The top cities between Petaluma and Santa Cruz are San Francisco, Napa, San Jose, Sonoma, Mill Valley, Half Moon Bay, Oakland, Santa Clara, Glen Ellen, and Palo Alto. San Francisco is the most popular city on the route. It's less than an hour from Petaluma and 1 hour from Santa Cruz.
Situated in the northern region of California, Sonoma is a city steeped in history and culture, located at the heart of the well-known Sonoma Valley winemaking area. The city boasts numerous art galleries and a colonial-era plaza surrounded by significant 19th-century adobe buildings such as Mission San Francisco Solano and the Sonoma Barracks - once used by Mexican military forces. The plaza hosts an immensely popular weekly farmer's market during certain times of the year.
2% as popular as San Francisco
17 minutes off the main route, 16% of way to Santa Cruz
Glen Ellen is a serene village nestled between Sonoma Mountain and the Mayacamas Mountain range in Southern Sonoma County. This charming destination offers a laid-back neighborhood spot known for its house-brewed beers, lovely garden patio, and scrumptious vegan desserts like coconut kheer and decadent chocolate mousse. The area is home to culinary gems, quaint shops, boutique hotels, and inns.
0% as popular as San Francisco
26 minutes off the main route, 19% of way to Santa Cruz
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Mill Valley, a charming city in Marin County, California, is situated just 14 miles north of San Francisco and 52 miles from Napa Valley. With a population of around 14,231 people as per the 2020 census, it offers an array of dining options ranging from local and organic to traditional Italian cuisine. Whether you're looking for a lively bar to hang out with friends or a romantic night out, Mill Valley has something for everyone.
2% as popular as San Francisco
6 minutes off the main route, 24% of way to Santa Cruz
Napa is a city located in Napa County, California that serves as the center of the Napa Valley wine region. The downtown area boasts historic architecture from the late 1800s and early 1900s, as well as a riverfront promenade with various shops and restaurants. The arts scene is anchored by the Napa Valley Opera House while the Oxbow Public Market offers a farmer's market and cheese shop.
4% as popular as San Francisco
19 minutes off the main route, 25% of way to Santa Cruz
Oakland is a city located on the eastern side of San Francisco Bay in California, known for its diverse neighborhoods and rich history. The area features restored Victorian architecture and boutiques in Old Oakland and art deco theaters, restaurants, bars, and galleries in Uptown. Visitors can learn about state history, nature, and art at the Oakland Museum of California near Chinatown. Jack London Square pays tribute to the writer who frequented the area with a statue of him.
2% as popular as San Francisco
1 minute off the main route, 37% of way to Santa Cruz
I'll never travel to Santa Cruz without this trip planner again
San Francisco is a major center for culture, commerce, and finance in California. This bustling city offers an abundance of activities to keep visitors entertained, including Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Alcatraz. For accommodation options, Airbnb is recommended due to the diverse and fascinating neighborhoods found throughout the city. Walking tours are also highly recommended as it allows one to fully immerse themselves in the unique character of each neighborhood.
Most popular city on this route
4 minutes off the main route, 37% of way to Santa Cruz
Half Moon Bay is a petite city situated on the Californian coastline, positioned to the south of San Francisco. The bay consists of a succession of beaches, including Half Moon Bay State Beach. For those who prefer hiking, the Coastside Trail extends northwards up to Pillar Point, near Mavericks surf spot that's famous for its huge waves. Not far away from there stands Montara Mountain which can be found in the protected Rancho Corral de Tierra area.
0% as popular as San Francisco
15 minutes off the main route, 54% of way to Santa Cruz
Palo Alto, located in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, is a city known for being part of Silicon Valley and housing Stanford University. The downtown area along University Avenue offers a mix of dining options, from casual to upscale restaurants, as well as various shopping opportunities. Additionally, visitors can explore the Cantor Arts Center on the university campus, which features an impressive collection of Rodin sculptures. Nature enthusiasts can head east to discover the scenic marshland trails at Baylands Nature Preserve.
1% as popular as San Francisco
7 minutes off the main route, 61% of way to Santa Cruz
Santa Clara, located near San Jose in California's Silicon Valley, is a hub for numerous tech companies. The city is home to the Intel Museum, which showcases significant technological advancements such as the creation of the silicon chip. Visitors can also enjoy thrilling rides at California's Great America amusement park and catch games of the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Additionally, art enthusiasts can explore local artwork at the Triton Museum of Art.
0% as popular as San Francisco
4 minutes off the main route, 68% of way to Santa Cruz
San Jose is a sizeable urban center located in Silicon Valley, a major technological hub within the Bay Area of California. The city's downtown district features various notable architectural landmarks that range from the Italianate-style Oddfellows building constructed in 1883 to Spanish Colonial Revival structures. Additionally, the downtown area boasts an attraction known as the Tech Museum of Innovation which is dedicated to exploring and advancing science and technology.
3% as popular as San Francisco
4 minutes off the main route, 68% of way to Santa Cruz
Best stops along Petaluma to Santa Cruz drive
The top stops along the way from Petaluma to Santa Cruz (with short detours) are Alcatraz Island, San Francisco Cable Car Museum, and PIER 39. Other popular stops include Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Winchester Mystery House, and Fisherman's Wharf.
Mumm Winery is Napa Valley's most well-known and respected sparkling wine producer. They have both indoor and outdoor tasting rooms with stunning views of the valley. If you enjoy your bubbly, this is a must-see winery!
One of our best tasting experiences in Napa! A sparkling wine selection that can't be beat. The Oak terrace is beautiful and peaceful and just the perfect atmosphere! Our host Maddie was so knowledgeable and helpful and she answered so many questions and made our experience very memorable! Truly wish I could go back again and again!
Leah Ahearn — Google review
Pricey? For someone out of town, sure. Delicious and amazing? Absolutely. I would definitely recommend this place. The staff was very accommodating and knowledgeable. The atmosphere was surprisingly relaxed while tasting some wonderful sparkling wines and some amazing cheese.
Allen Jackson — Google review
The wine is great of course but I was very disappointed by how unaccommodating they are. We had a group slightly larger than their 8 person maximum (we were 10) and they made us sit at separate tables despite being easily able to join tables together.. because of ‘policy’ (a policy which they weren’t able to explain). AND they denied entry to our friend because she had her 6 month old baby with her. They suggested maybe leaving the baby in the car if the parents wanted to join. She opted to drive all the way back to SF rather than risking her baby’s life for her friend’s birthday celebration and a glass of sparkling wine 🤷🏼♀️
E — Google review
Friendly staff, incredible wine, and the outdoor tasting patio with magnificent views make this a top winery to visit in Napa. Our hostess, JoJo, was great! She was friendly, knowledgeable and created an amazing tasting experience for my wife and I. As others have noted, the wine is exceptional and the prices reasonable. I highly recommend visiting this wonderful winery!
Nick Bovee-Gazett — Google review
First time I was here was in 98/99 while in college. Great memory then. Not a mature palate. Fast forward to now. Times have definitely changed but Mumm was still able to make life better with bubbles. Have a couple or 5 tastings of delicious samplings. Take a a bottle or some for the memories. Knowledgeable staff, clean and cool tastings. They even have a photo gallery to walk through before your reservation. Come try it out!
Sumit Dutta — Google review
Mumm Napa was by far my favorite wine stop! They sat our large party together & gave us personal attention. Great pours of wonderful sparkling wines. The covered seating takes advantage of the lovely setting while you sip your sparkling wines. Highly recommend 👍🏽
Teresa Nornes — Google review
We came here for my birthday with a reservation.
It was raining really hard that day but even the outdoor space was covered with heaters. Luckily they were able to move us to an inside table.
There was a bit of a wait to get seated but we came with a small group of friends so we didn't mind just hanging out and chatting.
Kat(Kathleen?) was our server and she was great. She was friendly and knowledgeable.
We all tried different wines (some of us got the sets).
And we picked a bottle to take home.
Excellent service and beautiful location.
They gave us all chocolates and (another) complementary drink at the end for my birthday.
Yanli Xiong — Google review
The wine is SUPER! 5*
The Service is also good. Polite people. Clean area. Gorgeous view. Nice shop. You won't get here an entertainment - no stories about the history, what behind the each bottle is.... Sometimes these fairytale is needed)
Nataljya Bulatova — Google review
Gorgeous views, delicious tastings, and friendly staff, what else is there?! Andy was such a delight, despite being very busy, we were treated with bubbles, chocolate, knowledge, and bottles to take home. The reservation process was simple, the grounds are gorgeous, and as expected, the bubbles were delish. Highly recommend visiting, but keep an eye on your debit card, I had such a great time, I lost mine 😂😂😂 Now that, is a good sign 💜
Scarlett Drummond — Google review
We recently went to Napa to visit different wineries. We made reservations for the ones we thought we would like the most, at the end of the day we had some extra time so, we made reservations for Mumm. As opposed to the excellent time , attention and experience we had through the day this experience was horrible: they didn’t communicate properly, and kicked us out of winery rudely and without warning.
If we consider our next vacation based on this last experience we never get back to Napa.
Laura A. V?lez — Google review
Beautiful grounds and ample seating makes Mumm a great place to bring a Napa first-timer. Their selection is vastly bubbles, which I love, but despite doing a tasting only one stood out to me - the rose.
dipika — Google review
My partner and I traveled from Texas to visit family in California, and they took us to visit Mumm. It was such a lovely experience! The scenery was incredible! Our server, JoJo, was extremely knowledgeable about all of the wines, and very kind which made our experience that more enjoyable!
J Flowers — Google review
Great experience. Me and the fiance enjoyed a wide variety of sparklings. The temperature outside was 100 and we sat indoors in the tasting room. The tasting room is full on window view with a good look into the vinyards. On the trees you can see humming birds. Mia was our server and took great care of us! We strongly recommend visiting any time of the year 😀
Melissa Thornton — Google review
Mumm Winery, who doesn't love delicious sweet bubbles (or dry if you prefer that) Service is always professional and friendly. The gift store could use more help, though. The restroom is clean. Plenty of parking.
The patio has a fun atmosphere, with enough seating with beautiful views of the vineyards and mountains. Make sure to visit Mumm whenever you're in Yountville. However, reservations are highly recommended for members and definitely for non-members!
Brooke Carroll — Google review
Kathleen was so patient and led us through an amazing tasting experience. It was almost time to close, but she took the time to make it great for us. We LOVED the rose and joined their club. Incredibly beautiful veiws. Best bubbly in Napa for sure! Thank you, Kathleen, for being your awesome self.
Mary Moscatelli — Google review
If you only have time for one or two tastings + love sparkling wine, Mumm Napa is a MUST!
We had to book super short notice + snagged a 10am slot on the Oak Terrace. Drinking before noon is 💯% underrated. 😆 The bits and baubles from local cheeseries were such a pleasant accompaniment to the wines. Def didn't regret paying extra for the Terrace.
You will definitely enjoy your tasting at Mumm Napa. 👍
Hannah Dantrassy — Google review
Wonderful champagne, but would have been nice to have a formal tasting. We would have made an appointment if the website had indicated it was necessary. Making the best of the situation we all got different champagnes and shared...it worked for us!
Susan Eisenhauer — Google review
Great wines, tepid welcome, bad service. We stopped by for a tasting and they told us they couldn’t give us one because a sommelier was on lunch. Granted there are two other tables with people in the entire winery. We were given the option to by a glass, and we paid it up front like we were at a cafeteria. Then entire time we drank our wines, nobody came to check in on us, and no one gave us a menu of wines we could purchase. We left when we were done, and uninterested to purchase bottles. We’ll never go back but their wines are exceptional.
Celine Broomhead — Google review
Came to grab a quick glass to toast our engagement. Called ahead to let them know our Uber was running late. They said they could stretch the tasting reservation 20 min but could maybe grab a glass beyond that. Arrived 5:29 (9 min past) and was greeted at the host stand by the manager that they’re closed (open until 6:00 pm). Apparently, they “sent their bartenders home” (before they were closed and with patrons still dining).
I explained that we called ahead and our Uber was a 25 min drive ($35). I assured her we would only stay for 15 min and would be happy to just buy a bottle and close out the bill and be gone before 6:00. The manager still refused and said they sent an email to let me know not to come. After confirming there was no email, her response was “well we were going to”. Which would’ve been fine if it did come through, but instead we wasted 45 min at $60 for the drive, which was treated as ‘well that sucks’
No communication, no flexibility and zero accountability. I’ve worked in food/bev for a very long time. This was quite possibly the worst experience I’ve had. There was no effort to acknowledge their bad communication/organization and no attempt to provide a voucher for the mistake and/or reschedule our reservation for the next available time and day. The attitude of the manager was dismissive and just overall disinterested.
Looking at the other comments here, seems I’m not the only one to have this issue….
Tl,dr… Just buy a bottle.
Tyler Campbell — Google review
Clearly trading off the Mumm brand only. Tasting was awful. We were left 15 minutes before anyone even came and welcomed us, another 20 minutes until the first tasting was served. Then our waitress served us flat (warm) sparkling, claiming that is how it came, and only after I insisted she fetched another bottle then she admitted the last serving was in fact flat.
Then there was a calamity around her dropping a cork somewhere which seemed to be more important to discuss then actually anything about the wine or vineyard. The only fact we got was that they sometimes seat upwards of 500 people a day. I agree - The experience was like being on a factory conveyor-belt line, and not a very organised one at that.
We left there agreeing that this was the worst tasting experience we had tried, by far.
Rico e liso — Google review
We arrived at Mumm just shy of 1 hour early for our tasting. After check in, the staff informed us that they would not be able to seat us early and we could see that They were busy. Since most vineyards are by appointment only, we didn’t really have a choice but to wait around. Not too terrible since it was a beautiful day. We explored the shop and made our purchases, walked to the vines for photo ops, and even visited the “art gallery” which is more a collection of digitized photos. As our appointment time approached, a random down pour of rain began. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to enjoy the terrace for the Oak Terrace tasting, but we were sat inside due to the rain and about 15 minutes after our time. The wines were nice and the pairings of cheese etc. were ok, but overall we felt the cost of the experience did not justify the quality we received. The one positive part of the experience was our server’s, Eric, knowledge and recommendations. Overall, we wouldn’t recommend Mumm based on our experience, but would recommend the sparkling wines to those new to drinking wines.
Beau Winfrey — Google review
We came in late, and Sara helped us out. Didn't make us feel rushed and just let us enjoy our time there. She even recommended a couple local spots for dinner. We ended up buying a couple drinks.
Melleann Whalum — Google review
Man the sparkling bubbly is very tasty. Man very flavorful and unlike many of the dry and vinegary wine I have had in the past. It was simple to go in and picked up a few bottles. The base wines they sell are just as tasty as the high end bottle so mixed it up. Customer service people were kind and attentive. This wine is a little sweeter than most brand according to colleagues who live in the area. The sweetness totally work for me enjoy!!
Desmond Lomax — Google review
The “Oak Terrace Tasting experience” was amazing, but recommended for special moments because of the price. The wines, food, artisanal cheese were all great, and the gluten free toast was very kind (I'm celiac). Excellent service, very comfortable space and beautiful landscape. Tips are charged.
Natalia — Google review
Special thank you to Jojo who took us through our tasting. We had many questions about the area and the winery and she took the time to answer everything we needed. She also gave us a list of the best restaurants in the area. The wines were all delicious and property is beautiful.
Leida Tymchuk — Google review
We went here as part of our honeymoon back in September 2023 and had the worst service ever. It was hard to flag down the wine server for the next tasting in our flight every time and he seemingly profiled us as he was keen to cater and service a different table but ignored us every time he passed our table (which was right by the door to go inside). He seemed rushed and short worded with the tastings. This was by far our least favorite tasting experience on our honeymoon and first time in Napa.
Caitlin Sullivan — Google review
We had reservations here and they canceled in us due to weather. However, the weather turned out fine and there was no need to cancel. In addition, I called to try and fit us back in here and they turned us down flat. No ability to accommodate after they canceled on us. Truly poor customer service.
Whitney Knight — Google review
Mumm sparkling wine was wonderful. Our charcuterie plate was wonderful too. However, the gentleman that was our tasting host seemed bored with his job. He was very robotic about his presentation and totally aloof. He poured the sparkling wine and said “let me know how you like it,” and rushed off. We felt like we were a burden to him even though we were the first and only people there. We will continue to buy your wine because we like it. As a representative of your beautiful winery he needs to be more engaging with your customers especially being a manager. The one star is because of him.
Betty Harrison — Google review
Highly recommend coming to Mumm’s Napa for their delicious and festive sparkling wine flights! Chad was AMAZING, and the most knowledgeable when answering all of our questions :)
We visited for my birthday and the Mumms team made us feel so welcome! Looking forward to returning and enjoying the wine we came home with!
Alex K — Google review
Service orientation amongst staff is poor, almost as if they are doing a favour coming to work. The staff show little flexibility to meet customer requirements - we wanted a table in the sun but they wanted to keep it free in order to help in serving the next table! When we took the table in the shade both the gas heaters did not work. The staff fiddled around a bit but left without fixing, without even a word of apology. The server opened a couple of bottles almost in the face of one of our group, showing little regard for personal space.
Sanjiv Khullar — Google review
Just had a tasting with Jojo! I've been a member for some time now. This has been my favorite experience by far! She's knowledgeable, kind and interactive! 15/5 highly recommend a tasting with Jojo!
Cakebread Cellars is a family-owned winery dedicated to producing exceptional wines with sustainability in mind. Starting from a small 22-acre plot of land, the winery has expanded to 1,600 acres with 16 different vineyards. Visitors can settle into their charming tasting room and sample their renowned Chardonnay and robust Cabernet Sauvignons.
I came here with my husband on a Thursday afternoon to enjoy a tasting. Our tour started right on time with Art and I can't say enough great things about it. Art was so informative, funny, and engaging that he truly made the trip! It helped as well that the grounds were stunning of course and there was lovely wine.
The wine was very good, I was a big fan of their chardonnay which wasn't buttery or oakey at all. Honestly I enjoyed everything that we tried.
I'd highly recommend a stop in. You aren't able to go around the grounds unfortunately but you do get to enjoy a nice walk around parts of it on the tour.
Sammi — Google review
My partner and I recently visited this amazing winery, and it was an absolute delight! From the moment we arrived, we felt warmly welcomed by the staff. Our tour guide, Kathy, was exceptional!
The tour was informative and engaging, providing fascinating insights into the winemaking process. We learned so much and gained a newfound appreciation for the craft.
The wines we tasted were exquisite, each one a testament to the dedication and expertise of the winemakers. The ambiance of the winery was charming.
Overall, our experience here exceeded our expectations, and we can't wait to visit again. Highly recommend this winery for anyone looking for a delightful and enriching wine tasting experience.
Catalina — Google review
Had a great time with friends on a Sunday afternoon here! Our server, Zachary, was so nice and funny. He made our time so enjoyable and the depth of knowledge he had in wine was amazing.
The venue is gorgeous, and there's a nice back seating area where we had the wine tasting. The selection was good and it didn't feel crowded at all. Would definitely come back!
Andrew John — Google review
This is a great winery to visit in Napa Valley, we were lucky enough to have a private tour of this cellar, they’ve been making wine for little over 50 years.
Their Chardonnay was excellent, so is the Cabernet Sauvignon, so smooth and delicious, especially when you pair it with a nice juicy steak!
They grow their own vegetable garden, that the chef uses in his dishes.
The place is very clean and organized and the staff are very friendly and helpful.
Thank you for making our tour such a memorable one.
Michael Chahin — Google review
Dean was a wonderful host. Please ask for him when booking your tasting. We had such an informative and fun tasting with him and the group we were placed with. Cakebread has been one of my go-to wines for a few years, but I had no idea the wines they are keeping for members/tasting guests. Oh wow! Try the 1986 cab and any of the Dancing Bears.
Misty Whitten — Google review
A staple of Napa valley. A must visit if you will. The tasting menu and the aesthetics of venue are amazing. It was raining when I visited which meant we got a chance to sit inside. You get the impression you’re in a Scandinavian ultra modern cabin when you pop in through what seems like a secret wooden door.
The wines are fabulous and service is superb!
Claire Hanna — Google review
Melissa gave us a fantastic wine tasting tour. We loved her personality and Cakebread stories. I would highly recommend this tasting and tour (with Melissa if you can 😁). I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the wine. I have seen Cakebread wine on restaurant menus, but thought the name sounded gimmicky so didn't try it. I didn't realize it was just the last name of the founder. The wine is good. If we lived closer then we would have become members. The Vinyard is beautiful and well worth a visit.
Kristen Verberne — Google review
Stopped in here after trying to find wineries I hadn't heard about from anyone else. We were really impressed by everything. The property itself is beautiful and you can tell they care about making you feel like you're right at home.
Our tour guide was awesome, had a ton of knowledge about the winery and the area, and took us through the entire property with stops along the way.
The wine itself is top notch. I know everyone finds what they like, but Cakebread has some really good stuff. The clear winner is the Rose, or Porch Wine, because you can really feel the care that went into it.
Neesh Shah — Google review
We took part in their 50th Anniversary wine tour, which included food and wine pairing. Kelly provided us with a lovely tour experience. Their red wines were outstanding, and we were pleasantly surprised by how tasty their chardonnay was. My husband enjoyed it so much that we joined their wine club.
Marie Kang-Scott — Google review
We had a fantastic experience at Cakebread Cellars yesterday. Our group consisted of 7 adults and one child, making it quite sizable, but Kathy skillfully led our tour and even managed to captivate the attention of the 2-year-old. The tour was highly informative, with Kathy adeptly sharing all the intricacies of Cakebread's wine-making process. The property itself was stunning, boasting a beautiful garden and outdoor spaces. Kathy provided insights into their kitchen and the origins of some of the ingredients from their gardens, also showcasing the wine club. The wines we tasted, around 5 to 6 varieties, were delightful. My wife developed a strong liking for the white wines, while the majority of the group favored the Vaca Cab. If you find yourself in Napa Valley, a visit to Cakebread Cellars is a must, and I recommend requesting Kathy Martin as your guide.
vineet daniels — Google review
Cakebread was awesome and the tasting guide Carl was fabulous. The tour was very informative and interactive. Wines were terrific. Beautifully maintained facilities. Would recommend and definitely ask to be with Carl’s group!
Levi Nitzberg — Google review
Beautiful atmosphere, good wine, amazing pairings at the tasting, and super amazing chef!!
We were celebrating our birthdays and were surprised with a personalized card at our tasting which made this experience a bit more special!
The venue was exquisite, modern yet rustic, wood throughout and amazing photography filled the walls. The tasting room was well lit with natural light and the reflections of the light through the wine glasses was really neat!
The wines were good and with the food pairings made it even better. The chef came out and explained the menu and the. During the tour took us back to the kitchen area and showed us a few different techniques on how they unravel a corn cob, and how they sun dry a specific fruit- very cool to have see this!
N J — Google review
Jane and Karen were so helpful and sweet for our guided tasting! Both ladies had great notes for the wines we tasted and really nice recommendations for the rest of our Napa trip. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience here, including the beautiful wooden buildings and concrete fermentation eggs. Cheers! 🍷
Hayley O'Neil — Google review
This place is actually better than I thought it would be. Because we had three military IDs and we all got a free tasting and tour. The wine was a lot better than I thought it would be. The inside, with the egg like shells of where they keep the wine is so creative and cool. Service was great. The tour was awesome! I would go back again!
Terra Scott — Google review
Really lovely experience and superb wines. We did a tour, led by Jane. She was absolutely fantastic and created a relaxing and memorable experience for us. Her knowledge was top notch and she answered all of our questions we had along the way. Highly recommend stopping by! The grounds are beautiful, although one of the more historically older vineyards of the area, it has a modern and sleek finish.
Jess — Google review
Super friendly, unpretentious staff and lovely wines. Dina was our guide and historian for an interesting tour of the facility. She had great dining recommendations for after our tour as well. Really enjoyed Cakebread Winery!
The excursion showcases picturesque vistas aboard an antique train carriage, a delectable four-course epicurean feast, and halts for wine tastings at three renowned wineries - Robert Mondavi Winery, Charles Krug (which is the oldest winery in Napa Valley), and V. Sattui.
This is a great winery experience in the Napa area. The wine and cheese selection is great and the waiting skills of the staff is very nice. Would definitely recommend this for a couple or with your friends.
Akshay Raje — Google review
The inclusion of winery-only selections in the tasting menu was a highlight, offering a unique opportunity to savor wines not available in retail. The host was friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing our understanding of the wines. The ambiance provided a relaxing and laid-back environment, allowing us to truly unwind.
Alice Hou — Google review
I visited on April 25, 2023, did the Vineyard to Table three course luncheon - spectacular food and wine pairings, and the chef did a perfect job accommodating my vegetarian diet. The wine was outstanding, the pours were extremely generous, and the history and the winery are legendary. Highly recommend!
Jeanette Johnson — Google review
I have been coming here quite often in the past 15 years. Before Covid, they had many tour options but now are mainly focused on tasting. We had a corporate gathering and wanted a winery tour here, only option was the Vineyard to Table Lunch which included a tour. However, after we got there, I was told that the winery will be going under renovation and some parts of the winery like the aging room was closed off so the winery tour was reduced to minimal. We still had a great time despite the short tour. The lunch was presented way better than our expectations and everything was so fresh and delicious. Wines we had were also super good too.
Iceman Y — Google review
Gone are the days you can just pull up at a winery or tasting house without a reservation. We wanted to check out the grounds as we were early for another reserved tasting nearby. It’s beautiful and spacious. Though we were not able to go inside-the outside grounds were equally scenic and gorgeous
yai vongsaphay — Google review
One of the most famous winery in Napa valley. Tasting was excellent. Wines were awesome and it was more pleasant thanks to our wine expert Vincent. Our family spent a wonderful time here! We bought 3 bottles of wines we've tasted and got 15% off. Thanks again for making a precious memory for our family.
hong beomjoo — Google review
Very impressed, one of the godfathers in Napa, the wine tasting with Vince giving us info re the wine and background on the vineyard was amazing. The setting was awesome, a beautiful day.
William Lai — Google review
Sadly, since it was bought by a new private equity company this is no longer the spot or wine club for us. I have been a wine club member for 6+ years and have fond memories here, but those are just memories now. Here's what happened: For wine club members, poor customer service... silently increased wine club prices by +50%... AND closed the on-site tastings due to renovations... no more concerts (Mondavi used to support the arts...it was a big part of their mission/vision for the property)...
Now, there seems to be a focus on profit over art and wine making. Making a tasting reservation is all-digital & cumbersome... There's never availability for members. Members used to be able to simply call ahead. No one is responding to customer service voicemails or emails. Asked to cancel my membership and they still charged my card anyway. This saddens me because this place has so much historic value & the sommeliers who serviced the establishment for YEARS were some of the BEST in Napa. Well informed, friendly, multi-lingual, etc. The new "establishment" fired everyone or drove them away. They're now charging my credit card automatically for wine bottles I never selected or purchased. The membership I selected was originally $250 every 3 months with free pickup for locals, now its $400+ with shipping. I now have to change my credit card numbers so they'll shop charging me. Yikes! Nothing about the new business model appeals to me as a long time member.
Nicole Hartman — Google review
Must-go winery and never goes wrong! Their souvenir shop was wonderfully renovated during pandemic. I bought their wine opener(great quality with wooden box) as a gift for multiple times🎁
Yoomi — Google review
I honestly had my reservations about going to a more mainstream winery, but I will say that Mondavi far exceeded my expectations. The wines were exceptional. Ask for “Red,” she was the perfect guide for our tasting flights!!!
Artesa Vineyards & Winery, located at 1345 Henry Rd., offers a complimentary glass of sparkling wine to visitors upon arrival. The winery is situated on a hilltop and boasts a unique design - the top of the highest point on their property was removed, a winery was inserted, and the grass was replanted on top to resemble a half-submerged submarine.
Went to the tasting today with some great friends who live out in the area. The entire experience was well worth the trip. Beautiful landscapes and a great selection of wines.
Drew Hollomon — Google review
We visited on a Tuesday afternoon with our baby. No reservation. We sat outside on the terrace with our stroller though there was also space indoors for us as well. There is a handicap accessible entrance/elevator. We were happy to find a family-friendly tasting room. The views were out of this world. I recommend visiting just before sunset as you’ll see in the photos — it was gorgeous. The wine was enjoyable, but you’re really here for the view. $60 tasting fee waived with the purchase of 4 bottles.
Meg — Google review
Artesa is a must-visit gem in Napa! 🌟 Nestled in the picturesque Los Carneros region, this winery is a little slice of Spain right in California's backyard.🍷
The views alone will take your breath away - rolling hills, the shimmering San Pablo Bay, and even a peek at the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance! It's a sight to behold.
Step inside and you're greeted by the lively energy of the bar. But the real magic happens when you move outdoors, soaking up the warm sunshine and taking in the stunning vistas from every angle.
Our fantastic host Jordi made the experience unforgettable! His passion for the estate-grown artisan wines and knowledge of the unique terroir was infectious. Plus, he was just an all-around lovely person!
Trust me, if you're looking for a fun, beautiful, and delightfully different winery experience in Napa, Artesa is the place to be! Raise a glass of their Spanish-style Tempranillo or the superb Pinot Noir and savor the moment - you won't regret it.
Krisztina Ilosfai — Google review
Cool spot that almost looked like an airport lounge with a fantastic view, in between the hills separated but a infinity pool. On a beautiful today, I'm sure the reelection of the sky in the water would be really pretty.
Wide selection to try starting with sparkling down to reds. We needed to rush the end because they didn't have enough staff and we needed to go. The server had to run around to cover the whole table, honestly felt so bad for him.
Then we ended up having to chug the last red . This was the most comfortable seating out of all of them with really pretty architecture and decor. If you wanted to buy some art, they have a little gallery as well
Just don't expect to learn a lot about the wines
Bessy Tam — Google review
My boyfriend and I did the tapas and wine and it was so much fun! All of the wines we tasted were amazing and you could tell they were great quality. I was pretty tipsy by the end haha. I would for sure come back next time I’m in town, this was my favorite winery we went to. The staff was very nice and the tour was interesting and cool to see the behind the scenes of it all.
Katelyn — Google review
Stunning view and so beautiful vineyard! The only issue I experienced is that they were short staffed the day I went and instead of doing wine tasting they asked me to do wine by the glass because there are no enough staff. But overall experience was great.
Nour Farahat — Google review
Artesa is a splendid architectural experience that’ll be great for anyone into stylistic buildings. The views are amazing as well.
I’m pretty far from an experienced wine connoisseur, but their spanish carbenet stood out to me in the tasting session.
Charcuterie board was average at best, and they don’t have any meal options so I’ll strongly advice planning a meal before / after a tasting session
Dipo Doherty — Google review
Fantastic view and great service! Enjoy the wine tasting on the porch.
Joe Longo — Google review
Stunning property. For the price though, they serve SIPS. I think they were busy with a party that was happening later that evening. But we paid about $250 and for that amount (we did get bread and ham which was delicious) the wine pouring was not enough. This was our 4th winery of the trip and view wise again / truly spectacular but for the price I would think a little more wine in each tasting should have been a given… the biggest difference is that they don’t bring out the bottle and pour the wine at your table… felt like a very small amount of wine.
Giselle Espinales — Google review
Beautiful, tucked away winery with views outside and great wine! I'm not a Merlot gal, but the Merlot was my favorite!! Sylvia was so knowledgeable and hospitable during the tasting. And the hostess at the front door was so friendly and welcoming! I'll definitely be back.
Andrea Byrd — Google review
I took 10 of my customers to this winery and had a wine tasting appointment. My tour guide introduced me to the individual that was going to take care of us and explained that I was the one paying for this and everything must go through me. He shows up to the table and tries to get my group to upgrade on the wine tasting. I argued with him 5 times telling him what I wanted and he just wanted us to upgrade. Finally got him to agree to what I wanted. He came and pored the wine and we had to ask 2 times what it was he was pouring. He came back one time and tried to get us to buy food and told him no for the 6th time. I had to find him and ask if he was going to serve the next wine, as we have waited 30 min sense the first wine was poured. He finally shows up and I told him I wanted to tab out and was not happy. He tried to pour the wine. Finally get bill for 1 wine tasting for 9 people and he tried to overcharge me. Argued and finally got the correct price even though they should have discounted it.
Do not waste your time or money at this place. Totally ruined the whole purpose of doing wine tasting.
Peter Tank — Google review
What a beautiful experience. This winery is so pretty on the inside and out. The wine was very enjoyable and the chardonnay was so delightful we bought a bottle. The atmosphere was bright, crisp, and clean.
Angela Wentworth — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous!
We visited this place in Napa for the first time.
One of the most scenic spots around it is a place you must visit. The wines are tasty and help to complete the experience. We also got a cheese plate.
The vibe, view, and wine were a worthwhile experience.
Manoj P — Google review
The wines here are terrible, even our friend that does not care what wines she drink thought it was rough to drink. None of us could even finish any of our tastings. Our last wine reservation for our 3 day trip and should have listened to the reviews that this place is a tourist place.
Unfriendly front staff and service took forever.
The one star is for the beautiful winery as the photos show but it is a definitely a tourist trap.
Jennifer Vo — Google review
Excellent views and beautifully crafted wines. Service was a bit chaotic and they ran out of cheese plates, so we couldn’t order anything. However our server found some crackers for us. Bought a couple of bottles — really enjoyed the Cab Franc.
Maria Bruno — Google review
I had called and asked about reservations for our special trip to the West coast in 4 weeks. I was told there were openings and I mentioned that this was the winery I was looking forward to most. I reserved and paid the deposit that evening. I called two days later to clear up a discrepancy on my reservation and was told that they were canceling it. Apparently, there were only a few people who had reserved for that afternoon thus far and another party reserved the entire venue for the afternoon. The woman was not very apologetic, other than offering that I come earlier in the day but I already have other plans. To be made to feel that my visit was unimportant is bad business practice and would not recommend this place to anyone.
Domaine Carneros is a Napa winery that specializes in still and sparkling wines. The winery has a French-inspired chateau and formal gardens, which is perhaps best known for its production of sparkling wines.
This place was awesome! I’m not a big wine drinker and was just here for the vibes, but I actually loved the wine tasting!
The whole experience was amazing. The location is beautiful, and the sparkling wines and vegan cheese plate were fire. Jeremy was awesome! Very knowledgeable and friendly.
All of the wines are vegan and they have a vegan cheese plate made with a local brand! I love that this beautiful place is working to become more sustainable! I hope one day they drop the meat, fish, and dairy products on their menu and go completely vegan, but this is a good start.
I’d definitely recommend this place!
