Hotel De Anza

Imagine a corner of an exquisite past in the heart of a modern technological capital. Hotel De Anza is a legendary historic boutique hotel located in the city of San Jose. Built in the 1930s, it is one of the most striking examples of Art Deco architecture in the USA, embodying the charm and elegance of California style from that era.

The building stands out with its ornate facade and interiors, where every detail—from gilded elements to original furniture—recalls an era of innovation and luxury. Inside, the hotel hides real treasures: magnificent frescoes and mosaics created by masters of the last century, making it not just a place to stay, but a veritable open-air museum.

Although the hotel's status is currently listed as "permanently closed," it continues to be an iconic downtown landmark. Tourists and residents come here to admire this architectural masterpiece, which for decades served as a hallmark of the region and has preserved the atmosphere of California's "Golden Age" to this day.

For current information regarding the building's status or historical inquiries, you can use the official contact details. Please take the current status of the building into account before planning a visit, as some services may be unavailable.

Below is the detailed contact information and the exact address of this historic building in the city center.

A visit to this architectural monument is primarily about aesthetic pleasure. The main activity here is a visual exploration of the facade. Looking at the building, you can notice many small details: from the geometric patterns characteristic of Art Deco to the unique moldings. Photography enthusiasts will find many great angles here, especially during the "golden hour" when the sun's rays highlight the texture of the walls.

While access to the interior may be limited, the building remains an important point on walking tour routes through downtown. Strolling nearby, you can combine your visit with a trip to San Pedro Square Market, which is just steps away. It's an excellent place to grab a bite and discuss what you've seen while soaking in the city's modern rhythm.

Even just observing how the historic building fits into the modern downtown landscape provides food for thought. Many visitors note that this place has a special energy, allowing one to momentarily escape the hustle and bustle of Silicon Valley and feel the spirit of old America with its attention to detail and monumental forms.

This historic site is located in the heart of downtown San Jose at 233 W Santa Clara St. Thanks to its central location, getting here is extremely easy: the building is a few minutes' walk from key transport hubs, including Diridon Station. You can also use the VTA Light Rail (Blue or Green lines), getting off at the Santa Clara stop.

If you are arriving in the city via San Jose International Airport (SJC), a taxi or Uber/Lyft ride will take only 10–15 minutes, as the airport is just 3 kilometers from the center. For those preferring personal transport, the proximity to the I-280 and US-101 highways makes the trip fast, and city parking is always available nearby.

Walking or cycling is perhaps the best way to appreciate the architecture of this area. The hotel is situated in a lively pedestrian zone surrounded by numerous cafes and shops, turning your journey into a pleasant introductory tour of the city center.

The history of this place began in 1926, when the idea to create an architectural landmark in the city center first emerged. The official opening took place in 1931, and Hotel De Anza instantly became a symbol of luxury. Remarkably, the construction of such a grand project was completed at the height of the Great Depression, serving as a symbol of hope and economic optimism for the city's residents.

The architectural appearance of the building is a benchmark of the Art Deco style. Talented local artisans participated in the interior design, and their frescoes are still considered cultural treasures today. These murals depict iconic scenes from California's history and its natural beauty, turning the building's walls into a sort of art gallery. In the mid-20th century, the hotel became a magnet for celebrities and the business elite looking to experience the atmosphere of the "Golden Age."

In the 1990s, the building underwent a massive restoration, during which specialists carefully restored original decorative elements, moldings, and mosaics. For a long time, the property was part of the Hyatt chain, maintaining its status as one of the region's most prestigious boutique hotels. It served as a bridge between San Jose's past—from its Spanish roots to its rise as the capital of Silicon Valley.

Although the hotel has ceased its operations as a lodging facility today, it remains a major architectural heritage site in the USA. Its story lives on in local legends, tourist routes, and architectural guides, reminding us of a time when every interior detail was created as a work of art.

Since the internal infrastructure is currently unavailable for a full visit, viewing the building from the outside does not require much time. A standard walk around the facade to examine the Art Deco details will take about 15–30 minutes.

If you are an architecture enthusiast or a photographer looking to catch the best light and capture unique elements of the exterior decor, you should set aside about 45 minutes for the visit. This is plenty of time to leisurely study the historical plaques and take memorable photos against the backdrop of one of the city's most beautiful buildings.

At present, Hotel De Anza officially has the status of "Closed Permanently," so there are no standard guest reception hours. Visiting the interior rooms is not possible; however, viewing the exterior facade of the building is available 24/7.

To receive the latest updates on any possible changes to the building's status or special events on its grounds, we recommend checking the official website periodically. The best time for viewing is during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architectural details.

Exploring the city's central blocks allows you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of the world's technological capital. A walk from the hotel in any direction will reveal many interesting spots, from cozy parks to modern entertainment centers.

The surrounding area is rich in attractions that will interest families with children as well as active travelers. Below is a list of popular locations nearby: