We arrived on a Saturday around 10 AM, and there were already many people in the park. Since the park is quite large, it didn’t feel crowded. We chose the Stream Trail, which is a loop trail. It took us about two hours to complete the loop. Most of the trail is shaded, making it very comfortable on a summer day. There is approximately a 30-minute hike uphill, so I recommend carrying a hiking stick for those who may have balance issues. The trail itself is beautiful and well-maintained, with lots of redwood trees, and most hikers were very friendly and courteous. There are plenty of clean restrooms at the trailhead, and I highly suggest using the restroom before starting the hike. Additionally, there are several large parking lots, and we had no trouble finding a parking space.

Kimmy and I hiked here for time. We both impressed. Long paved trails with bathroom and water stations along path. Trail gently sloping and easy to walk. If you are more adventures, review map at trail head. Highly recommend. Kimmy gives 2 paws 🐾 up.

Love this place. Taken my mom and friends and everyone enjoyed. There are some bugs so bring spray and you can't get lost all the paths ends up leading you back out just remember if you go up come back down. Beautiful trees and birds and sometimes you can hear the creek running and it's so nice. There's lots of parking and the park stays open late and it's free after 5pm so it's nice in the summer to have 3hrs or hike or outside time before dark. I've met some really interesting people some from New York even a cat that's famous on Instagram. There's dogs and they are supposed to be in leashes but not always just be careful and keep an eye out. There's a ton of bathrooms. The air is so great I always feel 1000x better each time I go.

Beautiful redwood park. Wide paths. Saw bike riders there. Lots of bathrooms. Nature wonder land. Free parking during the week. Great place to get a nice hike in and de stress. Passed by a playground. Dogs on leashes! Passed by a picnic area.

Beautiful hiking trail with lots of large Red wood trees which makes it shady and cool in hot summer days. You may see some lady birds and squirrels. Horse riders, runners and hikers share the same trail.

Beautiful park and great place to go for a walk and enjoy the nice weather! Took a quick trip to Oakland and went here to see the trees and took a nice walk. Very nice and clean park to visit!

For being to close and easy to get to it’s great to enjoy some nice trails with pretty views. I didn’t plan well so just went out and back about 3 miles and it was nice. Probably a good idea to look at all the different trails and plan a route but even just wandering was nice.

The Oakland Zoo was awesome we been to a handful of zoos this has been my favorite so far. You have to buy your tickets online for a specific time pulling up around our designated time, parking and getting in was super easy. There is a lot of ground to cover we opted for going up the Gondola first up at the top we saw wolves, a jaguar, bears, and more they also have their cafe at the top up there which has an awesome view - it may be a little crazy trying to find a table as everyone is there with their family but this particular day weather was perfect so we sat outside and had an awesome view. Would definitely recommend. They have another little lift for $5 per person that takes you directly over the Lions - that was surreal they even let out a little roar while we were going over the top it was insane. There was so many animals it was awesome. They also had some cool reptiles and a little insect room. All in all would definitely recommend be ready to walk.

I feel we nailed it on our timing. We got there before they opened and were first in line. When we got inside we headed straight for the far end of the park and worked our way back. We were able to catch many animals being fed and almost all of them were out and about. We also didn't have to wait in line for the ride or wait to get close to the animals. The weather was perfect and the animals seemed to be putting on a show. The lions were roaring and playing, the monkeys and chimpanzees showing off, and more. It was a fantastic experience and a wonderfully kept up zoo. The animals seemed well taken care of. I value that.

I'm a teacher in San Francisco, and I'm always on the lookout for the best field trip experiences in the Bay Area. The Oakland Zoo has become one of our absolute favorites. Over the years, I've tried several of their educational options: the first year we booked a wildlife assembly (we were the only class there), the second year we participated in the ZooSchool program, and this year we explored the self-guided option. Each experience has been well-organized and engaging for students. In the past we never had time to ride the gondola or explore the zoo on our own so we never collected Zoo cards. My students this year loved collecting cards throughout the day, but what really stood out was an Oakland Zoo staff member who went above and beyond at the end of the day. He took the time to trade cards with my students and make the experience feel extra special. The Oakland Zoo is, in my opinion, far superior to the San Francisco Zoo in terms of both educational value and visitor experience. We'll definitely continue returning year after year. Highly recommend it for teachers, families, and anyone looking for a meaningful and memorable day at the zoo! I also attended glowfari for the first time last year and WOW! It is worth every penny. The decorations are up and it's looking EPIC this year.

It's a good Zoo, but the access for people walking is difficult. The lower entrance was closed and we have to walk the road with all the cars. There is a "sidewalk", but we had to walk around it using the road most of the time. The installations are great and big for the animals, bigger than other zoos, and there is enrichment. The workers were really nice and enthusiast, explaining facts about the animals and the conservation efforts. The views from the California Trail are excellent, you can see Oakland and San Francisco skylines.

Had an amazing experience! There are so many fun learning areas and awesome playgrounds for the kids. The animals were super active, the gondola rides were a bonus, and the bay views were the cherry on top. Definitely a place we’ll visit again!

It was my first time to Oakland zoo and it was such a fun time! We went around 1pm on a Saturday, it was pretty hot and luckily some animals were very active! Favorite exhibit was grizzly bears, wolves, giraffes, we went to 3 different bear exhibits and they were all so cute. Definitely take the sky ride! We took it and were able to see sleeping lions resting underneath the shade further back in their exhibit. If we didn’t take the sky ride, we definitely wouldn’t have been able to see them. It also has great views of the bay! We also did the train ride- this one took a bit long to get on as there were so many families and large parties. This is the only way to access wallabies and emus. It was fun to see emus up close- but maybe would skip if you’re short on time and the train line is too long. Definitely would come back again to enjoy the park- who doesn’t love animals?

I have loved the Oakland zoo forever, for their top-notch habitats, husbandry, and ethics. But today I had such a unique experience and felt like I needed to leave a review. I went with my family around opening this morning, and shortly after we took the gondola up to the upper zoo area, it had to be temporarily shut down for safety. The staff (specifically the EMT) checked in with us regularly to answer our questions (like if the cafe would still be opening with only a small handful of people up there- it did! And when the shuttles would be coming to take us down). It was kinda fun to have a more "private" experience at the zoo since nobody else was able to come up, and to get to see the veterinary hospital in a normally private section of the zoo as the shuttle took us back down. But the point of my review is just how wonderfully all the staff handled the weird situation (and my in-law's redundent questions, haha). Definitely eat at the cafe- it was yummy and the outdoor view over the bay was beautiful. Unfortunately, the gift shop is currently closed for construction.

So frustrated with how the Iron Horse Trail closure was handled on 7/29/16. General signs that the trail will be closed for improvement June 2016 - present is not sufficient. Pls give a day or better yet weeks warning. I took the trail to work that AM. It was closed for repairs that PM. No warning. The person I spoke to in a EB Reg Prk truck told me the info was on the web site. Not helpful. He also said they couldn't always plan work dates ahead of time due to weather ...

So far I've had a very pleasant experience with East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD), specifically their Administration Headquarters. After visiting a few parks near our home, I gave their website a visit, along with their social media accounts, and it seems so fun and exciting! I feel like I want to hit a park, hit a trail after work everyday! They also have a free Trails Challenge, for which they offer a free t-shirt! And when you submit a completed trail activity log, you can receive a free pin as well! This challenge starts in January I believe, free shirts were available at any visitor center. Well, being that it's now June, I was pretty bummed as I was sure the shirts would all be gone! But, I took a chance and hit them up via 'Contact Us' on their website, and a Public Affairs person replied with an email saying they had some tucked away at headquarters and I could pick one up! Well, I'm a happily married man and my wife needs one too! No problem they said. So today I shot out there, picked up 2 shirts being held under my name (yayyy!! thank you!), picked up 2 free calendars (one for the wifey, of course!), and hardcopy maps for all the parks around us, boy are there LOTS! Looking forward to getting well familiar with the local parks; I even signed up to volunteer with the district, like I said, very exciting! Maybe when our first born arrives, we'll even pay for membership! Time will tell ;)

Why were the trees on the Narsh Creek Trail between Delta Road and Laurel Road cut down? The trees were on the East side of the trail. The trees were near the Brentwood corporation yard.

Great people working hard for our Regional Parks in Alameda and Contra Costa County!

no one answers the phone or responds to messages regarding trail closures.

Meeting

The Blackhawk Museum is absolutely amazing! We've already been there twice and every time we are blown away. The animals inside are so realistic — it feels like you're seeing them in real life! Even though we are big animal lovers, we discovered so many species we had never even heard of before. It's such a fun and educational experience. Outside the museum, there are plenty of food options with restaurants and stores nearby, plus a great playground for kids. It’s the perfect place to spend a whole day with family. Highly recommend!

The Blackhawk Museum is truly a hidden gem! The exhibits are absolutely stunning, from the incredible classic cars to the unique cultural displays that make you feel like you’re stepping into another world. Everything is beautifully curated and presented with such attention to detail. The museum is spotless, well-organized, and easy to explore, whether you’re a car enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for an inspiring day out. The staff is welcoming, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do, which makes the experience even more enjoyable. It’s the kind of place you can come back to again and again because there’s always something new to discover. Highly recommend for families, friends, or anyone who loves learning and seeing something extraordinary.

My son heard about the Blackhawk Museum from a friend, I was a little skeptica to visit since we had to drive an hour and 15 minutes, thankfully I was pleasantly surprised. What a fun place! The had a variety of displays. There is a car display, privately owned the owners are sharing with the museum. There are rare cars to see ip close,what a treat. There's an exhibit on China, the wild west, nature something for everybody. We didn't give ourselves enough time to explore the wild west, we need to go back. The staff were all very professional and helpful.

The museum hosted the San Ramon and Danville Chambers of Commerce for a fantastic networking mixer. It is a beautiful location for any event, and its exhibits are unique—no other museum in the East Bay can compare! Thank you for a really fun evening!

Absolutely amazed at the size of this museum, beautifully designed with incredibly detailed displays. Very clean , extremely friendly staff . There is a plaza with Plenty of little shops and restaurants and a playground for kids adjacent to Blackhawk museum.

Nice Place to visit. Special Concession for Senior citizen. Ticket once Purchased is valid for whole day.Personal collection made available to the public. The car section, China section and the wild west section are amazing. The African wood carvings section has a small collection, but it's also beautiful.

Amazing excellent spent 3 hours and could have spent more time. Obfuscation placards and friendly staff

Loved the open-air vibe with all the greenery and fountains—it doesn’t feel like your typical mall. Tons of great stores, from high-end brands to cool local shops. Grabbed a bite at one of the cafes and just enjoyed people-watching. Perfect place to spend a relaxed afternoon shopping and soaking up the Silicon Valley energy.

Stanford Shopping Center: A High-End Shopping Destination** Stanford Shopping Center offers an outdoor shopping experience that can be enjoyed year-round, with some visitors noting summer as a particularly pleasant time to visit. The open-air design provides a relaxed atmosphere, enhancing the shopping experience. The selection of stores includes a mix of high-end designer boutiques and unique specialty shops, indicating a careful curation aimed at providing a diverse range of luxury goods. Dining options at the mall are varied, with establishments such as Tender Greens offering healthy meal choices, along with several upscale restaurants and cafes. Attention to detail is evident throughout the mall, including cleanliness and the professionalism of the staff across various stores. Additional amenities such as valet service, ample parking, and comfortable seating areas contribute to a sense of convenience. Overall, Stanford Shopping Center serves as more than just a shopping venue; it is situated as a destination in the Bay Area, suitable for various occasions, whether for extensive shopping or a casual outing. It is regarded as a premium outdoor shopping experience.

This is a really big and spacious shopping center! I’m amazed by the number of seating areas available, especially for university students. It’s such a great spot if you want to study outside, with its airy and nature-friendly architecture. You can easily spend hours walking around, window shopping, or people-watching. There are lots of sports shops, high-end brands, and there’s even a very cute cat town!

A bit underwhelming… there is not many stores here compared to other malls such as the Roseville Galleria which also carries most luxury brands. I do enjoy shopping at Loro Piana and Tiffany but this particular Hermes isn’t my preferred location. Overall I would not go out of my way to visit here.

I've had a ton of experiences here and they've always been good! The place is well kept and clean, with tons of options offering everything you could ever imagine and need all in one place. The food spots are also delicious, and well priced for this style of mall. The parking situation can get hectic at times, but you'll find a spot!

The ultimate Bay Area shopping experience comes with a beautiful wander through flowers and foliage. Planters and bedding can be found throughout the open-air experience with plenty of food options to dine in the presence of petals 🌺

It has a great Christmas vibe, lots of delicious restaurants to choose from, and plenty of shops to explore, including Christmas decorations, clothing, and beautiful kitchenware.

Beautiful place to enjoy artsy environment. A gem in the middle of Stanford: free entrance, free art kit for kids, and plenty of places to enjoy the art. We came here during weekday in the afternoon, there was no wait, some group of students came in for field trip. Appreciate the owner of this place so much. What a legacy!

A powerful and thought-provoking experience. The Cantor Arts Center surprised me deeply. I came in expecting a typical university museum—and left moved, inspired, and full of questions. The Second Nature exhibition was particularly impactful: bold, raw, and unapologetically urgent. Some works felt overly constructed, others struck me like quiet revelations. But overall, it was a meaningful encounter with art, nature, and our responsibility as humans. Highly recommended for anyone seeking more than just pretty pictures.

This museum is hidden gem in Palo Alto & Standford University! What a beautiful place and variety collection of Art & sculpture! Highly recommended to visit when you have chance to tour Palo Alto city and Standford University!

Outdoor sculptures are Amazing, if you have some time to visit, before a Stanford Appointment. The museum has a Great History of the first railroad from The Bay Area, to The East Coast, too!! There's a Church, too, with Beautiful stained glass windows.

A stunning collection! I loved this compact, well organised and virtually empty (visitors wise) museum. It's free entry as well, such a treat

A museum with a vast archive that is well worth seeing. You can spend a day visiting the museum and the school.

This museum is free, easy to navigate, and fun for kids. The collection is diverse—everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces—so there’s always something interesting to see. The building itself is beautiful, elegant, spacious, and clean, and staff (volunteers) are quite helpful and friendly. The outdoor sculpture garden is a highlight, especially for kids who need to move around after looking at art indoors. It’s a great balance of culture and fresh air. You could easily spend a whole day here, and since admission costs nothing, the only expense is parking and coffee, - if you visit the small cafe. Great place for a laid-back visit, whether you’re into art or just looking for something different to do.

I just visited Stanford University, and it was an incredible experience. Walking through the Main Quad, visiting the Hoover Tower, exploring the Cantor Arts Center, and strolling around the Arizona Garden made the campus feel alive with history, art, and natural beauty. Every corner of Stanford inspires learning, creativity, and exploration—it’s a place I’ll never forget.

One of the top universities in the world and in the Ivy League university of the United States. It has a very distinct architecture that attracts a lot of visitors from around the globe. The campus is quite large and very pleasant to walk around on a weekend. There are plenty of tourist in the area along with the students as well. Plenty of historical significance of the buildings and signage around the area. There are many pictures spots in the campus. A nice place to visit.

Stanford University is one of the most beautiful and prestigious campuses in the U.S. We visited as a family and were amazed by the blend of historic architecture, open green spaces, and peaceful courtyards. The Main Quad, Hoover Tower, and Memorial Church are all must-sees. The campus is clean, well-organized, and perfect for walking or biking. Tip: Start at the Stanford Visitor Center for maps and tips, and wear comfortable shoes—it’s a large campus. Whether you’re a prospective student or just sightseeing, it’s an inspiring place to explore.

Stanford absolutely lives up to its reputation as one of the most gorgeous campuses in the US! The 8,000-acre grounds are stunning, starting from the iconic Palm Drive entrance lined with Canary Island palms. Hoover Tower is a must-do for $8 - the 360-degree views from the 14th floor observation deck overlooking the entire campus and Bay Area are incredible! The Main Quad with its Richardsonian Romanesque architecture is breathtaking, and Memorial Church is definitely worth stepping inside. The biggest surprise was the Cantor Arts Center being completely free with the world's second-largest Rodin sculpture collection outside of Paris - art lovers shouldn't miss it! Parking is coin-operated at $1.50/hour but free on weekends which is nice. They offer guided tours on weekdays (need to book ahead) but self-guided with the free map works great too, taking about 1-2 hours. I'd recommend visiting on weekdays for a more authentic academic atmosphere and fewer crowds. The whole campus feels like a beautiful park - no wonder so many tech leaders came from here!

A top prestigious university with a beautiful, spotless campus — truly vast and breathtaking. It's such a dream; I might never have the chance to study at a place like this in my lifetime❤️

Stanford University is such a beautiful and prestigious campus! It’s open to the public, and you can freely walk around and explore. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes since the campus is quite large. Make sure to visit the art museum too it’s full of fascinating history and definitely worth checking out

Stanford University and Campus is open to the public and like us tourists. I first came here when I was still in Highschool one can't help but feel the history of the place as it is one of the premiere schools in the U.S. There are history etched inside the Church. The whole area is very picturesque and has that academe feel to it while roaming around. I highly recommend visiting Stanford whenever you're around the area.

Great way to see the Stanford University campus! The elevator takes you 285 feet up to the observation deck with absolutely stunning views. My guide was very friendly and knowledgeable, I especially enjoyed the story about Lou Henry, Stanford’s first female graduate in 1898, who later married fellow alum Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States.

Hoover Tower at Stanford University is a striking landmark with rich history and fantastic views. We visited with family and took the elevator to the observation deck, where the panoramic view of the campus and surrounding areas was truly impressive. Inside, there are also exhibits related to the Hoover Institution’s archives and historical research. Tip: Entry is affordable, but hours can be limited—check in advance before visiting. The tower is a short walk from the Main Quad and makes for a great photo spot. A must-see for anyone touring the Stanford campus!

The exhibition galleries on either side of the entrance and the views at the top of the tower are very interesting and provide nice time to chill. The staff at the center are very friendly and helpful. I was so happy to meet and chat with Megan N at the information desk who, with so much of zeal, gave tons of information about the facility and provided guidance for my visit. Sreevidya at ticket counter was very courteous and helpful. On the whole, it’s a cool place to visit at the Stanford University.

A must if you’re in Stanford. I went with a friend who graduated from there and she was like “Man, how could I’ve missed this” hahaha. Beautiful views of the campus and on clear days you even see SF

It is great place to learn the history about Hoover Couple, their education, business and political life. You can pay $8 person to take elevator to the top of tower to take 360 degree view about the whole campus. Feel so good when you stand the high point to view the campus. Really impressed about it. Worthy to pay to do it. They also list the Watergate important inside story. Worthy to recommend friends to visit here.

It’s one of the most iconic buildings in Stanford for sure! Super nice path to get the perfect central view and pictures

Great way to view the campus and Silicon Valley from above! The Stanford campus is absolutely beautiful. There is a guide that was so helpful in pointing things out to us as we viewed the area. Well worth the $5.

Very nice park. There are plenty of parking spots. Many restrooms. Beautiful view of Lake Elizabeth. Huge amount of wild goose. About 1.9 miles to circle around the lake. Most parts are exposed.

Huge Park with tons of parking and space for picnics or relaxing on the lawn. Even play structures for kids and bathrooms at multiple spots. The trail around the lake is pretty cool and offers some nice photo ops. There are a ton of geese and ducks... so you will see tons of droppings everywhere.

Nice park with various facilities and play areas. Very good place to visit with family. Lots of facilities for recreation and parties. Well maintained and restrooms at multiple locations across the park. The view from here is wonderful.

This was a delightful park for the kids. The Elizabeth lake was serene and full of ducks and swans. There was a nice path for walking or jogging and so was the well maintained play area for kids. Parking can be a challenge but being patient would help..

Fremont’s Central Park never fails to surprise me! Every visit feels different. Today, I was lucky enough to see pelicans hunting for fish, mallard ducks relaxing by the shore, and even a huge rainbow stretching across the lake. Lake Elizabeth is about a 2-mile loop, making it a perfect spot for an easy walk while enjoying views of migratory birds and peaceful scenery.

Beautiful park with a walking trail around the lake, playgrounds, picnic areas, and occasional outdoor concerts. There's so much wildlife and scenery to observe while walking around.

It was a lovely 4 km around the lake 'Walk in the Park' with my brother who works on his fitness daily. It was a great evening. Need to plant more trees. A 🚂🚋🚃🚋🚃🚋🚃 passing by was a bonus. The hills nearby completes the bounties.

It's a good place to shop for clothes, shoes, wallets, and other accessories. But it's not a place for guys and children looking for electronics, game shops, anime goods, or similar items. Anyway, I liked this place's warm summer day shopping vibe. There's a food court that provides different kinds of food that will keep you fueled for a long shopping spree. I recommend this place.

An outlet mall that features large stores from almost all major brands. The mall is quite large and involves a lot of walking. There is a proper food court along with smaller coffee and ice cream shops, as well as vending machines spread across the mall. The pricing at all stores is considerably discounted, while majority of the stores have further larger discounts available. Not much tech available in this outlet mall, however definitely a good place for shopping clothes, shoes, jewelry and other accessories. The free parking lot circles around the mall, and for short trips it’s better to find the store and park closer to

Place is big , clean, restrooms are in good shape, lots of parking, really just went to sole & laces this time, but lots to choose n shop from

This outlet mall has a great selection of large stores from nearly all major brands. It’s quite spacious, so be prepared for a bit of walking. You’ll find a full food court, smaller coffee and ice cream shops, and even vending machines conveniently located throughout. Most stores offer significant discounts, and many have additional sales that make the deals even better. While there aren’t many tech stores here, it’s an excellent place to shop for clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories. Parking is free and surrounds the entire mall. If you’re planning a quick visit, it’s best to find your store first and park nearby for easy access.

Update: I had a great experience in San Francisco Premium Outlets! All the stores were well maintained, stocked, and clean, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. The decorations as I walked through many different brands felt like a mall but outside, and it had many sitting benches and resting places plus restrooms which were convenient. Overall, it’s a great place to visit if you are looking for apparel and shoe stores near you in Livermore/Pleasanton area. (Comment originally posted a year ago from: “Pretty good.”)

Great shopping experience! Huge selection of top brands with amazing discounts. The outlet is clean, well organized and easy to get around. Perfect for finding deals on clothes, shoes and accessories. Brazilians will love it too as there are many favorite brands with much better prices than back home. Totally worth the visit!

I luv a bargain and I do not find particular joy in clothes shopping. So I try to maximize my time, energy, and dollars when I do. With that in mind, I planned a shopping excursion out to the San Francisco (SF) Premium Outlets. I purposely did not go on a weekend. I did that to avoid the crowds and lack of sufficient parking. Overall my first ever experience at the SF outlets was a success ... I survived! I was able to purchase clothes, in my hard to find size, at bargain prices. These outlets include a good mix of brands (designer , luxury, and mid-range). The luxury brands include Versace, Salvatore Ferragamo, Burberry, Prada, Tory Birch, Zegna... just to name a few. There was a food court and food stalls scattered about the outlet. The outlet is beautifully designed and landscaped with art sculptures and plants; adding to a more pleasant shopping environment. But my gripes are the parking lot and the lack of janitorial staff. The parking lot has only one exit/entrance. The flow of traffic gets logged jammed and it becomes the Wild West of line merging. Regarding the janitorial needs, I spent practically the entire day at the outlet and do not recall seeing any janitorial staff. The women's restroom closest to the food court was atrociously dirty and got more so during the day. Trash bins were overflowing and there was a strong sewage smell. The other restrooms were not as worse, but not clean either and less likely f a strong odor. Plus the food court dining area was a hot mess as well. Tables needed to be cleared and cleaned.

Came by on Saturday after July 4th. Pretty busy, but still had openings. A bit awkward at FOH with some disorganization. Nonetheless, we were able to get sat outside. Chair's cushion kept falling through for some reason so that was a bit annoying. Tasting cost is $30/per head. Decent weather. Parking available on-site.

Probably the best wine tasting experience within a short driving distance of the Bay Area without going to Napa. This place is simply excellent with fantastic wines, indoor tasting rooms, outdoor patio seatings, a large grassy field where you can buy a bottle of wine and picnic with friends, and an outdoor wine bar. This is an excellent place to visit with friends. I recommend making reservations if you wish to sit inside or on any of the tables that are covered. However, the outside uncovered tables and the entire grassy field are completely open! When we came, we bought a bottle of white wine, brought a blanket, and just hung out and had a picnic. It was a great time. The facilities are super clean and the staff are really nice. Just be aware that sometimes people will book events here and you might not be able to stay as long as you want without a reservation, so take note of that and call ahead. There is plenty of parking here and it's pretty easy to get to. I'd recommend bringing sunblock if you plan on being outside. Also, bring a camera because there are some fantastic places to take pictures and you are welcome to walk around the immediate property to take photos!

