What do you do when there’s no breakout meeting or the panels are done for the day? Where do you go when you need a little time away from the hubbub of convention chaos? Exhibit City News’ 5-in-15 offers five places to go to eat, relax, or simply stay within a 15 minute walk from the convention center. In Santa Clara, that means the Santa Clara Convention Center.
Where to stay? The Hyatt Regency Santa Clara Hotel (5101 Great America Parkway) is a good start. Physically connected to the convention center, the hotel has an outdoor heated pool, fitness center, restaurant, and a grab-and-go market. With 60,000 square feet of meeting space, you can have your own mini convention right there.
There’s also the Hilton Santa Clara (4949 Great America Parkway). It’s not connected, but right beside the convention center. The Hilton is a great alternative for those who want to be right next to the convention action. The La Fontana restaurant offers California and Mediterranean inspired cuisine, and there’s a Starbuck’s for coffee lovers.
If you’re looking for someplace to eat outside of your hotel, Clara’s Junction (2221 Tasman Dr.) is one of the better recommended spots in Santa Clara. Casual, not too pricey, with indoor and outdoor seating, you can have your pick of burgers, tacos, salads, and a variety of appetizers.
While not a standard downtown, the convention center is in a business and entertainment district that not only includes Levi’s Stadium and the 49ers Museum, but California’s Great America (4701 Great America Parkway). The Gold Striker, RailBlazer, and Flight Deck rollercoasters are a highlight of the park. Additionally, there are family rides and live entertainment throughout. Check the venue’s calendar though, dates and hours vary by season.
For some low key, relaxing getaway time during the convention, there’s the San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail for walkers, runners, and cyclists. The paved route can give an attendee some fresh air and a bit of peace and quiet in between panels, seminars, and meetings.
This story originally appeared in the Q4 2025 issue of Exhibit City News, p. 100. For original layout, see Print Version
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