History San Jose

History San Jose is a living history experience in the heart of Silicon Valley. Located in Kelley Park, this immersive 14-acre site features 32 original and replica buildings that transport visitors back to the days of Santa Clara Valley’s agricultural roots and early innovation. It’s one of California’s largest and most engaging regional history museums.

Recommended For

History buffs
Walk through restored homes, businesses, and exhibits showcasing California’s past

Families & educators
Interactive exhibits and working trolleys bring history to life for kids and students

Architecture lovers
Explore preserved buildings from the 1800s to early 1900s, including homes and stables

Curious travelers
Learn about local icons like the Bank of Italy, the fruit industry, and early medicine

Historic Attractions & Exhibits

Pacific Hotel: Replica of the original 1880 downtown hotel; now houses exhibit space and an old-fashioned ice cream parlor
Chiechi & Umbarger Houses: Orchardist and pioneer homes showcasing daily life in the Valley's early days
Dashaway Stables: Rebuilt in 1975, these stables represent the transportation culture of 19th-century San Jose
Blacksmith Shed: Live demonstrations during festivals bring traditional trades to life

The museum also features the historic office of Dr. Henry Warburton, one of the region’s first physicians, and the Coyote Post Office, an authentic community hub from early 20th-century California.

Signature Exhibits

Passing Farms: Enduring Values: Inside the Stevens Ranch Fruit Barn, this exhibit tells the story of the valley’s once-booming fruit canning industry
Bank of Italy: Explore the origins of what became Bank of America and its impact on global finance and Hollywood

Dining & Sweets

O’Brien’s Ice Cream Parlor & Candy Shop: Old-fashioned treats in a nostalgic setting inside the Pacific Hotel
Café on-site: Casual bites available within History Park for quick refreshments during your visit

Special Experiences

Historic Trolley Rides: Ride through the park on vintage electric trolleys
Seasonal Events: Blacksmith demos, cultural festivals, and hands-on activities for all ages
Educational Tours: Ideal for school groups, offering immersive historical education programs

Rates & Visiting Info

Address: 635 Phelan Avenue, San Jose, California
Phone: 408-287-2290
Website: historysanjose.org
Map: View on Google Maps

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