Peralta Adobe and Fallon House
Step into San Jose's past at the Peralta Adobe and Fallon House, showcasing 18th-century Apache life and Victorian grandeur.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Peralta Adobe and Fallon House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into San Jose's past at the Peralta Adobe and Fallon House, showcasing 18th-century Apache life and Victorian grandeur.
"A must-visit for history buffs and families seeking an immersive, hands-on journey through time."
🎯 Book Tours Online
Essential for access! Tours fill up, so book your spot in advance to avoid disappointment.
👨🏫 Knowledgeable Guides
Guides like Scott and Sarah offer amazing behind-the-scenes stories and historical context.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Peralta Adobe
177 W. St. John Street
Step back into the 18th century in this furnished Apache Indian house, offering a glimpse into early California life.
Fallon House
175 W. St. John Street
Explore a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion, once home to Mayor Thomas Fallon, filled with unique artifacts.
Hair Artwork
Fallon House
Discover intricate and unique artwork crafted from human hair, a fascinating historical art form.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Embrace the Hands-On History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours Online
Essential for access! Tours fill up, so book your spot in advance to avoid disappointment.
👨🏫 Knowledgeable Guides
Guides like Scott and Sarah offer amazing behind-the-scenes stories and historical context.
🧒 Hands-On Fun for Kids
Children love the interactive stations: dress-up, fire-making, and tortilla tasting!
👃 Tempting Food Smells
Be prepared for delicious BBQ aromas from nearby San Pedro Square!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours Online
Essential for access! Tours fill up, so book your spot in advance to avoid disappointment.
👨🏫 Knowledgeable Guides
Guides like Scott and Sarah offer amazing behind-the-scenes stories and historical context.
🧒 Hands-On Fun for Kids
Children love the interactive stations: dress-up, fire-making, and tortilla tasting!
👃 Tempting Food Smells
Be prepared for delicious BBQ aromas from nearby San Pedro Square!
⏰ Check Hours Carefully
Verify opening times online as they can sometimes be inconsistent.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Peralta Adobe and Fallon House for their well-preserved historical significance and engaging guided tours. The hands-on activities at the Fallon House are a particular hit with families. However, some visitors have experienced frustration with inconsistent opening hours and difficulty accessing the site without prior online booking.
"Well preserved house. You have to book it online to get a tour and access inside. The house is nice and the tour guide gives you a history of its famous occupant, Thomas Fallon. The guide is very knowledgeable about its history. The items inside the house have their own unique stories, such as the artwork made of hair that resembles a tree."
Town Traveller
"If you are a history buff or interested in the history of the city you are staying at, you must take a tour here.
Scott and Sarah are great guides and the behind the scenes stories are wonderful."
D C
"We just had a fun experience @ Adobe Fallon House with our 4th grader class. The students really enjoy the 1800 mid century experience and the chaperones were part of the education. Students were split into groups to rotate the many work stations. Students were able to try out clothes and experience the way they were dress, they learn to make fire, throw a rope to the fake bull. I was part of the chaperone who taught the kids how to make mint tea and old fashion corn tortillas, which the kids got to make and taste, kids also learn to play with the different tools. They had so much fun with hands on information, rather than just reading about it. The young ladies leading the groups were very helpful and very upbeat to teach. The only hard part is having restaurants surroundings the Adobe house with tempting bbq smoke smells and not able to move from the learning group. The San Pedro Square smells delicious!! I will be back to have a seat next to the Adobe House."
Nancy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Peralta Adobe and Fallon House are located at 177 and 175 W. St. John Street in San Jose, California. They are easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transportation, including VTA buses and light rail, also serves the downtown San Jose area, making it convenient to reach the historic district. Check local transit schedules for the best routes.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available in the downtown San Jose area near the Peralta Adobe and Fallon House. The San Pedro Square Market garage is a popular and convenient choice. Be aware of parking rates and time limits.
If you are already in downtown San Jose, the Peralta Adobe and Fallon House are within walking distance of many attractions, including San Pedro Square Market and Plaza de Cesar Chavez. The historic district is quite walkable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, it is highly recommended, and often required, to book your tour tickets online in advance. Tours are guided and have limited capacity. Arriving without a reservation may mean you cannot access the interiors.
