Overfelt Gardens
A free, tranquil park featuring a beautiful Chinese Cultural Garden, serene ponds, and shaded walking paths.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Overfelt Gardens
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, tranquil park featuring a beautiful Chinese Cultural Garden, serene ponds, and shaded walking paths.
"Inside walking around the entire park, there are some beauty to it. Truly quite and peaceful."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this beautiful park and its cultural elements without any cost.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Explore the paved paths and gardens with ease.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chinese Cultural Garden
Main area of the park
Experience a slice of Taiwan in San Jose with traditional structures and peaceful ponds.

Pond with Ducks and Geese
Throughout the park
Watch the charming waterfowl navigate the serene ponds, a favorite for many visitors.
Shady Walking Paths
Park-wide
Enjoy flat, shaded trails perfect for leisurely walks, suitable for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Best Times for a Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this beautiful park and its cultural elements without any cost.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Explore the paved paths and gardens with ease.
📸 Perfect for Photography
Capture stunning shots, especially during golden hour.
🦆 Wildlife Watching
Spot ducks and geese in the park's tranquil ponds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this beautiful park and its cultural elements without any cost.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Explore the paved paths and gardens with ease.
📸 Perfect for Photography
Capture stunning shots, especially during golden hour.
🦆 Wildlife Watching
Spot ducks and geese in the park's tranquil ponds.
🧺 Picnic Spots Available
Bring a lunch and enjoy a meal amidst the greenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Overfelt Gardens for its free admission, peaceful atmosphere, and the unique Chinese Cultural Garden. While some note areas could benefit from updates and cleaning, the natural beauty, wildlife, and accessible paths make it a beloved spot for relaxation and gentle exploration.
"I wish they updated the park by cleaning up all the litter and redoing the structures / trail along with more navtive plants. However, the garden itself is still very enjoyable and lovely. At least the animals are still living here and the parking has a library, which is interesting. Would love to visit again!"
MoonRule
"I really really like this park. Lots of paved, shady paths. I felt very safe there. It was beautiful and there were a lot of birds!"
Dori
"I love that this Overfelt Chinese Garden is a block away from home! Very close by Mckee and Alum Rock Bay Area. Driving pass by looking from the outside, this park may not seem that clean or very nice but inside walking around the entire park, there are some beauty to it. There are working bathroom, Picnic areas, bbq pits, 3 different ponds, lots of ducks and geese, plenty of Greens, Trees, palm trees, lots of shades, few other cultural buildings and other unique Chinese displays here as well. Truly quite and peaceful.I visited this Overfelt Garden on a Friday the 13th of September 2024 and there was lots of warmth and Sunshine!!!!🙃🤍🤡"
Thia Le
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Overfelt Gardens is located at 2145 McKee Rd, San Jose, CA 95116. Free roadside parking is available.
Yes, there is free roadside parking available at the gardens.
The gardens are conveniently located near McKee Road and Alum Rock Boulevard in San Jose.
While specific routes can vary, checking local public transit schedules for buses serving the McKee Road area would be advisable.
The park features flat, paved walking paths that are generally suitable for elderly visitors and children, suggesting good accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Overfelt Gardens is a free attraction, making it an accessible option for everyone.
The gardens are typically open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, or until sunset.
As admission is free, no advance booking is required to visit Overfelt Gardens.
Yes, the gardens have hosted events like Lunar New Year festivals and photography walks.
Information regarding pet policies is not explicitly stated in the provided content, but it's generally recommended to check park rules for specific guidelines.
📸 📸 Photography
The Chinese Cultural Garden structures, ponds with wildlife, and the tree-lined paths offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Late afternoons during the 'golden hour' provide soft, warm light that enhances the beauty of the gardens.
While generally permitted, it's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and avoid disruptive photography, especially during events.
The park has been a popular location for various photoshoots, including cosplay and cultural attire.
The gardens offer a mix of dappled shade from trees and open, sunny areas, providing diverse lighting conditions throughout the day.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy leisurely walks, admire the Chinese Cultural Garden, observe wildlife, have picnics, and relax in a peaceful environment.
Yes, working bathrooms are available within the park.
The park offers picnic areas and BBQ pits, making it a great spot for outdoor gatherings.
The gardens feature a variety of trees, including palm trees, and offer plenty of greenery.
With its ponds and natural setting, the park is home to many ducks and geese, making it enjoyable for birdwatching.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Strollers & Meditators
📸 Photographers & Cosplayers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Chinese Cultural Garden: A Glimpse of Taiwan
The garden's design emphasizes harmony with nature, incorporating elements like flowing water and carefully placed flora. It's a testament to the friendship between San Jose and its sister city, offering a unique cultural experience within the park. The presence of this garden makes Overfelt Gardens more than just a local park; it's a destination for cultural exploration.
Nature and Wildlife at Overfelt Gardens
While some reviews mention a desire for more native plants and updated structures, the existing natural beauty and the presence of wildlife are consistently highlighted as enjoyable aspects. The park's ponds, streams, and diverse trees contribute to a tranquil atmosphere, making it a pleasant place for a relaxed stroll or simply to sit and enjoy the surroundings.
Community Events and Activities
Cultural celebrations, such as Lunar New Year festivals, have also taken place at the gardens, showcasing performances that represent diverse traditions. These events not only add vibrancy to the park but also offer educational and entertaining experiences for attendees of all ages. The park's accessibility and open spaces make it an ideal location for these community gatherings, reinforcing its role as a valuable public space.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit