When you enter Naglee Park, you’re visiting one of San Jose’s charming communities + historic districts. The neighborhood’s roots date back to the 1860s, so we wanted to get up-to-date on the latest and greatest in the area. If you haven’t checked it out, this might be your calling to discover why so many people love to call it home.
Need to know
On top of its iconic parks + nature trails, this residential community is known for its delightful ambiance, annual festivals, and being just a few blocks from San José State University — the #4 Top Public University in the West — and other popular Downtown spots.
The early days
The Naglee Park neighborhood began with the estate of Civil War General Henry Morris Naglee. His Victorian house was built in the 1860s at the corner of 14th + San Fernando, and is the neighborhood’s oldest building today.
In 1902, Naglee’s two daughters developed the Naglee Park Improvement Company to develop the large estate’s land into Santa Clara County’s first modern residential subdivision complete with paved streets, utilities, and restrictions on housing sizes.
Due to San Jose’s booming fruit industry + the area’s convenient access to public transportation — Downtown business owners flocked to the new neighborhood, and by 1910, the last of Naglee Park’s homes had been sold.
Can’t miss
Running low on time? A trip to Naglee Park isn’t complete without a sausage, egg, and pesto bagel from House of Bagels or the housemade vanilla bread pudding from Naglee Park Garage, so be sure to factor it into your day. If you’re more of an outdoor person, have a brisk stroll through William Street Park. You’ll thank us later.
Outdoors
Summer may be over, but fun in the sun never ends in San Jose. Stay active at these community parks + trails.
- Take a stroll down Coyote Creek Trail — one of the longest local trails with a total span of 18.7 miles.
- Explore the wide open spaces + riverside bridge of William Street Park.
- Pop over to Selma Olinder Park for access to a dog park, tennis courts, and a softball field.
- Just a few blocks over, near McKinley Elementary School, take your youngsters (ages 2-12) to Martin Park‘s playgrounds.
Start your day with a breakfast bagel from House of Bagels.
Photo via @muddeats
Eat + drink
Breakfast, lunch, or dinner? Naglee Park has it all — and is only a stone’s throw from a few top-notch Downtown eateries.
- Expect a line at House of Bagels — a beloved neighborhood institution across San Jose.
- Naglee Park Garage is a bistro + bar that offers rustic American fare with a global flair.
- Enjoy a cold beer + hot, fusion-inspired pizza at Sammy G’s.
- Looking for late night bites? Antojitos El Burrito Crazy is a must-try food truck for those in the know.
- Plant-based, Vietnamese-inspired curries, pho, and more is on the menu at nearby Vegetarian House.
Arts + culture
From annual events, local artists, and community service — Naglee Park sure has a lot of pride in place.
- Celebrate your canine companion at the annual Bark in the Park — the largest dog festival in the US.
- Take a walking tour of local artists’ homes with the annual Naglee Park Open Studios event — this year’s event is this Sun., Oct. 9 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Wanna get involved in your community? Established in 1894, the San Jose Woman’s Club serves San Jose in innovative ways, like recently sponsoring the LunaFest Film Festival.
- On a smaller scale, Naglee Park comes together for BBQs + get-togethers for the Fourth of July, Porch Fest, and other annual neighborhood events.
Getting around
This neighborhood is a paradise for pedestrians + bike riders — its high walkability scores mean that most errands don’t require a car.
Safety and location are key: many Naglee Park streets have speed humps to slow car traffic, and Downtown is only a 20-minute walk away.
There are six bus lines within a half mile, and lightrail access is available within one mile. If you’re traveling by car, street parking is plentiful.
Where to live
If you’re sold + looking to buy a home in the area, here are some housing options currently on the market:
- 357 S. 21st St.| 2 BD, 1 BA | $799,000 | Start your new chapter in this 1930s bungalow.
- 355 S. 15th St. | 3 BD, 1.5 BA | $1,450,000 | This spacious home offers classic decor, a 2-car garage, and the opportunity for expansion.
- 578 S. 11th St. | 3 BD, 1 BA | $810,000 | This residence lies in close proximity to hit local restaurants, coffee houses, and city transportation.
Which neighborhood should we explore next? Let us know.
