Welcome to the Juan Bautista de Anza Hotel, a cultural landmark in downtown San Jose with a storied history and commitment to excellence. Dating back to the Roaring 20s, the De Anza has hosted high-profile guests such as Dag Hammarskjold, Jack Dempsey, and Eleanor Roosevelt, and is renowned for its “cool jazz” nights, luxurious accommodations, and recreated diversion playsites. Throughout the 1940s, the ivied spaces of the De Anza became famed as much for its live music as for entertainers like Red Skelton who made their debuts here – opened in 1931 and made famous here by United Broadcasting’s KEEN Radio, the hotel now stands proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Juan Bautista de Anza Hotel: A Historic Landmark
The Juan Bautista de Anza Hotel is an iconic hotel located in San Jose, California. Built in the 1920s, it was originally planned to be called “The San Jose Hotel” but the name was changed in honor of explorer Juan Bautista de Anza. The grand opening of the hotel was held on February 27, 1931, and was presided over by Alexander Hart, president of the San Jose Community Hotel Corporation. It has since become a beloved landmark in San Jose, renowned for its classic elegance and alluring atmosphere. It is also well known for its live jazz performances which add to the hotel’s unique charm.
Discover the alluring atmosphere and “cool jazz” of the Juan Bautista de Anza Hotel, one of America’s most iconic hotels. Originally planned to be named “The San Jose Hotel” the name was changed in honor of explorer Juan Bautista de Anza. Construction began in the Roaring 20’s, culminating with its grand opening on February 27, 1931. The grand opening was presided over by San Jose Community Hotel Corporation president Alexander Hart, and attended by many of San Jose’s leading citizens.
The Juan Bautista de Anza Hotel quickly became a popular destination for celebrities and political leaders, including First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, boxing great Jack Dempsey, and jazz icon Cab Calloway. Not only is it located in the heart of downtown San Jose near the SAP Center, it is renowned for its commitment to excellence and storied history. Its top floor even hosted one of San Jose’s most popular radio stations, United Broadcasting’s KEEN Radio, which made its inaugural broadcast from the hotel on June 21, 1947. Throughout the 1940s, the De Anza Hotel remained a favorite spot for those who wished to experience the vibrant nightlife and live orchestral music.
It was here that the famous comedian Red Skelton made his debut and Golden Globe award-winning actor Eddie Murphy stayed during the filming of Beverly Hills Cop III. As a testament to its cultural significance, the Hotel De Anza was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982 and is celebrated for its 25-foot “diving lady” mural and rooftop neon sign.
But even today, guests can still experience the same Art Deco charm and jazz age energy. Every Friday and Saturday night from 8:30 – 11 pm, the Hedley Club comes alive with live jazz performances, preserving the legacy of this iconic hotel.
Celebrated for its iconic downtown location, illustrious history, and “cool jazz” atmosphere, the Juan Bautista de Anza Hotel continues to leave a lasting legacy of glamour and culture in San Jose. From hosting renowned celebrities, political figures, and radio broadcasts to being acceptable by the National Register of Historic Places, the enduring significance of the De Anza freeway reflects its dedication to delivering unsurpassed service that entertains and uplifts its guests from all corners of the world. It is no surprise why this marvelous California landmark continues to be San Jose’s most iconic destination for those seeking an unforgettable staycation or night out on the town.
