Opera San Jose: A Silicon Valley Cultural Gem
Experience world-class opera in the heart of Silicon Valley, showcasing emerging talent in captivating performances at the historic California Theatre.
Opera San Jose, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, is a distinguished opera company known for its commitment to nurturing emerging talent and presenting captivating performances. Founded in 1984 by Irene Dalis, it uniquely maintains a year-long resident company of principal artists, offering a blend of classic and contemporary operas at the historic California Theatre.
A brief summary to Opera San Jose
Local tips
- Arrive early to explore the beautifully restored California Theatre and soak in its historic ambiance before the performance.
- Check the Opera San Jose website for pre-performance talks or post-performance discussions to enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the opera.
- Consider dining at one of the many restaurants in downtown San Jose before or after the show to complete your cultural experience.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Opera San Jose is accessible via public transportation. The Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) offers both Light Rail and Bus routes with stops near the California Theatre. The closest Light Rail stop is the Convention Center station, accessible via the Blue and Green lines. Several bus lines, including lines 20, 60, and 66, also stop near Opera San Jose. A single VTA bus or light rail fare costs $2.50.
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Walking
Opera San Jose is located in downtown San Jose and is easily accessible by foot from many nearby locations. From the San Jose McEnery Convention Center, walk south on Almaden Boulevard, then turn left onto S Market Street. The California Theatre will be on your left. The walk is approximately 0.3 miles and takes about 6 minutes.
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Parking
Several parking garages are within walking distance of the California Theatre. Street parking is also available, both metered and free. However, Opera San Jose does not offer on-site parking. Parking rates at nearby garages typically range from $8 to $29. Some garages, like the 17 N. Almaden Ave. Parking garage, offer evening and weekend rates. Always allow extra time for parking, especially during busy downtown periods.
Discover more about Opera San Jose
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old San Jose City Hall Cornerstone
0.3 km
Explore the Old San Jose City Hall Cornerstone, a historic landmark that captures the essence of San Jose's rich architectural heritage.
Monument to the Founders of San Jose
0.4 km
Discover the Monument to the Founders of San Jose, a historical landmark celebrating the pioneers who shaped California's vibrant history and cultural diversity.
Historic Tower Hall
0.6 km
Discover Tower Hall, the oldest building at San Jose State University, a beautifully restored Spanish Colonial Revival landmark with a rich history and enduring significance in the heart of San Jose.
San Jose Downtown Historic District
0.7 km
Explore the San Jose Downtown Historic District: A captivating blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy in California's heart.
César Chávez Monument
0.8 km
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.
Trinity Cathedral
0.9 km
Explore the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Trinity Cathedral, a must-visit Episcopal church in the heart of San Jose.
St. James Park - San Jose History Walk Marker #23
0.9 km
Discover the historical heart of downtown San Jose at St. James Park, a verdant oasis established in 1848, offering a blend of historical significance and urban tranquility.
San Jose City Hall
0.9 km
Explore San Jose City Hall, an architectural gem in Silicon Valley, where modern design meets vibrant civic life in the heart of California.
Birthplace of A.P. Giannini - San Jose History Walk #12 Marker
0.9 km
Explore the historical birthplace of A.P. Giannini in San Jose, where banking history began and innovation thrived.
Luis María Peralta Adobe
0.9 km
Discover the rich history of San Jose at the Luis María Peralta Adobe, the city's oldest building and a true architectural gem.
Gonzales-Peralta Adobe & Fallon House Historic Site
1.0 km
Explore the Gonzales-Peralta Adobe & Fallon House, a historic site in San Jose that reveals California's rich cultural heritage through its preserved architecture and engaging exhibits.
Roberto Adobe & Sunol House
2.3 km
Explore the rich history of San Jose at Roberto Adobe & Sunol House, a charming historical landmark celebrating California's vibrant past.
Ashworth-Remillard House
2.4 km
Discover San Jose's hidden gem: the Ashworth-Remillard House, a beautifully preserved Victorian farmhouse offering a glimpse into the lives of Gold Rush pioneers and brick manufacturing magnates.
