This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at SJSU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.
College is a transformative chapter in life, and fully embracing the experience often means taking advantage of both on-campus spaces and the city just beyond it.
As a student at San Jose State University, I spend a lot of time on campus but the moments I venture further into the city always bring some of my most meaningful memories.
From hidden study spots to cozy hangout zones, here are my five favorite places in San Jose to unwind, make lasting memories, and spend quality time with friends.
Spot #1: On SJSU Campus
The heart of it all? Campus itself. Before the ID-checking policy, and even now with friends who can guest pass me into their buildings, I’ve always loved studying in the dorm common areas.
My favorites include the sky lounge at Spartan Village on the Paseo and the TV lounges in Campus Village 2.
Even today, anyone can still spend time at the Study Hub or the Resident Activity Center in Campus Village B, whether to study or simply hang out.
My friends and I also take full advantage of the study tables near the rock climbing wall at the Spartan Recreation and Aquatic Center (SRAC). Climbing and meeting new people is a fun way to take active study breaks. Sometimes, I also head up to the tables on the second floor to study with a peaceful pool view.
Beyond SRAC, we frequently stop by campus study spots like the Martin Luther King Library, the Interdisciplinary Science Building, and the Wellness Center.
I love relaxing in the massage chairs there, especially on Friday afternoons when it’s less crowded.
Spot #2: Santana Row/Westfield Valley Fair
With its twinkling lights and lively atmosphere, Santana Row is the perfect evening hangout. It’s particularly charming at night, with plenty of shops open late and great spots for spontaneous photo shoots.
Whether you’re browsing cute stationery at Maido, grabbing sweets at Sugarfina, or catching a movie at Cinemark, there’s always something to do, even if you’re just window-shopping.
Right next door sits Westfield Valley Fair, a place my friends and I jokingly say we “practically live at,” because we’re there so often.
Matcha Cafe Maiko has some of the best matcha you’ll ever try, Rolife fuels endless creative inspiration, and Body Jewelz is my go-to whenever I want a new piercing or jewelry change. This is probably why I have more piercings than I originally planned. I also love sitting in the food court or at random tables to do schoolwork.
My only complaint is that there are not enough charging stations, which is tragic given my laptop’s terrible battery life.
Spot #3: Breaktime Tea
Just a few feet from campus, Breaktime Tea is a must-visit for boba lovers who don’t want to walk far and just need a quick refresher after a long day. This cozy shop offers everything from tea to coffee to smoothies, plus snacks like popcorn chicken, pot stickers, and macarons.
Some of my favorite memories here are with my dance team after practice. For us, it’s more than a cafe. It’s where we’ve bonded, laughed, and formed some of our closest friendships. My teammates were actually the ones who first introduced me to Breaktime, and it’s been my first choice ever since.
Spot #4: Vietnam Town
At least once a week, my friends and I make a short ten-minute trip to Vietnam Town after classes to grab drinks, sit in a cafe, and have a long yap session. One of our most recent visits was to R&B Tea, where the large interior, wide menu, and cozy seating made it perfect for an indoor picnic while we updated each other on life.
Another memorable time was when we went to Tram Cream Coffee and ended up doing homework for five hours on a Friday and surprisingly, we actually got work done.
Our most frequent stop is Arisan Tea & Coffee House, famous among us for its delicious tiramisu matcha and frequent deals like BOGO offers and merchandise giveaways. Their adorable merch gets me every time.
Vietnam Town also features the Grand Century Mall, where the food court has plenty of authentic options, including several bánh mì spots. I always stop by the phone case store, sometimes just for fun, and that’s where I bought my current phone case and my AirPod case.
Spot #5: Mitsuwa Marketplace
This entire complex is a dream for Asian-food lovers. Inside Mitsuwa, you’ll find a food court serving curry, udon, matcha treats, and mochi donuts. Nearby, Fugetsu offers amazing onigiri and noodles, and Teaspoon serves boba drinks bursting with unique flavors.
My personal favorite is the Guava Sunset as it gives tropical vibes even in the middle of winter.
But the real highlight for me is the Kinokuniya Bookstore. I’m not exaggerating when I say I never leave without at least one manga or manhwa in hand. They carry a wide range of genres ranging from romance, action, slice of life, and even LGBTQ+ titles.
They also sell cute stationery, keychains, and stickers that make perfect gifts. My friends and I often visit after classes, and once, two of us even scooted there because I desperately wanted a new manga.
These places hold a special place in my heart, each adding its own unique touch to my experience as a student in San Jose. I know I’ll keep visiting them throughout my time at SJSU, and they’ll remain constants throughout all four years.
I encourage you to explore these spots yourself and create your own unforgettable memories!
What are your favorite hangout spots in San Jose? Share them with us @HerCampusSJSU!