Welcome to San Jose
A bustling tech hub in Silicon Valley.
If you are looking for the perfect city in California, San Jose is a wonderful candidate in the tech cradle of Silicon Valley. It is the proud home of the Tech Museum of Innovation, the Children's Discovery Museum, and the source of many tech industry jobs in the region. There are also many nearby nature trails and a beautiful historic district alongside trendy, upscale shopping spots and a delightful selection of local restaurants.
In the southwest quadrant of the city, you will find a beautiful residential neighborhood, a quiet and elegant place to live with fantastic restaurants and many parks to enjoy. Willow Glen's welcomingly walkable shopping district is known for its indie clothing boutiques, specialty food shops, and bookstores. The neighborhood borders glittering downtown San Jose and is the source of many art, wine, and music festivals.
What to Love
- Downtown Willow Glen
- Glamorous shopping at Santana Row
- Discover the Winchester Mystery House
- The beauty of St Joseph's Basilica
- Plenty of architectural styles and character
Local Lifestyle
San Jose is an exciting and tech-driven city, but Willow Glen offers a more peaceful lifestyle. Tucked into elegant tree-lined streets, the homes of Willow Glen are easy to enjoy, whether you are in your own home or visiting neighbors. You can easily walk or ride your bicycle to the local cafes or take a stroll to one of the many neighborhood parks. Those who live and work in the city find Willow Glen to be a great place to escape from the big-city bustle while living only minutes from the conveniences, amenities, and opportunities of downtown San Jose.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
If you are looking for a rewarding place to shop or a luxurious local restaurant, there are many opportunities in Willow Glen. Start your culinary exploration at Jakes of Willow Glen. This favorite local pizzeria can be spotted by its lovely lattice-shaded terrace, but you'll stay for the authentic vibes and incredible menu. Rave-worthy meals start with handmade pizzas but also include excellent sandwiches, wings, and big salads.
San Pedro Square in Downtown San Jose has many terrific restaurant choices to choose from!
Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park offers many events, such as music in the park and Christmas in the park, to name a couple. While you’re there, you can get a bite to eat at one of many great restaurants nearby.
If you're craving Greek cuisine, head to Opa! Willow Glen. The warm, wood-beam and skylight interior beckons you to bring friends and family. Enjoy Greek classics and fusion, from authentic gyros and lamb kebabs to feta fries and French Toast.
Crepevine is a truly beautiful place to get a whole lot of breakfast. Whole wheat pancakes, roasted potato platters, foaming lattes, and salmon salads are only the tip of the iceberg. And, of course, don't miss the specialty crepes.
For terrace dining and Mexican cuisine, head to Aqui Willow Glen. The presentation is beautiful, and the portions are deeply satisfying, but it's the bright blend of flavors that will keep you coming back.
Bertucellii's La Villa Gourmet is where you'll find the best sandwiches in town. No, it's not fine dining, but for the perfect blend of flavor and texture in a classic Italian sandwich, you'll have to agree it's definitely gourmet. Don't stop at just sandwiches—there's clearly a patissier in the back because the fresh deli desserts are half the reason to go.
Finally, if you want to kick back with some California fusion comfort food, head to The Table. This awesome terrace restaurant has breakfast, margaritas, oysters, steak, and sugar pastries shaped like whales. There's something for everyone, and every plate will make you smile.
Things to Do
There is so much to do in Willow Glen, San Jose, and the beautiful nearby countryside. Check out the pickleball courts at Wallenburg Park, or meet up with friends at the farmer's market every Saturday, all year long.
Major Developments and Housing Initiatives in San Jose
San Jose is undergoing significant changes with a focus on housing and development. The city has submitted a revised housing element to accommodate 62,000 new homes over the next eight years. This comes in the backdrop of the "builder's remedy" provision in state housing law, which is influencing the size and scope of new housing projects. Notably, The Rise, a development on the former Vallco Mall site, is a major project, including offices, housing, retail, and park spaces. Additionally, Google is moving ahead with its office projects in Sunnyvale’s Moffett Park area and has plans for the massive Downtown West office and housing project​
Celebrations and Community Events in San Jose (2024)
San Jose is hosting several milestone celebrations and community events in 2024. Notable anniversaries include the Silicon Valley Turkey Trot's 20th, Apple Macintosh’s 40th with an exhibit at the Computer History Museum, Earthquakes’ 50th with events at San Pedro Square, and Greenlee Bakery’s 100th. The city is also excited about festivals like the San Jose Jazz Winter Sessions, Cinequest Film and Creativity Festival, and community events such as the Shamrock Run, Nikkei Matsuri Japantown Fun Run/Walk, and Viva CalleSJ.
Innovative Housing and Urban Development Projects
San Jose and its neighboring areas are witnessing innovative urban development. The Tasman East area near North San Jose and Alviso is set to launch several new mixed-use residential towers with unique amenities like rooftop pools. These towers are the first residential high-rises in Santa Clara. Furthermore, there's a plan to convert the iconic "Bank of Italy" tower in Downtown San Jose from offices to homes, which involves significant renovations and the addition of dining and retail spaces​
Schools
There are several great schools in San Jose, especially in the Willow Glen quadrant of the city. Locals take pride in education, and children have many opportunities to learn and play.
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Presentation High School (Girls): Grades 9-12
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Bellarmine College Prep (Boys): Grades 9-12
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Notre Dame Private High School (Girls): Grades 9-12
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Willow Glen High School: Grades 9-12
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Willow Glen Elementary: K - Grade 5
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Booksin Elementary: K - Grade 5
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Piedmont Middle School: Grades 6-8
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Piedmont High School: Grades 9-12
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