Luka Danger — Google review
My husband and I came here on a Saturday to enjoy or reservation for bites and bubbles. It was a sparkling wine and Moroccan food experience. The drive up to the property is amazing and the building is beautiful agai st the backdrop of the mountains. Then the grounds itself are amazing and provide a great place to sit and enjoy the weather.
The inside was no less awe inspiring. Beautiful and elegant was the best way to describe the decor. Our server Tom provided some background on the place and then walked is through the tasting. He was funny and engaging, definitely enjoyed him throughout our stay.
The wine was very good. I enjoyed how we got to try everything from extra dry to slightly sweet. The food was also delicious. For the price I wish we got a little bit more food, but the pours were generous.
I'd recommend a stop in!
Sammi — Google review
Although the grounds of this venue are stunning and the views are breathtaking, the wine flights in my wife and my opinion were only okay.
Pros:
-This place is beautiful. Think french country side and you have a good picture of what to expect. Beautiful sparkling chandeliers, grand fireplaces, uniquely painted walls, shining marble, and sweeping courtyards.
-There is ample places to sit inside and outside on a good day
-This venue is staffed well, and you aren't left waiting long
Cons:
-This place is very busy. If its not a nice day, and everyone has to sit inside, then the noise volume in the house is very loud, and its hard to have conversations easily.
-If you are a red wine drinker, this place doesn't not have a great selection. They are more known for their bubbly wines.
Matt M — Google review
We had a great experience. It looks like a castle and has beautiful views of the surrounding area. Reservations are a must. Outdoor sitting was the best even when the weather was windy. The sparkling wines are the specialty and all tastes great. Customer service was good as well.
Mony — Google review
Good and nice environment. Beautiful winery yard.
The tasting rooms have very good decorations. You can buy all kinds of wine related goods and souvenirs.
Multiple wine and sparkling wine tasting options. Food pairing ranged from cheese to smoked salmon. I am fully satisfied with these options.
Service was good from the server we have. But the persons who were standing there for refilling water were not as good as the server. Every time we had to call and ask him to refill our water or crackers. As the tip is 18% or up, we expected the service should be better.
John Z — Google review
The entrace is out of this world. Super photogenic. The wine tasting starts at $40 pp, which is really reasonable in my opinion. We ordered a smoked salmon and vegetarian cheese. Both were delicious. Definitely will recommend this place to my friends
Flower T — Google review
Ok I am not a Big Champagne person. So you have to understand that to begin with. However I thought the grounds were wonderful and the tour was definitely memorable. the staff was careful to explain to us the process and we were never left wanting for an empty glass. This was a good use of the time and for those y who love champagne I think it would be a miss to skip this.
Ruben Williams — Google review
Although the architecture and grounds are beautiful, I was left underwhelmed by the wine flight. While at the property, I selected the “Grand Flight.” Honestly, I only sipped on two of the wines. The other two did not sit well on my palate and I left them behind on the table. I sampled wines from three other wineries, and much preferred them to DC. If you are expecting a reimbursement for your wine tasting if you purchase a bottle, don’t look here. Also, I was disappointed we were only permitted in one room while on property.
Kimberly Krivich — Google review
I’m not a huge fan of sparkling wine, especially when it comes to sweet wines. But when you’re surrounded by the beauty of this French-styled winery - it elevates your experience.
Owned by the tattinger family from France
Sun Lee — Google review
This was my first time visiting Napa and this winery definitely took the cake for my favorite winery all day. The sparkling options for flights were delicious. We really enjoyed our server he even gave us a poor of one of their best sellers off of the flight menu. We tried to make reservations however they were fully booked but when we walked up to the counter they still allowed us to be seated immediately. Beautiful views. I will be back.
Sarah Abigail Ibanez, DO — Google review
Had a great experience with our wine tasting. We had the grande tasting, sparking sampler, cheese and charcuterie plate, and sturgeon dip. I would recommend all of the above and our server Alex was also great. Views were gorgeous and the weather was perfect. Would definitely come back again.
Richard Woo — Google review
We arrived for our appointment and we’re asked to waited for a few minutes. No worries. The front desk host said you can walk around the estate for the while and we will text you once the table is ready. We were given a table right at the entrance, which we weren’t pleased about as being a Sunday, it was quite crowded and so asked we can get any other table which we saw were available and our host mentioned you may need to wait a while, which we agreed upon and she later went on to say what are you expecting and I did point out to her a few other tables and she blatantly lied we have someone waiting. There were almost about 5-7 2-seatings that were available and she would not give us that. Saw her seating a couple (later than us) on one of the table which they didn’t want and later they were moved to the table of their choice. Definitely felt discriminated. I did notice they are very picky and choosy on whom and where they are seating guests. We did our wine tasting and our table host was really polite and good and was very informative, but the front desk host is utterly rude. Do not take disrespect from them. If you are not getting what you want, I would recommend walk off because there are tons of much better wineries with very good experiences. Their wines are average as well. Would not recommend them for wine tasting.
Aditya Nahar — Google review
What a special place! A couple of days ago, I was proposed to at this beautiful establishment. While that experience in and of itself was an amazing one, the wine tasting experience was also 5-stars!
The pairings were very well thought of. My
taste buds were happy from the first sip to the last bite!
Jachelle Sologuren — Google review
We stopped by to take a look without reservations because it's so pretty that not to stop by. We are glad to see how it looks and maybe return for a wine-tasting experience.
They have in, out, patio, and private areas for members & non-members.
I checked out their website, and their wine tasting ranges from $40 to up to $175/person. Definitely worth the visit, and if you're thinking of booking, it's pretty chill, but also busy here, and relax for the experience!
Y T — Google review
I've been here several tims. I have family who lives in the area. We always visit because the wines are good, the chateau is very picturesque. But the reason why I was compelled to write a review with 5 stars this time around was the excellent customer service particularly of their staff, Helen.
Today I took a friend to see the place for the first time. It was a rainy day and a last minute decision for us. The sign at the parking lot said the tastings were for reservations only. We tried to check if they would be able
to accommodate 2 walk-ins. Unfortunately, they were full. And that was fine.
But to our amazement, Helen - the front desk staff- offered to let us try a glass of our preferred wine for free. That was a very kind, and unexpected gesture. It was a simple offer but it made our day. She made us loyal to this brand. I'm going to order 6 bottles to be shipped to NY and I'm considering being a club member... just because of that kind gesture from Helen!!!
Mary S (Doc) — Google review
Beautiful scenery, great selection of both, still, and sparkling wines. Friendly waiters. Elegant and cozy place without the outrageous prices of other wineries. The front desk staff could use a little dose of friendlines and a smile, but overall, excellent experience. Very well recommended.
Ronny Mino — Google review
We were about two hours late to our reservation, because our flights were delayed, but they were so nice that they got us in! Very very nice people and the customer service the whole time was great! The selection is amazing! Tons of sparkling wine ! I wish we could do all of the tastings! Everything we tasted was great! I read online somewhere that they give a bigger military discount than they did, but I guess that website was wrong. They still gave us a discount, but it wasn’t as much as the blog I read. As soon as you walk up, you feel like you are about to walk into a palace or a mansion. Definitely get some pictures! Even when you are inside or outside on the patio, the view is spectacular! Definitely one of the wineries that you do not want to miss!
Terra Scott — Google review
The wine was great as well as the service! Did the Pinot noir tasting and loved it. Well worth the visit! Staff was super friendly. They were under construction so a tad confusing as to where to go but other than that great! Would love to visit again!
Silena Yow — Google review
Wow! This was what I thought when I first visited Domains Carneros many years ago. I keep going again every time when I come to Napa now. I love the magnificent building and the beautiful views when I'm on the top of the stairs.
The wine tasting at Domaine Carneros is one of the best in the Napa area. This is the place you don't want to miss when you're visiting Napa.
Michael W. — Google review
The food was amazing for the tasting and the bubbles were delicious. Overall the service was great. It’s more on the pricier side for what you are getting. But none the less, everything was worth it
Enormous amusement park filled with high-speed roller coasters & rides, plus wildlife attractions.
It’s good, sort of feels smallish compared to some other parks I’ve been to. For example, I like the Arlington TX Six Flags Over Texas slightly more.
Medusa is a great warm up ride, having a good blend of speed, smoothness, and g-forces. The Superman and Batman rides are a touch more intense, and both excel in different ways. Superman has the speed and a “flight” feel. Batman is crazy in all the different forces, and seems to fit Batman’s style.
I was excited about trying Flash but… closed. Same for Wonder Woman, also down for maintenance once we got in line.
Joker is the most bonkers, and turns it all up to 11. When we went, this one had the longest line by far. If you’re in the area and have the time… wow. Check it out
Bathrooms were clean. The food at Johnny Rockets was actually good, the Burger and chicken strips didn’t task like park food :-)
Jared Meaux — Google review
We went on a weekend :/ First mistake. But, we live close and ended up splurging for the season pass as after 2 uses it pays for itself. Next outing with be during the weekday. Lines were pretty terrible. When you start looking around the park more closely everything is covered in weeds and cobwebs. The overall appearance of the park is run down and dusty. Disney would never let their parks get so run down. Flow of parking was set up really well; although it was a haul to get to the park (you’ll definitely get your steps in just getting from the parking lot to the park!) They do offer bus service we just didn’t want to wait for it. You can bring in food and beverages we saw many strollers bringing in their own items. They also have refillable water stations so we will absolutely bring our water bottles next time. (We spent $30 in just water alone). Overall, it was a fun experience but we have some tips and tricks to have a more enjoyable experience next go.
Katy Werstler — Google review
We love going here for family time...especially during the holidays! Fun watching the kids stretch their boundaries and try new rides!
Do wish there was a schedule of which rides were open when with all the staffing requirements/schedules, and wish park was cleaner (rides and show seats especially), but overall ok.
Laura “BehaviorMomma” Matlock — Google review
I went today! I have been before, but I have never been on any of these roller coasters until today! This park is doing so much better! I only got to spend 3 hours in the park due to the hours being cut short. But I still got 2 Joker rides, a Superman ride, and a Sidewinder Safari ride! The cool part about being there in the rain, there was hardly any lines! I think the longest I waited for a ride was like 15 to 20 minutes for Joker! Joker! The one that always has long lines! The park was so dead! And they did give us free tickets since they cut our day short. So I will definitely be back!
Splash Mountain Dorrier — Google review
This place have lots of potential. If they make everything new and put more rides and more of there rides to be active. I promise more people will come. This park is kinda sad. Most rides are not working and everything looks really old. Please bring the park back to live so more people can enjoy it. I hate to see parks likes this look like this. Although they do have some cool animals.
ramesh reshad — Google review
Really fun place. It was pretty hot but later in the day turned out fine. Lines really long but maybe it was due to 4th July weekend. There was some really wild rides. I think the Joker was the ride to go on everyone loved it even our youngest of 9. Firework show was fantastic.
John Ferreira — Google review
For a late autumn day, lanes were really long. In a whole day (10am-6pm) we rode 5 rollercoasters, otherwise, we were srtanding in the lanes. Some areas of the park were closed. The rides were fun, but waiting for 2 hours and then seeing rides going around half empty was really annoying. Introduce the single passenger fast line, and make the experience better for everyone.
Mia Šimičáková — Google review
We had a fun first experience here during Oktoberfest and the kick off of Fright Fest.
It took some time orient ourselves but we got lots of walking in and toured the entire park. No paper maps available just digital.
Being the first night Fright fest haunted houses were a bit delayed and staff was confused about the one you had to pay extra for (which was a big disappointment after spending so much already) and we didn't get to see that one. The houses themselves were done well with some scare actors inside. Some lines moved quickly and some were very slow. The halloween park decorations were pretty good overall.
Oktoberfest food kiosks were incredibly slow. One person taking orders, money AND getting the food while others were around but not helpful. And the next day we bought the sampler pass but when we came back in the evening everything was closed so we didn't get to use it. :(
Overall the butterfly house and big coaster were our favorite, it was nice they were close together. We'd go back, you can do most all of it in a day.
Lovely Rita — Google review
The kids and I had lots of fun when we went during black history month last year in February 2022! The lines weren't too bad, and the price of the food was just a tad bit pricey but not too heavy on my pockets, lol! We got season tickets and can't wait to attend again for a family trip!
Tee — Google review
We just went to the park for the first time this year over spring break.
We have been coming here for years. We get a season pass which makes sense for our family since we live close to the park.
We also do the season dining pass, which if you go a lot this is a good deal rather than buying a meal each time at $20 each. This pass has changed since we started coming to the park. It used to include a snack and the annual refillable drink bottle. Now it is only 2 meals. And the park has closed a few of the food venues in the last couple of years so mostly burgers and chicken wings is what is offered around the park, with the exception of the food court.
The park no longer takes cash so you need a card, or have to purchase a park card at guest services.
Quite a few of the rides were closed as well, but I assume this is due to school still being in session so not as many employees.
Naomi Alfaro — Google review
There wasn’t any long lines that really needed the flash pass besides Superman which was my favorite ride there. It is cheaper to buy online that way you know what day is available including on blackout dates. We were able to feed sea lions with a purchase of food and see the other animals available
Fatima — Google review
Absolutely wonderful! The park has so many accommodations for people with special needs. My daughter had fractured her hip and can’t stand or walk for long periods, and my son has severe Tourette’s, making going out sometimes very difficult.
The line for an ADA pass was long, but a worker heard my son getting louder and louder and helped us immediately. The workers at every ride were polite, friendly and were mostly all smiles! And very patient!
I actually lost my ADA pass, but the worker could see my daughter was in a wheel chair and let them right on the ride while I got another pass.
With the ADA pass they had little wait times which made it possible for us to go! If it wasn’t for this pass we wouldn’t be able to go. Most workers looked at the pass and let us right on! They didn’t make us feel uncomfortable for using the pass!
Only downside… food is pretty horrible and overpriced and very long wait times…. But again the staff was very friendly.
Only problem we had… I could see my daughter and she needed help, but where she was, was turned into an exit, from the last five minutes I was with her… He staff would not let me go up to help her… they made me walk a mile around to where she was… and actually laughed that I had to do that… so although most workers were amazing, these 2 women had no empathy or compassion. So six flags still has work to do with a few employees! Thank you for a great time six flags!
Also after the dolphin show they let my son hang out five minutes and interact with the dolphins! My son rarely uses his words and all he could talk about when he got home, was how he got to train the dolphins… it really made his night and it will be an experience he will always remember! They were awesome with him.
Also FYI, I couldn't find any family restrooms...My son is a wonder and needs a companion with him at all times, so he had to use the female restrooms...
kara hallenbeck — Google review
We use to love 6 Flags before Covid. Now everything is more expensive but nothing has changed. It takes 30 minutes just to get from the freeway to park. Another 30 minutes to a hour to get into the park. And then half the rides are closed, the lines are long, most of the restaurants were closed even on a Friday during spring break so the lines to get food were crazy at places that were open. The app to buy food ahead still had a 45 minute wait and a long line to pick up. On top of that it wasn’t working and wouldn’t let you check in even when you were there. Even the bottles they sell for drinks are smaller. We paid $38 for a refillable cup which is about 2/3 the size of the old bottles. My mom and I walked around and looked at what’s left of Marine World Africa USA and did enjoy our day which is why I still rated a 3. But the kids only rode 2 rides in 5 hours (lines too long and the last one which would have been the 3rd ride they got to the front and it broke down after a hour and a half in line.
Maryrose Sweeting — Google review
Very fun like always!!! Enjoyed our much needed family trip. All my kids loved the experience and wish to come back soon!!!! All the employees very courteous and pleasant. No issues with rides we went on. Wish they still had the killer whale and sharks. Thanks 😊
The Lemana Family — Google review
Despite the outrageous prices of EVERYTHING nowadays we took our daughter here to spend a couple of days for her most recent birthday and there was something for the whole family. It was our toddler’s first time going and he LOVED IT. Our daughter had been before but was very hesitant about rides — but this time she got on all of the looney toon seaport rides AND took on most of the moderate thrill rides! As a parent it was very cool to watch her have so much fun and evolve. Season passes and dining passes made the experience more affordable and the new additions to the amusement park - more animals, excellent animal shows that were educational, and rides - made it a great place to have lots of fun. Plus the firework show was fantastic! We spent two full days there — one where the park was open later for the fire work show and one where it closed on time — from 11 am to closing and we STILL didn’t experience everything there was to see! We will definitely be going back and hope to try the new hurricane harbor also.
Lyneda Lincoln — Google review
Went for our friends bachelor party. Rode the Batman and Medusa; great rides. $15 beers not exactly worth it. Free shows were definitely worth it. Got to see one of the workers scream at kids feeding the sea lions. *Don't dangle the fish, just drop them*
Ryan Alexander — Google review
The park isn't what it used to be, but they do have incredibly fast roller coasters and definitely worth the discounted ticket price of $40 during a weekday! I hope they bring back the Looney Tunes show for the kids and fix the broken rides. Some rides need more than 1 employee working it because the line moves really slow... like on the Gorilla Ride....
It's a great value for the family, for sure. Every kid would love coming here especially during summer break.
Friendly Notary — Google review
I bought the diamond passes for my kids and husband. I also bought a speedy parking pass. Which I learned comes with the diamond pass, so I wasted money. It wasn't clear online what came with the pass! I had a few different employees explain it to me, and they were incredibly nice about it.
We arrived at the park 15 minutes before opening and we got through parking super fast and we left at 6 pm.
