Kelley Park

With well-maintained lawns, tree groves, and barbecue pits, Kelley Park is popular for special gatherings and afternoon picnics. There’s also a tranquil Japanese Friendship Garden and a History Park to explore.

Find yourself a comfy spot or reserve a barbecue pit for lunch with friends and family. Throughout the 156 acres (63 hectares), there are paths to stroll and plenty of space for kids to run around. Large groves of trees and plenty of lawn space make it feel a world away from the city streets.

Head to the Japanese Friendship Garden for a peaceful place to reflect. It’s a stunning composition of stone features and immaculately trimmed shrubs set around a large pond. You’ll see ducks and geese gliding along the surface, as well as koi and catfish under the water.

Step back in time at History Park, a recreation of small town America from the early 1900s. Here you’ll find restored relics from San Jose’s pioneer days and exhibits about early settlers and other immigrants. Wander through the 29 historic buildings moved to the site since it was established in the early 1970s. There’s an old-fashioned post office, print shop, smith’s shed, doctor’s office and a selection of houses. Check out the Trolley and Railroad Museum to see refurbished electric and horse-drawn trolleys, as well as a 1913 steam engine on the lawn outside. There are tracks around the park, so you can even jump aboard a refurbished trolley and ride to different locations.

The park also celebrates some of the many ethnic groups that have contributed to modern America. Visit the Viet Museum, the Hellenic Heritage Museum, Ng Shing Gung and the Portuguese Historical Museum.

Kelley Park is about two miles (3.2 kilometers) southeast of downtown and is easily accessible from most corners of San Jose. Entrance to the park, the Japanese Friendship Garden and the History Park is free, however, parking is not.