City Limits

In the heart of East San José, stretching from Downtown to the foothills, Alum Rock is one of the oldest established neighborhoods in California and has served an important role in the state’s history and the cultural evolution of the city. The area features countless restaurants, bakeries, and cafes of all flavors, with delicious Mexican and Asian options around every corner.

Heading east toward Mount Hamilton, every turn of the road provides stunning views of the Santa Clara Valley, and at the summit lies one of the valley’s signature landmarks, Lick Observatory (keep reading). You won’t find a more welcoming, diverse, and eclectic community anywhere else in Silicon Valley!

SAN JOSé By the Numbers

#SISEPUEDE

Alum Rock was home to labor leader and civil rights activist César Chavez from 1948 to 1962. One block from his house – now a city landmark – Chavez organized at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church – a National Historic Landmark. Learn more

#Lowriding

By the 1960s, the lowrider culture was prevalent in San José, and particularly on the East Side, where cruising along the wide avenues of Story Road and Alum Rock Avenue became weekend night rituals for the local community.

Where to go: Chic’s Picks

Alum Rock Park – Founded in 1872, Alum Rock Park is one of California’s oldest municipal parks. Nestled within the Alum Rock Canyon in the foothills of the Diablo Range, the park's 720 acres of natural, rugged beauty provide visitors with outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, family and group picnicking, and just relaxing! Learn more

Mexican Heritage Plaza – MHP is a uniquely designed cultural facility located in the historically Mexican American Mayfair neighborhood. Built by the city, it was dedicated in 1999 on the site of one of the first grocery store boycotts for farm workers’ rights organized by César Chavez in the 1960s. The School of Arts and Culture at MHP offers children a variety of classes that celebrate heritage and community in an inspiring space for community building. Learn more

Lake Cunningham Action Sports Park – At 68,000 square feet, Lake Cunningham is the largest skate park in California. Featuring the the world's largest cradle, the tallest vert wall, and the largest full pipe, the park offers a challenge for all levels of skaters. The park is open to skateboards, scooters, and bikes. Learn more

Raging Waters – Adjacent to Lake Cunningham Park, Raging Waters is considered the largest water park in northern California, spread out over 23 acres. While the water rides promise plenty of exhilarating thrills, the Lazy River is a great place to lounge and soak up the sunshine. Learn more

Lick Observatory – Located on the summit of Mount Hamilton, 20 miles east of San José, Lick Observatory was founded by James Lick, an eccentric millionaire, and featured the largest refracting telescope in the world when it was completed in 1888. More than 130 years later, the observatory still serves as an active research facility for the University of California. Learn more

WHERE TO EAT, DRINK & HANG

El Pirrin Restaurant – For more than 30 years, El Pirrin has provided authentic and affordable Mexican cuisine in a family-friendly setting. Located in the heart of the Mayfair District, a short walk from the Mexican Heritage Plaza, this local favorite offers delicious plates of comfort food and specialty dishes that will keep you coming back. Learn more

Peter’s Bakery – There is a heated debate among San José locals as to which bakery’s burnt almond cake reigns supreme — Peter’s or Dick’s. But if you’re from the East Side, there’s no contest. This neighborhood tradition literally takes the cake, and the cupcakes! Learn more

GrandView Restaurant – Housed in a building from 1884, the GrandView has made a name for its exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, breath-taking scenery and the capacity to host any type of celebration — big or small, intimate or spectacular! Learn more

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LOCAL SCHOOLS

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