El Pueblo De San José De Guadalupe Historic Site
2.6 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.
Hill House
2.8 km
Explore the historical charm of Hill House in San Jose, a captivating landmark showcasing the architectural and cultural heritage of California.
Unmissable attractions to see
stage entrance | California Theatre
0.0 km
Explore the enchanting California Theatre in San Jose, a historic venue offering captivating performances and a vibrant cultural experience.
California Theatre
0.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of California Theatre, a premier performing arts venue in San Jose, California.
The San Jose Nutcracker
0.1 km
Experience the magic of The San Jose Nutcracker, a beloved holiday ballet that captivates with enchanting performances and festive spirit.
California Philharmonic Youth Orchestra
0.1 km
Discover the California Philharmonic Youth Orchestra in San Jose, where young talent converges to create captivating musical performances that inspire.
The Fountainhead
0.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at The Fountainhead, San Jose's ultimate bar destination for travelers.
San Jose Convention Center & South Hall
0.2 km
Explore the San Jose Convention Center & South Hall, a dynamic venue at the heart of Silicon Valley known for its diverse events and innovative culture.
IMAX Dome Theater
0.2 km
Discover the immersive world of cinematic experiences at the IMAX Dome Theater in San Jose, where films come to life like never before.
The Tech Interactive
0.3 km
Explore innovation and creativity at The Tech Interactive, an engaging museum in San Jose that inspires the tech leaders of tomorrow.
BioDesign Studio
0.3 km
Discover the innovative fusion of art and science at BioDesign Studio in San Jose, where creativity meets sustainability.
Plaza de Cesar Chavez
0.3 km
Discover Plaza de Cesar Chavez, a vibrant urban park in San Jose, perfect for relaxation, cultural events, and community gatherings.
Essential places to dine
Crepes Bistro
4.6 km
Discover Crepes Bistro: A charming crêperie in Santa Clara serving delicious sweet and savory crêpes with gluten-free and vegan options.
Round Table Pizza
4.7 km
Experience delicious pizza and wings at Round Table Pizza in Santa Clara - where family dining meets flavor!
The Hut
5.2 km
Discover the authentic taste of American barbecue at The Hut in Santa Clara – where every bite is packed with flavor.
Habitant
5.2 km
Experience exceptional dining at Habitants in Santa Clara – where culinary artistry meets inviting ambiance.
The Cheesecake Factory
5.3 km
Experience culinary delight at The Cheesecake Factory in Santa Clara with its vast menu of American classics and delectable cheesecakes.
Hungry Hound
5.4 km
Discover the charm of Traditional American cuisine at Hungry Hound in Santa Clara – where comfort food meets affordability.
Fiorillo's Restaurant and Banquet Facilities
5.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Fiorillo's Restaurant in Santa Clara – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Yuki Sushi Santa Clara
5.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Yuki Sushi Santa Clara – where fresh ingredients meet traditional culinary artistry.
Homeroom
5.6 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of traditional American cuisine at Homeroom in Campbell, California – where comfort meets quality.
Local Kitchens
5.6 km
Experience diverse cuisines at Local Kitchens in Campbell – where every dish tells a story!
The Melt at Local Kitchens
5.6 km
Discover gourmet burgers in Campbell at The Melt—where every bite bursts with flavor in a vibrant setting.
Mio Vicino
5.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mio Vicino in Santa Clara - home to delicious pizzas and warm hospitality.
White Elephant Thai Cuisine
5.8 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at White Elephant in Santa Clara - where flavor meets tradition in every dish.
Euro Grill
5.9 km
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean at Euro Grill – where delightful dishes meet warm hospitality in Santa Clara.
The Garret of Campbell
5.9 km
Discover The Garret of Campbell: A culinary delight serving gourmet pizzas and burgers in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Petite Galleria
2.2 km
Explore Petite Galleria in San Jose, where art meets craftsmanship to offer unique gifts and treasures for every traveler.