We fed the sea lions and pet stingrays and saw lots of different animals. The staff are very well educated on the animals and their names. We were talking with a sweet old lady(employee) at the puma and Wolf's, and she was telling us all these amazing facts and had my kids engaged and excited.
We waited between 5 minutes to an hour for rides. We got to ride most of the rides.
We had so much fun exploring the park, and there are lots of places to sit down and rest. If you're not a fan of rides, there is still lots to do between shows and animals to see!
I'm very excited to spend the summer with my kids here!
Carolanne Leavitt — Google review
Relatively small but entertaining place around bay area. Lot of rides for all ages and quite clean as well. Young adults and kids will have lot of fun. The staff are cordial and good.
Vikram Samal — Google review
It's been about 10 years since I have been to this theme park, and today I came with my daughter for her first time, she had a blast! She is just above 48inches tall so she was able to ride a handful of rides except for Medusa, superman, wonderwoman, and 2 more she will need to have a summer growth spurt for 😊 The theme park was clean and customer service was wonderful! Merchandise and extracurricular gaming and activities are priced fair! Shows and kids entertainment was fun and sighted some characters here and there! I suggest going in the morning to see animal engagement, but overall a family fun experience guaranteed.
mp espinoza — Google review
This was from October 2023 visit.
You cannot walk in to purchase tickets. You have to purchase online. The weird thing is, I tried several times to get tickets online but the thing is, the website is not accepting my card. They should do something about this and either accept payments upfront (what the hell are the terminals there for?). But they did make consideration for us when I explained to them that the site does not accept my card. So ⭐️ for that.
Some employees were lazy… some were constantly checking the time and saying outloud that she’ll be out in 2 hours. I mean, come on, it was not a busy day.
A P Y — Google review
I want to be clear that the location and the attractions are all very good. This Six Flags has some great rides and the animals are great. However, it is very irritating that because of mechanical or other issues that we were only able to go on three or four rides total during the day. Multiple times we stood in line for more than an hour just to have the ride shutdown for some reason unknown to everyone. To compund matters, some rides did not ever open so the lines for the rides that were running were very long. We will not return to this Six Flags or any others. We'll stick to Universal Studios or Disneyland/Disneyworld. This place is definitely not worth the money if you are not able to go on more than a few rides on any given day.
Charles Jenks — Google review
My family and I live in Idaho and visited Sacramento during Covid where lots of places were shutdown. The park wasn't in full operation.
We Bought the tickets online. Two adults tickets and two for our kids.
We tried to get there per the schedule on our tickets.
For unknown reasons they weren't going by that schedule time on the tickets.
We thought were trying to control crowd by giving out those schedules.
I'm not sure why the tickets have those time slots if they're needed.
We arrived late afternoon and they were done with almost all of the shows for the day.
We were lucky to enjoy the dolphin show. We loved to watching the dolphins display so we decided to put it on our to do list anytime we visit Sacramento again.
We were there again in 2022 .
This time too we missed our favorite dolphin show. The did the dolphin show earlier that day were visited. We were sad that on two different occasions we never got to enjoy to the fullest.
I recommend if you want to visit the place and get full benefits then plan to go early regardless of the time you see on your tickets so you don't miss some of the shows.
Plant to spend the whole day there should in case you have to stay later to enjoy all the shows.
I will suggest the management put the schedule of their shows for each day online so people can plan their trip accordingly.
Aside the rough schedule,the kids enjoyed the seeing the marine kingdom
Paulina Baffoe — Google review
Easy to get to park, general and preferred parking is pretty close to each other. $50 for parking, food prices are ridiculous $20 corndog and fries. not sure if you could bring food but definitely find out. Dippin dots were $10 each. I guess thats normal sur charges for amusement park.
Rides are great. Didnt wait too long for each ride but arrived when it opened.
Lila S — Google review
Great roller coaster park. Friendly staff, great rides.. but as expected.. Food cost isn't cheap. If you are only going one time, pack a lunch and grab a locker just outside the gate (or keep it in your car)
Or if you have a season pass, and are going to go 4-5 times.. get the food pass and eat up!
C Varty — Google review
We had a great time here! It's like sea world,but with more rides. My boys loved the wonder woman ride and batman ride. We also got to feed seals. The lines were not long wait times and it was all decorated for Christmas. Lots if gift shops and games.
Alcatraz Island, notorious for its past as a prison which once housed Al Capone, is now a museum accessible by ferry. Visitors can take an audio tour while on the island. To ensure admission, it's recommended to purchase tickets in advance online as they tend to book up quickly. In addition to its historical significance, visitors can also enjoy nearby attractions such as Lombard Street and Chinatown during their time in San Francisco.
This is an absolutely stunning oasis in the middle of San Francisco Bay. It’s so peaceful and so very beautiful with the gardens that the prisoners planted, and all the seabirds which call this island home. The historical aspect was very fascinating, and the audio tour was very interesting although a bit loud. Personally I really like historical sites, and this one was one of the most notorious that just has to be visited!
Darryl S — Google review
I've lived in this city for 16 years and this was the first time I visited this magnificent island. It's definitely more than just a prison. They landscape and bird sanctuary is quite remarkable. After the heavy rains the island is just so lush and green. There's so much history to Alcatraz. It's definitely worth a visit.
One recommendation is to ensure you get to the ferry 20 minutes before so you don't get bumped to the next ferry. I got there 4 minutes before our designated time and they turned us away because the ferry was full even thought we reserved for a slotted time.
Bring your own food and picnic there if you'd like since there aren't refreshments to purchase on the island. Enjoy!
Cynthia Boedihardjo — Google review
What an awesome experience. Starting with the ferry ride over with all the beautiful views. We did a day tour and it was pretty amazing and full of so much information. The kids and us did the audio tour which made it more interesting to learn and follow along as you walk the halls. This was a really neat experience and so many great pictures to be taken there and all around.
Valley Bee — Google review
Alcatraz is a must-visit on your visit to San Francisco especially if you’re a history buff. We did the night tour sometime back, and it was awesome. The tour guides were helpful, and narrated the stories which made the experience even more wonderful.
It gets cold on the island, so I’d recommend bringing a jacket. The ferry itself is a nice experience too. Overall, a wonderful experience to see and know more about Alcatraz and the life of the inmates there. Audio and self-guided tours are available as well.
Akshat Kumar — Google review
We did the behind the scenes tour, and the best option is if you ask me. Make sure you arrive early because they leave on time, and once the gate is closed, they will not open it again, and you will miss out. Wear comfortable shoes because there is a lot of walking and a lot of going up and down hills. The audio tour gave great information. The history alone was awesome. This is a must stop while visiting San Francisco. Make reservations ahead of time because they sell out fast.
Brenda Burgess — Google review
We did the audio tour and it was very evocative and fascinating. The island was originally designed to accommodate a military fortification and later converted to a federal prison in 1930s. The prison was shut down in 1960s and now it is a major tourist attraction. Famous inmates include Al Capone. There is also a souvenir store at the end of the tour.
Giovanni Scotti — Google review
Such an amazing peace of history.
I was really enjoying the visit, I would highly recommend going with the guide once you get there, our guide was awesome, and so knowledgeable.
You have a museum store where you can buy some goodies to have as a memory of your visit.
Ajdin — Google review
Really enjoyed this trip, and it helped that we had perfect weather for it!
The first part of the tour is a guided walk up to the cell house (which is great as it's a notoriously uphill walk, and this slow pace with plenty of stops and interesting stories really negates that, if it's something that concerns you!) For those who can't do the walk there's a little buggy trailer thing to drive you up!
The place is so atmospheric and I think if I'd do one thing differently it would be to go at night time instead, to really get a feel for it. As it was, it ended up with so many people there that it lost all the eeriness for me. I even made sure to book the first tour to "avoid the crowds" but I think lots of others did the same thing 😅🥴 you get a headset which gives you a guided tour of the cell house too, and once this is finished you can go around again if you want to, under your own steam. Once on the island you can stay all day if you like... You don't book a ferry back you just get on one!
Aside from the cell house you can also walk all around the majority of the island. Some parts are protected due to plant life and animals, but there are some spectacular sights, and the gardens are beautifully maintained (by volunteers!)
Basically though... If you're going to San Francisco, Alcatraz is an absolute must!
victoria bloor (marmalizer) — Google review
This is not an inexpensive attraction, and my wife wasn't enthusiastic about it. So I took my two teenage sons and left the wife and elementary-aged kids behind. This was ultimately a good call, as I don't think the young ones would have gotten much out of it.
However, the boys and I thought it was awesome. The ranger led tour that we started with was excellent. The ranger related a story of an inmate that he actually knew well in the early decades of his work on the island as a ranger. The story was interesting and moving. The audio tour of the cell block is clearly "award winning" for a reason. The audio includes background sound effects that make you feel like you're part of the story.
The accounts of attempted escapes are intriguing. The story of the gardens - and the gardens themselves - were unexpected, uplifting, and generally awesome. In short, I walked away from the experience with a renewed sense of hope for humanity, which was the last thing I expected in visiting a notorious prison!
If you can stomach the sticker price, this is a must-see attraction in the Frisco Bay area.
Zac Clark — Google review
It’s a definite must do when you visit San Francisco. I’ll tell you…the gardens were my favorite part. They take such good care of them. They are beautiful! I didn’t listen to the audio tour, but was able to gain the history through all the signs. The birds have pretty much taken over (and are protected), so be ready for lots of birds and lots of bird poop. The historical relevance of the island makes it neat to visit.
Susan Brown — Google review
Such a cool and unique experience. Went here on a family vacation. It's just so interesting that you can visit this island that was made as a prison. It's unlike any other tour. It's cool and spooky and you learn a lot! Would definitely recommend others to try it out!
Hunter Machin — Google review
I've seen the smaller Alcatraz Prison tour in Tennessee and that was cool alone but this was AMAZING! The grounds themselves are breathtaking alone. The history behind it was amazing too. Guards and inmates alike both worked on the grounds and in the garden. Of course you see the room where the famous escape happened in 1962. It was super cool to see all the different shades and layers of paint on the walls. Building itself was beautiful and such an amazing piece of history!!
Ali Winchell — Google review
We visited over labor day weekend. Loved it. What a great history lesson. Be prepared for a lot of walking. The ferry takes about 10-12 minutes each way.
Definitely do the audio tour.
Once you walk through into the Alcatraz waiting area Pier 33, make sure to view the 3D model they have and restrooms are to the left of the dock.
Sharon King — Google review
Title: A Must-Visit Historical Treasure in San Francisco.
From the moment you board the ferry in the bustling heart of San Francisco to the moment you set foot back onto the mainland, a visit to Alcatraz Island is a captivating and must-do experience.
As soon as you see the island appearing on the horizon, it's hard not to be taken aback by the historical weight it carries. Take the audio tour and you’re plunged straight into life as it was for inmates during the island's notorious past as a federal prison. The riveting tales narrated by past inmates and wardens themselves serves as a chilling yet enthralling guide. The experience feels incredibly genuine, almost as if you've been sent back in time.
The prison buildings, though somewhat dilapidated due to the ravishes of time, still retain their formidable demeanor and effectively evoke the eerie feelings of confinement. The solitary confinement cells are especially hair-raising; the tales of silence and isolation are effectively stirring.
Yet, Alcatraz is not just about the prison. Outside its cold, confining walls is a beautiful island teeming with wildlife, and the gardens maintained by the National Park Service add a touch of tranquility. Also noteworthy is the stunning panoramic view of the San Francisco skyline, offering wonderful photo opportunities.
This balance between historical gravity and raw natural beauty makes Alcatraz a compelling visit. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or simply an enthusiastic traveler, Alcatraz Island stands out as a must-explore gem in San Francisco.
Remember, you should book well in advance as slots fill up quickly due to the immense popularity of this attraction. The whole trip should take around three hours, though given the island's absorbing nature, your time might crawl or fly, depending on your level of fascination.
Enjoy your trip to this iconic piece of history, because a trip to San Francisco isn't complete without a visit to Alcatraz Island!
Gary Mitchell — Google review
Wasn’t sure what to expect but myself, and my kids aged 17,15 and 10 loved our visit. The audio tour is great and plenty of time to explore the island. The ferry service is efficient and planet of places to refill water bottles.
bobsloan79 — Google review
Great tourist spot and very informative. Highly recommend the audio tour. The ferry is there about every half hour so the wait time to go there or come back aren't that bad. The rangers have a lot of useful information so ask questions if you have any. It's a bit of a hike up the hills to get to the prison but there is a free tram available for those that need it.
Mike Gruey — Google review
Really really enjoyed the tour! It was an amazing experience and it was one of the things I wanted to do since I was a kid. The ticket includes a round trip with the ferry and everything on the island. Once you are there you are free to roam around wherever you want except the closed areas wich are unsafe. You have an audio tour of the cell blocks also which includes real audio footage. It is worth seeing it once in a lifetime and I totally recommend it!
Sebastian Banica — Google review
An awesome experience for those who love history and the stories from the Island of Alcatraz. We went at sunset which added another layer of depth to the overall experience and eeriness. Consider wearing a jacket as it was chilly on the ferry and walking around outside. The audio guide was well done amd appreciated.
Geoffrey Bishop — Google review
Loved this experience and the audio. It is very windy, cold, and the mist from the ocean can get you wet. So best way to go is probably a wind breaker. The west side of the Island has the best photos but the wind kicks hard so Ladies bring a hair tie unless you want photos with your hair flying everywhere.
Katherine — Google review
Absolutely loved my day here! I bought a ticket online although I could have easily saved the $8 processing fee and bought it at the gate. I’m sure that’s because I was there in the off season (mid-Jan). I signed up for an 11am slot but when I got there at 10:30 they were loading the boat and we ended up leaving at 10:45 so I was happy I arrived early. The trip over and back is only about 15 minutes but very windy. You can choose to stay inside the boat or on the deck.
It took me around 2.5 hours to leisurely explore the nooks and crannies as well as do the audio tour, which was the highlight. The gardens were amazing despite it being January so I can only imagine how pretty they are in full bloom. It’s a steep walk up to the cell house but there is a tram that can take you if needed. No food for purchase on the island, only water, so plan ahead. You can purchase both on the boat ride though. Sections smell like bird poop since it is a nesting site. Overall, a wonderful experience and interesting part of history!
Frankie Painter — Google review
Had an AMAZING time the photos do not do justice for just how beautiful the island is. The views here are outstanding. It is a bit of a walk up the hills so be ready! They do have a tram (it has very little capacity) that can take you up to where the audio tours start. I would definitely recommend doing the audio tour )it’s included in admissions).
Michael Drake — Google review
A super experience I recommend for all! Definitely do the audio tour, because they give you facts you've probably never heard. Lots of walking obviously, but you CAN go at your own pace, even with the audio tour. When you get there, you can leave whenever you want, as long as it is by the last ferry back to SF shore. We had a blast!
Cindy Eulitt — Google review
Definitely get there 30 minutes early. The ferry ride was really cool. You could see all of San Francisco. We did a lot of walking around Alcatraz. Almost 3 miles. Definitely wear comfy shoes. Was really cool and eerie. The audio tour was really interesting and informative.
S G — Google review
Lots of history here. Great audio tour telling some interesting stories. The agave garden path was open but fair warning you might want to skip it. The smell from the breeding birds sucked the beauty right out of it. You can catch the great view of the city from up top at the lighthouse.
Misty Thompson — Google review
We had a nice trip to the island. The fog was heavy on the bay which added an eerie atmosphere to the visit. It was interesting to see how the inmates lived-the housing is quite simple to say the least.
Walking the grounds outside the cell block was peaceful with some nice gardens and nesting birds all around. The mix of beauty and sinister are inspiring.
There are a few gift shops and restrooms located throughout the tour. It’s a powerful and beautiful way to explore a national historic site.
joseph borovich — Google review
As a history junkie, I loved visiting Alcatraz Island. Alcatraz City Cruises did a great job facilitating the shuttle to and from the island from Pier 33. We loved listening to the audio tour and just wandering the island. The gift shop and bookstore have great souvenirs and other items for purchase. I want to return to do the night tour.
Charles Jenks — Google review
Alcatraz Island and its prison are truly remarkable. Stepping onto the island feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by the echoes of its storied past. The atmosphere is charged with history, offering a poignant glimpse into the lives of its former inhabitants. Despite its picturesque setting, the prison exudes a sense of solemnity, serving as a poignant reminder of its dark legacy. A visit here is an unforgettable experience, immersing you in the rich history of this iconic landmark.
Clément Muth — Google review
Really great trip. The audio tour is excellent.....you get the headsets when you enter the main cell block. I'd go for the early tour so you avoid the bigger crowds. Opportunity for nice photos on the ferry ride. I'd book 3 months in advance.
Stuart Wadley — Google review
My husband and I really enjoyed the tour. It was self guided, and you get audio to go over the prison cells. You could easily be done in an hour, depending on how fast you go. There are some experiences you can do aside from the main audio tour. The night tour does give you some beautiful sunset pictures over the Golden Gate Bridge.
Jazmin Rodriguez — Google review
Have been looking forward to coming here for ages there was quite a big queue to get on boat going to island but everything was organised and staff friendly and helpful. Tour round was fantastic due to audio guide that brought the place to life walking round. Would highly recommend a visit here and I'm sure everyone who comes to San Francisco it will be a place on their to do list
michael horn — Google review
Well worth the visit out.
Fast loading onto and off ferry. A good start explanation of what too expect.
Audio tour was good. And good to see what it was like in the size etc in the prison.
A few exhibits or areas off limits and would be nice to get into in the future.