Opening hours can vary, and it's crucial to check the official website or booking platform for the most up-to-date information. Tours are typically offered on specific days and times.
Ticket prices are generally reasonable and cover the guided tour of both historic buildings. Check the official website for current admission fees and any potential discounts for seniors, children, or groups.
Absolutely! Guided tours are the primary way to experience the Peralta Adobe and Fallon House. The guides are very knowledgeable and provide in-depth historical context and stories about the former residents.
Typically, tours cover both the Peralta Adobe and the Fallon House as they are part of the same historical experience. It's best to confirm the tour structure when booking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Peralta Adobe is furnished to represent an 18th-century Apache Indian dwelling, offering a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants of the region. It provides a stark contrast to the Victorian era of the Fallon House.
The Fallon House is a well-preserved Victorian mansion showcasing the lifestyle of Mayor Thomas Fallon. You'll see period furnishings, personal artifacts, and unique historical items, including impressive hair artwork.
Yes, the Fallon House, in particular, offers a highly engaging and hands-on experience for children. They can try on historical clothing, learn old skills, and participate in interactive activities, making history fun and memorable.
A guided tour of both the Peralta Adobe and Fallon House usually lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the group size and the guide's presentation. It's a comprehensive yet manageable visit.
Restroom facilities are generally available on-site or nearby within the historic district. It's advisable to use facilities before or after your tour if needed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the Peralta Adobe and Fallon House themselves. However, the historic site is located in downtown San Jose, surrounded by numerous restaurants and eateries, especially near San Pedro Square Market.
You'll find a wide variety of dining options nearby, from casual cafes and food trucks to upscale restaurants. San Pedro Square Market offers a diverse selection of food stalls catering to different tastes.
Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside the historic houses to preserve the artifacts and furnishings. It's best to consume them before or after your tour.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Typically, personal photography without flash is allowed for non-commercial use inside the houses. However, it's always best to check with your guide or look for posted signs upon arrival to confirm current restrictions.
The exteriors of both the Adobe and the Victorian mansion offer great photo opportunities. Inside, focus on capturing the unique historical details and furnishings, but be mindful of any 'no photo' areas.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in historic districts or urban areas due to safety and privacy regulations. Always adhere to local laws and guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Book your tour in advance, as spots can fill up, especially for family-friendly time slots. The interactive nature of the Fallon House makes it a more engaging experience for younger visitors compared to purely observational historical sites.
🤓 History Buffs
Must-do: Take the guided tour to get the full historical context. The contrast between the 18th-century Adobe and the 19th-century Victorian mansion provides a compelling overview of San Jose's evolution. Consider checking for any temporary exhibitions, which have been noted as particularly impressive and well-curated.
💰 Budget Travelers
Tip: Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding downtown area, like San Pedro Square Market, for affordable food options. This makes for a rich cultural experience without breaking the bank. Remember to book your tour online to secure your spot and avoid any last-minute issues.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Tale of Two Eras: Peralta Adobe vs. Fallon House
The Fallon House, on the other hand, embodies the prosperity and architectural style of the Victorian era. Built in the 1850s and later expanded, it was the residence of Thomas Fallon, a prominent figure in San Jose's development, including serving as mayor. The house is meticulously preserved with period furnishings, offering a rich narrative of 19th-century domestic life, social customs, and the city's growth. The contrast between these two structures highlights the dramatic transformations San Jose has undergone.
Together, these sites offer a comprehensive historical journey, from the indigenous and early colonial periods to the burgeoning American era. The guided tours are essential for understanding the context and significance of each building and its inhabitants, making the experience both educational and engaging.
Immersive Learning for Young Historians
These immersive experiences are led by enthusiastic young women who make the learning process fun and engaging. The goal is to provide a memorable educational experience that resonates with children, fostering a deeper appreciation for history. While the nearby food smells might be tempting, the focus remains on the educational journey, ensuring that the students are fully immersed in the 1800s mid-century experience.
This approach is a testament to how historical sites can evolve to become dynamic learning centers. By engaging multiple senses and encouraging active participation, the Peralta Adobe and Fallon House effectively bring history to life for a new generation, making it a standout destination for family outings and school field trips.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit