The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph is located in Downtown San Jose, California. A minor basilica, the Italian baroque style cathedral serves the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Jose. Although it has a modest looking exterior, the cathedral's interior is stunning with its high ceilings, stained glass windows, art murals, marble statues and 1886 Odell Tracker pipe organ. Families, historians, art fans and architect lovers would enjoy visiting this church.
Parking and public transportation to Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph
Metered street parking is available, but limited. Public parking garages are within several blocks from the cathedral, while private parking garages are within a block radius. The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) has several bus routes going through Downtown San Jose. The VTA also offers a free shuttle, called DASH, from the San Jose Diridon Center, where Amtrak, Caltain and the VTA light rail have stations.
Best and worst time to go to Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph
Seeing the cathedral on weekdays is the best time to tour the church. The worst time is during worship services and weddings. Services are held early in the morning and around noon from Monday to Friday, late afternoon on Saturday and Sunday mornings and late afternoons. Weddings are scheduled for Fridays, Saturdays and Sunday afternoons.
Admission to Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph
The church is open to the public for free. Visitors are expected to tour the church quietly and respect the privacy of people praying.
Must see/do at Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph
Check out the 39 stained glass windows, some of which were installed in the late 19th century. Be sure to look up at the vaulted ceilings and the murals painted on them. Also check out the church's original tabernacle located behind the wall at the south end of the church.
Other places to visit near Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph
Across the street is the San Jose Museum of Art, which has a permanent collection of over 2,400 pieces of modern and contemporary paintings, sculptures, photography and other artwork. It also has several new exhibitions each year.
A few blocks to the south of the cathedral is The Tech Museum of Innovation, a museum dedicated to technology and science. In addition to its hands-on exhibits, the museum has an IMAX dome theater, as well as offers workshops and other programs for children and adults.
Head to San Pedro Square, a few blocks north of the cathedral, to find a variety of restaurants and pubs. From May to September, the square has a farmers market every Friday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Insider tip for visitors to Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph
The homeless sometimes rest on the steps to the cathedral. Don't let that stop you from taking a look inside.
Author's bio: Susan Echaore-McDavid writes a blog about Hollister and nearby areas.