We had a great tasting experience with Ashely. My dog was welcomed and comfortable. Lots of shade. Great atmosphere and ambiance. Thank you!!!

Concannon Vineyard is situated in Livermore CA founded by James Cannon in 1883. Excellent vineyard supposed to be the 2nd biggest in California. Went there on 16th April on weekend. Is huge but at the time of my visit there was no grapes crop, may be not the season however the vinery was functioning. You can taste their wines and also purchase. Excellent wine to taste but if you are in a group of 8 or more then you have to take prior reservation or else you can walk in for tasting and purchase. There was a discount of up to 40% in purchase of 6 or more bottles of wine. Lots of place for sitting to consume your wine both inside and outside the billing. There's a big lawn with chairs and table for that. Excellent Vineyard.

Busy busy busy. At the wine tasting room no one was there to tell us where to start, finally found a place by the counter and it was just several empty glasses no one was cleaning up. We moved from there because again no one helped us, by the third counter a lady told us somebody else will help us because she was waiting for a group, the guy tried to help but the cashier register didn’t work. We decided to go outside and more than 1/2 of the tables where reserved. We got a bottle of Chardonnay and it was ok not great. By the time we left it was extremely busy.

That's a solid winery and I would recommend going. Beautiful grounds for a picnic or some Instagram stuff if you're into that. I am not a wine connoisseur, so I won't pretend to know what I'm talking about. We got a bottle of white wine cause it was real hot out and I didn't hate it at all, that's a win!

Enjoy the wine selections they have but you can't get a hold of anyone to speak to on the phone EVER. Can you normalize answering the phone during the normal biz hours, please...?

Winchester Mansion was such a beautiful and fascinating find. My husband had watched a documentary on it, and I had always heard about this house, so visiting in person was really exciting. We both appreciate vintage furniture and history, so this tour was right up our alley. Our tour guide was vibrant, fun, and incredibly knowledgeable, which made the experience even more engaging. I’m usually the one in the group asking a ton of questions, and I definitely gave her a run for her money with a few she hadn’t heard before. I actually loved that — it gave her something new to think about after all her years of doing these tours. If you enjoy architecture, history, or anything a little odd and mysterious, I highly recommend visiting. From windows in the floor to doors that don’t open, stairways to nowhere, and all the quirky details in between — it’s such an interesting and unique place to experience.

Winchester mystery house is a must for anyone into the paranormal. The energy is so surreal inside the house. My daughter and I could feel and hear sounds no others could while on tour. The price is very affordable. If you visit California this is definitely something to see. The gardens are beautiful with wonders at every turn. One of the great California mysteries lies within these walls.

I have been coming to the Winchester house off randomly since the 1970s. The tours have morphed over the decades and are great. This is the first time we did a basement tour though. It was not worth the cost. All you really see is lots of bricks, concrete and low hanging pipes. The only thing of interest down there is the old boiler. The staff were great. We got there a couple of hours before our scheduled tour, and they nicely got us in an earlier tour.

Know this famous house for long. Finally be there. A bit different with I thought. Have to join in a tour group (around 15-20 ppl) to get in the house. Sarah was a tiny lady, so I guess the house was designed to fit her needs. All rooms are so small. Feel really packed with the group. Not a lot to see. Not scary. Good to know the history. Wish could have seen more due to the ticket price.

What a thrilling experience it was to finally visit The Winchester Mystery Mansion.bit had always been on my list and I finally made it. The tour was absolutely amazing so informative and the place was spooky but filled with so much history. The masquerade was the best Haunted mase, party I've been to. Walking inside the house being able walk around the house was an incredible experience . The staff and everyone was kind and friendly so worth the trip.

The guided tours of the Winchester Mystery House are all fun and entertaining while you gain insight into the history of the house and the area. Our guides have always been fun! We went in early October when their Halloween themed night decorations were up which made it more spooky and fun. The "self guided" basement tour is a bit of a letdown now. Years ago we paid for a "guided tour" of the basement and stables. That was worth it. This year we added the extra $$ for the basement tour only to find it was self guided with a few plaques and some arrows on the ground. Take the tour but skip the basement add on and save some $$.

If you’re anywhere near San Jose, The Winchester Mystery House is an absolute must-see! 🕸️ We decided to check it out while in town for my brother’s cancer treatments at Stanford — and I’m so glad we did. Yes, the tickets were a little on the pricey side (around $45 per person, plus extra for the basement tour), but it was absolutely worth it. We were literally the last group to leave that night, and it made the whole experience feel extra special and just the right amount of spooky. 👻 Before the tour even started, my brother crushed it at the shooting gallery game — and got a full-on ovation from everyone watching! 🥳 It set such a fun tone for the visit. Once inside, the house itself is a wild, twisting maze of rooms, staircases, and secrets. You’ll see stairs that lead to nowhere, doors that open to 8-foot drops, and windows built into the floor — it’s like stepping into a Victorian puzzle box that never ends. Learning about Sarah Winchester herself was just as fascinating — she wasn’t just wealthy; she was an innovator and inventor, creating designs and systems way ahead of her time. My brother, who’s a plumber and pipefitter, was completely captivated by the old plumbing work throughout the house — each pipe was custom built and welded together back in the 1800s! The level of craftsmanship and creativity is mind-blowing. Highlights for us included the Séance Room, the easy-riser stairs (built to ease Sarah’s arthritis), the intricate spiderweb designs, the repeating number 13, and standing in Sarah’s bedroom, imagining her wandering those halls by lantern light. A huge special shout-out to Frannie, who went above and beyond — showing us some extra hidden gems, sharing even more stories about Sarah, and taking a moment to pray over my brother for healing as he faces a difficult road ahead (it meant A LOT to my brother). That kindness meant more than words can say. ❤️ And a big thank-you to our tour guide, Alexis, who infused the entire tour with humor, personality, and energy — she made the history come alive in the best way possible! Whether you’re into architecture, history, craftsmanship, or a touch of the paranormal, this place has it all. It’s weird, wonderful, and totally one-of-a-kind — 100% worth it!

This place is beautiful and really clean. The roses are at the end of its bloom but still really pretty. Many areas to take photos. We saw a lot of people sitting on the lawn having a picnic. Very quiet park and located in a very fancy neighborhood.

Multiple varieties of colorful roses plus a central fountain, some shady spots for picnicing, an open green space, and restrooms! Loved wandering through and smelling the flowers. There's plenty of street parking around the perimeter of the garden. Be aware the garden does host events. During my Saturday visit around 1pm, some staff were walking around notifying those who were seated under the trees in the green space that event staff would be arriving in the next hour to start setting up for a wedding and that we would need to move.

Beautiful rose garden with an amazing variety of roses and long blooming season, usually peaking in late spring but lasting well into summer and fall. Free to the public, well-maintained, and a peaceful spot to stroll, relax, or take photos. A true San Jose gem!

This striking Garden has been one of the best tose gardens. The roses are in several areas around the fountain. I found unique roses including the ketchup and mustard rose and several others there are bushes with red roses. White roses, yellow roses and multicolor roses. The park has several redwoods I. The center and large open fields for picnics and informal games and running around The park is enclosed by a high fence. An accessible wimens restroom sits at one gate and the mens accessible restroom is at the other gate. Free accessible street parallel parking. Pay phone by women’s restrooms

I am strolling along sipping on my chocolate milkshake, and I smelled this sweet essence in the air while I wait at a traffic light to cross the street. To my surprise I happen to walk along a street with a rose garden. The bonus is it is free to visit. It was a beautiful Autumn day to stroll, meditate, people watch, and enjoy the blooms. How lovely!

A really lovely garden filled with beautiful roses! I visited just before summer, so some plants were already past their peak bloom, but it was still such a charming and peaceful place. It’s a great spot for a morning or afternoon stroll, with picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the view.

This is actually the second time I visit this garden. It splits into two sections where the first half is the rose garden and the second half is a picnic area. It was quiet today compared to my last visit, but I took plentiful of pictures. It’s also very hot since it’s Summer now, which is why I didn’t want to stay here for too long. You can also host events in this garden. During my last visit, someone held a graduation party or ceremony and it was really loud. I guess it gets quiet because either it’s not Saturday or no one held an event. There weren’t many people at the picnic area because most people came here for the garden. Also it’s really hot now. Of course people will go to the shade.