Tried to do the backstage guided tour, be great to do that bit if you want too book at least a month in advance as we found out when we arrived.
Good to see the rooms and the locations that the escape happened from.
Good job too he staff for keeping it running and making it accessible.
Brad McCaskill — Google review
Superb experience. Great audio guide. An educational as well as a very reflective experience. I personally enjoyed hearing the accounts of ex-prisoners and their views on Alkatraz. In 1963 the final prisoner left the island.
Thank you to the staff for making a pleasant experience on the island and on the prison.
Hamza Abid — Google review
We were there on March 11 2024, during spring break. We made our reservations beforehand, so no wait except in line to board the ferry. The ride over provided an excellent view of the city. It was pretty eerie. You get a set of headphones that describe each area of the prison. Criminals housed here had real basic quarters, as it should be. The shower room was totally wide open, whereas 20 or more men took their showers. Al Capone was one of the prisoners there. The gardens were very pretty. It was an experience one that you shouldn't miss if you are in the area
Fisherman's Wharf, located on the northern waterfront of San Francisco, is a bustling tourist destination filled with souvenir shops and stalls selling famous clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views of the bay, Alcatraz and Golden Gate bridge. The area also features a colony of sea lions and historic ships for touring. Ghirardelli Square is home to boutiques and eateries in a former chocolate factory.
Pier 39 is a busy bay side pier in San Francisco with scenic views of the bay and sea lions. There are many restaurants, shops and attractions here making it a popular tourist destination.
I love the hustle and bustle at this pier. Great time to spend with your loved ones. Been multiple times at this pier in different seasons. Spring equinox is a great time to be at this place. Plan to spend minimum of 2-3 hours at this place. Street parking is difficult to find, however parking garage for $15 flat fee is affordable and walking distance. Good vibes with great food, shows and music and visually appealing spots. Strongly recommend!
Taniket Sawant — Google review
I recently visited PIER 39 and had a wonderful time. This destination offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. The location boasts stunning views of the bay and is a perfect spot to spend a day with family or friends.
There are numerous restaurants and cafes to choose from, serving delicious food and drinks. I particularly enjoyed the seafood options, which were fresh and flavorful. The shopping opportunities are also plentiful, with a range of boutiques and souvenir shops to explore.
One of the highlights of my visit was watching the sea lions basking in the sun on the docks. It was fascinating to see them up close and hear their distinctive barks. There are also street performers and musicians who provide lively entertainment throughout the day.
Overall, I highly recommend a visit to PIER 39. It's a vibrant and lively destination with something for everyone. The only downside is that it can get quite busy, so I recommend visiting during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds.
Fethullah Oran — Google review
Really nice spot for a few reasons. First, the popular sea lions are here which is a fun and unique opportunity. They're quite large which can make it a bit easier to see them sunning themselves. Second are all the fun shops and activities. We happened to catch a great performer who was not only skilled but also very funny. It's a little bit touristy but it's fine as prices remain as you'd expect.
Brock Haylock — Google review
Pier 39 in San Francisco is an exhilarating blend of entertainment, dining, and scenic views. The lively atmosphere, filled with the chatter of visitors and the playful barking of sea lions, embodies the city's vibrant spirit. A plethora of shops offer unique souvenirs, while various eateries serve delicious seafood, especially the famed clam chowder in a sourdough bowl. The carousel and street performers add a touch of whimsy. With views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge on the horizon, Pier 39 is more than just a tourist spot; it's a delightful sensory experience that captures the essence of SF.
Nikolas Konstantinou — Google review
This is right besides the bay in San Francisco. It has views of the Golden Gate Bridge as well as the Bay bridge. It has lots of restaurants street artists, street food carts, gift shops and a huge array of shops selling various stuff. It is a beautiful place to go for a nice walk in the evening. There are also shops which sell tickets for tours packages and cruises to various places like Alcatraz, hop-in buses to around the city. The best way in my opinion is to walk around and explore. There are carousels which it’s entertaining for kids. There are restaurants which serve really nice seafood if that’s your preference. Is also a nice place for capturing nice photographs of the city and the skyline and it’s up and down roads, which San Francisco is famous for.
Balaji G. — Google review
Must visit in SF. Musical stairs (music as you walk up and down the stairs), sea lions (>50) that you can see up close, kid and stroller friendly, carousel, magicians, rides.
Great seafood (around 10 seafood restaurants) and other food options (20+ other eateries) including 3 ice cream shops + other dessert shops. You can easily enjoy 2-3 hours here.
There are also It was also clean and had a good amount of restrooms.
Although entry is free, the big parking lot close by is about $10 per hour, effectively acting as a fee.
Alan Varghese — Google review
Wonderful place to visit with kids! The seals are always a spectacle and the kids got some info from the conservation team there and they got to feel the fur which was pretty cool.
The magic show was cute, my girls really liked it and it wasn’t I entertaining for adults either.
Tons of cute souvenir shops and restaurants to browse in as well.
We took a jaunt down the road as well where there is local street markets and entertainment. Excellent experience overall.
Amber Pahlke — Google review
Great place to people watch, it's actually entertaining at times.
There are plenty of places to eat, drink, gift shop, or shop for your self. Yes, need a new tee shirt, perhaps the sun is too much and you're getting burned now, even though it's a bit chilly.
Be aware of the extra fees restaurant's are charging, they don't have to print it on their menu, but if they want to charge they do have to show it and explain why when you ask.
So, perhaps those small vendors might be helpful after all.
Bring a windbreaker, San Francisco weather is cool.
Hop in a bike carriage $15 per person, Ferry Ride to Vallejo from the Ferry Building - mobile app $9.00 counter purchase $11.25 1 hour ride.
There are several stores that have closed unfortunately. Plenty of transportation options in S.F.
Be considerate of each other in this life, bringing forth good vibes works for all.
We all share this earth, be kind where ever you vacation, kindness spreads faster than you realize.
HAVE A GREAT TIME!
D K — Google review
Such a nice place to visit with friends/family or just walk around alone! Got to see sea lions and the locks on the fence was super cool! Definitely gets a bit chilly tho. So pretty!
s zheng — Google review
The weather was perfect. Everyone should come to pier 39. There are jewelry shops restaurants coffee and hotdog joints. The carousel is fun. My only wish was they were open earlier in the morning. I took a boat cruise for a half an hour for $20 around the bay. We got very close to the sea lions and to Alcatraz and they let me drive the boat. It was very fun. There is a booth right as you go in and you’re approaching the stairs to the right to go down and look at the boats, there’s a booth right there where you can buy tickets. You don’t need to buy the tickets in advance because they run cruises every 30 minutes sometimes every 15 minutes. The barking sea lions were so popular. They lay there sunbathing shamelessly. They are so fun to watch. Come and visit. You’ll thank me later!
Grey Copeland — Google review
Pier 39 is an absolute gem in San Francisco!
From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and stunning waterfront views.
The variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options is truly exceptional. I had a fantastic time exploring the unique boutiques and indulging in delicious seafood at one of the many waterfront eateries. The sea lions lounging around added an extra touch of charm to the experience.
The staff were friendly and helpful, ensuring a seamless visit. Pier 39 is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun-filled day in San Francisco!
Tung Ho — Google review
Pier 39 is a gem of San Francisco! It's a vibrant waterfront destination offering a delightful mix of attractions, from quirky shops to delectable eateries. The sea lions lounging nearby add to the charm. A must-visit for anyone exploring the city!
Clément Muth — Google review
Cool spot if you're after some fun and gimmic. Lots of fast food, souvenir shops and arcade style games as well as great views of the pier. Don't miss the sea lions that casually rest on the pier, the best part of this attraction. Bare in mind it can get busy and you will be navigating some crowds but it adds to the overall feel! Worth a visit if you're in San Fran.
N Q — Google review
Super cute area to walk through in San Francisco. It's definitely for tourists. But it's kind of adorable for date nights as well. There is entertainment for family, couples, as well as children. Many little shops and boutiques to walk into. Mostly selling tourist items, but sometimes other goods you may want to have in your home. Places to go to buy art, eat, grab candy and chocolate, view the sea lions and ride a carousel!
Elizabeth Vecchio — Google review
Fun for the whole family. We enjoyed the rides, the views, the sea lion (yep, only one today), and the shopping. Definitely would have had a bite and a drink, but prices are a bit high so we waited on that.
Bradley van Middelkoop — Google review
While Pier 39 is a capitalist fever dream that felt a lot like Disney World, I can honestly say that I enjoyed it immensely. The views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz at sunset were surreal. The vibes were cheerful and wholesome. The sea lions were utterly charming. I spent hours here and the time flew by. Definitely a touristy spot, but I’d say it’s a worth a visit.
Shannon Mahedy — Google review
One of our fav places in the Bay Area! The atmosphere is so nice and there are so many gift shops and restaurants. Went there mid morning, bought some souvenirs and ate corn dogs. It was starting to get a little more crowded around noon but still totally okay to walk around and enjoy the pier. The views were fantastic!
Juliana Santos — Google review
Wonderful place to walk and shop. Place has friendly people, many eating established restaurants. Shops of many varieties on this area. San Francisco famous cable cars are nearby. Enjoy this great location.
andrew bowden — Google review
Cool place! A lot of neat boats to check out at the docks. Sea lions sleep and bark on the docks as well making for a cool display. A lot of good seafood restaurants around here. We ate at fog harbor which was delicious and had really great fresh seafood. There us a Bubba pumps and some shopping stores as well.
Nicholas Rybicki — Google review
Lively Place to hang out with Friends and Family! Lot of dining and shopping options for all budgets. Plenty of Photo Opportunities while walking around the pier... Watching the Sea Lions lazily lounging on the Piers is a treat ! Kids like it.
knight raider — Google review
Worth the visit to the famous pier. Enjoyed some doughnuts 🍩 and cookies 🍪 and a decent lunch. There is a fun zone too for the younger crowd, at heart or in spirit.
Nice walk around the Pier as well and nice walking paths all around.
We will visit again.
Chris Bart — Google review
I came from Medford, Oregon just to come here. It’s worth it give it a try. You will love it.
San Francisco was an incredible experience for me. I arrived on September 29, 2023, a Friday, and it was my first time there. The weather was perfect and I enjoyed everything about it. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a fun trip with loved ones, San Francisco is the perfect destination. I can't say enough good things about this place. I had nothing but positive experiences and highly recommend stepping out of your comfort zone and giving it a try.
The nightlife is incredible. I hope that you create good memories. I will be going back there one day with my husband.
Sarah Thomas — Google review
Tourist haven. Food, gifts, hi and low end foods, great view restaurants, music buskers, large Ferris Wheel , great picture opportunities everywhere, boat tours, and many great flowers in the many flower beds. If you park at pier 38 parking some of the restaurants will validate your parking. Semi expensive parking at $12 per hour or ANY increments as well.
John Seckar — Google review
The famous pier with the sea lions and restaurants. You'll hear the sea lions from far away, hence you can't miss the spot. The animals chilling are just cute to watch. The other side/further into the pier features restaurants of all sorts, and offer you the famous sour dough bread.
Binxu748er — Google review
Checked out Pier 39 in San Francisco right before Christmas and it didn’t disappoint. The holiday decorations were on point, giving the whole place a festive feel. It’s a great spot with a bunch of cool shops and plenty of food options. Definitely a place worth visiting, especially with the holiday lights.
There are tons of shops for souvenirs, perfect for picking up a few reminders of your trip. The sea lions are a fun sight, and you can’t beat the views of Alcatraz. For food, there are loads of choices from quick snacks to some really nice restaurants. It’s a lively mix of attractions and dining, all in one place. Pier 39 is a must-visit if you’re in SF, especially during the festive season.
WOLF — Google review
Per 39 is a great place to hang out for the day. The atmosphere is buzzing even in the cooler months. Some amazing artists to get an original souvenir from instead of a generic San Francisco souvenir shop cap. Just a short walk to the ferry to Alcatraz. The food options are plenty. There is also a historical arcade where you can play some antique games and imagine what life was like before you were distracted by hand-held devices.
DCC Cabinets — Google review
A must visit if you a in SF. Nicely maintain pier with lots of entertainment and great views of the bay and Alcatraz island. Yo can even the seals playing around the floating decks (my visit was end of March).
Lombard Street is known for its scenic, winding section with 8 turns that make it one of the most popular streets in San Francisco. This narrow street is decorated with blooms all year round and often features car races or other events.
This street is one of the city's most scenic streets specific for its curvy road. This place offers panoramic city view. Architecture is really famous in any view, from curvy road to beautiful gardens in front of houses.
Fun fact, this street also appears in popular video game Gran Theft Auto San Andreas.
Luka Grgurić — Google review
Very nice and famous street, probably terrible to live here.
Vid — Google review
A famous tourist spot in the city. The road looks beautiful and is surrounded by beautiful plants. The downside is that the wait here is horribly long as well as you won’t see the road as you do in images when you drive down it. It just curves all the time.
Saurabh Vinchu — Google review
San Francisco's famous street with 8 hairpin turns and a good view of Coit tower and the Bay bridge is visually appealing only if you can view it from the top like taking a photo or a video using a drone. It is worth the visit and taking cool photos if you are on the way to somewhere. In fact the San Francisco cable car has a stop and go at this street.
Vinit Sorte — Google review
Very cool to check out on foot. But on busy days you ll wait to drive down for at least an hour.
Lamarr English — Google review
Fun to walk up the stairs watching cars negotiating down curves. Nice view of the city. It's a novelty. Not the steepest but pretty flowers on the side.
Lan H — Google review
I enjoy this place beautiful; nice flowers/ street/people
Karina Loja — Google review
Iconic place. Crowded, and many cars in line to go down this street.
Day deSIANG — Google review
Beautiful Gardens that line the street. Definitely worth a visit if ur brave enough to enter the Bay Area.
Mudgett.33 On IG — Google review
Worth a visit but not as long as expected. Dropped at top by cable tram and walked down side steps
Jonathan Tinsley — Google review
A must do if you visit San Francisco. It was great to see the cars driving the street down. Took a couple of cool pictures.
Tom Lugo — Google review
overhyped tourist trap. There is no good angle to get good photos. There are just many people. There are stairs on both sides of the street .
This street is 10 min from a couple bus stops.
I came here in Sept 2022 and the street had more flowers ( see pic) than my trip in Jan 2024.
Lily Yee — Google review
It’s somewhere you have to visit while in San Francisco. It’s pretty to look at whether you’re at the top looking down or at the bottom looking up. It’s better to visit it during the day but it’s a lot quieter at night.
I thought driving it would be fun but it was a bit of an anti climax, video added for proof. Glad I’ve done it but won’t drive it again.
Chris — Google review
I absolutely loved this crooked street! It was so cool, and driving on it was incredibly fun. I even drove it twice because once wasn’t enough. They call it "The crookedest street in the world," though that might not be entirely accurate. Regardless, it's definitely worth visiting. The views are breathtaking, and the pretty flowers along the sides enhance its beauty.
Highway Video — Google review
Oh man, it's really "Crooked". It's really an amazingly experience driving in this street. Don't miss if you are at San Francisco 😸
Sankarnarayanan Lakshmanan (Sankar) — Google review
A lot of tourists. Super steep hills. Come very early.
Stephanie R — Google review
Very beautiful street.
You have to go there👍👍👍
Jose Tavares — Google review
Beautiful area. Parking is pretty hard to find especially if your a tourist but it’s worth it. Be prepared to walk up and down many stairs and hills. Views were amazing.
Hilly — Google review
This is just a little tourist spot that is iconic, but the greenery was so overgrown that you couldn't get a good picture of the whole thing. I feel very sorry for the people who live down that street, though. It would be terrible to deal with that kind of traffic everyday!
Kandace Kundert — Google review
It's cool designed this road. We drive from the top and the bottom. My 2 kids so exited. Good place to come visit in San Francisco.
Kru O Jirachote — Google review
It's nicely designed to provide a relaxing detour for a tourist while spending time in San Francisco City. The drive downhill is enjoyable due to the tastefully decorated gardens and sidewalks. You would invariably drive up a steep ramp which provides more excitement.
Rajagopal Yethadka — Google review
Definitely worth visiting. The views breathtaking!
naila c — Google review
I felt good to visit the place where the movie THE ROCK was set with my family. I thought it would be difficult for the elderly and children to go up if it snows and freezes solidly in winter. The hill was steeper than I thought. Still, I was happy to walk up breathlessly. ^^
김종우 — Google review
Quite interesting street but not really that special. Exhausting walk but the view is great. It is a bit crowded so come early
Yate — Google review
This place has an extraordinary atmosphere. Amazing view, picturesque surroundings. Narrow and winding streets. I recommend visiting - it's worth it :)
If you don't feel like a good driver, leave the car and go for a walk
Marlena K — Google review
Pretty view of the city when you walk down the stairs!
Aryanna Foster — Google review
Got an AMAZING view of the city and Alcatraz too. However, the street itself didn’t have much and there were a lot of cars going down it which got in the way of pictures.
Averell Chen — Google review
Good place to visit if you are cruising and have the city as s port - just order a cab or Uber to get there.
Paloma Lima Mayland — Google review
Street is too crooked, you can't go faster than about 5 miles an hour.....
All joking aside, cute fun little street.
Mike S — Google review
An iconic street designed with numerous twists and turns in the 20s to prevent accidents. It's a nice walk up the street on the pedestrian walkways on either side.
