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).

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.

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..

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

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.

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

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!

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 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

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...?

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.

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!

Gnarly Head is terrible. My wife n I drink many wines AND THIS ONE GOT US BOTH “ sick” with stomach ache. Dumped down the drain uggghPlus

Always an enjoyable experience here. A knowledgeable staff and an excellent assortment of wine showcasing Lodi grapes prompted us to become wine club members. Looking forward to the upcoming months with guided tastings and Meet the Winemaker events!

Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! This was a beautiful discovery 😍 of fine wines. Home grown here in Lodi. Friendly atmosphere, with charming gathering places, in various corners of their courtyard. There was even a Vineyard that you could walk through to educate oneself on. Well layed out, be sure to add it to your bucket list of things to do whenever you're in this neck of California. Follow me and catch up on all my sites and places to just sto into. Check out "Beautiful Places in Hawaii"...enjoy! Ciao for now.

A wonderful introduction to Lodi wineries, highly recommend.

It was a short stop but hubby and I enjoyed this visit. Waited for them to open so we can buy some wine before meeting a friend. Great Memories, lovely place!

Thank you Brooke, we were so glad to have this fantastic experience tasting a little bit of Lodi during my work trip! This is such a brilliant concept to have in town. I appreciated it so much! Lodi does not disappoint with their wines and we will be back in the area for sure, cheers!

The staff there were friendly. After the wine tasting, we bought 2 bottles of wine, that were very well packed for us. When I just arrived home and opened the package, I found the expensive wine club exclusive Heavy Hitter Petite Sirah was not sealed. I talked to the manager the next day and he explained some wineries simply send in their wines to the visitor center with the bottles not sealed. This exposes a safety concern to us, because the content of the bottle could be easily changed. It was said there were some environmental concerns with the foil sealing. If so, there should be some sort of replacement like wax sealing. Wine sold with the bottles not even sealed in any way is not acceptable.

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.

Beautiful place for everyone. Everyone was happy, nice and friendly. Great place to picnic, walk around the lakes edge, and all the people that I saw fishing were also most everyone had caught something from an average size perch to a 5+lb largemouth bass.

A Lodi gem. So happy to have this place for my daily walks from where I live all around the lake and nature trail. Where else can you see deer, fox, and other wild animals on your walk. Just a nice place to escape the town and be in nature.

Lodi Lake is a true local gem! Peaceful trails shaded by trees, a calm lake for kayaking or paddleboarding, and a small sandy beach perfect for families. The park is clean, safe, and full of wildlife like ducks and birds. Whether you want to fish, picnic, or just relax by the water, it’s a beautiful spot to enjoy nature right in Lodi.

Fantastic place to visit and the botanical walking gardens have information about many diverse plants and animals. The lake itself serves kayaking and canoe enthusiasts. Had not been here in 50 years but it is better now than then.

Absolutely stunning! My kids and I had so much fun walking around and exploring. Parking on site for a small fee, or free parking in allowed areas on the street. They have clean bathrooms, kayak and paddleboat rentals, and picnic tables. There is a playground for children and a nature walking path. They include everything for all to enjoy! Great place to spend the day with family and friends.

Lake is awesome as is the staff. So many updates to the area. Bbq pits are new and have lids, bathrooms are redone and nice as well. Boathouse to rent kayaks etc. Beach area to swim with the kids and family. I take my paddleboard.

First time there and am amazed. Loved the deers and squirrels running around. Would definitely take my family there.

Two star experience and Three stars on the wine. Nobody pours each wine and explains its info. Nothing about where it’s grown, it’s vintage, alcohol content … nada on the paper that gives us the minimal info on the thimble pours that all come out on a tray at one time. Would Not Recommend. (The chocolates in the photo were brought by us). So many beautiful places that are more experiential!

We were very pleased with the selections here. Our server was very helpful in finding the wine we liked. We ended up buying 1/2 a case! She also helped us find other area wineries we might like. All-in-all, a great experience with a great atmosphere, friendly staff, and great wine!

The tasting room is so pretty here, especially decorated for Christmas. I've tasted here before on a weekend and was blown away that there were four flights to choose from. This time there were two. The wine is reasonably priced and tastings are waived with a bottle purchase (2 bottles purchased to waive the reserve tasting). This time I headed in about an hour before closing and felt rushed by the staff despite there being several other people still tasting in the room. The patio area is beautiful and I may try again in summer.