Pretty good if you can get past where the money and artifacts came from for this place. The Rosecrucian ARORC order in the US has funded this place with old money, so the entry fee is quite modest for the artifact they have. The building itself is also a bit of a wonder, with a nice small garden around it. It takes a good couple of hours for a good look through all the wings. The faux temple is a bit cringy, especially with the over-the-top narration from the guides. I guess it makes there day a bit more fun. Great for the kids though.

If you’re even remotely interested in ancient Egypt, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is a hidden gem you shouldn’t miss. Tucked away in a serene part of San Jose, the museum offers one of the largest collections of authentic Egyptian artifacts on display in Western North America - from mummies and sarcophagi to everyday tools and religious relics. The standout feature? A walk-through replica of an ancient tomb that gives you a real sense of how the ancients honored their dead. The layout is thoughtful, the signage is educational without being overwhelming, and the architecture of the building itself, inspired by ancient Egyptian design, adds to the immersive feel. It’s not a huge museum, but that’s part of the charm. You can easily explore everything in 1.5 to 2 hours, making it perfect for a half-day visit. There’s also a peaceful garden outside that’s worth a quiet stroll. Tips: • Visit during weekdays to avoid school groups. • Great for families, history lovers, and photographers. • The gift shop has some surprisingly cool finds. Overall, it’s a quirky, well-curated museum with genuine passion behind it. A great way to time travel without leaving Silicon Valley.

Free parking is around the back, they have free tours and sometimes workshops. They have a passport you can buy for $1 where you go around and collect stamps. No gift shop though- we wish they had one. The gardens are beautiful with a labyrinth! Full days worth if you actually read all the information in the museum.

A solid small museum experience. Plenty of descriptions of the pieces that are in the museum. Ok for children, but better suited for older children/adults given there isn't really an interactive experience to it. Be sure to also tour the outside as there are gardens surrounding as well (that part and parking can be done free of charge).

Awesome architecture and lots of interesting exhibits. Wish it were slightly bigger, but I really enjoyed the outdoor area!

We got up early on our way to Gilroy Gardens from Temecula, so that we could visit the museum. It's been a staple favorite for a long time! Amazing artifacts treated with the utmost respect. Beautiful grounds and ambiance. I feel they could inject so much life and funds into the place by hosting more events that align with their principles. Having local artists come in and create art based on the grounds and artifacts, having merchandise for sale, Egyptian, Esoteric and Rosicrucian would bring more revenue into the place and provide much needed funds for restoration of the almost 100 year old grounds. So much potential for community and beauty in this space made so beautiful by the combination of grounds and buildings. If available I'd be bringing home pieces to remind me of one of my most favorite museums in the country!

I really enjoyed this museum. Many interesting exhibits and the outdoor area was really beautiful to walk around. Fyi: the planetarium is closed due to renovations

Del Valle Regional Park really lives up to its nickname—“Little Switzerland” of the Bay Area. The trail offers stunning views of rolling hills and the lake itself is absolutely beautiful. It’s peaceful, scenic, and a perfect spot for a relaxing hike. Along the trail, I spotted some lovely wildflowers that added a nice touch of color to the path. The only downside? The public toilets were honestly pretty horrible—definitely something the park could improve on. But if you’re prepared for that, the rest of the experience is totally worth it.

Beautiful park, lots of wildlife. The drive up there is lovely as well. Great place to go if you want to get away from it all.

Great place for a hike and walk. You do have to pay for the main parking lot, so please be aware. There are other trail heads that doesn't require payment.

Great space for a variety of activities. Hiking/Cycling trails for every skill and fitness level. Staff are knowledgeable and make every effort to ensure the best visit. Will definitely return!!

🏞️ Serenity in Livermore at Lake Del Valle. 😌 So many opportunities to connect with nature & ground yourself through hiking🥾, biking 🚴, swimming 🏊, fishing 🎣, walking 🦮, camping 🏕️, boat rentals 🛶 , picnicking 🧺 🍗 , and much more. 😎

Beautiful natural area sadly ruined by humans. When I was there, EBRPD had 4 lifeguards in one tiny cordoned off swimming area. But they can't pay for maintenance apparently, there was garbage everywhere. Dangerous stuff for kids too, metal cans and even a needle

I went camping for 2 nights this August and it was so nice! The facilities are well maintained and they have a good amount of t of activities for families with kids. The lake is awesome too. Lifeguards on duty, free flotation devices to borrow. Clean and not extremely busy. The water was refreshing too! Not cold at all.

I absolutely love going to the game with family and friends. The atmosphere and food selection is wonderful. Arriving and leaving considering it's an arena is easy and doesn't take forever to get in or out. The staff are very friendly and helpful.

The SAP Center in San Jose, affectionately known as “The Shark Tank,” is a premier venue that offers a memorable experience for both sports and entertainment events. Its modern design ensures that there isn’t a bad seat in the house, providing excellent sightlines for attendees. The arena boasts a variety of food options, including local favorites like Smoking Pig BBQ and Umai Sushi, catering to diverse tastes .  Attending Disney on Ice at the SAP Center is a delightful experience for families. The show features a captivating lineup of Disney characters, with performances from favorites like Frozen, Moana, and Toy Story. The skaters’ energy and the engaging music create an enchanting atmosphere that resonates with both children and adults .   However, it’s worth noting that some attendees have expressed concerns about the high prices of concessions and merchandise during the event. Items like cotton candy and toys are priced significantly higher than average, which can add up quickly for families .  Tips for a Great Experience: Seating: While front-row seats offer proximity to the action, some parents have found them too close for young children. Opting for seats a few rows back may provide a better viewing experience . Arrival: Arriving early can help you avoid parking hassles and give you time to explore the arena’s offerings. Budgeting: Be prepared for higher-than-average prices on food and merchandise. Setting expectations with children beforehand can help manage spending.  Overall, the SAP Center provides a comfortable and engaging environment for events like Disney on Ice. With a bit of planning, families can enjoy a magical evening filled with cherished memories.

Getting there at a reasonable time and willing to pay a $50 parking fee, definitely worth it. If you're looking for a restroom, you could walk five minutes due east, go to a whole foods and grab a bite to eat after. It was funny, there was a delay for the Ado concert they happened July 13. But that didn't excuse how much they themselves lagged behind. They didn't set up the metal detectors/evolve machines. The lines were insane and at one point to insane in any direction. It was easy to get out of the venue as well. Take your time going to the bathroom after the concert, most of the traffic is already gone. I'm coming back on Friday, park in the same spot and check out the for at whole foods as well!

Had an absolute blast! First time at this venue and I was really impressed. K-pop concerts can sometimes get a bit chaotic if things aren’t well organized, but this one felt smooth and well put together from start to finish. Great energy, great crowd — definitely a good time all around!

This was our first time to the SAP center for a TXT concert. We have been to the BMO stadium in Los Angeles and the Giants Stadium in San Francisco, but I like the SAP center better. The music was better because it's indoors, you could feel the base. Don't forget to bring your ear plugs. Great Concert !!!

SAP Center is great venue for Sharks hockey games, and concerts. They say that it will be renovated/ updated, but I think it is still great the way it currently is. GO SHARKS!

Came here for a concert in September and we had a great experience. The staff was wonderful from start to finish, always nice and friendly. The lines for entry were well organized and didn't run into the merch lines or cause confusion. During the show the staff around me also seemed to be enjoying themselves. Some of them were even kind enough to grab handfuls of confetti to pass along to the first row so they could pass back to others. Please keep doing whatever you guys are doing because the people that work here seem to really enjoy their jobs, and it makes the concert experience even better for us attendees!

We had great time here. The whole experience was very enjoyable and fun for both kids and adults. There are many cool exhibitions. My personal favorite was the new exhibit, Dream Garden, where we got to play with the animation with our whole body. The IMAX dome theater is also a must-visit even though you already get a free one-time admission when purchasing the tickets to the museum. We love the Blue Whale documentary. Very educational and entertaining!

Super fun place to explore if you're even a little bit curious about how things work. Tons of interactive exhibits, and the robotics and VR stuff really pull you in. Some parts felt a little dated, but it’s still one of those museums where kids and adults can both have a good time without it feeling too “educational.”

The Tech Interactive I've been here in high school during a field trip. Back then, it was called "The Tech Museum of Innovation." This place is great for Elementary students and above. The Ai was cool and the arcade was fun. Alot of learning about the environment. The Body Worlds exhibit are from Institute for Plastination. They preserved real humans here. It really isn't for the fainted heart. The bodies used are for science-based. Either way, it's crazy to see. All the staff's there are super friendly and helpful. I would go back just for that.