Andy Z — Google review
4.6
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4.5
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San Francisco, CA, USA
I'll never travel to Santa Cruz without this trip planner again
The San Francisco Cable Car Museum is a historic museum housing a collection of cable cars, mechanical displays, and photos in exhibits that feature the city's famed streetcar system. The still working cable cars are also considered a working museum - You can two restored cars from the Clay Street Hill Railroad, and a perfectly restored car from the Sutter Street Railway from the 1870s, the only existing car from the original cable car company.
This was my personal favorite part of our visit to San Francisco. Perhaps not the largest or most flashy museum, but maintained by passionate volunteers and showcasing an incredibly important and iconic part of San Francisco's history and present. Being surrounded by the operating machinery of the cable cars definitely adds to the awe and ambiance
Kyle Zobel — Google review
What a treasure the Cable Car Museum is! Whether you're a tourist or a local, this is one of the best free things to do in SF. You can bop in and check it out for 10 minutes or you can spend an hour or more looking at the displays and marveling at the machinery.
If you're an engineer or lover of mechanical stuff, this is the place for you. The entire museum is situated around the actual working underground cable car machinery and mechanisms. It's breathtaking to imagine how this massive system of cables and steel was built well over a century ago and is still in daily use. Make sure you go downstairs (it's easy to miss) to see all the machinery at its own level.
The museum has many historic artifacts and educational signage about the cable car system, how and why it was built, and how it was saved from extinction in the 1970s by a group of passionate residents who convinced the city that cable cars weren't obsolete, but help define the SF.
Take the time to watch the very dated, but still interesting video about how the cable cars were saved. (You get to sit in an antique car while watching!)
The museum is run by The Friends of the Cable Car Museum, a nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping the heritage of these rolling landmarks alive. Please consider leaving a donation in the box if you enjoyed your visit so that future generations can enjoy this experience.
Steve Ramsey — Google review
The San Francisco Cable Car Museum is a great place to learn about the history and inner workings of the iconic cable cars that are a symbol of San Francisco. The museum is free to visit and is located in a historic cable car powerhouse.
The museum has a variety of exhibits, including:
A history of the cable car system, from its invention in the 1870s to the present day.
A working cable car, which you can climb aboard and see how it works.
A video that shows the cable car system in action.
A gift shop where you can buy souvenirs and cable car-themed merchandise.
The museum is also home to the world's oldest cable car, which was built in 1873. The car is still in working condition and is occasionally taken out for special events.
The San Francisco Cable Car Museum is a great place to spend an hour or two learning about a piece of San Francisco history. It's also a fun place to take kids, who will enjoy seeing the cable cars up close and learning how they work.
Gerry Saenz — Google review
October 2023 5*
Visited the museum arranged by SFMTA. It was so amazing to visit this place and see how cable car system in SF works.
This place is holding such an amazing history and show human creativity. The turbines keep running to move cable cars. There is so much work in the background.
Would definitely recommend to take the ride.
Jaspal Singh — Google review
It’s a cool museum for a quick stop to learn more about how the cable in SF works.
Watch full video on my YouTube channel!
It’s on the way to return to Chinatown and really walkable distance. You can hop in and hop off the cable car and then it’s right there for you.
Visit duration: probably around 15 to 30 minute depends on, how curious you are to learn about the history of the cable car.
Two floors to check out but mainly more things to see on the upper floor. 2 mins downstairs is enough. Bring cameras to take photos or film!
Cash only to buy souvenirs as I saw when passed by but not 100% accurate
Y T — Google review
A must see place in San Francisco. This small museum is actually functioning operation station. The entrance is free and you will find there a lot of interesting facts about the way how cable cars work there. More over you will see it. There is a nice gift shop inside, but be aware they don’t accept cards, so make sure you take some cash.
Maksym Koshel — Google review
Museum accidentally discovered on the way walking to Pier 39. It depicts the history of cable cars in SF, it’s impressive how this system works and how they built the whole way and how’s still works. Free entrance, give some attention to the gift shop, you might want to buy some nice souvenirs from there and the people running it are very kind and funny.
Orestgreece — Google review
Interesting to learn about the history and operations, plus engineering feats, of cable cars in San Francisco. Since this is the central operating station if all 4 SF cable car lines, it's a working "factory" complete with noise and smell (industrial oils). Quite startling to see that there is a guy seated at the center of all those massive cables. Wonder about occupational safety... Small gift shop and real cable cars for photos.
Chiucat / Angel — Google review
One of the few free activities in the city totally worth visiting. A complete and rich museum with free toilets and gift shop reasonably priced.
Here you will learn about how the cable cars work, their history and you will see the big machinery which moves the cars all around the city. To me it’s a must visit if you are in San Francisco, more than actually riding a cable car.
Johnny — Google review
It’s an amazing bit of technology the way these cable cars run. In one of the highest tech places in the planet, it’s great to still see old machines propelling these cars up and down the huge hills of the city. The museum is very informative for all things cable car. Cute gift shop too.
Bill Regan (Sailing Wanderer) — Google review
Really cool to see how cable cars worked, their history, and to just take in one of the last remaining relics of a long gone era. As a native San Franciscan who no longer lives in SF, I cherish experiences like these where I get to be a tourist in my home town. It brings me back to my childhood where we went on field trips to museums just like this to learn more about the City that I called home. Unfortunately, I likely won't be back for many years to come, so I did what I normally don't and bought a small cable car souvenir to commemorate the moment.
Justin Tan — Google review
Awesome FREE museum showcasing history and interesting artifacts of San Francisco's cable cars, birth place of the cable car! This museum is still actively running the equipment and machinery that enables the cables cars to function around the city, which you will have a great view of during your visit. The museum has a very affordable gift shop as well! Short walk from Chinatown, a must see!
david zhu — Google review
I found this to be an fascinating attraction especially given the central operations for the citywide cable car system is based here.
There are also historic artifacts from century old cars along with actual and model fronts of cars.
An onsite Gift shop accepts cash only as of 2/20/22.
Edward Robinson — Google review
This museum is really interesting, you get to see some original cable cars aswell as the giant wheels and motors that pull the cables around the city. You don't need long here, under an hour... but it is definitely worth a visit as it's on the cable car route and has free entry. My highlight though is when you go down stairs and see the cables and pulleys under Street level, it really makes you appreciate the engineering that went into the project all those years ago and is just fascinating to see. There is a small gift shop (cash only) and restrooms are available.
Simon Eustace — Google review
This museum is like a "hidden jewel" which is rarely mentioned or recommended. The location is in Mason Street, not too far from the Chinatown.
The museum actually shows the real sheaving system underneath the cable lines. It's very fascinating, and it explains the whole magazine behind the locomotion laugh cable cars. Highly recommended and is admission-free.
sunny sure — Google review
無料というところに惹かれて行ってみましたが、とてもよかったです。ケーブルカーの仕組みがよくわかりました。実際に使われているケーブルが動くのを間近でみられるのも面白いです。ギフトショップに凝ったケーブルカーのモデルや面白いギフトがたくさんありました(ただし、現金のみです)。お手洗いもあります。
(Translated by Google)
I was attracted by the fact that it was free, and I'm glad I did. I understand how the cable car works. It's also interesting to be able to see the actual cables in action up close. The gift shop was full of fancy cable car models and interesting gifts (but cash only). There is also a restroom.
Risa Fujihara — Google review
Free entry!! In what is an expensive city, this is a little gem of a museum. I rode the Hyde/Powell cable car about 15 years ago but had no real understanding of the mechanics behind this amazing invention. Spending 45mins here gave me the lowdown on how it all works and even better you can see the terminating/start points of all 4 still active lines and the cables/engines driving the cables. The mind boggles at how it all works and how something so advanced could have been invented so long ago. Do this in combination with Lombard Street - they are not too far apart from each other, although away from the main tourist spots.
Timeshare Chinchilla — Google review
If you are looking for a quick educational stop, this is your place. It was really interesting to see the actual cables in action pulling the cable cars throughout San Francisco. Free entrance, cute, affordable gift shop. Parking was very difficult.
Jessica Manzolillo — Google review
We read about this museum online before going on our trip. It was so interesting to learn about the cable cars and their history in San Francisco. It is also free, which was a bonus. You don’t need much time, maybe a half hour but it is worth popping in to take a look. Note: the souvenir shop is cash only.
Lisa Deputat — Google review
Free and fun to explore the history. It is not too big, there are two levels but the downstairs is very small. I loved the back history and conflicts that occurred. Great place to bring kiddos to see how the cars work! Great learning experience. I would have liked someone there to ask questions and give feedback. We went in the morning around 11 AM on a Sunday and it was somewhat busy.
Casey Swain — Google review
This is a nice museum. Loved looking at all the history of the cable car. It's free so definitely come take a look.
It is clean.
And there are restrooms. The stall doors are a bit too high though.
Marilyn Gutierrez Solis — Google review
A fun and informative museum on the history, technology and real-time workings of San Francisco's famous cable cars. If you're curious about the sounds under your feet when crossing SF streets then you'll enjoy.
Allow 30 to 60 minutes to explore the exhibits. Entry is free and there's a nice little gift shop on site.
Debbie Bowman — Google review
This museum is awesome, a great piece of San Francisco history that's still running several of the cable car lines in the city. Come here to see it in action and learn how it all works. Free admission, but donations are greatly appreciated and be sure to check out the gift shop.
Sam Truong — Google review
If you don’t get to ride the Cable car you are missing out!!! you have to take apart of San Francisco with you so go and ride the Cable car and see the sights it’s worth it then head yourself down to the Wharf for some clam Chowder and seafood that’s made hot and enjoyable the views spectacular. The Cable Car experience gets you to the point it’s worth it you are able to see some hot spots of the city and more, having a Operator ring the bell and call out stops for us it’s nearly the best experience to have in San Francisco.
The Ferry Building is an iconic, restored 1898 building in San Francisco that is known for its excellent vendors selling food from all over the world. The market opens at 7:00am every day and features dozens of unique farmers' market stalls, artisan vendors, and independent restaurants and food stalls.
Cool place to get a view of the bridge. Also really fun to just grab one of the rental scooters to travel from the bridge to the fisherman’s wharf. The building has a ton of good places to grab snacks or meals
Jason Lumokso — Google review
This is a beautiful building. They do a great job of maintaining a clean facility. It's a great place to come and visit. Plenty of places to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping. They have a farmers market every weekend. Everything looks fresh and delicious. I do feel they could use more seating indoors to accommodate everyone and others with disabilities. It rained today, so it was impossible to sit outside. They do have outdoor seating as well. Easy to access using public transportation 👍👍
Matilda Rios — Google review
A beautiful place with great views of the bay and historical places. So many fun things to do in this area. So many beautiful faces to say hi to. These Bay Area people are the most beautiful in the world. On a sunny day, it's like a dream being here.
Felix Torres — Google review
Very fun with some expensive but also some very reasonable priced stalls and drop in restaurants. Great diversity of price and type of food. I love having a spot that isn't fast food, isn't sit down, and doesn't break the bank. I got bao buns and my husband and his friend got sourdough cheese bread.
Grace R-L — Google review
It's a great experience. Behind the Ferry building, there is huge place for sitting and enjoying the views. One can enjoy watching Bay bridge, ferries, skyline of Sanfrancisco etc., Statue of Mahatma Gandhi here, comes as a surprise. Inside the building are shops and eateries. Rest rooms are well maintained.
Ramesh Mulumoodi — Google review
Honestly was so surprised about the ferry building. I read about the changes the place underwent and have to say, it's terrific! We found parking in the area difficult to find, but, it is right on the tram line so has a number of stops right out front. Inside we found the ferry building indoor market, really good variety of vendors with an amazing selection of foods, clothes, and other items.
It was a very comfortable place to be and there is a really good burger place with outside seating to just watch the world pass by (Gott).
Take some time to have a look round the visitors centre there, lots of history about the ferry building and also the bay area itself. You will also find toilets here.
You can walk round the back of the building and see some of the guys fishing, but you will also find benches and good views too!
wayne crawford — Google review
Timeless space for the people. So much to see. Beautiful areas to sit and enjoy the views. Amazing food vendors with global flavors. I come here as often as possible. Great for family and business gatherings.
MJ Worldwide — Google review
Great views from back of building. Good free public toilets. Nice range of local
Businesses. Oh and you can get a ferry here too!
Ben Hills-Jones — Google review
The boat was clean, not overly crowded (on a Thur.) and the crew and terminal staff were friendly and informative. I was very disappointed to find out it no longer goes to Fisherman's wharf but only the Ferry Building.
It is not cheap either, cant imagine commuting on it daily.
It cost $23.00 round trip for 1 adult. Kids under 5 free. You can save a couple bucks by getting a clipper card. Definitely recommend it, makes it easy.
Parking is $8 for the day in the lot across the street.
Ann Elizabeth — Google review
A great place to visit in a wonderful part of town. Some wonderful restaurants / food vendors, with loads of choice. Good place to hang out, even if not waiting for a ferry! And there is no better place to arrive or leave San Francisco from, with fabulous views of the city.
Rob Allen — Google review
Nice view of the water and bridge. Great photo opportunities and long pier to walk out on. The Market was nice to see all the artesian and food choices. There are so many lovely things to purchase. Seating is available in most restaurant areas and out in the back facing the water/boats.
K. M. — Google review
This is one of the major landmarks of the City. They are working on the clock tower. Inside there are wonderful shops and restaurants, too! Going outside you can view the ferry boats and outdoor dining restaurants. People are having a great time here. Catch a ferry to Sausalito, Vallejo and other bay area cities. If you have time or want to take a ferry ride, you will have an enjoyable time!
Bob Morris — Google review
It's not just a building where you can catch a ferry from. It's also a bustling marketplace with lots of cool shops to eat, drink and shop. Parking is a bit of a hassle but that's true of every place in the city
Prashant Gandhi — Google review
This is a San Francisco gem of architecture, food and a great place to embark on a ferry trip to multiple points on the bay. The farmers market there is also iconic. It’s free to walk in but fine food and drink options will tempt your wallet everywhere you look.
Jim Leabeater — Google review
I have worked in the Ferry Building for 6 years. I have made many friends and spent time at many of the businesses there. They are all small and locally operated businesses. Absolutely recommend spending time here. It provides a beautiful atmosphere with lovely views of the bay. Always a great experience!
K2 Intruders — Google review
I love the ferry building! it has cool places to eat but i did not eat because i almost missed my ferry. i did get a 5 $ soda so yeah. its always clean and bustling!
Anderson — Google review
Showed up for the Saturday farmer’s market and was surprised at how huge the place was. Stalls inside and outside with food, products, produce and ready to go food. If I lived here I would definitely buy some of the cut flowers, just like all the locals.
David Maurice — Google review
You can't miss this wonderful building on the waterfront. It's classy and just looks amazing. It's been repurposed and inside, you are greeted by many boutique shops and street food cafes. It wonderful to look around and explore the building. Even better, try some of the food offerings. There are also plenty of rest rooms should you need them.
Lee Woodhouse — Google review
This place is nice when the shops are open, but during the later evening it's less eventful. They have a farmers market on Tuesdays (I think) and Saturdays (definitely). There are coffee shops, cafes, food, drinks, etc in here. Most importantly there is ice cream and pastries
I would certainly say you need to visit here and obviously it's where all of the ferries take off to go to other locations around the bay, so you should end up near here regardless.
Make sure to check out the Exploratorium and Alcatraz if you can while you're here too!
Alex — Google review
This build is clean, have great views of the harbor and looking back in the city on Market street. I feel safe here, no homeless or drug out people inside the building.
I also enjoyed some of the food options that was available. It even have clean bathrooms😊, just wish there were few more comfortable indoor seatings.
Jesse Lee — Google review
It was my first time at this building on Saturday. Very lively atmosphere and there are lots of options to have coffee or breakfast or a bakery. I love it! Also, every Saturday there is a farmers market outside of the building.
Environmental education center housing 50+ species of live, nonreleasable California wildlife.
Great place for toddlers and school-age children to learn about and experience local wildlife. Part zoo, part natural history museum, and part wildlife hospital. Opened in 1955, the Lindsay Wildlife Experience specializes in native California wildlife. Children can watch animals being fed, learn about their habitats, and can touch them (e.g. rabbits and turtles). Great gift shop. Friendly staff.
Beat A. Schwendimann — Google review
Lovely atmosphere. Great for a rainy day. Fairly small, but if you read all of the signs then you can take your time. There are tons of love animals, a bunny, guinea pig, birds, and some creepy crawlers. They have animal handlers out and about all day you can find when you're just wandering around. They also have trading cards you can collect too, on their website it tells you how to get each card.
Non rainy days there is a park you can walk around and have a picnic.
If you have an EBT card admission is $3 per person which is pretty cool.
Sesheta — Google review
This place is great for young kids. I brought my 5 and 3 year old and they had a blast. It is small but you can get a good 2 hours of entertainment for the kids if you go through everything.
Jeffrey Gebhardt — Google review
I had a great time coming here with my teen! Here's what they had to say:
"I really enjoyed coming here. The staff were very friendly and it was easy to buy tickets when we arrived. I especially liked the Behind the Scenes Exhibit Program and watching a porcupine get fed! I think however, that this place is better for littler kids than teens."
Sarah Donaldson — Google review
Me and my husband came here a couple months ago to spend some time outside and not being stuck in the house. It was a really nice experience, everything was beautiful, there was a lot of different species to look at. I recommend this place to anyone who loves to explore.
Omicamy Myers — Google review
We had such a lovely visit. Really knowledgablee and friendly staff and regular special presentations with the animals. Since pretty special animals too. Really great work that they're doing.
