Santa Clara was founded in 1777 when a Spanish mission, Mission Santa Clara de Asis, was established here. It was officially incorporated in 1852 and was named after the mission, paying homage to Saint Clara. Thanks to the area's fertile soil, Santa Clara's early economy relied on agriculture. Today, Palo Alto Networks, Nvidia, Marvell Technology Group, Intel, McAfee, and numerous other high-tech companies are headquartered here. The city is also home to historical sites, museums, parks, landmarks, and recreational attractions.
Whether you're drawn to Santa Clara for business or pleasure, it's important to find the ideal hotel that allows you to enjoy everything the Silicon Valley region has to offer.
When to Visit Santa Clara, CA
The best time to visit California's Bay Area is from September to November. Fall temperatures are pleasant without the crowds, so you'll be able to wander Santa Clara without dealing with too much traffic. Spring is also a good time to visit, but temperatures can feel a bit chilly with the breeze coming off the bay. Pack plenty of layers just to be on the safe side, and don't forget your umbrella. Regardless of whether you visit in the spring or fall, hotel rates tend to be low during these off-seasons.
Summers in the Bay Area are bustling. While you may not encounter as many tourists in Santa Clara as you would in San Francisco, hotel rates are still hiked during peak season as people from all over the country are chasing that perfect seaside vacation. If you need to visit during the summer months, try to book your room well in advance to save some cash.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Santa Clara, CA:
Santa Clara, CA: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. nightly cost trends by star rating class in Santa Clara, CA. Browse these illustrations to calculate the most cost effective time to stay in Santa Clara for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Santa Clara, CA
4 Star Average Prices: $171.87
If you prefer to splurge on an upscale accommodation, Santa Clara offers several choices. The four-star Santa Clara Marriott is a luxurious hotel just minutes from the Santa Clara Convention Center and San Jose International Airport. Guest rooms boast stylish décor, plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and high-speed internet access. The property also features an acclaimed regional restaurant, 24-hour fitness center, sports bar, outdoor pool, and event spaces.
Candlewood Suites Silicon Valley/San Jose is an all-suite property with barbecue area and gazebo, making it perfect for extended stays. Enjoy full-service housekeeping, guest laundry facilities, an on-site gym, free Wi-Fi, and a pet-friendly policy. All suites include spacious kitchens with toasters, dishwashers, microwaves, refrigerators, dining areas, cookware, glassware, and flatware. The hotel also provides in-room work desks, radios, DVD players, video rentals, flat-screen TVs, two-line phones, free local calls, and voicemail.
TownePlace Suites San Jose Santa Clara is another all-suite property offering studios and guest suites with bright décor, flat-screen TVs, dining areas, sitting areas, kitchenettes, and high-speed internet access. Pet-friendly rooms are available, and guests can enjoy a free breakfast, all within minutes of the Santa Clara Convention Center.
A similar property is Hyatt House Santa Clara. Business travelers and vacationers will love the stylish studio and one-bedroom suites, which include kitchenettes, flat-screen TVs, and sofa beds. Wake up to the delicious omelet bar, and enjoy extra amenities like the on-site fitness room, heated outdoor pool, and alfresco patio.
Affordable Hotel Options in Santa Clara, CA
3 Star Average Prices: $148.60
Finding an affordable hotel in Santa Clara is easier than you might think, although rates tend to be higher in the Bay Area than other U.S. cities. Ramada Sunnyvale/Silicon Valley on Wildwood Avenue is a relaxed three-star accommodation offering free Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, continental breakfast, and Asian-style dining. The hotel's convenient location between the Monterey Peninsula and San Francisco provides easy access to the San Jose Airport, area attractions, and several Fortune 500 companies. The facility features an on-site business center, meeting space, gym, and large-vehicle parking spaces.
Hotel EREAL Santa Clara is a two-star property on El Camino Real that offers comfortable, affordable lodgings in the heart of the city. Located across from the Lawrence Square Shopping Center, the hotel is within walking distance of numerous retail stores, coffee shops, and restaurants. Guests can enjoy colorfully decorated rooms, microwaves, mini fridges, free internet access, cable TV, private bathrooms with shower and tub combos, and an on-site swimming pool. Continental breakfast is included.
Also located on El Camino Real, Bella Vista Inn is a simple low-rise budget hotel less than 10 minutes from the San Jose Arena, Westfield Valley Fair, and Wendy's Corporate Office. The property features an outdoor pool with Jacuzzi, 24-hour front desk service, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. Air-conditioned guest rooms feature clock radios, cable television, seating areas, and private bathrooms. Pets are also allowed.
If you prefer to stay near the airport, book the Motel 6 San Jose - Airport. This modern two-star property provides guests with free morning coffee, laundry facilities, and truck parking. Guest rooms are straightforward but bright with LCD TVs, queen or full beds, granite bathrooms with raised wash basins, and faux wood floors. Nearby attractions include San Jose City Hall and Cathedral Basilica of Saint Joseph.