Best tech museum in Silicon Valley for kids. Probably the most well respected tech museum for kids with a sublime imax done theater which is one of a kind. Best to go during the week or early on weekends. It can get quite crowded. Parking is easy with plenty of massive parking lots nearby and the museum validates it so parking is almost free. A nice healthy cafe at the entrance. Plenty of clean toilets. A clean museum for kids with anti bacterial lotions spread throughout and wide clean spaces. The exhibits are very kid friendly and encourages them to play with it and experiment and engage their curiosity. The imax theater is to die for. A dome theater that’s massive and gets you deeply into the movie despite lots of excited noisy chatter from kids. The museum is spread across three floors and the body worlds exhibit is one of the special exhibits that my kids loved. A bit scary for the young ones but very informative and life like.

One of the coolest places . We had another great visit during a school field trip. Staff is friendly and so enthusiastic. Leading is so much fun. Thank you for another great visit.

If you are in downtown San Jose, take the opportunity to visit the interactive museum. You can spend a few hours and have fun, even better if you are with your children, as it is guaranteed fun.

A really wonderful place with amazing staff, and the IMAX theater was awesome! Something for everyone of all ages!🔬

A very enjoyable 90 minutes. They have quite a variety of exhibits, including some interesting old steam engines for fighting fires. The entrance fee is very reasonable and the staff are extremely nice and knowledgeable.

I visited this museum recently and had a pretty good experience overall. The building was clean, well-organized, and easy to navigate. There was a nice mix of exhibits, some really interesting artifacts, and a few interactive displays that made the visit more engaging. The staff were polite and available to answer questions, which I appreciated.

A great museum with a lot of oil painting masterpieces and local history exhibitions！ Free admission every first Saturday of the month, quiet and well organized!

Very well done! It’s been some years since we last visited this museum & the improvements are quite impressive. The bright open interior accentuates the high ceilings, wood panel flooring, decorative moulding. The Fine Arts are beautifully showcased, telling an elegant story. The Historical Collection amazingly preserved. The Sci Fi Collection an amusing addition. Bonus: We went on “Free Saturday”, which happens once monthly.

Exceptional, quaint and intimate fine art museum! We were more than impressed with the collection at the Haggin. We strolled and took our time in each exhibit, taking in history and seriously magnificent works of art. The Haggin is a hidden gem not to be missed! I recommend the museum store for interesting gifts, too. Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

No spoilers but there is a freaky trunk on the basement with a macabre story… Don't judge the museum by the outside, there is no parking lot, its surrounded by a park where many ppl go, but when I stepped in, it felt like a complete different World. A contrast of local history and old tractors with beautiful paintings and sculptures from late 1800. Downstairs the rooms you look in through a window are so incredibly well put together and your mind travels back in time for a bit. As well as amazing Native American art…Highly recommend a visit, park on the streets and walk through the park to the front door. Its great, Im telling you.

Beautiful little museum with exquisite artwork and displays. My favorite was the Leyendecker gallery. Under the Mexican Sky was a bit underwhelming. I was expecting to see actual Mexican artist/photographers with a lot of vibrant colors but it was dull. Other than that it was a wonderful experience. Everyone that works there were very nice and knowledgeable.

Great place for a comic con! Went here for my brother’s jujitsu tournament, then a comic con. Found a rare find and got the very first Deadpool comic!!!😎 And got a picture with a stormtrooper:0 It just took forever waiting in line, and I wish they would allow food and drinks to be brought in.

Stockton Arena, Now known as Adventist Health Arena, this venue has been a major part of Stockton's sports scene since 2005, previously hosting the Stockton Thunder (ECHL), Stockton Heat (AHL), and currently the Stockton Kings (NBA G League). While the arena offers modern upgrades like LED banners, a new jumbotron, and an improved sound system, attendance has declined in recent years. The departure of the hockey teams and lack of city support has weakened the strong community connection the arena once had. However, its location near the University Plaza Hotel makes it a convenient option for out-of-town visitors.

We went to go see jo koy and it was awesome. Sitting on the side and having to turn your head to look at the stage sucked. The seats are to close and there's not to much space to walk through. Parking sucked too. Had to walk a few blocks.

Went here for a little Wayne concert and Overall it was a good experience. Parking was easy and not too expensive. It cost 20ish not crazy but I’ve seen worse. Seats in the area were clean and comfortable. It had drink holders and they were spacious. Staff was very friendly and kept area clean. Bathrooms were nice and maintained. Someone broke off the paper towel dispenser and a worker came in and fixed it relatively quick. Food are expensive like any arena, 8.30 for a bottle of water after tax which wouldn’t have been bad it they had a bottle refill area but they didn’t. The only other bad thing was they had a good amount of water fountains but they were all Turned Off. absolutely criminal for that, like I get they need to make money but having them all shut off was devious. Ended up spend 30+ dollars just for water. Overall fun but they need to provide free water to drink.

First time there and it was Amazing. Took My 3 year old Granddaughter to see Disney on Ice and we had An Amazing Experience. The show was Wonderfully done and there was plenty if seating.

Great place for a concert, whether it's for one artist or several. Wide enough space for walking throughout the arena. Clean. Parking is clean and not hard on a car's tires or suspension. Unfortunately, there is little to no security to ensure any valuables left inside a car is safe. So better to put items that can't be taken into the arena, in the trunk. It's a little off the beaten path, not in the safest neighborhood, and a little hard to get out of once the event is over, but it's manageable. Having multiple vendor booths for a artists merchandise, is easy and does not overlap with attendees standing in concession lines. A plus! Concession only accepts credit cards, no cash. The arena, itself is great for concerts, even the seats on the sides have a good viewing of the stage, and sitting in these seats won't even cause neck problems. Security is pretty decent, nice, friendly. A few of the guards on the night I went, were a little rude, and invasive. Like they didn't know to keep their mouth shut or their voice down to a whisper, instead it was like they were at a boxing match cheering a boxer on, it was really disruptive. And the people who worked the Concession Stand, they were really nice, friendly, patient and helpful.

Great place to see a concert! Easy to get to from freeway, ample free parking within close walking distance, loved the numerous smaller concessions and restrooms with smaller quicker lines rather than waiting in loooong lines at larger venues that only have a few giant concession stands. Friendly staff and reasonably priced drinks & food!

Gorgeous theater with 2 levels of seating, including an upstairs balcony area. The inside appears well maintained and the seating was mostly comfortable for the 2 hour venue. The sound system was good as well; no issues hearing the band. Parking in the nearby garage was only a few blocks, and $2 per hour. I would love to attend another show in the future.

We went for their Monthly Movie night. Such a great value and this historic building is the perfect setting for a nostalgic movie viewing.

RHPS was excellent and the theatre beautiful. Live action in front of film. Ticket even had a prop bag. I've seen this film many times but still learned many new participation lines that were a bit more spicy than the ones I did know. A q&a with Patricia Quinn before film started. I dressed as Magenta, my version, for the dinner party scene. My friend as Columbia.

Very well kept historic theater. Great air conditioning and it was clean. Good acoustics, very nice place for a musical menu. Parking was easy and we felt safe entering and leaving the event.

Drove down to see Rocky Horror at this uber cool theater with a great vibe. This makes me wish I was back in my concert promoter days, as this is a grand little hall and should be the site for amazing shows. FYI.. that's Patricia Quinn, the original Magenta!

The Bob Hope Theater is such a beautiful and historic place. The staff is friendly, the seats are comfortable, and the sound quality is great. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy a show always a great experience!

I first saw a show in this theater in 1993 I believe and have been to 2 this year. It is a nostalgic theater. I think the seats are original including the red velvet upholstery. It is a small theater so it's intimate as they would say with good sound. I've only noticed street parking, which can get a little hectic, but after 6 it is free.

What a beautiful venue for weddings and vow renewals! I had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful Indian vow renewal at this property and found it to be so beautiful and welcoming. Highly recommend for those planning a Bay Area wedding!

Our favorite Winery! We had to get married here! Best place to be a wine club member. From bottling your own wine, to yoga in the vineyards; and now they even have sip n paint events. This kid friendly place is the best day trip if you live in the bay area.

Great winery! It’s beautiful and plenty of seating. The staff is sweet, wine slushy was my favorite, and loved the snack catering they had! I will definitely be back!

