Fans at PayPal Park in San Jose, California.

San Jose Sports Itinerary

Fly, Stay and Play in San Jose

From Bay FC and the San Jose Earthquakes, to the NWSL Championship, there’s no shortage of great soccer at PayPal Park. Thankfully for anyone traveling in to see matches, there’s no easier destination to fly into than San Jose Mineta International Airport Airport (SJC). Located directly across from the airport, you will (literally) be able to see PayPal Park as you’re landing at SJC. From tasty eats to fun attractions, there’s plenty more to explore in the area! Listed below is your guide to pregame destinations near PayPal Park. 

 

Dining and Attractions near PayPal Park 

  • Luna Mexican Kitchen: Also located on the Alameda, this is another cozy spot near PayPal Park serving authentic Mexican dishes and a great brunch.
  • Santana Row: An eight-minute drive from PayPal Park that is a stylish outdoor shopping and dining district offering upscale boutiques, restaurants, and nightlife. 


Hockey Season
 

If you’re in San Jose from October - February, you can catch the excitement of live hockey with a San Jose Sharks game at the SAP Center (aka the Shark Tank), or a San Jose Barracuda game at Tech CU Arena. San Jose often hosts “Hockey Days in San Jose”, where the Barracuda and Sharks play on the same day on Saturday’s, with one team playing early in the afternoon and the other team in the evening. 

 

Whether you're cheering on the NHL or AHL team, the high-energy atmosphere, great food, and passionate fans make it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Check the Barracuda and Sharks’ schedules to secure your tickets. 

 

Pregame/Postgame Attractions near SAP Center
 

Dining
  • San Pedro Square: A vibrant marketplace that has something for everyone. Filled with multiple bars, restaurants, sweet treat shops, and outdoor seating – perfect for large groups, pregame bar crawls, and food-seekers. Take a stroll down Sharks Way for a 10-minute walk to the SAP Center.
  • Henry’s World Famous Hi-Life: A historic local favorite for BBQ and drinks, just a short walk from the arena. 
Breweries and Wineries
  • Floodcraft Brewing: Have a beer at Whole Foods. This lively local brewery features rooftop seating and offers a wide selection of craft beers, all just steps away from the Shark Tank.
  • Hapa’s Creekside: One of the newest brewery locations in San Jose. This pregame spot is just a short stroll away from the SAP Center, offering locally brewed craft beers, outdoor seating, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for Sharks fans, opposing fans, and visitors of San Jose.
  • Coterie Winery: For the fanatics who want a laid back pregame vibe that includes wine tasting and small snacks. Enjoy this urban winery that is just blocks away from SAP Center. Note: Check business hours before attending, as Coterie often only operates during weekend hours).

 

Pregame/Postgame Attractions near Tech CU Arena
 

Dining
  • Just a five-minute drive from Tech CU Arena is Little Saigon - a vibrant cultural and culinary hub just minutes from Tech CU Arena. Offering a wide variety of authentic Vietnamese restaurants, cafes, and shops, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal after the game. 
Breweries
  • Narrative Fermentations: Located just a few minutes from Tech CU Arena, this is a great stop on the way to the Barracuda game! Featuring a rotating selection of craft beers and local food trucks on the weekend, it’s a fan favorite for hockey lovers and locals alike.
  • Strike Brewing: Known for its craft beers, foosball & air hockey tables, and spacious taproom, this is a great spot to grab a pint and get into the gameday spirit prior to puck drop at Tech CU. 

Family-Friendly Attractions
  • Japanese Friendship Garden: Located within historic Kelley Park, this beautifully landscaped garden features koi ponds, bridges, and traditional Japanese design, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of San Jose and a great place for lovely photos.
  • History Park San Jose: A unique open-air museum located within Kelley Park, featuring a recreated historic town with original and replica buildings that showcase San Jose’s diversity, history, and culture.
  • Happy Hollow: A perfect pregame or postgame destination if you’re bringing little ones to the game. This is a beloved family destination, combining a charming zoo with kid-friendly rides, interactive play areas, and hands-on educational exhibits. 

 

Other San Jose Landmarks

  • Tommy Smith and John Carlos Olympic Protest Statue: Located on the San Jose State University campus, this statue honors the two athletes’ iconic 1968 Black Power salute at the Mexico City Olympics - a powerful tribute to their ongoing fight for social justice.
  • San Jose Sports Mural Art Work
    • "Faithful to The Bay" 49ers Mural: Created by The Illuminaries and located on the corner of South Montgomery St. & W. San Fernando St.
    • "Victory Salute" (Olympic Black Power): Created by Rigo 23 and located on Tower Lawn at San Jose State University
    • Sharks Community Murals: A collection of community art found around San Jose, done in collaboration with Local Color
    • "Bleed Teal": Located on teh back side of Whole Foods at 777 The Alameda, created by Nychos
    • "Five Skaters": Located at 525 W. Santa Clara St.
    • San Jose Earthquakes Murals: A collection of murals across San Jose that represent the soccer club and its rich heritage and history. 

 

Gameday Transportation Made Easy
 

Whether it’s seeing the red and gold in action, attending The Big Game, or seeing the best soccer players from across the globe for the World Cup, you can make the short trek from San Jose to Levi’s Stadium via VTA light rail, or catch the Amtrak train at San Jose Diridon station. The stress-free ride will take you straight to the actionLevi’s door step so that you avoid gameday traffic and arrive on time!

 

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