Summer is prime for spending as much time as possible outside, and the South Bay offers some of the finest, most versatile outdoor venues in all the Bay Area. Here are three favorite local hangouts and why I enjoy them so much this season:
Where Is It?
Just a block over from St. James Park, SPS is nestled near the heart of Downtown San Jose, anchored by historic structures like Fallon House and the Peralta Adobe.
What Is It?
SPS boasts shopping, dining, and entertainment in one indoor-outdoor marketplace—including two boutiques, four unique bars, 15 stalls offering delicious food, coffee, and tea, and even a weekend vendors’ market.
Why Do I Love It?
Live music happens every evening (with two performances on Saturdays!), making SPS an ideal warm-weather place to enjoy a casual date, view a baseball game on the TV screens, or kick back with tasty drinks while listening to summer jams.
Where Is It?
Every Saturday morning, the WG Farmers’ Market is held at Willow Glen Elementary School on the corner of Lincoln and Minnesota Avenues.
What Is It?
Like all farmers’ markets, this one provides a variety of mouthwatering produce gathered from farms and orchards around the area. Also featured here are live musical performances, freshly baked goods, and farm-to-table items like organic cheeses and grass-fed meats.
Why Do I Love It?
Its location in Downtown Willow Glen makes it the perfect spot to spend a summery Saturday morning. Pick up locally grown goodies, then wander down the street and explore the coffee shops, brunch spots, and delightful boutiques along Lincoln Avenue.
Where Is It?
Situated on the border of San Jose and Santa Clara, Santana Row is tucked between Westfield Valley Fair and the Winchester Mystery House.
What Is It?
This destination is a high-end blend of fine dining, nightlife, world-class shopping, and beautifully cultivated outdoor spaces. Also of note in the vicinity are posh beauty salons, the CinéArts Theater, and the Burke Williams Spa.
Why Do I Love It?
Santana Row teems with exciting events all summer long, including the weekly Farmers’ Market, morning yoga sessions, and live concerts. Plus, in the evenings the Row transforms into a glittering avenue of fairy lights.
I hope you take some time this summer to explore these spots and enjoy them to the fullest. If you’d like more info about these places or others like them, just reach out!
