Attendees at San Jose conventions looking for a place to stay have numerous options just outside the McEnery Convention Center’s doors.
Not only are these hotels close to the convention center (some right on top), but given the center’s location in the heart of downtown, they’re conveniently located near other San Jose attractions. From classic restaurants to live music and dancing, a variety of downtown activities are all within walking distance from these hotels.
It’s hard to get much closer to the convention center than the Marriot, as it’s pretty much right on top of it. The hotel has direct access to the convention center, for those conventioneers who just want to roll out of bed and on to the convention floor. With 26 floors, the Marriot also has a great view of Plaza de Cesar Chavez and downtown San Jose. The hotel’s restaurant, the Arcadia steakhouse, is operated by Michelin starred chef Michael Mina.
Housed in the historic Hotel Montgomery building, the Four Points San Jose opened in 2004 after its venerable home was almost demolished to make way for an expansion of the Fairmont next door. The Montgomery, constructed in 1911, was spearheaded by the same developer as the Saint Claire, T.S. Montgomery. Instead of demolishing it, the city moved it half a football field, and now the boutique Four Points operates out of it, with a well-appointed hotel bar, Mosaic, which includes a patio and bocce ball court.
The Fairmont is a San Jose institution, located only a block away from the convention center. One of the biggest hotels downtown, the Fairmont houses a rooftop pool, plus the Pagoda nightclub, featuring dancing and bottle sservice. For those looking for more low-key nightlife, the Fairmont also regularly hosts live music in its elegantly appointed Lobby Lounge.
Featuring a direct connection to the convention center, the Hilton has all of the amenities one would expect from the international hotel company, including a fitness center, the European-inspired Affinity restaurant and a heated pool.
After falling into disrepair in the late 20th century, much of the architecture of the Saint Claire has been restored to its 1926 Renaissance Revival origins. The unique hexagonal hotel sits across the street from the convention center and faces onto Plaza de Cesar Chavez park. It’s amenities include the popular Il Fornaio Italian restaurant. Of course, as one of the older building in San Jose, The Saint Claire comes with rumors of hauntings, as well.
The De Anza is a bit farther away from the convention center than the others, but it’s still only a 10 minute walk. The extra distance may be worth it, as the hotel houses the Hedley Club Lounge. With its original 1931 art deco stylings (also found throughout the hotel), the Hedley hosts some of the area’s best live jazz, with acts from well-known performers to come-one-come-all jazz jam sessions. The De Anza also sits just down the road from SAP Center, making it an easy walk to Sharks games and concerts.