We had a wonderful visit and wine tasting at Klinker Brick Winery in early April of 2022! Their winery is in the agricultural area of Lodi: grapes, walnuts and more. Our hosts were gracious and helpful. The three of us chose to taste the three flights they offered that day. Mostly reds with a couple of sparkling, and roses. We found their wines to be enjoyably dryer than our usual selections. It provided us a palate pleasing contrast. We spent the night at the vineyard via harvest hosts. It was a beautiful sunset in the arms of the grape vines.

Great value wine tasting. We did the $10 tasting and got to try 7 amazing wines they produce. The location is gorgeous and the attention, superb. Will be back and will.tell others visiting our AirBnB in Stockton about it too.

Klinker Brick never disappoints. The wine tastings are amazing. The customer service is wonderful. We recently became wine club members after several years of visiting while passing through Lodi in our van. They hold our deliveries for us so we can pick them up whenever we pass through. We bought a case of twelve bottles for our rehearsal dinner and people loved the wine. A few visits ago, we arrived within a half hour of closing and they accommodated us. Our friends were amazed by the quality of the wine and the beauty of the locale. 10/10 recommend.

Heather took us through a wonderful wine tasting experience. She and the other wonderful ladies even stayed late as to not make us feel rushed. The wines are exceptional and so are the staff! Definitely on our places to return list!

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

The Modesto State Theatre is such a gem in Downtown Modesto! This classic, historic venue offers a unique experience with its single movie or event showings — every visit feels special. I’ve also had the opportunity to photograph events here, and the space is just as beautiful behind the lens as it is in person. From its vintage charm to its community-centered programming, it’s a true Modesto landmark worth supporting and experiencing. 🎬✨

Perhaps one of the best classic movie theaters there is. It is so exciting to see in person and they have a variety of things going on to keep you coming back for more. A must see in Modesto!

I went there to see the Prince tribute concert w my family. It was my 1st time there and I really didn't know what to expect. But, overall i was pleasantly impressed and enjoyed myself there at the concert and the venue. Upon arriving...the parking was fairly easy to find a parking space. We pretty much walked right up to the front entrance w a minor wait to get in while security checked bags. But, it was fast moving. And, ultimately we didn't mind bc it was for our safety. We were then pointed towards our seats and were able to navigate ourselves without any problems. We had a total of 5 tickets purchased and we had the cluster of seats that are seated closest to the wall. It was nice and convenient for us to all be sitting comfortably together. I was however I brought in my jacket to wear inside. Had I not done so I would've been awfully cold and probably uncomfortable the entire show. So just keep that in mind to those of you that purchase those tickets near the wall. For some reason there is a chilly breeze that comes through somehow over there on the sides. As for the concert...overall I thought the band was pretty good and I would recommend seeing them if you get the chance too! And if you never have been to the State Theatre of Modesto...do yourself a favor n check it out. I'm glad I did. Supposedly they have a pretty good restaurant next door to this theatre that is good & worth checking out if you have the opportunity to.

I moved here from San Francisco in 1995 may I tell you the State theater was a saving Grace for me I loved it and I went to so many movies and concerts. I just want to say thank you very much you actually saved me from going crazy in the valley after living in San Francisco

We decided to take in a showing of Leonid and Friends at the State Theatre in Modesto (if you've not heard of Leonid and Friends, they are a Russian musical group who primarily plays covers of the band Chicago but also performs some EW&F tunes). It was a long drive for us but well worth it. The theater is in downtown Modesto and holds about 550 guests in the main section. In addition to the regular seating, there are open areas for those with disabilities. The theater had good acoustics and the seats were comfortable. In the foyer, the theater sold candy, popcorn, drinks and adult beverages. Restrooms were clean and the foyer was decorated for Christmas. I liked the feel of the theater. It reminded of my younger days, attending our local theater for concerts, movies, and other shows. My wife and I had a great time and really enjoyed the show and the theater.

I love older theaters, and this one did not disappoint. The staff are all friendly and we enjoyed ourselves at the concert. The acoustics are not perfect, but thatbis to be expected in an older place...BUT... it definitely didn't stop us from enjoying ourselves! We will go here again 😊

Small, safe nostalgic place to watch a movie! I will be going again!