Jo Watt — Google review
I’m really upset that I didn’t take my son here sooner! Staff is wonderful. The place is pretty cool. There were some exhibits missing animals. But overall the 3 demonstrations in the hour an a half span was fantastic. The bottom floor could use more to do or see. There gift shop could be condensed an moved to the side allowing for more entrance room an not taking up the beautiful place. But it’s wonderful here!
J R — Google review
It is a wonderful and informative place for children to learn about nature and animals.
There are many animals to see and very informative presentations throughout the day, the staff here is awesome!
I thought the admission price was high, but it was worth every dollar considering the presentations and what they do for injured animals.
Definitely worth the visit, we plan to come back regularly.
Fonky Rob — Google review
Been going here since I was a kid and I'm now using my little there. He loved seeing the owl and turkey vulture. It's not expensive and the outside area and shows are open anyone.
Nichole Hogoboom — Google review
Lindsey wildlife museum is one of the hidden gems of the east bay area.
I've watched this place change and develop over 30 years ( it used to be free and in a barn/ utility building, now it 15$ per adult.)
Their mission is rescue & rehabilitate California native wildlife.
Broadly speaking if it can be released after healing/rehabbing it, it is.
Keeping in mind, some creatures like tiger salamanders are fairly happy to live in a terrarium and don't really care if they are living in the wild, as long as their needs are met.
Some of the things I'd not seen since the last time I was there was a Calistoga spider ( a smaller but far more ferocious cousin of our native tarantulas) and a pallid bat who has arthritis and doesn't fly anymore.
Their raptors are the main attraction. All their birds of prey have some reason they cannot be released back into the wild. Ie their one winged great horned owl.
By far the most impressive animal is a bald eagle who's 25 years or so. Most people don't realize how big the are when viewed from a few hundred meters away. From 10 feet, it's a different story.
Build in about 90 minutes.
Definitely a place to check out doubly so if you have kids in the 5-15 range.
Ben R — Google review
Enjoyed a delightful local wildlife experience with our 2-year-old. I was pleasantly surprised to learn interesting aspects about creatures. Learned about the fantastic work done in the lab in rescuing animals from various tragedies. The facility features local snakes, wizards, and birds, along with an exciting bird flying experience. Periodically, experts share insights about different animal types, engaging with children. I gained valuable knowledge about bees, their lives, reproduction, and honey-making.
Looking forward to returning for more discoveries.
SC — Google review
It was great. We got to see several animals. We went yesterday 3/24th/2024 me $15 and my daughter $13. It was her birthday, but unfortunately we did not get to see the dowstairs because it was booked for a birthday. I wished if we got a discount since we did not get to see everything that the tickets were for.
My daughter loved Polar Bear and it was downstairs. She cried à lot for missing it.
Staff were great
Just make sure to call if you plan to go there with kids that there is no reservations.
Thank you
Amina Ya. L — Google review
I am volunteering at Lindsay, and I absolutely love this place. People here do a great job helping birds, reptiles and some mammals to live a long and healthy life - the animals ambassadors of Lindsay won’t be able to live in wilderness, they need special care and attention. That is where Lindsay team comes to help ❤️
Svetlana Lapina — Google review
What a magical and cute place for kids/families to hangout. Lindsay wildlife museum offers a great educational and recreational experience for kids, and families. Located on N Main St in Walnut creek right opposite Friends Church, it's very easy to commute and find parking spaces. You can park in the complex, on the streets and the church has additional parking for museum visitors.
Inside, you get to experience a lot of educational content about wildlife, see birds and small mammals in action. Some of the museum residents don't have the capability to survive by themselves in the wild - these precious beings need human help to survive and they double up to be ambassadors for the museum visitors.
We loved every single area in the museum with the favorite being the bald eagle, and guinea pig section. We saw bunch of bunnies, guinea pigs and they were adorable! Right next to the museum is a swim center, and a park. This park is super well maintained, has lot of play areas of kids, lot of picnic tables and is buzzing with activity. I highly recommend this gem in the east bay for families with kids!!! Very very productive and constructive experience.
Oh - the staff at Lindsay wildlife are AMAZING! They work super hard for the welfare of the animals are super passionate about it. A+++
S K — Google review
Such a nice to look at all the rescued animals. A bit sad but learnt a lot.
Grace Lin — Google review
Took my 4 year old and 1 year old here on a rainy Saturday. It was not over crowded, and had lots of cool creatures for the boys and me to look at. My fave were the owls!! On the downside, it's a very small place, done seeing everything almost as soon as you pay to get in, and the lady at the register was a bit rude/unwelcoming; we were the only black people there, and she seemed to want to deny entrance to us if she could. I witnessed how she spoke to, smiled at and treated the other 2 people; the one before us and after us versus us, it was a drastic difference. They received smiles and welcoming "hellos, how can I help you?" While she just looked at us and waited for me to explain what we were doing there. No greeting, no smile, no kindness; but immediately after us said to the next person, " hello, now I can help you!" As if we were getting in the way of her helping someone more important or deserving of her assistance. Extremely disappointing human experience 😕.
But after the kids saw everything and became bored, we went out to the beautiful park right outside. Overall it was good. Just don't expect to be treated like a respectable human being if you are a person of color.
Oakland Zoo is home to 660+ animals, including a variety of native and exotic species. The zoo features a wildlife theater and educational programs for younger visitors.
Oakland zoo is a lovely place to visit with your kids, family and friends, or even on your own! It’s therapeutic and educational.
Reservation for entry is needed. The Gondola ride is FREE with paid admission. Car parking is $10.
The gondola is fun and provides a spectacular view of the bay both during the day and the night!
The zoo have creative events sometime such as the Glowfari, which features hundreds of larger-than-life glowing animal lanterns throughout the Zoo. They will return in November, can’t wait to try the mini express train inside the park to explore the illuminated wonderland!
Little Wing — Google review
Awesome zoo with gondolas ride included with zoo tickets. Great view of the park and city. They have roller coaster rides and other attractions as well for which you have to purchase tickets separately. There are zip lines as well for kids. Food zones are available with gorgeous views of the zoo natural habitat. We got to see tigers, lions, grizzly bears, baboons, bisons, giraffes, elephants, different kinds of birds etc. Museums are also available for kids to explore if you have time. Overall a well spent whole day trip with kids with lots of adventures and fun activities.
swati dubey — Google review
Wonderful zoo with so many animals and beautiful scenery. Visited on a Friday afternoon. It wasn’t crowded.. it was so peaceful and happening. Animals were active (thanks to the cloudy weather). Train ride is extra $5/ person which takes you to the Australian part. Gondola ride was cool and is included with the ticket. There is a nice playground inside as well. Do book your tickets in advance and check the weather. Avoid hot days. You may take food items inside as well.
Nikita — Google review
This zoo is exceptional! I have been to the Sacramento Zoo and the San Francisco Zoo. Both of those zoos are wonderful. Sacramento Zoo is small but very nice. The San Francisco Zoo is quite large and very nice as well. However, what is unique to Oakland Zoo is that they have a Sky Ride which cost $5 a person (we did not go on it), and they also have an aerial tram ride that you have to take up the mountain to get to the top part of the zoo (it's included with admission) where they have a large cafe at the top with panoramic views of the Bay Area and a large play area with vista points, plus lots of animals! I wish I had come to the top first instead of exploring the bottom of the zoo. I recommend you visit the top first to have more time to explore. We went to the top late in the day and the line was 30 minutes long to get back on to the gondola to get down. The children loved the gondola. What an amazing experience! It's a 4 minute ride. The zoo is very clean and it is a bit hilly so if you have strollers , people with disabilities, or the elderly be aware there are some steep hills to walk up. They will stop the gondola for those who need extra time to get on or off. Parking is $10 and the prices are reasonable. I recommend purchasing daily admission prices and then going to member services and purchasing an annual membership so that you can go back to this zoo and their partner zoos across California.
Dorena G. — Google review
Good zoo, not great. Went to some larger zoos this year and this was not quite as impressive. But still worthwhile, some great exhibits and excellent value. $24/person which is also on the cheaper end of what I've paid for zoo tickets. Best part was the upper area with a gondola going up. Cool animals in that area, especially enjoyed the wolf exhibit. Nice vantage point for views of SF as well. Some nice exhibits down below as well but nothing remarkable and some of them felt really small and like the animals could use more room. Overall, not a must do zoo by any means but good value and worthwhile if in the area.
Matthew Walker — Google review
Great zoo up in the Oakland hills, much larger than you'd expect with quite the selection of animals small and large. We came during the last time slot on a Saturday so we will be back again to explore more and ride the gondola and train. They also still had the Glowfari experience up and even during the day it was super cool to see. We went with 3 different families, each with a toddler, and it's safe to say we all had a good time seeing the animals, petting the goats, and in the playground area! I also have a reciprocal zoo membership and their website makes it super easy to purchase that type of discounted ticket. Looking forward to visiting again!
Bella Coladonato — Google review
We visited on a Sunday morning around 11:00 am just for reference. Everything was just absolutely perfect, but this is partly because we planned ahead by reserving our tickets online and paying for parking ahead of time (you save $3 this way), and the zoo is just organized in general with the way they set things up. The website is very helpful, so I recommend visiting their site especially the FAQs section. I appreciated how organized the parking situation was and there were employees directing the parking traffic, so it wasn’t chaotic. I was also very grateful that they offered a teacher discount as this is not the case for other zoos. My 14 month old had a great time! There were family style restrooms which as a parent of an infant is greatly appreciated! The gondola ride that is included with your ticket purchase was super cool and it led you to the other side of the zoo with the cafe, walking trail, conservatory, and more restrooms. The food was great at the Landing Cafe as well! A little pricey but that is expected and things these days are just expensive in general. Overall, it was such a great visit, and I cannot recommend this zoo enough! If you’re hesitating, this review is for you!
Richel Ann Gudino — Google review
The Oakland Zoo puts the education of the public about the animals of this world and the very well being of said animals in its care at the forefront. The keepers are highly trained, personable and compassionate. The animals have outstanding, large habitats and tons of enrichment. The California Trail is worth the price of admission alone. This will always be my favorite zoo and I just purchased a membership so as I can continue to visit and learn.
Do you have kids? It's a hilly zoo, good for keeping them entertained and tuckering them out for the car ride home. Also, a very cute petting zoo with goats and sheep will give them that fix of wanting to pet the animals. There are kids rides and a fun train to keep their attention when they tire of walking.
All in all just a great zoo set in the hills of Oakland. You should visit. Plus, they have elephants. :)
Marie Higginbottom — Google review
Have been here a couple times now and consider this to be a zoo/attraction to bring visitors. Vast space with many types of animals to learn about and see. The gondola ride is a great addition to the park (and is free!) to grab a bite at the cafe above and visit other animals. Lots of parking available but highly recommend buying tickets in advance.
Nate Ulsh — Google review
I love it here. I've been to a few zoos and I might be biased since it's near where I'm from, but Oakland zoo is definitely one of the best. Way better than san Francisco, Atlanta, and Vancouver BC zoos. The animals are so cared for and visibly happier. The workers and volunteers are constantly working to care for and feed the animals. The enclosures are constantly being upgraded and added to so the animals have a better way of life.
I was excited to take my children here since I went a lot as a child and always thought of it as a magical place. It did not disappoint.
Ashley Nussman-Berry — Google review
This is by far the BEST zoo I’ve ever been to! It’s so cool to be able to see so many wild animals in a more natural setting. Many exhibits are walking higher up looking down on the animals which is better than observing through a small cage. We had a blast on the sky lift and other ride that let you get an awesome arial view of the zoo & animals. Well worth the price!! 🦒🐘🐅
Catherine Tintle — Google review
I love the Oakland Zoo! It's affordable, fun and they take great care of the animals. The gondola ride up to the California trail has some of the best views of the Bay you'll see anywhere!
Dina Robinson — Google review
It is one happy place for the kids. The zoo is fantastic and they have wide variety of species. There is some other sort of entertainment as well like rides. I would recommend that one should take an yearly pass that is cost effective. Rest, you get to see the city view, which is an addition to it.
Saveena Wadhera — Google review
A very nice zoo that's not too big. There are many animals you can only see from distanced aerial views, which I didn't move because they also have lots of space to roam. There are some hills that can be a little rough with a stroller or wagon full of kids. The air gondola is fun and fit my kids' wagon. They're education center is amazing and once my kids were in there they didn't want to leave.
Christine D — Google review
A very nice place to spend a fun day with the family. In addition to animals, the zoo has many activities for adults and kids.
The zoo consists of two parts with a Gondola connecting them. The Gondola ride is a very nice experience that provides a panoramic view over the bay. We enjoyed it very much and it is included with the general admission. We enjoyed the animal viewing specially the Grizzly Bears.
There is a restaurant with a nice over in the upper part. There is also a couple of animal-themed play ground for kids.
Reservations are required to enter the zoo. If you like it you can upgrade the tickets to a membership for free admission and parking throughout the year.
Ahmed Nabawe — Google review
This is second visit to Oakland zoo. First visit prior to pandemic. Lot of good changes and improvements. The Gondola ride is new and great addition with a nice restaurant up by handy ride. Great place for kids' enjoyment. Definitely recommend this place to visit.
KB Bhanot — Google review
I was pleasantly surprised how much I like this zoo. I had a great time seeing all the animals and reading all the educational materials. The gondola ride to the upper part of the zoo offers great views of the park and the San Francisco Bay. The upper area is newer addition and the enclosures where much nicer and larger. The train ride to the Australian part of the zoo was very fun. It’s a nice place to explore.
Thomas Joseph Perez — Google review
It was an magnificent day we could see the rainbow start and end point .Awesome to see all the animals healthy and in perfect spot where you could see them perfectly and observe the animals and their nature .. the enclosures were big enough to ensure the roaming space for animals and was clean and tidy (especially the carnivores) . the gandola was a bit busy due to the huge mass of people but was worth it we had unexpected experiences . the food was kinda expensive and not really worth it not recommended for foods rest everything was beyound the imagination we had a chance to see and grab some pictures with the rainbow as well best experience as of zoo in my whole life awesome place if you love animals awesome and funny staffs make you feel like home if you have any questions loved it ❤️❤️❤️❤️ definitely coming again with whole of my family ❤️🐾
Shiva Karki — Google review
Great zoo experience. We loved that they manage visitor traffic by scheduling your visit times. This allows you to enjoy the habitats without it being overcrowded. We had a lovely experience.
Justin Kwong — Google review
I’ve been going to the island zoo since I was a kid. Most of the zoo remains unchanged, delightfully funky. The California walk is awesome though, and well worth going for that alone. The ride up on the gondola is amazing, and affords great views of the entire Bay Area, the animals are great, and the zoo design is very cool. Gets crazy past 12pm so advise going early, and make sure you get a reservation, even if you’re a member, on the weekend.
Tony Pelton — Google review
We visited to see Christmas Lights decoration and it was really beautiful!!
There is an entrance fee per person, not sure exactly the amount, but you can buy tickets at entrance, no need to buy in advance. Generally there is no wait time.
You can take free photo with Santa inside the park. There are few small kids ride, however, you have to pay separately for those and it’s not included in the entrance free. The ride cost is very nominal, around $5 per kid.
Great for families with small and younger kids!!
Sumit S — Google review
It’s always good to go and support the local community businesses. I took my mom and dad, my kids and 2 nieces. My parents a lot older now. The last time they went was when I was probably 10 years old, way before the gondola and other attractions. They was just as surprised and excited like my 4 year old niece. Lots of walking, probably too much walking for my parents but it was great for the kids. The gondola ride a must since at the top of the mountain there’s a restaurant. Food is pricey but what attraction is not pricey. They all like the food since we did all that walking. Must visit when planning to visit. The tickets do sell out and there’s time prices on the ticket. We definitely enjoyed since everyone fell asleep on the ride back home.
Mo Savann — Google review
Great zoo, you have to buy tickets online to reserve your time. I am a San Jose teacher and was able to buy teacher tickets and then show a recent paystub that shows my schools name. So check and see if you can save a few bucks. For one teacher you can buy two discounted tickets. So I was able to save a few dollars on tickets for both my husband and I. It was a busy day but I didn’t expect otherwise for spring break. We did the gondola ride and the wait wasn’t too bad to go up. Takes a while to go down, they allow up to 8 people in the gondola. So the line can go short or fast depending on the group size. The line to go down took about a 30 minute wait. The native to California animals at the top of the gondola plus a restaurant. The bottom has all the zoo animals. We paid $10 to get tickets for the ski ride. It was fun, not a far ride. Maybe 20 minutes all together but went by the giraffes, lions, and bison. Really cool views, walked around saw the rest of the animals. I’d say my only complaint was it looked like a lot of carts for drinks and snacks closed maybe at 4. Which was annoying, when I wanted something to drink there wasn’t a way to purchase those.
Kennedy F — Google review
What a lovely zoo I didn't get time to see everything. Only found out there's a whole other area a gondola ride away! But what I did see was amazing! Highlight had to be the baby giraffe and the tigers! The staff/volunteers at the park were incredibly knowledgeable, and very friendly I interacted with a number of staff during the visit! Was neat to know that a lot of the animals are rescues and I'm glad they have a more natural space for them to live in.
Kay Liew — Google review
Certainly! HerVisiting Oakland Zoo was a delightful experience for my family and me. The variety of animals and interactive exhibits kept us entertained throughout our visit. The well-maintained facilities and knowledgeable staff added to the overall pleasant atmosphere. However, we did encounter some crowded areas, which slightly detracted from the experience. Overall, Oakland Zoo is a great destination for a fun day out with the family.
