Welcome to Alum Rock
Historic, green, and lush, this neighborhood offers stunning views of the Santa Clara Valley
Located in East San Jose, this neighborhood, formerly an independent town, is one of the area’s most notable and historic Chicano/Mexican-American districts.
Named after a rock formerly thought to be composed of alum found in a nearby park, this district consisted mostly of fruit orchards during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Developers built housing here during the 1940s and ‘50s which helped form the foundation of this community.
Now a distinct community that is largely separated from the rest of San Jose, Alum Rock is made up of numerous smaller neighborhoods including Little Portugal, Little Saigon, Mayfair, King & Story, East Foothills, Alum Rock Village, and Mount Pleasant.
California’s largest skate park, (Lake Cunningham Regional Skate Park), is located here as is Raging Waters, northern California’s largest water park. Hiking is a popular form of recreation and an abundance of small and casual restaurants specialize in delicious Mexican and Asian fare.
What to Love
- One of the area’s most notable and historic Chicano/Mexican-American districts
- Largely separated from the rest of San Jose
- Made up of numerous smaller neighborhoods
Local Lifestyle
Alum Rock is a mix of families and young singles. The population here is active and enjoys spending time outdoors.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
A weekly or daily stop at Peters Bakery is a must. This counter-serve bakeshop is well known in the area for its burnt almond cake, plus a variety of cookies and pastries.
Locals also frequent Antipasto’s, a homey Italian deli that serves up healthy portions of old-world style ravioli, hot entrees, and hefty sandwiches.
And at The Grandview, a historic mountainside destination, diners consistently return for classic American cuisine.
Things to Do
Alum Rock Park, California's oldest municipal park, is nestled within the Alum Rock Canyon in the foothills of the Diablo Range. Offering 720 acres of natural, rugged beauty, visitors enjoy many outdoor activities here including hiking, horseback riding, bicycling, picnicking and relaxing.
Established in 1899, the San Jose Country Club is rich in history and tradition. Offering a premier family-friendly, private golf club experience year-round, members can also dine here and enjoy a range of amenities.
The annual St John Vianney Fair is also an Alum Rock attraction. Locals call it a great weekend of fun, food, and friends, something akin to a yearly homecoming.
Schools
Highly rated schools abound in Alum Rock. Popular choices include:
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St John Vianney
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Thomas Moore
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