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Broncos Cocktail Lounge
0.4 km
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Da Silva's Bronco's Pub
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Taplands
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Rocco's Ballpark
1.1 km
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Normandy House
1.5 km
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EMA Karaoke & Bar
1.7 km
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Aces Icehouse
2.1 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Aces Icehouse in Santa Clara, where great food, drinks, and live sports come together.
The Sportsmen's Lounge
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at The Sportsmen's Lounge, a top bar in Santa Clara offering great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Magpie and Tiger
2.2 km
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Koja Bar
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Koja Bar in Santa Clara, where locals and visitors connect over drinks and good company.
Lobby Lounge
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Lobby Lounge in Santa Clara, where stylish decor meets a diverse drink selection for the perfect retreat.
Camino Karaoke
3.4 km
Experience the ultimate karaoke night at Camino Karaoke in Santa Clara, where every song is a chance to shine and create lasting memories.
Woodhams Sports Lounge
3.7 km
Discover the vibrant Woodhams Sports Lounge in Santa Clara for a lively atmosphere, refreshing drinks, and engaging entertainment like karaoke.
Lucas Lounge
4.2 km
Discover the upscale ambiance of Lucas Lounge in Silicon Valley, where craft cocktails and fine wines meet modern elegance for a perfect night out.
