San Jose Attractions: Willow Glen Neighborhood

January 15, 2018
Category: Tourist Attractions

The neighborhood of Willow Glen in downtown San Jose used to be pegged as a hidden gem by some locals but has been less of a secret for years now. However, it is indeed a true local treasure of San Jose. Willow Glen is a distinct neighborhood with tree-lined streets, ideal for a stroll and window-shopping. There are specialty shops and the place stands out for its diverse architecture. Willow Glen is well known for its shopping and dining scene and family-oriented atmosphere.

About Willow Glen, San Jose

Willow Glen started its journey in the mid-nineteenth century. It was then an unincorporated community till 1927. Present day Lincoln Avenue was then called Willow Glen Road. The street was renamed after President Abraham Lincoln. The semi-custom and custom homes in the Willow Glen neighborhood showcase a fine blend of complementing and contrasting architectural styles. You would notice architectural styles inspired by Victorian and Neoclassical, Colonial Revival and Mission, Craftsman and Prairie, Tudor and Spanish Eclectic among others. You can drive to Willow Glen or you can take the San Jose Light Rail or Caltrain and get off at Fruitdale, Curtner, Race, Tamien, Virginia or Diridon and make the short walk to Lincoln Avenue.

Being a downtown neighborhood, Willow Glen has plenty of attractions including some annual events. Dancin’ On The Avenue, Founders’ Day and the Christmas Tree Lights are some of the distinct celebrations. You can shop for anything from antiques or collectibles to apparels and spiritual items. You can also find all kinds of services, from quality spas to wellness programs. You can explore the directory of restaurants to find the best places to wine and dine. Click here for a list of the apparel stores. Willow Glen is definitely one of the places to visit in San Jose to shop and dine.

Stay at Hotel Rose Garden, San Jose

Hotel Rose Garden is just three miles north of Willow Glen. You can drive straight down Race Street and hit Lincoln Avenue. There are several tourist hotspots en route, such as SAP Center, Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum, Municipal Rose Garden and Children’s Discovery Museum. You should plan a day starting with the attraction nearest from the hotel and head south. You would be able to explore at least two to three interesting places and be at Willow Glen by afternoon or early evening for lunch or dinner. Reserve your stay at the Hotel Rose Garden website to get the lowest rates online: https://www.hotelrosegardensj.com/