What a great place, tasty beers, and Ernesto was very informative! I highly recommend this brewery!

Good spot to stop for a beer, they have games, shuffleboard, darts, and even pinball options. The beer is good w/ quite a few varieties available. The beertenders were cool and knowledgeable about their offerings.

This place is a really sweet spot off the 29. The bartenders are knowledgeable about the different brews and all of the Beers are brewed in house. One of the only breweries around this area.

My first time here. It has an open pleasant feeling, six pinball machines and plenty of great beers to try! Stop on by.

Superb beer, extraordinarily knowledgeable staff!! Great selection, and true to style brews! Definitely make this a stop on your beer tour!

Really nice space. Very family friendly. Played trivia with 3 generations of people plus infant and dog along. Fun games, nice people and good beer, too. Wonderful clean and pleasant place to spend an evening.

Great spot, definitely will be back when in the area.

Tilden Regional Park is one of my favorite places in the Bay Area and a park that never feels the same twice. Tucked into the Berkeley Hills, it is a world of its own with forests, meadows, lakes, ridges, and open spaces that make you forget you are so close to the city. Every visit feels like a new adventure, whether I am walking quiet trails under the trees, looking out at sweeping views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge, or spending the day around the lakes and picnic areas with family and friends. One of the highlights for me is Lake Anza. The trail around the lake is peaceful, and on warm days people swim at the small beach or set up picnics nearby. The Tilden Merry-Go-Round is another classic, a beautiful carousel from the early 1900s that still brings joy to kids and adults alike. The Little Farm is also special, with goats, cows, chickens, and pigs that you can visit and even feed. Families love it, and it adds to the park’s charm and variety. The Botanic Garden is another gem, showcasing native California plants in a way that feels like a walk across the whole state. Beyond that, the park has golf courses, campgrounds, BBQ and picnic areas, and miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It is a place with something for everyone, no matter what kind of day you want to have. For me, Tilden is more than just a park. It is a place to recharge, to connect with nature, and to make memories. Whether I am hiking the ridge trails, feeding the animals at the Little Farm, or just sitting by Lake Anza watching the light on the water, Tilden always leaves me feeling grounded and grateful. It is one of the true treasures of the Bay Area and a place I will always return to.

It's a beautiful experience. Today it was raining so the trail was muddy. I crossed the bridge but turned back toward the parking area after viewing the lake.

A magical place to visit. From the trails and wooden bridges near the Little Farm, the Little Farm itself, the Visitor Center that gives you a rundown of all wildlife and history of the nearby area, while also having activities for little ones on specific days! My favorite are the trails around Lake Anza personally. You can sit and just truly appreciate the beauty of the entire area on a nearby bench and just take life in. My fiancée abd I ended up coming here to when we had to process the passing of a loved one, which was one of the most difficult times on our lives, and i beleive being in nature truly helped us grieve and let out all that we had been holding in. Its a very peaceful place. Whenever I have a stressful week, I find myself coming here to unwind and relax. You can book a site for parties here as well which is really fun to do too if you're planning a birthday or baby shower or something and want to BBQ. This will always be one of my favorite spots in the East Bay.

What a fantastic outdoor space, a little oasis right near the city. Saw a bunch of critters, large and small. Met the king of the forest, some surly squirrels, two cows, a couple of very sleepy pigs, and the ambassador of Pack Rat Trail. We’re soooo lucky to have these outdoor spaces so closeby! Great place for kids to learn about animals and a cool network of beginner friendly trails with a variety of flora. Remember to respect the wildlife while we visit their homes.

Amazing trails to run and hike on. Looked like fun camping as well. Nice and shaded.

So much fun! Nicest engineers running the trains and taking tickets. Beautiful setting. My son, dog, and I rode it 4 times.

Tilton Park is a great place to hike! You can do as much as little as you’re in the mood for. We did a long one along both sides of the park with spectacular views. One side you have views towards Brionne’s reservoir and the other side you have used towards San Francisco.

I recently visited the University of California, Berkeley, and was genuinely inspired by its rich academic culture and historic campus. Walking through Sproul Plaza and around the iconic Sather Tower, I could feel the energy of a place deeply rooted in innovation and social impact. The students and faculty I encountered were friendly, diverse, and passionate about their fields of study. Berkeley’s commitment to academic excellence and public service was evident in everything from the research labs to the community programs. The campus buzzed with activity and intellectual engagement, creating an environment that encourages big ideas and bold thinking. My visit left me with a strong impression of Berkeley as a dynamic, world-class university that truly empowers its students.

I respect the progressive mindset this university champions—its role at the heart of the Free Speech Movement and anti-war activism, and a century and a half of academic excellence. Yet the campus culture increasingly bears the costs of a model that isn’t proving sustainable. The “freedom of speech” banner too often flips into the suppression of views that merely unsettle; anything that irritates “them” risks being censored or canceled, which paradoxically undercuts the very ideal being invoked. Separate from speech, day-to-day safety is the most alarming issue. Incidents of violence, robbery, and theft around campus feel unacceptably frequent; protests are loud, frequent, and at times confrontational; and street interactions—including with unhoused residents—can be tense. Compared with many peer institutions, especially those in European and East Asian cities, the environment can feel disproportionately risky. Layer on the price tag—tuition and living costs that rival private schools—and it’s fair to question whether the experience delivers value commensurate with the expense. Respect for Berkeley’s mission doesn’t preclude insisting on a campus where open debate is genuine, safety is non-negotiable, and costs align with outcomes.

This is NOT a campus you want to be on (as a visitor, or as a student!), unless you are prepared to encounter: 1,) NO “wayfinding signs” for ANYTHING, 2.) NO LEVEL GROUND (you are either walking either up-hill or down-hill, CAMOUS WIDE!). Finally, there are ZERO ENGLISH SPEAKING STUDENTS here in the summer! Every student seen on the campus in July was NOT speaking English. An American, English-speaking student will have a very tough time communicating with fellow students here! I guess this what FORCED “multi-cultural assimilation” is all about!

Supposedly one of the best universities in the world, especially for STEM. Receives a lot of funding. Tuition is very high. I have lived in 4 different campus housing. Every single one promised high speed internet. Not a SINGLE one had stable WiFi. Connection drops literally every other minute. And when you report these issues, every single time, without fail, the university makes you go through a very big hassle before finally doing something about it.

School of Optometry is excellent! More thorough and diligent, polite, exacting, professional, and overall exceptional care. Highly recommend from exam to prescriptions to eyewear.

The campus is beautiful and in a decent location not too far from San Francisco. The students are very passionate about what they do and it seems that the school really cares about providing students with clubs, services, and classes that can truly benefit them. It would be an honor to attend this school. A+ from me. Only downside is that it was hard to find good restaurants around there. And I watched a guy get arrested on campus so that was interesting. They don't really have parking options. It's a walking school for sure. The nature and campus is welcoming, gorgeous, and an overall peaceful atmosphere. Truly a beauty.

A little bit dirty, or else, it is great. Do not recommend someone who want to have a walk(unless you wanna exercise).

UC-Berkeley Botanical Garden is hard to find but worth the journey. Their 34 acres of hillside plantings are arranged with representative species from 9 regions around the world, plus several "Special Collections" and a handful of glasshouses AND a redwood grove accessible from the parking lot. There are some steep grades along the walking paths, and the directional signage takes some concentration to follow, but the wander will reveal LOTS of beautiful & unusual specimens you're unlikely to see anywhere else. The staff is very friendly, the gift shop is small but thoughtfully stocked, and the $4.50 for public parking is reasonable considering the remoteness of the facility & relatively small number of spaces. My wife & I used a reciprocal garden membership card for free entry (gift shop discount, too), but the standard admission prices (with a few discounted categories) are also competitive with other gardens we've visited around the country. It was definitely worth a roundtrip from our Livermore, CA lodging spot, and we would return.

The UC Botanical Garden is a hidden gem. It's like traveling the world in a day, with plants grouped by continent. It’s incredibly peaceful and not crowded. Give yourself at least two hours to really soak it all in; one hour just flies by!

I regret that I only allocated 2 hours to tour these gardens. I could have spent all day here! It's absolutely beautiful! If you go, I recommend that you wear good shoes because there's a lot of walking and some of it is a hike uphill. I definitely got more than my 10,000 steps for the day.

It's a humongous garden. You need a few hours to cover the entire garden. Some of the plants were a little dry because of summer heat but overall you can tell a lot of effort has been put into labeling all the plants/trees and grouping thr plants of each region of the world in one spot. I'd definitely go again and spend more time there.

Started in the Mather Redwood garden. Felt small and the trails were disorganized. Moved on to the California garden which was my least favorite. Varieties were presented on the side of eroding hills. Need more plants of one variety to improve the presentation. Poorly designed. The use of one switchback path would help the experience. The random paths leave you feeling unsure if you have seen everything. Spectacular rose garden in the far back, randomly placed. My favorite was the Asia garden and Desert of America.

So pretty! I went to a wedding here and it was gorgeous. The redwoods are great and it’s right by the university. We saw multiple banana slugs during the wedding. Great place for a walk, even better for a beautiful wedding with the amphitheater and tall trees.

There is a wide variety of plant species from different countries. The carnivorous plants especially caught my attention and left a strong impression on me. It’s a wonderful place to take a walk in nature, relax, and discover different types of plants and trees..

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

This place is hidden inside a City that most people haven't heard of. But if you're from Hayward, you know how beautiful this place is. This is a must-visit when you're around Hayward. They have limited street parking. Take an hour or two to walk around and enjoy this hand-carved garden. This an amazing spot to take photos and spend a quiet time with friends and family.

This is a beautiful cute little Japanese Garden hidden in the city. There's a side free parking next to the theatre and senior. We came to check it out and it was so hot. I wish they had more shades from the trees and the pond was more clear to see the kois. I would say this is a cute date area! This Japanese Garden is free entrance and parking compared to San Francisco/San Jose.

Tucked away inside a larger public park, the Hayward Japanese Garden is a perfect example of a hidden gem—a beautiful, peaceful space that feels like a genuine discovery. Admittedly, it's not a sprawling botanical garden like some of its more famous counterparts, and its modest size might be overlooked by a casual passerby. The setting, nestled within a broader recreational area, gives it a quiet, understated quality that could easily be missed. But to walk past it would be a mistake, because once you step through its gates, the entire atmosphere changes. The sound of a gentle waterfall immediately soothes the senses, and the vibrant colors of the koi swimming in the pond are a delight to watch. The perfectly placed red bridges and traditional stone lanterns create a serene and photogenic landscape. It’s a place where you can find a moment of true tranquility, escaping the hustle of the surrounding city without having to travel far. In the end, the Hayward Japanese Garden proves that beauty doesn't have to be grand or flashy. It is a quiet, stunning escape that truly earns its title as a gem in the rough. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a moment of peace, a scenic spot for a walk, or a wonderful place to just sit and reflect.

A peaceful escape in the middle of the city. The garden and pond are beautifully maintained, with no unpleasant smells—just the fresh scent of nature. Sitting in the shaded pavilion, watching turtles and koi swim around, brings a calming sense of serenity. ✅ Long Review Despite being in the heart of the city, this place feels like a peaceful retreat into nature. The garden and pond are exceptionally well maintained—clean, quiet, and filled with the refreshing scent of trees and water, without any unpleasant odors. In the pond, turtles, koi, and small fish swim freely. One of the videos I took shows two turtles playfully interacting while a graceful koi glides by, creating a soothing and delightful scene. Even though the sun was strong, sitting in the shaded pavilion while overlooking the garden and pond brought a deep sense of calm. It's a perfect spot for meditation, a slow walk, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.

A small Japanese garden tucked away in Hayward. Variety of plants, a lake with lilies and other flora. There is a senior center adjacent to it. Great place to visit with your kids.

Still so lovely! Peaceful, beautiful oasis smack dab in Downtown. Every visit is just as nice as the last time! Thankful to have this space in our community

This was a beautiful place to stumble upon! It’s connected to a senior center but the garden access is for all. It’s smaller than I expected and you could walk the whole loop in maybe 8 minutes, but it is beautifully maintained and a very peaceful place to stroll. My kids loved the koi pond and seeing several deer across the riverbed.

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...?

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.

The Stanford Theatre is an all-time American experience. The essence of the picture show. Comfortable seats, exceptional interior and the most authentic experience you could wish for. If you’re visiting San Francisco, make it a part of your trip. It’s worth the travel. I feel grateful for having had the experience and am very thankful for the generosity of the Packard family for their support in preserving this landmark

Wow. Incredible. First time was tonight an 855pm showing of darling Clementine. The usher was so friendly and convinced us to try the theater. Tickets are inexpensive. The theater is magnificent. The snacks are reasonable it's like going back to when I was a kid. THERE WAS A LIVE ORGAN PLAYING WESTERN MUSIC BEFORE THE MOVIE STARTED INSTEAD OF ADVERTISEMENTS. I loved this experience!!!

Wonderful heritage venue featuring Hollywood’s classics. The organ entry and curtain raiser is a special surprise. As a Humphrey Bogart fan I loved watched the African Queen.

Always a great place to watch classic movies on the big screen. Admission and refreshments are reasonable. It can be very popular so make sure you get there in time to park and get inside before the film starts. You will be treated to a little music beforehand. Plenty of places around to grab a bite or beverage before or after the show too.

A fantastic vintage theatre showing only classic films. Staff are friendly and helpful. Very reasonable concession prices. Thank you to David Packard for making these great films available on the big screen. It's always a treat!

This is a fun place to watch a movie if you want to go back in time. Their prices are very reasonable for a classic show and snacks. You even get a double feature, which hasn't happened in a regular movie theater in decades.

For movie lovers, this place is as close as we can get to heaven. The Stanford Theater is one of my favorite places on the planet - as soon as you get to the box office you’re going back in time. $7 for a double feature! $1 for a small popcorn! The theater has been beautifully restored with so many classic posters hung on the wall. And the music! Between the second and third showings of the night, an organ player rises through the stage and plays through the intermission. I love this place and I’m so grateful for it.

Very informative. Quiet neighborhood so don't be loud when you visit. Also, the home is occupied so try not to disturb the residents.

Not much to see but it’s a neat historical site. Would pair well with a visit to Stanford

A quick and easy place to get a little bit of information about the history of Palo Alto and the history of silicon Valley. It is just a plaque on a private home but you can walk by and you can see it and you can visualize what happened here that was so important in American history.

The Birthplace of Silicon Valley.. Every IT person should visit this humble beginnings of HP!

Garage in which HP started 100 years ago.

There's nothing to see other than the outside of the house and the garage but the location is beautiful and if, like me, you love what this place means, you'll enjoy to come by.

Great historical curio stop in nice neighborhood in Palo Alto. Very humble beginnings, as that garage looks tiny! There is a plaque on front lawn detailed the birth of HP. At time of my visit both house and garage look freshly painted. Nice neighborhood for a walk also among craft homes and sycamore trees.

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.

If you love California history, then you’ll love Mission San Jose. You can do a self guided tour or walk with a guide. On certain Sundays, the director of music does a talk about the wonderful pipe organ in the church. He also does a demonstration. If you walk with a tour guide, you get to ring the church bells!!The tour can last up 2 hours, but they say 1.5 is the norm.

The Church is "Ad Orientem." I actually use the compass app to verify, and yes, all the Churches built in that time period ad orientem. - The Mission is beautiful. - You should start your venture by buying a Mission Passport, and visit each one of them in California. Stay local this year instead of going to Europe.

Always a good experience visiting and learning about theiasions. This is a a well kept location and staff were super helpful and willing to share information about the mission.

This was beautiful, $15 per person. ❤️ Self-guided tour, so it was confusing. We didn't go to some of the places because the church & school was in session.

We are doing all of the missions in CA and this was our seventh one. It was lovely to view, I would say I liked the museum the best. So much history and so much fun, the gift shop was lovely as well. We did like the church, but, of course there were tours of kids in there and more visitors, so it kind of took away the magic, but it was very beautiful and we enjoyed viewing it all. The surrounding grounds are gorgeous to view as well.

Cost is 10 dollars. We didn’t walk the museum but we did have time to visit the gift shop. This mission looks really nice on the outside. We didn’t have the chance to tour it due to time travel but it’s located in sAn Jose California. One of the Missions along the Mission route. Opened at 10am the morning we visited.

Trying to decompress and chill after a long few night shifts out of town, plus wanted to read up on and see more of Fremont, CA. Staff was kind and I was the only person there when they first opened at about 09:15 or so... made for a very meditative ans serene experience to fully enjoy the mission without others interrupting the experience. I purchased a Souvenir shirt to support the mission in a small way and I belive the fee was $10 entrance, but the cashier gave a medical discount of $5 for me to pay instead (another reason why I decided to buy a shirt lol). Appreciated this gesture! Taking landscape photos that capture light and shadow or muted colors and focused foreground with unfocused background is my "happy place" I thoroughly enjoy capturing "moods" of old buildings, architectural beauties, and unique plant life... so I did a series of photos. Would definitely recommend this mission for school age tours, a family outting on a nice day, or for the individual looking to spend some time with their Maker. The garden and fountain is relaxing over a cup of coffee. Worth a road trip!

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.

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

One of my favorite spots in the Bay Area! Beautiful outdoor shopping and dining vibe, perfect for a stroll any time of the day. Great mix of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, plus the ambiance is always lively and inviting

One of my favorite spots in San Jose. Never disappoints. Nice street to walk down. Full of upscale shops and also a few places to eat. Would recommend for a nice stroll, seeing the shops and a few things on the street for good photo opportunities.

Santana Row is a great commcial complex of upscale clothing, dining, and events in an open air ambiance. Brand name international and domestic chains of clothing, sports equipment and more offer small accessible Venues. I had a hard time deciding between all the dining venues! The central areas and medians are decorated with twinkle lights on trees, with mostly accessible venues. The center is ringed with apartments on second and third floor The parking garage does not list parking prices and the exit signs are difficult to follow. Accessible restrooms in various areas and eateries in the commercial center. Check out the events calendars.

Outdoor shopping area with high end luxury brands. Lovely walking area during the day and at night. Looks pretty in the evening because of the lights. There are several fountains to check out if your into that. Really like the tree lined streets, wide sidewalks and how much of the areas is pedestrian traffic only.

Santana Row is one of the most beautiful spots in San Jose — perfectly designed for a relaxed walk, great food, and people watching. The outdoor layout feels like a small European town with fountains, trees, and cozy patios everywhere. There’s an excellent mix of restaurants, cafés, and shops — from casual bakeries to upscale dining and fashion boutiques. Everything is clean, well-kept, and lively, especially in the evenings when the lights and atmosphere feel festive. Parking can get busy on weekends, but it’s absolutely worth visiting. Whether you’re here for coffee, dinner, or just to stroll, Santana Row always feels special.

I had such a fun day with my family exploring and finding good eats at Santana Row! There are so many restaurants, pretty cafés, and nice stores to check out. The streets and aisles are beautifully designed, you won’t even realize how much you’ve walked because there’s always something eye-catching at every corner! 💕

Amazing shopping center! One of my favorites in the area! I loved all the restaurants and stores. This place is very completeand have plenty of parking

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!

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!🔬

The park is mostly driving through it with one parking lot with hikes. The bathrooms were ok kinda porta potty like near the trails. They make you write down which trails you are going, just in case you get lost, they know what direction to start looking. Luckily we opted for the smaller loop which is pretty well marked. We got here around 8am Saturday with no reservations and we got lucky to get in! Although there wasn’t many people around until after we left maybe about a hour later people started to show up

Big Basin Redwoods State Park is absolutely beautiful. The trails are moderate and easy to enjoy even if you’re not a pro hiker. Not too crowded, and parking is easy to find. The redwoods are stunning — massive and full of quiet power. It’s sad to see how much was lost after the fire, but what’s left still takes your breath away.

This is a lovely area to explore. I would recommend spending a whole day or overnight to explore. There is plenty of woods, Forrest, hikes, and recreation to wander through. Be sure to plan ahead so you know where to go and what you are doing as well as how much gas you have. Once arrived, you will do more driving to reach either the basin or lake or pull off spots. Also, the weather is a bit cooler in the woods, so wear layers.

Visiting Big Basin was an unforgettable experience! Despite the visible scars from the 2020 lightning fires, the park is slowly and beautifully coming back to life. It was inspiring to witness nature’s resilience firsthand. The towering redwoods still offer an incredible sense of awe, and I learned a lot about the ecosystem through the interpretive signs on the trail — a meaningful and educational visit! The Redwood Loop Trail was easy and mostly shaded, making it perfect for a relaxing stroll while still enjoying those iconic redwood views. Many other trails are currently partially closed, so I recommend checking ahead online or at the visitor center — it would’ve been helpful if closures were posted more clearly at the entrance. Getting to the park is an adventure in itself. The road includes several narrow, one-lane sections and steel plates that act almost like surprise speed bumps — so definitely drive cautiously and take your time. Once you’re in, though, it’s worth every turn. The park has a mix of sunny and shaded areas, so come prepared for both. Overall, Big Basin is a place of quiet beauty, powerful renewal, and majestic trees, perfect for anyone looking to reconnect with nature.

A great park for a walk and stroll. Not the most ideal to experience redwood trees, but it stand as testament to the what first fires can do to such a great space. You can experience a unique sight of green trees completely charred on the surface from the last fire!

The fire of 2020 shows. Several downed trees, still a very pretty walk. The maps are hard to read, the map on my iPhone was by far more help. Trails are clear for the most part. The volunteer was very helpful

Went hiking at Big Basin recently and while the trails are beautiful and worth exploring, the signage definitely needs improvement. The trail markers are quite confusing — it’s easy to take a wrong turn and end up on a completely different trail. At first, we thought we were the only ones lost, but along the way we met several other hikers who were also unsure of the route. It would be really helpful if the trail signs were clearer and better placed, especially at junctions. A bit more attention to detail could really enhance the hiking experience here. Still, the nature and views make it worth the effort❤️

It was our first time and we had a great time! The day was sunny, warm and beautiful day. No clouds in sight. There were plenty of ppl as to be expected but not crowded. As we got up the mountain the weather got slightly cooler. The conductor was very informative about the train, history and about the mountain itself. It is a 20 minute drive from Santa Cruz so that was very convenient. We will surely go back again.

Instead of a quiet, awe-filled ride through one of nature’s most sacred places, this experience felt like a cheap amusement park attraction with one man determined to fill every second of silence. The beauty of the redwoods, the rhythm of the train, and the magic of the steam were all drowned out by a guide who simply would not stop talking — for nearly the entire 75 minutes. We came to hear the clickety-clack of the tracks, the hiss of the steam, and the whispers of the forest, not one loudmouth endlessly babbling about himself, his friends, and random stories no one cared about. Every chance for reverence or reflection was shattered by his nonstop chatter, jokes, and forced enthusiasm. A short ten-minute introduction about the history of the train and the redwoods would have been perfect — then let nature speak for itself. For guests who truly want every detail, put a historic video or display in the opera house or station so they can learn at their own pace. But on the train, please, let us experience the peace and majesty that make this ride special. The scenery is breathtaking, the train itself is a treasure, but the guide’s endless noise completely ruined what should have been a serene, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Silence is part of the magic. Until they understand that, this ride is not worth it.

Very nice place for nature lover. Amazing train ride through thick forest.It is marvellous work done by engineers. Property owners deserve salute for preserving the forest. There are two trains , one for santa cruz and other for forest. There are limited seats as well as train /day so it is wise to reserve your tickets on line.you have to take pass at station which you have to show ticket checker in train. There is store for ice cream and snacks. There is picnic area where you can enjoy your food. There is restrooms.parking is little far for seniors but allowed to drop them near to station. There is trail through forest if you interested you can enjoy.

We came here for their Sequoia at Night walk which is only on weekends in October and really enjoyed this novel stroll through their redwood forest. We got our tickets in advance (they sell out) and were happy to see they didn’t charge for parking (usually an extra $10) The walk from the parking lot to the main “town” wasn’t that well lit, but once at the main venue it was neat to see this spot in a whole new light. Nice lanterns and colored lights on trees. I especially liked the effect of the red lights in some of the burn hollows on a few of the big redwoods. We also appreciated that the snack bar and beer and wine stand were open.

We went for a ride on the train through the redwoods. Just Magical! The trees were beautiful and our conductor Carlos was full of information. I highly recommend. Such a wonderful experience!

Absolutely great trip. Took the big trees train and loved it. Was about 1.5-2ish hours long. A bit pricy but if definitely pay again go enjoy the views.

A wonderful experience for the family! I bought tickets online, which was quick and easy. The area is beautiful and is surrounded by tall redwoods. The conductor was entertaining and staff were all friendly and welcoming. The ride itself was fun, with some parts being a bit warm and more dense shaded areas were cooler. Overall didn’t really use a sweater. The trees and scenery were absolutely stunning! It is a great outing for families. So glad we finally did it and crossed it off our bucket list!

Fun and unique place to visit! 🌲 Buy tickets online ahead of time (we waited 3½ hours because we didn’t know). No cell service, but we enjoyed a beautiful hike while waiting (watch little ones — steep drop-offs!). Downtown Santa Cruz and the boardwalk are only about 10 minutes away, so you can explore while you wait. Tour was short but our guide Megan was hilarious and made it great. Overall, awesome experience and worth checking out!

Finally visited The Mystery Spot after 10 years in the Bay Area and numerous trips to Santa Cruz. First impression: it’s just a dilapidated house - I expected much more from the area than that. But honestly, that’s more than enough. The marketing of this place is on another level. The tour guide’s presentation alone is worth more than the $10 ticket - they put in so much effort, and you really fall for their presentation. Plus, they’re hilarious. Definitely a fun experience. I don’t believe it’s otherworldly; it’s just an optical illusion at its best, presented the right way. Book your tickets online ahead of time - we did, and we were in and out in an hour. Enjoyed the experience.

This place was so cool. It was such an amazing experience. I am very sensitive to everything around me and I really felt an odd feeling whenever I entered into what they call the 'Mystery Spot'. It wasn't just because everything looked cockeyed, but it was literally a feeling in my body. I felt like I was carrying around an additional 50 lb on each of my legs. It was the weirdest feeling. It was really cool how everything in this place seem to defy physics. Our guide was super knowledgeable and made it even more fun just because of her great personality. Highly recommend checking this place out and if you can buying your tickets online beforehand especially if it's going to be during a busy time.

Wow this is definitely a very cool and trippy experience nestled in the beautiful redwoods. There’s a few demonstrations which are cool and some photo opportunities as well. Whole tour takes about 45 minutes and the tour guides are always interesting. The gift shop is great too and totally worth the 10 bucks. Buy advance tickets if you plan on visiting during a busy weekend.

I grew up around the Santa Cruz area and have always wanted to come to the mystery spot since I was a kid. Since I had to move out of state, on vacation 23 years later, I got to bring my family with me to enjoy this small but great attraction. We had fun and enjoyed every moment. The tour guy was awesome, too! Great memories!

Cute little side adventure to take kids on. Tour is roughly 45 min. If you have bad knees or ankles def not a tour for you sadly as it is very angle heavy and when coming down the grade is rough. But overall tour guides run on dad jokes and it was a nice odd spot to visit.

The mystery spot is tucked away in the gorgeous spot in the woods. I love their little sitting area to relax while you wait for your tour time, and the gift shop was fun to look through as well. The waiting area and the bathrooms were kept clean, and the weather was just right when we went. The drive into/out of this spot can be a little sketchy in certain spots depending on how big your vehicle is as some spots of the road are a bit narrow for two cars to be going side by side. This was a fun spot to visit with my family, our tour guide was energetic and did a great job. The Mystery spot itself is neat, it was pretty crazy to see the demonstrations because they really do seem to defy gravity and how you perceive what is 'normal'. I honestly can not remember how long the tour was, but it was a decent amount of time and they allow you enough time to take some fun photos. This spot is not handicap or stroller friendly. The slope up to the little shack which is the mystery spot is quite steep and with the slanted angles your ankles/body will be in while walking through the shack will be hard on certain people.

A beautiful campus and the perfect place to learn and grow into who you will be. I attended UCSC from 1991 to 1995 and loved every single minute. The courses, the instructors, the location, the vibe, the city itself, it is near perfect. I was the Porter college commencement speaker in 1995. I took my family for a little visit recently. I hope my kids attend there one day. Great just to walk through on a quiet morning or weekend.

I was visiting the school as a possible option for college, and did the online tour. We walked around and it was beautiful scenery (trees, grass, water, plants, deer, slugs, squirrels). I don't know how good the academics are, but the library looked really nice!!

UC Santa Cruz is the most slept-on UC in the system — and that’s exactly why it wins. Tucked into the redwoods, UCSC isn’t trying to flex fake prestige or slap buzzwords on mediocrity. It’s building real talent quietly, especially in tech, AI, game design, and the sciences. If you’re smart and focused, this is where you go to build — not to posture. Compare that to UC Davis: A school that’s constantly yelling, “We’re a top university!” — while their grads pull a laughable $54K median income ten years after enrolling. UCSC students intern at Apple. Davis students still argue about which pronouns to use in their group project title slide. Davis looks like it was designed by SimCity on a budget. Concrete buildings, cow smell in the air, and a culture that punishes ambition. Try standing out there and watch how fast you get side-eyed for having drive. The bar is low, the expectations are lower, and somehow they still trip over it. UCSC might not scream for attention — but it’s actually producing graduates who matter. Meanwhile, Davis is still trying to figure out why no one takes their tech program seriously when they’re surrounded by lettuce fields. If you want a school that’s chill but sharp, progressive but productive, and surrounded by actual beauty — UCSC. If you want to cosplay as an “intellectual” while getting mid-tier outcomes and living in ag country? UC Davis is calling.

The college is nestled in a beautiful Redwood and Sequoia forest, with plenty of scenic walking trails throughout the campus. During the school year, you’ll see many students walking and biking on these paths, bringing great energy and activity. There are also several vistas that offer spectacular views overlooking Santa Cruz city. Just be cautious when driving here—there’s heavy pedestrian and bike traffic, and not everyone pays close attention to incoming vehicles, so it’s important to stay alert and drive carefully around campus for everyone’s safety.

I just visited the campus. Rainy day, tall sequoias, slow and depressing. When we got out of the woods, it got better. Campus is clean, buildings a relatively new, it's all OK. Overall, me, the city dweller, wouldn't like to stay here for even two days.

One of the most beautiful campus I have ever been. It’s like hiking in the National park everyday. Those classroom buildings are also well designed. Really enjoy having a walk there.

Huge and very spread out campus! Need a bike or can take a bus that goes around campus. Lots of hiking trails. Atmosphere is very peaceful.

Great experience! It had one of the cleanest restrooms and showers in a public campsite. We stayed there for two nights, and the employee's were helpful and friendly. However, some campers did not respect the 10 PM - 7 AM quiet policy, and music played until 2 AM. The campsite was conveniently located near the walking path to the waterfall. We had a great time, but not much sleep.

Gorgeous trails! Reservations are required but because we were there during a slow season, we were able to make our reservation and pay for parking online when we arrived. Restroom facilities are very clean and there are lots of trails depending on what you’re looking for. We opted for the 1 mile loop waterfall trail however the posts weren’t always clearly marked so unfortunately we ended up on a different trail. Nevertheless, the trails are well maintained and there is no shortage of wonderful things to see.

We have been coming here for many years and were surprised on our last trip to learn you needed to book a reservation online in advance. Still, this is a favorite out of the way park with great hiking and beautiful waterfalls in the rainy season. Uvas Canyon is well suited for families as well as avid hikers. It may be too challenging for people mobility issues. During the winter rains the waterfalls make this a 5 star park, maybe 4 stars in the dry season. Hikes range from fairly easy with some elevation changes to moderately difficult with extended sections of steeper climbing.

We believed the reviews and came here. There are quite steep slopes to reach the waterfalls, and contrary to the pictures, there isn't much water, making swimming difficult. I searched for hours and finally found a small pool, but it was difficult to reach. You'll see reservation signs along the way before arriving here. Don't be fooled; reservations are made at the entrance; the staff is helpful. The first parking lot to the right of the entrance is for day visitors; the others are for campers. It's not worth it if you're coming from afar. It's one of those classic parks you can find anywhere. If there's water, they'll definitely charge you a fee. The entrance fee is $6 for a standard car.

Timed entry reservation seems to be working well. There was no need for circling around looking for parking spots. The hike was also pretty nice, first section runs along the creek with several water falls along the route, easy access for all, some families bathing in the water falls. Later section climb up the hills, which will get a bit strenuous but as elevation gains, there will be occasional view down below.

You need advance parking pass purchase online. It is $6 for a car and it is timed for an entry hour. The hike is great. Not too long or strenuous. Nice water stream running next to you and you keep hearing the water. Additionally there is shade so the sun doesn't bother much. Very clean and well maintained.

The hike was beautiful. The street close to the park was not well maintained and had several pot holes. So be careful. There was a community as well close to the park. So you might see some people as you go closer to the park. The trail was beautiful and we came across several waterfalls. Would love to go there again and recommend others.

Beautiful views, clean trails and campsites, knowledgeable staff!Backpacked overnight for the first time. About 7 hrs round trip hiking to and from China Hole for me. Awesome manzanita groves. Saw frogs, deer, quail, woodpeckers, poison oak, vulture, and a red and black bug but can't figure out the name. Perfect temp swimmable water there (July '25) but getting more murky. Nights get pretty cold, even in peak July.

An incredibly beautiful park well worth the drive up in a car or truck for hiking or tent camping. Hikes take you all over through forests and wheat fields from the old COE Homestead with tons of wildlife because there is a no dog policy. Dogs terrify wildlife and they are not allowed on the trails. In the campground there are primitive campsites some with a built shade arbor (that allow dogs on leash), very few that are level. In addition there are many beautiful primitive walk in sites and quite a few backpackers on the weekend. What this all means is tons of wildlife, no generators, dark skies full of stars and birds in the morning. Manny and John were a wealth of knowledge, really appreciate the time and information they imparted. Last thing is be very careful and slow on the road going up there is a lot of wildlife. Saw one large accident, hoping no one was injured.

Henry Coe State Park is an excellent destination for day hikes or overnight camping. It offers over 250 miles of trails and old ranch roads suitable for all seasons. Hikers can choose from various routes, from easy 1.5-mile loops featuring minimal elevation changes to more challenging backpacking loops exceeding 50 miles. We completed several trails here. We hiked the 15-mile Mount Sizer Loop with about 3,500 foot elevation gain that took us almost 7 hours to finish. If you are going there, get ready to tackle rivers along the way, with water levels reaching up to your knees in some areas and even your bellybutton in others. But don't worry, the water isn't freezing cold 😀. Recently, we explored the 9.5-mile Wilson Peak Loop on our recent trip, which we completed in 3.5 hours. Both trails were sun-open, had no shadow, but were well-maintained and were well marked. Still, it is a great idea to carry a paper map due to limited cell service in the area. Be prepared for steep sections along certain trails. During our hikes, we observed a variety of wildlife, including a bobcat, a coyote, and a tarantula. We also spotted numerous bird species, such as California quail, acorn woodpeckers, and wild turkeys. The Coe Ranch Main Entrance has a visitor center for parking where credit card payments are accepted. Alternatively, the Hunting Hollow entrance requires a $6 cash payment through a self-registration envelope system.

It was a cloudy and cold day in the Southern Bay Area, so we decided to go hiking. When we drove up the mountain, the sun was shining brightly, and the mountains in the distance were shrouded in clouds and mist. It looked very beautiful. We had a wonderful afternoon hiking here, and it was very relaxing. We like it here.

3 day/2 night backpacking trip. It was unseasonably cool for a late July weekend. Set camp at Skeels Meadow both nights. Very serene stay. Lots of water at Coyote Creek and at all springs along the way. Summitted Mt. Sizer late AM and it was already quite hot. Coe seems to prefer long, steep slopes over switchbacks in the north-western part of the park so get good at the stairmaster. All in all it was a great trip.

Dogs are not allowed on hiking trails. At all. Signs posted everywhere, no dogs. Dogs disrupt nature. "Karen's" in the parking lot reminding you of the rules. Fences everywhere. No trespassing signs everywhere. No parking signs everywhere. Itr beautiful but not very welcoming. After making the long journey to get there. Mucho disappointed.

We did a hike from the visitor center to frog lake. Secluded trail. Frog lake is quiet and peaceful. We saw frogs , wood peckers and butterflies along the lake. Very nice hike in the fall season.

It’s a beautifully clean and tidy beach. Not too big in the area but good for anyone who loves the beach. If you love the beach and want a peaceful place to enjoy your beach time this is a must-visit place. Washrooms were okay, not bad not too good. But the overall experience is good and the view is just mesmerizing.

Love the Visitor Center. Also, has bathrooms and picnic tables.

It was freezing and really windy the day my cousin and I went to visit. Because of the cold weather, we looked down onto the beach and took in the salty air and the coolness of the wind, instead of walking down to the sand. The view from up top was clear, a bit grayish, and really crisp, but it was still refreshing, just to be at a beach. It wasn't very crowded, some cars were using the upper lot as a turn out space. If I had a better camera or if the day wasn't so hazy, a better clearer picture of the two rock formation bridges would be visible. It really is a nice pleasant calm beach, the waves are low and smooth and parking was really easy, the day my cousin and I visited. We found parking really quick. There's a paid lot, a free lot with a small handful of spaces that overlook the beach, so you can stay in your warm car and still enjoy the view, and there's plenty of free street / residential parking. It's also a nice drive along the shoreline. If I still live in the Bay Area, I'd like to be able to return to the beach on a warmer sunnier day.

Nice place to walk and enjoy the peace. But the beach will close from 11am to 5pm, the parking lot was closed. But you may find a place along the street. Biking here is so fun with the different sceneries.

⛱️🌊🏄🥾🌼📷 💡Here's a tip: walk off to the right of the beach, climb the ridge (it can be slippery at some points) and keep walking. You'll find a more secluded beach section down a bit Popular beach spot, with surfers and sail boats right off the shore. This beach is known for its natural stone arch. If you head towards the back you can find some nice trails with boardwalks through the park.

Beautiful formation of the rock...so photogenic...the walk along the Coastline to the lighthouse is very scenic. A good 4 mile easy walk round trip. Absolutely gorgeous coastline!

Thankful for this small visitor center! Get some good facts and a good souvenir shop inside too. I would say this is a part of visiting this beach. Stop in!

