Destinations
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SAN JOSE - NEIGHBORHOODS
Downtown
Affectionately known as `Chepe` or `El Centro,` it is comprised of retail shops, political offices, hotels and excellent museums. Located just half a mile outside of downtown, in a coveted residential area. Tourist attractions include the National Museum, the Jade Museum, the Gold Museum, the National Theater, Metropolitan Cathedral, and Mercado Central.
Barrio Amon and Aranjuez
Located north of downtown, this upscale area is home to some of the country's most historic buildings featuring grand, colonial architecture with hand-carved woodwork, wrap around porches and quaint details of a bygone era, evident in several restored hotels and fine dining restaurants. Mostly residential area, the tourist attraction is the Zoological Park and Botanical Garden located in Barrio Amon.
San Pedro
This neighborhood, home to the University of Costa Rica, exudes a young, hip vibe with the city`s largest selection of restaurants and nightlife. Tourist attractions include Mariposario, Jose Maria Orozco Botanical Garden, Iglesia San Pedro de Montes de Oca, Costa Rica University, and El Pretil Monument
La Sabana
At the western end of Paseo Colon, beautiful La Sabana Park offers wide open spaces, towering eucalyptus trees and a small lake (Laguito), Costa Rica Museum of Ark, and National Stadium. La Sabana is the perfect escape from the busy city. Residents and tourists appreciate the wealth of urban conveniences; the neighborhood is a mile from downtown theaters, opera and other nightlife, and just a short ride away from gourmet restaurants. La Sabana is a prime destination for overnight guests in San Jose. Tourist attractions include La Sabana Park, National Stadium, Costa Rica Museum of Art, and La Salle University Natural Science Museum.
Rohrmoser
A few minutes west of La Sabana, this is a solid middle-class area consisting of tree-lined boulevards and playgrounds with many foreign embassies and consulates known for its safety and tranquility. Rohrmoser is predominantly residential area and there are no significant tourist attractions.
Escazu
Often called `Little America` due to its huge population of English-speaking expats, numerous American chain restaurants, and luxury condominiums. The refined suburb enjoys beautiful weather as well as some of Costa Rica’s finest restaurants, most prestigious private schools, and distinguished country clubs. Escazu is also very convenient to downtown only 10 or 15 minutes by car to San Jose. There are no significant tourist attractions in Escazu.
Santa Ana
Known for its lush mountains and consistent breezes Santa Ana provides the perfect mix of city and nature. Santa Ana is a stable suburb of elegant communities, gated neighborhoods and classic homes and a favorite among the upper middle-class of San Jose. Noted for its ideal climate, Santa Ana offers is bounding in outdoor activities, from horseback riding classes to golfing on championship courses. Tourist attractions include River Park by Avalon, and Santa Ana Catholic Church.