8 a.m. Plaza de Cesar Chavez
Wake up and take your dog for a walk in Plaza de Cesar Chavez, also known as Cesar Chavez Park, which is conveniently located across the street from The Westin. The park spans two acres in the middle of downtown San Jose. It dates back to 1797, when it was the plaza mayor of the Spanish Pueblo de San José de Guadalupe, making it the oldest public space in California. As you stroll, imagine its history while you smell the beautiful flowers and let Fido splash in the water fountains. The park is a hub of activity and you might get to experience one of the festivals and live music performances frequently held here.
I smell bacon.
Photo by @mark.pffft9 a.m. Breakfast at Cafe San Jose
Enjoy the fresh morning air on the pretty, pet-friendly patio surrounded by plants at Cafe San Jose. This popular breakfast spot offers omelets, a variety of eggs Benedict dishes, Belgian waffles, pancakes, French toast and scrambles. For some local flavor, try the San Jose Scramble, which is eggs scrambled with chorizo, diced ribeye, onions, tomatoes, jalapenos and Monterey Jack cheese topped with salsa. Order a side of bacon to reward Fido for being such a good boy.
“Does this make me a work of art?”
Photo by @little_miss_turtle10 a.m. Check Out Local Art With Your Pup
After breakfast, walk off some of those calories and give your canine some art appreciation on a self-guided art walk from Public Art San Jose. Explore downtown with a map and visit a few of the 250 diverse artworks located at 130 sites throughout the city.
They give it 12 paws up!
Photo by BringFido/Deb12 p.m. Lunch at Crepevine
Bring Fido for lunch in the Biergarten at Crepevine. Sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes are on offer in addition to sweet and savory crepes as its name suggests. Breakfast is served all day, too, if you'd prefer to sample the restaurant's omelets, pancakes or French toast. Order your pup a side of chicken apple sausage to make his tail wag!
Pawty on the patio!
Photo by @remyraiburn3 p.m. Hapa’s Brewing Company
Sample local brews at the taproom of Hapa’s Brewing Company, which came onto the San Jose beer scene in 2017. Dogs are welcome to join their owners while they sip on an IPA or stout and play games of cornhole. If you get hungry, check out the food trucks parked outside.
You gotta risk it if you want the biscuit.
Photo by @smilingwithpoodles5 p.m. Treat Time
Before going back to the hotel to freshen up for dinner, stop by Biscuits - Give a Dog a Bone to shop for a souvenir from San Jose for Fido. The pet boutique sells organic treats and dog food in addition to stylish collars, bandanas, clothing and leashes. Let your pup pick out a new toy, too!
“You know you’ve gotta share, right?”
Photo by Facebook.com/matthewmeinert17 p.m. Dinner at Naglee Park Garage
Eat supper with your pupper on the patio at Naglee Park Garage. The restaurant has a laid-back vibe and was featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” Try the half-pound Garage Burger topped with caramelized onions and white cheddar on an Acme bun, or sample the pan-fried local Brussels sprouts with pancetta, shallots and honey. Be sure to save room for dessert at your next stop!
It’s important to make time for milk and cookies.
Photo by @insomniacookies9 p.m. Milk and Cookies at Insomnia Cookies
End the day on a sweet note at Insomnia Cookies. Choose from a variety of gourmet cookies including vegan options. Wash your selection down with an ice-cold milk or an iced espresso drink sitting outside on one of the benches along the street. Ice cream treats are also available to satisfy your sweet tooth. If you don’t feel like stopping by the pet-friendly shop downtown, you can also get your dessert delivered to your room until midnight!