San Jose is ringed by rolling hills and features beautiful urban parks and vast open nature preserves.
* **Alum Rock Park**: Founded in 1890, this is one of California's oldest municipal parks. Nestled in the Diablo Range foothills, it offers miles of rugged trails, mineral springs, and abundant wildlife. * **Kelley Park**: A massive urban park south of downtown that is home to **Happy Hollow Park & Zoo** (a beloved children's amusement park and AZA-accredited zoo) and the tranquil **Japanese Friendship Garden**. * **Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge**: Touching San Jose's northernmost edge, this expansive salt marsh and wetland reserve is a critical stop for migratory birds on the Pacific Flyway. * **Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve**: Perched above the city, it provides sweeping views of the Santa Clara Valley and protects vital oak woodlands and grassland habitats.