City Limits

Edenvale was once its own town at the southern end of Santa Clara Valley, a stopover between the agricultural South County and the “big city”, before being consumed as part of San José’s annexation bonanza in the 1950s and 60s. Named in reference to the Garden of Eden, the beauty and fertility of the land made it a wonderful place to set down roots — which it still is.

The Union Pacific Railroad and historic Old Monterey Road run through the area along the El Camino Real, the path followed by early Spanish missionaries. It’s also home to the San José Police Department’s training substation. The neighborhood is generally bounded by Blossom Valley to the west, Santa Teresa to the south, and Seven Trees to the north.

SAN JOSé By the Numbers

• Population: 1,030,119

• Median age: 37

• Median household income: $113,036

• Median single-family home value: $1.375M

• Weather and climate

• More demographics

#FinalFrontieR

Frontier Village was a 39-acre amusement park that operated from 1961 to 1980 on land that is now Edenvale Garden Park – adjacent to the Hayes Mansion – and was once part of the sprawling Hayes family estate. Little is recognizable today from its days as Frontier Village, although concrete boulders from an artificial river remain half-buried. Learn more

Where to go: Chic’s Picks

Hayes Mansion – Originally the home of the Hayes family, this historic mansion currently operates as a hotel resort and is regarded as one of the best examples of late 19th-century Mediterranean Revival architecture in the Santa Clara Valley. It is a California Historical Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Learn more

Capitol Drive-In – The drive-in theatre experience first came to light on June 6, 1933, when Richard Hollingshead opened the one in Pennsauken Township, New Jersey. The Capitol Drive-In originally opened on May 25, 1971, as a four-screen complex and was later expanded to six. All six screens still operate year round, upgraded with the latest technology. It’s a great option for a social distancing night out with the family. Have a look

Hellyer Velodrome – As the only velodrome in Northern California, Hellyer Park just south of Edenvale attracts championship cycling events and international racers, hosts a compelling competitive race series, and provides a training ground to groom tomorrow’s Olympians. Take a spin

Great Oaks Park – This neighborhood park features BBQ pits, a softball field, soccer fields, basketball courts, and a playground for youth ages 2-12. It’s also home to one of the newest and best public skate parks in San José. Pay it a visit when you’re in the area with your deck!

WHERE TO EAT, DRINK & HANG

High Five Pizza  – This family-oriented pizza parlor and sports bar was established in 1989 and continues to build a reputation as a local hangout, party place, and meeting spot. Local radio listeners have voted it one of the top spots for pizza, BBQ, and sports in the South Bay. They also offer a wide array of hot sandwiches and a variety of draft beer. Learn more

Erik's Deli Cafe – This local standby is the perfect place to grab a fresh and healthy sandwich or enjoy a handmade soup or salad made with locally sourced ingredients. And for dessert, there’s a bakery including cookies, brownies and more. Check out their menu and order lunch ahead of time. Look for the Orchard Town Center location.

The Giving Pies – One day, as Voahangy Rasetarinera was baking a blueberry pie for her blog Mindful Thymes, she decided to convert her passion into a business. But she didn't want to just sell pies. She wanted to make a difference. That's why part of the profits from her home-baked pies and tarts are donated to youth inclusive sports. “Pie it forward” and place an order today.

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

• Visit San José - Convention & Visitors Bureau

• Metro Silicon Valley - Arts and culture news

• Content Magazine - Local culture

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