Destinations

I have lived in San Jose for the more than 30 years and I have recently discovered an untouched treasure that this wonderful city has to offer. Tucked away in the outskirts of downtown is Kelley Historic Park. Located right of the freeway the park contains 27 original and replica’s of homes and businesses that have historical significance in the construction of the city of San Jose. Their mission:

“History San Jose” aspires to provide innovative national leadership in preserving and sharing regional history by engaging diverse audiences in exploring the varieties of human experience that contribute to the continuing history of San Jose and the Santa Clara Valley.”

The park provides a whimsical way to view and appreciate local history and has something for all ages. What makes the park even more unique is not only do you get to see the buildings but you can also walk through them. Each building contains its own historical theme from San Jose’s first hotel to the first Chinese temple. All through the week different buildings are opened for viewing and each include its own exhibit. The buildings and the exhibits are center around expressing certain important cultural aspects that contributed to San Jose diverse past. Some of their most recent exhibits: Becoming American in San Jose which focuses of telling the stories of local teenagers experiences of being American and foreign and how it effects their personal identity. It is on display in the Pacific Hotel Gallery through June 29th.

The park is also a great place to just stroll and take in the outdoors with friends and family. And if you get hungry for a snack O’Brien’s Candy Store, open from Tuesday through Sunday 11 to 4, is a quaint little place to treat yourself. The Park also hosts many cultural and private events giving the community access to many of the beautiful facilities that are found within the park. There is also a charming gift shop to browse while there. The park works only on donations so it is free to enter. This is a prefect place to go when looking for something to do, it’s a weekend getting away right in your own backyard.

Also coming soon: A Breath of Plein Air, The exhibit will be open to the public in the Leonard and David Mckay Gallery at History Park from May 4 - Sept 30,2008.