St James Park
St James Park: A Downtown Oasis
St. James Park: A Downtown Oasis
Discover a historic and tranquil escape in the heart of downtown San Jose at St. James Park, a green oasis since 1848.
St. James Park, a 6.8-acre park in the heart of downtown San Jose, offers a blend of historical significance and urban tranquility. Originally laid out in 1848 as St. James Square, it has evolved into a verdant escape with tree-lined paths and monuments.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to St James Park
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
N 2nd St &, E St James St, San Jose, Central San Jose, CA, 95112, US
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
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Getting There
Walking
St. James Park is easily accessible on foot from anywhere in downtown San Jose. From Plaza de César Chávez, walk north along N Market Street, then turn right onto E St. James Street. The park will be on your left. From the San Jose Museum of Art, walk north on S Market Street, turn right onto E San Fernando Street, then left onto N 2nd Street. The park will be on your right. No costs involved.
Public Transport
St. James Park is accessible via VTA Light Rail. Take the Blue or Green line and exit at the Saint James Station. The northbound platform is on 1st Street, and the southbound platform is on 2nd Street. Several bus lines also stop near the park, including 22, 23, 522 and 66. A single ride on VTA costs $2.50, and a day pass is $7.50.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Jose. A short taxi ride from a nearby location in downtown San Jose to St. James Park will likely cost between $10 and $15, plus tip. Note that fares may vary depending on traffic and demand.
Driving
If driving, be aware that St. James Park does not offer on-site parking. However, there are several paid parking lots and metered street parking options nearby. Metered street parking typically costs $4 for 2 hours. Parking garages are also available in the vicinity, with rates varying from $7 for 2 hours to $25 for a full day. Free street parking is available on Sundays.
Local tips
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Check the San Jose Downtown Association's website for upcoming events at St. James Park, including concerts and community gatherings.
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Visit the McKinley Memorial to learn about President William McKinley's connection to San Jose and his speech delivered at the park.
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Explore the historic buildings surrounding the park, such as the Santa Clara County Courthouse and Trinity Episcopal Church, to appreciate the area's architectural heritage.
Discover more about St James Park
St. James Park, located in downtown San Jose, is a historic park that dates back to the late 1800s. Originally designed as St. James Square in 1848, the park began to take shape after the construction of Trinity Episcopal Church in 1863. William O'Donnell, who also designed Washington Square and Market Plaza, landscaped the park in the late 1860s.
In 1885, a fountain was added 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. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the park flourished as a hub for public life, surrounded by major civic and religious buildings.
While the Plaza was the center of the old Hispanic settlement, St. James Park and its surrounding buildings reflect the aspirations of an emerging American city. The park has hosted concerts, presidential speeches, and numerous public gatherings. A monument featuring a bronze statue of President William McKinley, who delivered a speech there in 1901, was unveiled in 1903.
Today, St. James Park is a popular gathering spot, offering open-air activities such as concerts and community events. Visitors can stroll along its paths, admire the McKinley statue, and explore the historic buildings nearby, including the Santa Clara County Courthouse and Trinity Cathedral.
A brief summary to St James Park
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