Best attractions and places to see around Santa Clara, California, offer a blend of historical sites, cultural venues, and natural spaces within Silicon Valley. The city features significant landmarks and museums, alongside parks and trails for outdoor activities. Its location provides access to both urban attractions and natural escapes, making it a diverse destination for visitors.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
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The DeFazio Bridge is a pedestrian and bicycle bridge named after Congressman Peter DeFazio of Oregon. It showcases quite interesting and unique architecture with a modernist interpretation of the classic suspension bridge and serves as one of the main connecting arteries between downtown Eugene and Coburg Road. The DeFazio Bridge also serves as the main crossing between Alton Baker Park and downtown Eugene, increasing access to the park. It stretches across the Willamette River, connecting Alton Baker Park on the east side with Autzen Stadium and the University of Oregon campus on the west side. The bridge is an important link in the extensive system of bicycle and pedestrian paths that traverse Eugene and the surrounding area. It is heavily used by students, visitors to Alton Baker Park, and residents of nearby neighborhoods. The bridge also offers breathtaking views of the Willamette River, Autzen Stadium and the surrounding natural beauty of the area. In addition to its practical and functional purposes, the DeFazio Bridge is also a beloved landmark and a symbol of Eugene's commitment to sustainable transportation and outdoor recreation.
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This path, a haven for cyclists, hugs the Willamette River's western edge. A well-paved trail, it unveils Eugene's downtown charm, with nearby parks like Skinner Butte and Owen Rose Garden. Bridges abound for easy crossings, ample parking, and minor road connections seamlessly link the trail.
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This path, a haven for cyclists, runners, and walkers, hugs the Willamette River's western edge. A well-paved trail, it unveils Eugene's downtown charm, with nearby parks like Skinner Butte and Owen Rose Garden. Bridges abound for easy crossings, ample parking, and minor road connections seamlessly link the trail.
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Nestled along the Willamette River near the Washington Jefferson Street bridge, the Owen Rose Garden, spanning 8.5 acres, blooms in splendor. George E. Owen's generous donation in 1951 initiated its legacy, now a riverfront gem extending from Ferry Street Bridge to Valley River Center's Greenway bike bridge. With the initial gift of 750 roses by the Eugene Rose Society, this garden has blossomed into a splendid tapestry of over 4,500 roses, encompassing 400 diverse varieties. Its stewardship, including the dedicated efforts of Delta Rotary, has ensured its continued beauty. In addition to its magnificent roses, the garden proudly showcases the Oregon Heritage Cherry Tree, inviting open spaces, accessible walkways, a stately gazebo, and an exquisite collection of heritage and heirloom roses.
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The Peter DeFazio Bridge offers a scenic spectacle. Overlooking the park and lake, it's a birdwatcher's paradise. Tourists run by, captivated by the view's beauty.
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Amazon Park is a hot spot for locals in the heart of south Eugene. Something is always happening here at almost 100 acres of natural areas and recreation opportunities. On any given day, you will see cyclists, walkers, children on the playground, a busy dog park, skateboarders, a sporting event on one of the playing fields, or track athletes training on the numerous paths. This park has an extraordinary vibrancy, with something for people of all ages.
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This path is excellent for cycling, running or walking. It follows along the west side of the Willamette River and is a great paved trail that passes many lovely parks close to downtown Eugene, with access to Skinner Butte Park and the Owen Rose Memorial Garden. There are many bridges along the way that you can cross in either direction. Most sections have plenty of nearby parking. A few blocks here and there are followed on the road to connect parts of the trail system, but they are minimal.
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Santa Clara is rich in history. You can explore the Mission Santa Clara de Asís, the eighth of California's 21 missions, located on the Santa Clara University campus. Other notable historical sites include the intriguing Winchester Mystery House, the Charles Copeland Morse House, and the Harris Lass House Museum, which showcases 19th-century life.
Yes, Santa Clara offers several family-friendly attractions. California's Great America is a popular amusement park with thrilling rides and a water park. For outdoor fun, Central Park provides playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. The Amazon Park is also a vibrant spot with natural areas and recreation opportunities for all ages.
For nature lovers, the Ulistac Natural Area offers a serene 40-acre escape with diverse California habitats and wildlife, perfect for birding and walking. Central Park is another great option with 52 acres of recreational space. You can also enjoy the tranquil Owen Memorial Rose Garden, known for its extensive rose collection and the historic Oregon Heritage Cherry Tree.
Santa Clara has several cultural institutions. The Triton Museum of Art features contemporary and historical art, often focusing on California artists, and has a sculpture garden. The De Saisset Museum, on the Santa Clara University campus, also offers art and historical artifacts. For a unique look into technology, the Intel Museum provides insights into the computer-chip industry.
Absolutely. The West Bank Path is excellent for cycling, running, or walking along the Willamette River, connecting to parks like Skinner Butte and the Owen Memorial Rose Garden. The San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail and the Guadalupe River Trail also provide picturesque routes for outdoor enthusiasts. For more options, explore easy hikes around Santa Clara in our guide: Easy hikes around Santa Clara.
Runners can enjoy several popular trails. The Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path offers an East & West Bank Loop, and the Skinner Butte and South Bank Path Loop is another great option. You can find more detailed running routes in our dedicated guide: Running Trails around Santa Clara.
For shopping and dining, Santana Row offers a charming European-style village with high-end boutiques and gourmet restaurants. The 5th Street Public Market is another premier open-air destination in downtown Eugene (near Santa Clara) with a colorful collection of unique local stores, restaurants, and cafés.
Yes, Levi's Stadium is a major attraction, serving as the home of the NFL's San Francisco 49ers. It hosts major football games, international soccer matches, and concerts. Visitors can also explore the 49ers Museum within the stadium.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical depth, cultural richness, and natural beauty. For instance, the Owen Memorial Rose Garden is loved for its serene oasis and vast rose collection. The Peter DeFazio Bridge is noted for its scenic views of the Willamette River and surrounding areas, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.
Yes, several attractions and paths are wheelchair accessible. The Owen Memorial Rose Garden features accessible walkways. The Peter DeFazio Bridge and the West Bank Path are also designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and cyclists. Additionally, the 5th Street Public Market is wheelchair-friendly.
The Peter DeFazio Bridge offers stunning views overlooking the park and lake, making it a scenic spectacle. The Ulistac Natural Area also provides beautiful natural vistas and opportunities for nature appreciation along the Guadalupe River. The Mission Gardens at Santa Clara University are another tranquil and beautiful spot.


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