Welcome to Willow Glen: Silicon Valley's Historic Gem

Nestled in the heart of San Jose, Willow Glen stands as Silicon Valley’s most charming historic neighborhood. Originally founded in the 1860s, this treasured community harmoniously blends its rich agricultural heritage with modern sophistication. Named for the willow trees that once flourished along Los Gatos Creek, Willow Glen has evolved into one of the Bay Area’s most sought-after destinations while maintaining its distinctive small-town atmosphere. Our tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and vibrant downtown district create an unparalleled living and visiting experience that captures the essence of California’s past and present.

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Annual Events

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Shopping District

Planning Your Visit

Best Times to Experience

Spring/summer is ideal for outdoor dining, while December offers enchanting holiday lights. For a relaxed shopping experience, consider visiting on weekday mornings.

Getting Here

Free downtown parking available on Lincoln Avenue and surrounding streets. VTA routes 64 and 26 serve the area. Bike-friendly streets with dedicated lanes connect to major trails.

Insider Tips

Download our Walking Tour app for self-guided exploration. Reserve restaurants in advance for weekend dining. Visit First Fridays for special shopping hours and events.

A Legacy of Character & Charm

From its 1860s origins as an independent town to its 1936 merger with San Jose, Willow Glen’s evolution tells a fascinating story of preservation and progress. Our neighborhood showcases California’s architectural heritage through its diverse collection of historic homes, from charming California Bungalows and Spanish Colonial Revival mansions to Tudor Revival and Victorian masterpieces.

Each street reveals a different chapter of our history, where carefully preserved homes dating back to the 1920s and 1930s stand as testament to the community’s commitment to maintaining its historic character while embracing modern amenities.

Downtown & Shopping District

Experience Downtown Willow Glen Lincoln Avenue, the crown jewel of Willow Glen, stretches for vibrant blocks featuring over 250 independently-owned businesses. This historic thoroughfare perfectly captures the neighborhood’s blend of traditional charm and contemporary vitality. Tree-lined sidewalks, adorned with twinkling lights year-round, create an inviting atmosphere for shoppers and diners alike.

Our downtown district maintains its small-town charm while offering a sophisticated shopping experience. Locally-owned boutiques sit alongside artisanal craft shops, with each storefront telling its own unique story of entrepreneurship and community spirit.

Experience Willow Glen's Vibrant Lifestyle

Culinary Excellence

Willow Glen's dining scene represents a rich tapestry of culinary traditions, from historic Italian delis to contemporary fusion restaurants. Our neighborhood has become a destination for food enthusiasts seeking authentic experiences and innovative cuisine.

Year-Round Celebrations

Our community thrives through signature events that bring together residents and visitors throughout the year. Dancing on the Avenue transforms Lincoln Avenue into a summer street festival, while our Christmas Tree Lights display creates a magical winter wonderland that draws visitors from across the Bay Area.

Signature Restaurants

The Table leads our farm-to-table movement with seasonal menus and craft cocktails. Black Sheep Brasserie brings French sophistication with California influences, while historic establishments like La Villa Delicatessen have served authentic Italian fare since 1947.

Regular Gatherings

The weekly Farmers Market showcases local produce and artisanal goods every Saturday. Food truck festivals, outdoor movie nights, and seasonal art walks provide continuous opportunities for community connection. First Friday events highlight our local businesses with special hours and unique experiences.

Evening Entertainment

20TWENTY Cheese Bar and The Willow Den offer sophisticated wine and craft beer experiences, while regular cultural events and live music create a vibrant nightlife scene that maintains our community's intimate atmosphere.

Holiday Magic

December transforms Willow Glen into a festive destination with our famous Christmas light display, where hundreds of homes participate in a beloved tradition. The Holiday Parade and Bubbly Walk add to the season's celebrations, creating memories for generations.

Boutique Shopping

Discover unique fashion at Bella James Boutique, handcrafted jewelry at local artisan shops, and curated collections unavailable elsewhere in Silicon Valley. Our boutiques offer personalized service and distinctive selections that reflect Willow Glen’s sophisticated taste.

Specialty Stores

Visit Hicklebee’s Bookstore, a literary landmark since 1979, explore unique home decor at The Rustic House, or discover vintage treasures at Antiques Colony. Each specialty shop adds to the neighborhood’s distinctive character.

Local Services

Experience personalized attention from professional service providers who maintain our tradition of exceptional customer care, from beauty services to professional consultants.

Parks & Recreation

Natural Spaces

Cultural Enrichment

Recreational Destinations

Outdoor Activities

Future Vision

While embracing progress, we remain committed to preserving the distinct character that makes Willow Glen special. Community-led initiatives focus on sustainable development, enhanced public spaces, and continued support for local businesses, ensuring our neighborhood’s charm endures for future generations.

Experience Willow Glen

Whether you’re exploring our historic downtown, enjoying our parks, or participating in community events, discover why Willow Glen continues to captivate visitors and residents alike. Join us in experiencing the perfect blend of historic charm and modern Silicon Valley living.

Welcome to Willow Glen: Silicon Valley's Historic Gem