Moon Zooom
3.1 km
Explore Moon Zooom in San Jose, CA – a vintage clothing haven where every piece has its own story, perfect for fashion lovers and tourists alike.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
5.0 km
Discover the magic of creation at Build-A-Bear Workshop, where children bring their stuffed friends to life through creativity and fun.
Au La La Design
5.0 km
Experience the latest trends in women's fashion at Au La La Design, Santa Clara's go-to boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Bloomingdale's
5.1 km
Explore Bloomingdale's in Santa Clara for a luxurious shopping experience with top fashion brands and exquisite home decor.
Cartier
5.1 km
Discover the elegance of Cartier in Santa Clara, where exquisite jewelry and luxury fashion accessories await every discerning shopper.
Free People
5.2 km
Explore the unique selection of trendy women's fashion, vintage clothing, and chic accessories at Free People in Santa Clara.
Game Kastle (Santa Clara)
5.2 km
Explore Game Kastle in Santa Clara, a bustling game store and community hub for board games, trading cards, and miniatures enthusiasts.
Westfield Valley Fair
5.2 km
Discover shopping, dining, and entertainment at Westfield Valley Fair, the ultimate destination in Santa Clara, California.
Montblanc
5.2 km
Explore the world of luxury fashion accessories, leather goods, stationery, and watches at Montblanc in Santa Clara, where elegance meets craftsmanship.
Christian Louboutin Santa Clara
5.2 km
Experience the luxury of Christian Louboutin in Santa Clara, where exquisite footwear meets unparalleled craftsmanship in a stunning retail environment.
Tiffany & Co.
5.2 km
Discover luxury and timeless elegance at Tiffany & Co., the ultimate destination for exquisite jewelry and unique gifts in Santa Clara.
DIOR Santa Clara Valley Fair
5.2 km
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The North Face Westfield Valley Fair Mall
5.2 km
Explore top-quality outdoor gear and apparel at The North Face in Westfield Valley Fair Mall, your go-to destination for adventure essentials.
Lush Cosmetics Valley Fair
5.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Normandy House
4.6 km
Discover Normandy House, a lively bar and cocktail lounge in Santa Clara, offering an inviting atmosphere and an extensive drink menu for all occasions.
Koja Bar
5.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Koja Bar in Santa Clara, where locals and visitors connect over drinks and good company.
Lobby Lounge
5.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Lobby Lounge in Santa Clara, where stylish decor meets a diverse drink selection for the perfect retreat.
Taplands
5.5 km
Discover Taplands, the ultimate bar and brewery in Santa Clara, CA, where craft beer lovers unite to enjoy an exceptional selection and vibrant atmosphere.
Rocco's Ballpark
5.6 km
Experience the excitement of live sports at Rocco's Ballpark, Santa Clara's premier sports bar with delicious food and a lively atmosphere.
Broncos Cocktail Lounge
5.7 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance of Broncos Cocktail Lounge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a stylish atmosphere await in Santa Clara.
Da Silva's Bronco's Pub
5.7 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Santa Clara at Da Silva's Bronco's Pub, where great food, drinks, and entertainment come together.
thirsty.bar
5.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and affordable drinks at Thirsty Bar in Santa Clara, where locals and tourists come together to unwind and socialize.
The Sportsmen's Lounge
6.6 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at The Sportsmen's Lounge, a top bar in Santa Clara offering great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Aces Icehouse
6.7 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Aces Icehouse in Santa Clara, where great food, drinks, and live sports come together.
Court's Lounge
7.0 km
Discover Court's Lounge, where cocktails, karaoke, and sports come together for a fantastic night out in Campbell, California.
Khartoum Lounge
7.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Khartoum Lounge in Campbell, where karaoke meets a stylish bar atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
Cardiff & Cocktails
7.0 km
Unwind at Cardiff & Cocktails, where handcrafted cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in Downtown Campbell.
Coach's Sports Bar & Grill
7.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Coach's Sports Bar & Grill, where sports meet delicious grill delights in Campbell, California.
EMA Karaoke & Bar
7.6 km
Experience the ultimate karaoke adventure at EMA Karaoke & Bar in Santa Clara, where every night is a celebration of music and fun.