We had a good time today with family at Gilroy Gardens. The trees and focus on nature and food is great. The landscaping is beautiful. They have a couple different water play areas one more for toddlers, another for bigger kids. It's ideal for little kids through day 10-12 years. They have swan boats and a train that runs around the perimeter. Unfortunately, some of the rides weren't working. Still we had a good time and will be back again for a couple more days.

Buy Tickets in Advance! Went for the Boo Bash. It was fun and they did a good job decorating and the theme of Halloween. Fires are for 6 and under. Lots of the same ride style but repurposed. Great price if you live in the area and do the annual pass. Food choices are a little sparse. It they do include Chick Fil A. The water park was closed but looked like it would be great for young families.

We went to Glory Garden during the Halloween season, so it was even more fun! There were a few designated spots for Trick or Treating, and the kids had such a great time with just that!

We used our Great America Gold pass to go to the Big Boo. You need to reserve your Boo ticket online using your Gold Pass on Gilroy Gardens website. There were about 8 candy stations and several shows to watch. The candy stations gave out 1-5 pieces of candy each and had 0-5 kids in line. The lines were very short for rides. We got dinner around 5pm and the wait was really long at Castroville corners. Plenty of tables! We will come again when it’s not raining.

It was a great experience visiting the park with my 3 years old. It was a Halloween evening and the park had a complete vibe of it. Loved the rides (carousel, Strawberry ride, banana ride, train, pumpkin patch, Hotair balloon ride and many). Time just flew by and we couldn’t complete everything in this first visit, but had good time. Will come back soon. Plenty of parking. First stop is parking ticket, then after you park, it’s the entry ticket booth, after crossing that there is a security check and then it’s all fun stuff. The souvenir store is near the exit and had some good stuff. I felt there is not many food options inside the park.

Such great family fun. The park is awesome and I love seeing the same familiar faces when I bring my son here. He likes to bug the ride operators and ask them how everything works. Often times they know the answers to his questions which are pretty elaborate for an eight year old. I recommend getting a season pass because that's what we've always had and it just seems worth it especially since I live in Gilroy. The employees went above and beyond to help me locate my son's friend who has a bad habit of slipping away and hiding as a "joke". The employees handled it quickly and I spoke with a couple of men who work to keep the rides going, they are the real backbone of this park. I always fascinate over how such a large place can operate so smoothly. I can't stand the big amusement parks like Disney. This is a real non profit and education is around every corner if that is what you seek! Big shout out to Jess who saved my new iPhone last year when it slipped from my hand on timber twister AND Jess, once again saved the day when we got stuck on sky trail I was nervous and he quickly calmed me and had us off the ride in a jiffy! I buy all my friends and family with children tickets every year. I love that my kids get to grow with this as their big treat several times a year. Even better that is basically in our back yard! Thanks GG and team. You guys are pros and rock! Thanks for keeping the children safe and smiling!! P. S. Christmas is my favorite time of year at the park, summer can get sooooo hot, it's a good thing they added the water features for summer time!! I loved ice skating with my kids for their and our first times trying to ice skate!!

This place was a blast! We went for the pumpkin patch, but there was so much more. Great corn maze, great food, cider was good, and the haunted house was genuinely wonderful! Excellent spot for a family day, but make sure you do your waivers prior to going!

As someone who loves shopping, I was really looking forward to visiting the Gilroy Outlets. With three separate shopping areas and a wide variety of stores, there’s definitely potential for a great shopping experience especially if you're looking for good deals. However, a few things made the visit frustrating. I was disappointed to see that most of the stores had signs saying “no public restrooms,” and unfortunately, none were available throughout any of the outlet sections. It became a hassle to leave the shopping area just to find a restroom at a nearby fast food place. Another issue was the limited store hours. Opening at 12 p.m. and closing by 6 p.m. just doesn’t feel reasonable, especially when there are long lines to try things on or check out. Extending the hours would really help, particularly for weekend visitors and out-of-town shoppers who want to make the most of their trip. I also noticed a lack of visible security throughout all three sections of the outlets. With how busy it can get, having a stronger security presence would help shoppers feel safer and more comfortable. Lastly, I wish there were more dining options nearby. After hours of shopping, it would be great to have convenient places to eat without having to leave the area entirely. Overall, while the Gilroy Outlets offer a wide range of stores and deals, the experience could be improved with better amenities, longer hours, visible security, and more food choices.

Shopping so close to home is perfect! A few favorites are Lululemon, Converse and Coach stores. I treat myself to a road trip 1-2 times a month!

We all know buying at renowned outlets is the way to go to save money. This place has everything you need and then some, always at great prices. All kinds of food near. Spend a whole day there. You won't regret it.

Something for everyone. Shopping is in 3 large sections, so you can stroll for hours. Public restrooms. Some restaurants. Loads of free parking.

@Columbia So, I love a good deal as much as the next girl, but this visit? Not it. From the second I walked in; the energy was off. I felt WATCHED instead of WELCOMED, which if I'm being honest, killed my shopping mood. As if that wasn't enough, my card decided to act up at the checkout (love that for me lol), so cue me feeling even more stressed and awkward as the same employee that was following my partner & I was hovering. That being said, everyone has their days, but I did want to drop a gentle PSA for retail folks: customers can feel when we're being treated as problem instead of a person. Maybe next time, less surveillance energy, and a little more "Hey, how's your day going?"

Gilroy outlets definitely changed over the years, not as much selections as they used to as far as options in the stores they have. Other than that its still a good time to go out and enjoy time with family.

Definitely a place to visit when around. It easily takes a day to Rome around. There are 145 Brand outlets spread across this area. Lookout for a deal over there portal so you can avoid so much walking but then miss the deal in the next brand. They have huge parking space spread across the premises so just look for around if you even don't find instantly. They have public toilet, look for the Guide board for one nearest to you.