On November 29, 1777, José Joaquin Moraga founded the first civic settlement in California as a Spanish farming community. It was named Pueblo de San José de Guadalupé for St. Joseph (San José) under the orders of Antonio María de Bucareli Ursúa, Viceroy of New Spain. In the mid-18th century, when European explorers arrived, Costanoan Indians lived in the area. During the Spanish colonial and Mexican periods, vegetables, cattle, and wheat were supplied to the military garrisons at Monterey and San Francisco. In 1821, San Jose became part of the First Mexican Empire after Mexico's War of Independence was won against the Spanish Crown. In 1824, it was later part of the First Mexican Republic. In 1846, after the American occupation of California, San Jose also became the new state's first capital for a short period, and the first state legislative assembly convened there in December 1849. San Jose was incorporated as a city in California on March 27, 1850. At this time, it had become a bustling trade depot for the goldfields east of Sacramento. The coming of the railroad that was from San Francisco gave San Jose improved trade connections. This connection enabled the farm produce of nearby farms to be readily shipped to San Francisco. Soon after, the Santa Clara Valley developed into a region of orchards and fruit processing. Most of the city's industries remained centered on food processing till 1940, as well as the manufacturing of orchard supplies and agricultural equipment. The city was the center for pioneer inventions and innovations. Over the years, San Jose experienced growth in population and massive development in the city's economy.

Sports
You will feel right at home in San Jose if you love sports. The city is home to three professional sports teams that receive enormous support from residents. The locals' favorite team is the San Jose Earthquakes, competing in the Western Conference of Major League Soccer (MLS). The Earthquakes were one of the founding members of MLS, defeating D.C. United in the competition's first-ever match. The Earthquakes have won two Supporters Shield titles (2005 and 2012) and two MLS titles (2001 and 2003).

It would be best if you experienced what the atmosphere is like when the Earthquakes tackle LA Galaxy in the California Classico; it always leaves fans with goosebumps. The San Jose Giants (hockey) play their home matches at Excite Ballpark, whiles San Jose Barracuda (hockey) plays at the SAP Center.

Parks and Gardens
Do you love biking, hiking, or walking? The parks in San Jose have a lot to offer. The city is home to over 200 exceptional and fun-filled parks that are perfect for outdoor activities and 60 miles of trails for hiking or biking.

Pay a visit to the oldest municipal park in California, known as the Alum Rock Park. This park has 13 miles of biking and walking trails of different difficulties. It also boasts scenic views of Silicon Valley, a small museum, a visitor's center, picnic areas, and playgrounds.

There is no trip to San Jose that would be complete without paying a visit to the San Jose Heritage Rose Garden. In this garden, you will come across over 3,600 rose bushes representing more than 2,700 different varieties. A loyal army of volunteers maintains it with all gardening materials financed by the City of San Jose. Public admission to the San Jose Heritage Rose Garden is free, and you should feel free to make donations as they are always welcome.

Other amusing parks and gardens in the city include Kelley Park, Happy Hollow Park, and Zoo, Great America Amusement Park, Japanese Friendship Garden, San Jose History Park, and others.


Excellent Restaurant Scene
San Jose is one of the most ethnically diversified cities in the state of California and the United States, which is reflected in its cuisine. Buying a mobile home in this city makes it easy to indulge in original flavors and cooking styles worldwide. The Naglee Park Garage is known for serving the best burgers in San Jose. Their half-pound Angus beef burger is a must-try with an array of toppings like blue cheese, bacon, and avocado.

Do you want to have a taste of Portuguese cuisine without leaving the South Bay? Then, Adega is the perfect place for you to dine in, serving authentic meals like The Salade De Polvo with forkfuls of octopus salad and roasted red pepper sauce. You can also try a dynamite roll of Sushi at the Fuji Sushi Restaurant.

Must-try restaurants in San Jose include Straits Restaurants, La Foret, Falafel's Drive-in, Aqui Cal-Mex, and Back A Yard.

Pay A Visit To A Winery
Wouldn't you love to spend an afternoon tasting wine? Pay a visit to the J. Lohr Winery if you love your grapes fermented. Jerry Lohr, the founder, was one of the first winemakers to recognize the potential of the Paso Robles and Monterey regions for producing delicious wine grapes. After nearly 50 years, the winery is still in business and family-owned. You also get to learn more about the wines and winemakers.