Located 1 hour south of SF. And just 15 min south of San Jose the Guglielmo family Winery was founded in 1925. They have been producing high quality wine for over 90 years. They have a wine club you can join that give you 2 bottles of wine 6 times a year “some are exclusive limited batches just for the members. Walking in there is a wine tasting counter to your left, to the right they have jelly’s and even a refrigerator with cheese and Italian meats. As you walk through to the back area you will find some nice arts and crafts. The outside grounds is huge enough to have private party’s and weddings. “They had a Yoga class going on when I was there today under a huge gazebo type structure. I left with a bottle of by my side and a mental note to come visit them again.

Excellent experience here! The people working were extra helpful and Larry was so knowledgeable about all the different grapes. We not only had a great time but learned so much too. The Bachio (kiss) after dinner wine is a must! It’s not a port but will give your taste buds such an experience even after it’s been swallowed. If I lived here we would be members and come all the time.

Such an amazing experience. The staff were so friendly and attentive. You can walk around the estate or sit at the tables. Very relaxing and calming experience. Will be back again

Such kind sweet staff and the winery goes back 100 years and was founded by NW Italians and still keep many unique varietals! Wednesday night music and wine starting in June. Super cute tasting room and grounds. They got wine slushes if you’re not into the standard by the glass fare. EASY recommendation!

Every seat is a good seat. The volunteers are very helpful and nice. It is a lovely, clean and very accessible venue.

This is a very nice venue. The seats were comfortable and I don't think there was a bad place to sit or view the stage. The staff was very courteous and friendly as well.

I recently saw Tiffany, Sheena Easton and Taylor Dayne. Wow! They rocked it. Thank you Gallo. I will definitely return!

Great venue! I came here for the first time to see a show and was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to enter and leave. Restrooms were clean, and seats were comfortable. There didn't seem like a bad seat in the house! I would definitely go back.

We drive down from Rocklin a few times a year.In fact we are going Sunday to Boz Scaggs. We love it. Staff is great. Sound is really good. Beautiful venue. Love the Box office. Nice buying from them. Not Ticket Master. You will enjoy the Galo Center. We sure do.

There is no bad seat at the Gallo Center. The volunteers and staff go the extra step to make the patrons feel welcome and enjoy the performances.

Wonderful experience, clean well-organized. The staff did a great job. The performance itself was engaging. Highly recommended for school events and family friendly performances

We joined the make your own ice cream activity on Saturday, and had a great time. The young lady leading the class and tour was kind, helpful and knowledgeable. We stayed for lunch and were very surprised by the high quality and delicious meals we received. We had 3 adult combos and one kids meal and it was $60 total, which was very much a great price considering the quality of the food was SO good. Soft fresh bread, high quality meats, and of course the absolute freshest cheeses.

Hilmar Cheese Company in Hilmar, CA is a great spot for all ages to enjoy. They offer engaging tours where you can learn about the cheese-making process, plus a shop filled with local products, delicious food options, and a welcoming picnic area. It’s also a fantastic venue for special events, making it a place you’ll want to visit again and again.

Stopped in for a quick visit on my way to Tracy. Accidentally left my wallet and doggie water dish under the waterfall on the lovely trail out front. Thank God their employee Debbie happened to walk that path as she was leaving for the day. She took the time to go back inside to turn it in. There were tour busses on site so I was lucky that it didn't fall into the wrong hands. Thanks again Miss Debbie. Always a good variety of cheeses, wines, preserves and so much more. There's a coffee bar/ice cream bar and a short order grill/deli which is worth the wait for anything off the menu. Staff is also great here. Very helpful, attentive, knowledgeable, friendly and resourceful. They really seem to like their jobs and it shows. Huge & clean well stocked bathroom with plenty of stalls, sinks and air freshener 😉. So glad I was able to get my wallet back. I'll be going again real soon.

This place was a lot of fun. We did both the ice cream tour and the AgXscape. Both were informative and fun. They have a great cafe, a Peet's coffee, and a lovely outdoor area, too

Excellent Visitor Center! The Cafe inside also has delicious food and the cheese selection is the best! The ice cream making tour was great! Loved the Exscape challenge as well! All the exhibits were informative & the video with Daisy the cow was great!

Very good company fast loading and unloading workers.And Check in guard. Very Good service.👍

This is a great place to take the family to learn all about how dairies work and how cheese is made. They have great exhibits throughout the building that are Hands-On. They even offer ice cream making tours on weekends. Huge variety of cheeses available for purchase as well as all you can eat samples! Plus, the factory cafe offers great sandwiches and crazy good pizzas all using their freshly made cheese. Don't miss this place and beautiful grounds.

A very large reservoir with a beautiful view of mountains behind. Be wary of the strong winds in the region. There is a visitor center here with information on the history of the reservoir, and it also has restrooms for the public to use. The drive around the reservoir is one of the best things to experience on the way from LA to the bay area. Overall I would really recommend making a small halt to experience the breathtaking views this place has to offer.

Best place to rest, take pictures, learn, and historical about this place, all free to public they don't even take your donation. Restrooms are awesome too.

Not the best place for your furry friend but some space stretch out. Beautiful views. Kimmy gives one paw 🐾 up.

Nice place, a bit run down with littering on and around the water edge, ok place to walk your canine friend, or camp overnight with or without your RV with water and electric however only 30 amps hookup. Overall we would come back, we enjoyed the star gazing even if it wasn't amazing.

Due to hot, windy around this time (i.e June/July), we didn’t get a chance to bring out the portable wood-burning firepit. We decided to cut 1-day short too. Overall, a nice place but hot/windy weather makes it hard for campers.

Such a hidden gem. Needed a spot to camp on a road trip and found this great spot for one night. Gorgeous sunsets and sunrises.

Excellent stop ! This is the second time I stop and rest before keep on my journey back home ! Is a wonderful place to relax chill and if you have a water bottle to rest and drink!! The look out is great it has a nice place for kids , so they can walk around and explore a bit ! Definitely recommend to stop and enjoy stretch your legs . 5star for sure!!

We're glad we made time to visit this wildlife refuge. There's a lot to see even if it's not wintertime yet. How much more when the land will be flooded of water for the other waterfowls? Can't wait to see more... We went during the weekend and did the auto tour. We saw an elk, blue herons and great egrets everywhere. We saw a bunch of hawk, small little birds, deer, a skunk, a jack rabbit, ground squirrels, and a lot more. The auto drive was worth it. We took our time since there was no other vehicles behind us and just enjoyed the natural world. We loved watching the deer wandering around and different kinds of birds spreading their wings freely. It was very relaxing. We highly recommend this refuge to anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature. ♡ PS: There were a lot of mosquitoes when we're there. Make sure to use some mosquito repellent or something that will prevent the mosquitoes from biting your skin.

Was excited to go see this Wildlife Refuge for a long time. I got to opportunity to visit today with my niece's 3rd grade class. Madelyn and her team provided a rich history and insight of the refuge.

We were pleasantly surprised that there were no other visitors there. We walked through the visitor's center, which.was very informative. We later drove around the elk enclosure and saw (and heard) several bull elk as well as cows in the harem.

I really loved my visit here. I went in early August which is not really the prime season so I practically had the whole place to myself. The exibits at the visitor center are informative, well done and interesting to look at. The two people working there were both friendly and helpful and set me in the direction of the car tours. I know there are a few different access points. The one I visited was the main entrance with auto tours, Tule Elk and Waterfowl. In the summer all of the marshes and wetlands are drained, but I did find water on the Waterfowl tour by taking a spur off the Chester Marsh trail. There's much more water off of the Tule Elk route and lots of little parking areas for fishing access and nice little spots to sit by the river. If you take any of the car tours, it's great to be prepared to spend some time. It was so quiet I could have stopped anywhere I wanted for an hour or two and had a picnic. I really enjoyed the half day I spent, and no charge for any of it. Next time I go I'll bring enough food and water to make a whole day of it. So peaceful.

Nice diversion on the drive from SoCal to the Bay No merch Trails were OK but not great Probably would have been better in another season not Aug

It's a great place to visit, hardly anybody there. Roads are well maintained. Lots of birds. It was a fun challenge to try and find birds in the big trees like hawks and owls. The drive around the Tule Elk compound was fun. The Elk know you're looking at them and they stare back at you, but they keep their distance. I would go back again, there's so much to see.

