Welcome to Alum Rock
A historic suburb in San Jose known for being home to California’s oldest municipal park
Named after a rock once thought to be made of the chemical compound alum, Alum Rock is a San Jose District, specifically a neighborhood in East San Jose. The suburban community is friendly and welcoming, known for being home to one of the most historic and notable Mexican-American districts.
It's also where you'll find Alum Rock Park, one of California's oldest municipal parks and one of the largest. Given the sizable park and its many trails and Alum Rock's proximity to the nearby Mount Hamilton, it's a fantastic place to live for thrill-seekers and home to all kinds of restaurants with different international options.
What to Love
- Large and sprawling Alum Rock Park with many trails and facilities
- Historic neighborhood with one of San Jose’s most notable districts
- Wide variety of restaurants to choose from
People & Lifestyle
This San Jose neighborhood is one of the most diverse and offers a suburban vibe with many parks attractive to young professionals and families. It’s a nice place to live, and ample amenities are within walking distance. There is a broad range of things to do, including mountains to hike, shopping centers to browse, and easily accessible freeways that will take you anywhere you want to go.
Dining, Shopping, & Entertainment
Antipasto’s By DeRose is a family-owned and run delicatessen specializing in homemade ravioli and gourmet sandwiches made with the finest meats and cheeses. This welcoming Italian spot has been an East San Jose mainstay for over 30 years.
If you’re in San Jose, visiting
Peter’s Bakery is an absolute must. Apart from the specialty burnt almond cake, this iconic pastry shop is known for doughnuts, danishes, brownies, cupcakes, and pies.
Sundays year-round, residents and visitors alike visit the
Alum Rock Village Farmers’ Market, part of the Pacific Coast Farmers Market Association. Shop for fresh, seasonal produce grown by local farmers and ranchers.
The
Mount Hamilton GrandView Restaurant is an authentic Italian eatery and mountainside destination overlooking the Santa Clara Valley. While known for being a sophisticated steakhouse, this hotspot also serves great veal and seafood dishes.
Things to Do
As one of California’s oldest municipal parks, the
Alum Rock Park in San Jose is a historic location featuring playgrounds, lawn space, lush foliage, picnic areas, and a small animal rehab facility. Equestrians and hikers enjoy walking along the ridge trails, many of which offer breathtaking views of the valley.
Founded in 1872, this gorgeous park nestled at the foothills of the Diablo Range has remained the main draw to the area for decades. Boasting more than 720 acres of rugged beauty and 13 miles of trails––including six miles of horse trails and three miles of bicycle trails––there is plenty to explore. Another excellent outdoor location for anyone seeking nature trails and beautiful views, the
Sierra Vista Open Space in the Eastern foothills of Santa Clara County is a great place to spend time, plus it’s conveniently located above the Alum Rock Park.
Encompassing more than 30 acres,
Overfelt Gardens is one of the largest San Jose parks with many attractive features such as three lakes, paved walking trails, picnic spots, a fountain, and a “fragrance garden” growing many aromatic plants.
Established in 1899, the
San Jose Country Club is a longstanding historical club providing a family-friendly, private golf club experience. Enjoy year-round golf, social activities, and premier dining options at this scenic club.
Schools