Great place for a quick visit, especially if you like seeing and experiencing native wildlife. It is free to enter and park, and there is a nice visitor center that has an impressive display of local birds, as well as information on the Tule Elk, and several brochures you can take on the go. The staff was helpful, and they pointed us in the direction of a picnic table for our lunch we brought. We hiked the 0.8 mile trail near the visitor center and were fascinated with the bird activity, especially along the boardwalk that extends out into the marsh. We also did the auto tour of the Tule Elk enclosure and were able to see this amazing species native to California and once thought extinct. We easily spent 2 hours here, and will most likely return sometime to take the birding auto tour. We went in the spring, and it was beautiful and green. But being in the Central Valley, I imagine it can get hot in the summers. We encountered some mosquitoes on our hike, but only in one section. And keep in mind that the auto tour roads are dirt - well maintained, flat, free of obstacles, but obviously a little dusty.

Love this spot! Great halfway point accross the valley bring a picnic and enjoying easy drive through bird watching. You can check off a bunch of new species on your life list here during migration season. Even in the off season there are some birds, busy dragonflies and wildlife hopping through here. Has restrooms, bird blinds, short hikes to stretch your legs. Bring your binoculars or your spotting scope.

Magical at sunset. The 5 mile drive around the estuary is worth the trek out. Bring bug spray. So many birds to see. Take your time to take in the sights. We arrived late in the day so didn’t have enough time to hike the trails but that leaves us something new to do next time. Watch for owls on the farm side just past the last viewpoint parking lot. They are huge!

A surprising location amid farm fields in the Central Valley is this large wetland you can drive around. The signage at the entry stop is helpful and there is a deck to walk out on with a handy free telescope. At this point you get a sense of the wetlands and we saw some cranes in the distance. To explore more you commit to a 5 miles one way loop, max speed 25 (more like 10-15) and dusty in October. You stay in your car except for designated stops.

Peaceful spot to view thousands of geese, sandhill cranes, and small waterfowl in winter, along with random sightings of hawks, foxes, and such. What to expect: a long, unpaved auto loop around wetlands with some close-up views of birds (some just a few feet away), scattered educational signage along the route, and occasional opportunities to get out of the car to take photos from land or pier. It is wonderfully noisy with goose calls and crane trills. Bring/wear mosquito repellent if you plan to get out of your car, especially around sunset, when the cranes return from their day's adventure. Enjoy.

Surprised at the foot traffic here, even on a weekend. There is a lot to see along the trails for walking and driving. We were able to identify several large predators, including multiple Great Horned Owls. Tons of waterbirds throughout the area. Driving tour was easy for all types of cars, when dry.

Beautiful place. Visit here on sunset hours, you won't regret it. This is like a drive-thru appreciation of mother nature and wildlife. There are plenty of rest areas if you want to stop and park your car to take pictures. I would just be mindful of incoming cars. A gem here in Merced County. There is a restroom available near the entrance.

A bird lover and photographer’s heaven. There’s a car only loop that generally takes us about an hour to drive around oohing and aahing at the beautiful scenery, birds, or sunrise/sunset. Sometimes we drive through multiple times to try to see more. The diversity changes depending on the time of year you go. We’ve seen egrets, many ducks, plovers, grebes, kestrels, hawks, Sandhill cranes, geese, and many more. There are definitely great horned owls living nearby.

A truly wild National Monument. No cell service, almost no facilities, no water, few restrooms, no gas, so bring everything you'll need for a full day out. This is not like a typical National Park with signs everywhere and maintained facilities, there are a bunch of criss crossing roads (mostly dirt, mostly unsigned, some bad pavement) which go all throughout the monument. With no cell service, have a map or know where you are going before heading out. It could be easy to get lost or worse, get stuck in mud, if you are coming out in spring to see wildflowers. Plan out your route, and know the roads you will be driving. Not recommended to drive out some random dirt road that looks interesting. Most of them get sketchy, or rutted, or muddy very quickly. If you stick to main roads, you will be fine in almost any car, but once you get off onto any number of side roads, it's up to chance. The wildflowers can vary "wildly" from year to year, depending on rain. In 2023, it was incredible. We went in 2024 and while it was nice, it was not as good as 2023. Don't expect to come every spring and see the spectacular displays that made national news. The San Andreas Fault also cuts along the eastern side of the park, and there is an interpretive trail at Wallace Creek where you can view it, and lern about the fault. Soda Lake is another popular stop, there are plenty of things to do besides viewing wildflowers. A wonderful place to visit, just be prepared.

Came here March 2025. Original intent was to piggyback a work trip to see yet another national monument. Saw the other pictures on Maps here and was intrigued by the wildflowers. Did some research and figured out those were super blooms, which only happen under the right circumstances, most notably a wet winter. 2025 was not a super bloom year, so limited wildflowers, which was a disappointment but I knew that before I went. That said, still an intriguing place. Not many visitors when we were there on a Sunday, which made it feel so peaceful. Scenery was nice, and the drive over from Bakersfield was more scenic than I thought. Oil fields were interesting and not something I have seen before. Only spent a few hours here, but quite enjoyable. Wasn't very hot when we went, but I bet that place makes in summer. And it is out there all by its lonesome, so take food, water, full gas even if just passing through. It is really interesting that when you look at the town close by on Google Mpas, it shows lots of roads, giving the false impression of decent amount of civilization out there. Glad I went and would recommend it.

Stunning! Breathtaking views of the valley, not crowded, very quiet and serene place! Lots of dispersed sites on BLM land and two campgrounds which I didn’t get to see. High clearance/4x4 recommended though if you take it slow a sedan should have no issues. No road access after rain.

Everything is dry grass and just a few spots of the wild flowers. What you see in the Google/Facebook that has a ton of flowers was 3 yrs ago. Having lunch here was different. Make sure to have a full tank of gas and probably bring water. Still a great place to visit.

Interesting environment and history. We came looking for the San Andres Fault. A gem in the middle of nowhere. Free camping abounds! The visitor center was closed when we were there but the signage was helpful.

My first time riding through. It can be done in any vehicle...4x4 or AWD is NOT needed. Just have to go slower and dont go in rainy season. I did it in October..no rain. Its flat ,wide dirt roads with some concrete road sections. Under 40 miles..I gassed up in Talf. Spring with the wild flowers would be nice. I rode through from South to North on Soda Lake rd...good music and good company would be good...its actually just a road with a few off shoot you can explore...I would think those are best explored with AWD for safety.

Came here 4/22. There really isn't much to see. Currently no water in the main Alkaline Lake. Soda Lake Road has some on the side, near the tubes under the road. As for the super blooms, don't bother. Haven't had much rain this szn so there was not much. There are some on Hwy 58 mountainside before Simmler. Be advised, USE THE MAPS ON THE WEBSITE! Came here with a sedan, use caution. A lot of roads that are low grade roads are all gravel. If you want to go to the San Andreas Fault Road, that's entirely unpaved. The Painted Rock is also unpaved too. Goodwin is also unpaved too. As for the others, not sure as they were 1h+ from the visitor centers which were closed when we went (open other days). Why go here? It's very quiet. When we went on a Tuesday, there were less than 10 cars while we were in the area. If you like quiet, I definitely recommend it. Very off the grid. Just the Wind and the Wildlife and Wildflowers around you. 7/10 Would come again, but wouldn't recommend. Important: There are NO SERVICES for 70+ Miles AFTER McKiddrick! Come prepared. Roads are very windy but maintained in the mountains. 4WD/AWD is DEFINITELY recommended to see everything! I would also recommend the hiking trail, though I can't remember it, but it involves hiking the mountains. Good luck!

Great place! learned some unknown history about California oil. Loved it.

This is the side of do United States largest oil spill. Oil spilled out of the gusher for several months. The museum has a Lotta great oil artifacts. I could walk around for hours and still not see everything. I recommend calling before you go just to make sure it’s open. The people who operate the museum are very nice and accommodating

First time visit to Taft. Excellent Museum, great information about oil and its history. And the high school docents that were there were very helpful. I had a great time and appreciate it very much, recommend to anyone passing by in the area to stop by and check it out.👍🙂🇺🇲

a nice museum, financed by donations,has a nice display of old oil field equipment outside,shade to sit under when taking a break

Went to Pioneer Day and had a wonderful time. Learned about a lot of things.

A must visit when traveling through California's oil country stretching from McKittrick onward through Taft, California. Museum is packed with artifacts, photographs, and models derived from the past and present. Docents are impeccable and steeped in oil field history and lore. The museum is clean and comfortable. Highly recommended as an adjunct to any history class from middle school through University. When visiting, don't forget to say hello too Pauline! Cheers.

Great place to learn about early days of oil exploration, drilling, and pumping thick oil. Docent knew hi