Farzin - Seyed Lavasani — Google review
Great weekend activity. Rides are great for children. Gandola is included in the park admission. Highly recommend taking Gandalo as soon as you reach the zoo since the line gets busier. Better to purchase the tickets in advance. It took us around 3 hours to complete the California trail. Plan a 4-5hours day. Must visit
Hinduja Kumar — Google review
Oakland Zoo is a great place to visit at any time. They have a wide variety of species. I applaud their conservation work and how well they take care of the animals. I like coming here for walks, so I got myself the year membership. It is always clean and entertaining to come to this place. I love the gibbons and other primates. I recommend this place for a visit! It's worth coming here. I'm thinking of doing a school field trip with my students if it's possible.
Litzia Galvan — Google review
An amazing zoo. So much fun for the kids. Disabled friendly. There was a petting zoo that we loved cause there were some kitties. We were also quite fond of all the turtles. We got there when it opened and we were there until it closed.
Bayside park offering a sizable playground with 6 slides, as well as trails & picnic areas.
It is a beautiful picnic area where you can get panoramic views of SFO airport, Bay bridge, San Mateo bridge and the SF skyline. There are lots of picnic areas with restrooms which is surrounded by eucalyptus trees. It’s a really good place to view sunset.
Balaji G. — Google review
Nice place to visit for short period for bay view , plane landings, sky colors are beautiful during sunsets.
Rohit desai — Google review
A nice place for a walk by the sea and the park, golf course @6/-only
sarmistha saha — Google review
Great place for little kids who enjoy slides big and small. On Nov 21st Sunday, the place was full. After or before a visit to the museum nearby it will be a FunDay!!
KayGee M — Google review
Coyote Point Recreation Area including Beach area has been redesigned for flood aversion but what we received is a great beach front area, new bathroom, and wash station. The barbeque areas now have wash stations. The park is now transforming into a comfortable place to picnic.
Eddie Valadez — Google review
SOUL STROLL 2014 - This was one of my favorite annual events. I haven't been in years after moving out from the Bay. I miss going every early in May. Sometimes the event was a conflict with Mother's Day plans but, for the most part I definitely went more than a handful of times. I love the interaction with everyone, the raffles, the prizes the option to walk 1, 3 or 5 miles. The fun warm up exercises, the guest speakers, the Annual t-shirts totes, and lunch, the booth giveaways, samples, and a lot of health information. Coyote Point is also a great place and a childhood landmark. It's always been a great place for events, gatherings and they have a lot to offer. Bike trails, Water, Trees, Grass, Exhibits, etc.
Kimberly Russell — Google review
It's ALWAYS a good time at the point. Been coming here since I was a child... The museum, fishing for stripers, walks along the protected environment, Beach with easy access restrooms for the kiddies to reach when theyre so busy playing they refuse to go until the last minute. Bring a kite! The wind perfect for that if you choose to hang by the beachy area. And it's safe, they've got a golf course and an on premises sheriff dept on site.
Tami Healey — Google review
Not worth paying for parking at the moment. Lots of trails and playgrounds are closed. Buff Trail is closed near Curiossedy so there’s no way to have a nice walk around. We ended up just walking in an empty parking lot near Eucalyptus.
Go to Seal Point instead. It’s free
Melissa Chen — Google review
A lot of fallen trees, spare metal lying around in a field, construction, abandoned “snack bar”. One of the main buff paths is closed. For a nice walk it’s basically a rocky beach and a path on a ridge similar to the bay trail and the rest is picnic tables and a playground. Nice if you are having a kids family party. But I probably won’t be back just for the walk unless I am going to the museum. A little anti climactic
Lea Dimmling — Google review
Great place for so many reasons.
Beaches, bathrooms, playgrounds, CuriOddysey, boats, walking trails, launches for water activities like stand up paddle boarding, large grassy area for running, flat paved areas good for kids learn to ride bikes, picnic areas with grills that you can reserve, parking, informational signs about history and climate change.
Entry is six dollars per car. If you get the San Mateo County Parks Pass you can visit any time and never pay to enter! Well worth it!
Magic Mountain Playground - large double playground - part for older kids, part for younger kids. All fenced and gated so it's easier to manage littles who like to run.
There is a gun range in the area so you sometimes here the gun practice which can be jarring, annoying, or triggering for some.
Be aware that there is poison oak by the trails in the Eucalyptus Grove.
Beaches are swim at your own risk - no lifeguard.
Coyote Point is close to the airport - so you can watch planes fly in and out of SFO.
There is a second playground close to CuriOddysey.
Dogs are okay on leashes - EXCEPT - where marked "no dogs." Please respect rules regarding dogs! And pick up poop.
Please don't encourage kids to have water balloon fights with those little balloons - they are hard to pick and worsen the micro-plastic problem in soil and sea - not good for people or planet!
CuriOddysey is a WONDERFUL place - it has its own entry fee. Worth a family visit, for sure. Good for all ages to learn about enjoy science and nature.
Mostly non-native plants - such as eucalyptus - but some drought resistant and native California plants have been put in.
This is a wonderful place to spend time in - solo or with friends or family or a community group. Respect, care for, and enjoy this wonderful place.
Cynthia E — Google review
Beautiful recreation park. Sea side walking enjoyable the sea breeze kissing your face feels like French kiss. Play area for little kids. Lots of wind surfers 🏄♂️. Ample tables and benches very good spot for picnics. Also thire is a cycling track.
Raj Gvalani — Google review
Visited in Aug 21 and had a great time. Our visit was for fishing and hike and it was great for both. Looks like a great place for kids and sailboarding. They have a nice bait shack and snacks for purchase. Several bathrooms with running water are spread out. The parking fee of six dollars is well worth it.
Jeff B (Jeffery) — Google review
This park is a great place for BBQs, fishing, and has beautiful views of San Francisco, Sutro Tower, Monte Diablo, and other distant places.
San Francisco Premium Outlets is an outdoor shopping center located off CA-84 Exit 51. The mall boasts a wide selection of designer and brand-name clothing, shoes, accessories, and housewares from over 175 popular brands. Despite the occasional long lines due to short staffing at some stores, shoppers can expect to have a great time exploring the different shops in the mall. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes as this is a big outside mall with plenty of ground to cover.
Spacious outlet with so many brands which mostly have sizable stores and wide collections.
The amenities are fairly good.
Plenty of good deals especially if you’re VIP member.
Easy to navigate through and plenty of parking.
Yousef A. Almubarak — Google review
One of the great places for shopaholics to come to San Francisco. We spent 3 hours here but still feel it is not enough. There are stores with items selling extremely attractive prices. But there are also famous brands that you queue to be served. Great shopping experience in a fun space. You can find here very delicious, tasty, and reasonably priced dishes.
Lee — Google review
San Francisco Premium Outlets in Livermore, CA is an absolute dream for those who love big brands at outlet prices.
This place is a shopper's paradise! The selection of stores is incredible, with all the major brands you could ever desire. From high-end luxury labels to popular household names, you'll find it all here.
The quality of the merchandise is top-notch, and you can trust that you're getting authentic products. The layout of the outlets is well-organized, making it easy to navigate from one store to another. The parking facilities are ample, and I never had trouble finding a spot, even during peak hours.
San Francisco Premium Outlets has an impressive range of stores to choose from. Whether you're looking for fashion, accessories, footwear, or home goods, you'll find plenty of options to suit your taste. In summary, if you're a bargain hunter or simply enjoy shopping for big brands, San Francisco Premium Outlets is a must-visit destination.
Tung Ho — Google review
Had a great time going in and out of the different stores. This is and outside mall and the temperature was about 42 degrees so my jacket and face mask worked OK. Some of the shops had lines that you had to to wait in before being allowed in because the shops were short staffed. This is a BIG Outside mall so wear good walking shoes and be prepared to wait outside at some of the shops. Security wise I felt safe while walking around and enjoyed the sales that were going on. Am looking forward to going back there soon.
Robert Rendon — Google review
Really a great place with lots of factory outlets. They have very good deals most of the time. They have decent parking spots so on regular days it is not too hard to find parking spots. It really gets crowded on special occasions so plan accordingly for those. Overall my experience was great in this place. You can bring your friends and family and have a super awesome shopping experience. They also have a play structure outside the mall. They also have lots of great options for dining, drinking etc.
Rajeev Kumar — Google review
San Francisco Premium Outlets hosts some famous brands in Fashion, Apparel, Cosmetics, Home Stores, Eye Wear, Footwear, Gift Shops etc, such as Old Navy, H&M, Adidas, GUESS, GAP, Calvin Klein, Forever 21, Banana Republic, Aeropostale and more. We visit regularly and find more outlets being added every time. Cafes for a meal are such as Villa Italian Kitchen, Green Leaf's & Bananas as some have moved out. Parking is large, but it is still crowded on weekends or holidays.
V Ganapathy Subramanian — Google review
This is absolutely my favorite place to go shopping.
I really like how you have all of the department stores all in one place, but what I really love is that you get to be outdoors enjoying the sunshine while having an espresso coffee.
It’s one of those places where you see people from all over, and of course don’t forget the beautiful dogs with shoes and hats.
Alejandro Garcia — Google review
It has Starbucks, restrooms, Gucci and Armani just to name a few. A playground and water fountains. Not to mention the great outdoors with palm trees everywhere. Come on down and enjoy.
Obaid Mohammadi — Google review
Right off CA-84 Exit 51, impressive outlet featuring at least a hundred and seventy-five popular shoe, apparel & houseware brands.
B Thomas — Google review
One stop shop for premium brands. Parking space will be tight during weekends. The connecting passages to shops are open to sky. Therefore if you are visiting during peak summer/ winter/ monsoon, take appropriate precautions.
Col G I Balakrishnan Iyer — Google review
A Shopper's Paradise: An Unforgettable Experience. I recently had the pleasure of visiting San Francisco Premium Outlet and I must say, it was an absolute delight! From the moment I stepped foot there, I was captivated by the area’s vibrant atmosphere and extensive range of stores. There were diverse range of stores, well-designed layout, variety of dining options. I highly recommend visiting San Francisco premium outlets to anyone seeking an unforgettable shopping experience.
Ayesha A. Sahi — Google review
First of all, the total area is very large and there are many brands in the store, so it was fun to see and buy. It was the last weekend before the Christmas holiday, so there were a lot of people, and there were a lot of vehicles trying to enter from the moment they came out of the highway. In front of the popular brand store, you had to wait in line, and even though you were calculating, you had to wait in line, so you had to leave the items you wanted and turn around. You have to go in the morning to park, otherwise it's hard to find a parking space. At that time, it might be a way to do valet parking. It's $15.0.
Kai Dwd — Google review
Shops are not under one roof - on rainy days you get wet walking from store to store.
No free wifi and a small food court added to my disappointment.
Thomas — Google review
Do you like to shop? Do you like to shop all day? You're going to need a full day to visit over 180 outlet stores. There is a wide range of name brand items at discount prices. The mall has an upscale feel with spacious walkways and plenty of natural light. The selection of stores is impressive, with everything from fashion to home goods to electronics. If you want name brands without the price, this is the perfect place to shop. This is a great date spot. Peruse the stores while getting to know each other better. If you need a break from shopping, there's a food court to grab some lunch or a freshing beverage. IG: SACRAMENTOHONEY
Sacramento Honey — Google review
I have been to many outlets around the world; this one, indeed, is a real deal. Most of the brands are giving really good prices. Also, many brands can be found here.
The place is big, yet organized and clean.
The only con is the limited number of coffee shops and restaurants.
akram alfliow — Google review
This outlet store has a couple shops and it is worth going to. They give big discounts to branded shops and also has their cafeteria like popeyes and etc. Each store has free wifi and usually you only need to register to their websites which is linked to their wifi and opens up when you click it.
The Anonymous — Google review
The place is quite complete with so many brands. It is quite far outside SF but the access is easy with public transport (train and bus). Very convenient place for shopping branded items, but many stuff from premium outlets not available here.
Rustam Effendie — Google review
4.4
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4.0
(615)
2774 Livermore Outlets Dr, Livermore, CA 94551, USA
Open-air, garden-lined mall with high-end department stores & boutiques, specialty shops & eateries.
Nice concept of an outdoor shopping mall. Fresh air + shopping experience are so cool.
This is also a high end shopping center. They have lots of expensive brand shops here, but there are also some local stores such as Macy’s, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales. Many restaurants, coffee shops, boba shop and juice bar.
I personally love the outdoor parts. Many available seatings throughout the mall with greenery. I spotted many types of flora here, too.
Judy Margaret Chen — Google review
It’s a pretty good shopping center. Has a lot of high end stores but not as must variety when compared to Westfield. Bathrooms are always pretty clean and there are spots to charge your car. Also the food options are not too bad.
Jason Lumokso — Google review
I was obsessed with the decor here. so many well groomed flower beds and gardens all around. Refreshing to the senses. There are high quality stores and good food. I visited the sprinkles here near the previous Tesla showroom and tried their salted caramel and I loved it.
Kavita Agrawal — Google review
My boys grew up in the shopping mall when they were very little, they loved the frogs which were at a fountain in the middle of mall, and were now moved to a side corner. They could watch the frogs and fountains for hours without getting tired of. Amazing! 😇😇😀😀
Qihua M — Google review
The best in town..no more to say.
For shopping lovers you'll find what you need with regard that it is a small town so this mall fits the city herein.
It have shake shak which I consider the most tasty burger in the neighborhood.
It has lovely views and seating areas too.
????? ????? ?????? Dr. Mostafa Alabyad — Google review
Lovely place with many beautiful plantings along the interior walkways and some water features. There are benches and other places to sit in open areas; and tables and chairs near eating establishments. Parking is plentiful so it's easy to find a parking spot on weekdays. It's very busy on Saturday and parking can be more challenging. There are many upscale stores and nice restaurants.
Don Michele Moussa — Google review
The whole place was very beautiful and clean, but most stores here are on the (VERY)expensive side.
I only recommend going if you have a specific store in mind or trying to buy expensive gifts/clothes.
Manuel Puentes Espinoza — Google review
Lovely outdoor mall with plenty of higher end stores to choose from. Big department stores like Nordstrom, Macys, and Neiman Marcus anchor the smaller shoppes. Not a lot of shaded seating, only the outdoor public area near La Baguette, which seems to be the most popular spot at the mall. Parking is fine, not too difficult to find a spot. Some highlights include Max Mara Weekend, Velvet, and Vuori.
KGQ NYC — Google review
If you're a shopping enthusiast like me, this store is a dream come true. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a vast array of beautifully displayed merchandise. The quality of the products was exceptional, and the prices were surprisingly affordable. The store layout was intuitive, making it easy to browse and find what I needed. The staff were knowledgeable and friendly, offering helpful recommendations and ensuring I had a great time shopping. This is my go-to destination for all my shopping needs!
Eagor Fadika — Google review
Shake shack is in this shopping center. Don't come here on the weekends, service is horrible. Waited 40 mins for fries and cheeseburger 🤬
I got tired of waiting a asked for a refund. Came back on Monday st 1:50pm, but service was not great either.
Paking is plentiful.
Espererai — Google review
Delightful open air shopping mall with high end retailers like Tiffany, Shreveport, Louis Vuitton, Barberry, Nostrum, Neman Marcus, Tesla, big Apple Store and with range of restaurants etc. The garden is beautiful in the wealthy neighborhood and Stanford University campus nearby.
somkietr rojanasathit — Google review
Large shopping center with all your needs. We shops and dines here. It's clean and tidy here. The location is very convenient , and it's a short walk from the railway station.
A K — Google review
Great shopping experience at Stanford Shopping Centre. This outdoor mall offers a pristine environment with well-maintained green spaces and even allows shoppers to bring their furry friends along. The variety of high-end shops including the iconic Louis Vuitton. Plus, the availability of both open and covered parking options adds convenience to the overall visit. Recommended for a leisurely shopping day.
OfficialG Tui — Google review
Luxury shopping mall next to Stanford University. Lots of expensive brand outlets. Very clean and has a nice cool vibe.
I bought a couple of Apple products for my friends and relatives. Had a Nola cold coffee from Blue Bottle cafe as well.
Sandeep Bhat — Google review
Nice shopping mall. I came here with my daughter. I did not go with her to Nespresso. I sat on one of the benches and waited for her. However, I just took a few photos of the surroundings. I noticed they will have a new Japanese restaurant opening soon. It has been almost 40 years since I shopped at Stanford Shopping Center. It sure changed a lot. The only retail business I recognized was Macy's.
Since I live in Alameda and I don't drive anymore, I doubt if I will be here for a shopping excursion.
Carol Chong — Google review
Stanford Shopping Center is more than just a mall—it’s an elegant retail oasis nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley. With its open-air design, lush gardens, and a curated selection of world-class stores, this center invites visitors to indulge in a refined shopping experience.
Dining at Stanford is a culinary adventure. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, True Food Kitchen, and The Melt are just a few of the delightful options. Whether you crave a juicy burger or a sophisticated wine pairing, the center’s restaurants cater to every taste.
Stanford Shopping Center is a destination for discerning shoppers, where sophistication meets convenience. Whether you’re browsing designer boutiques or savoring a gourmet meal, this center promises an unforgettable experience.
Arty Larpnampha — Google review
I really like Stanford Shopping Center because I like that it's an outdoor mall with lots of stores and some restaurants. I'd rather walk around outdoors compared to an indoor mall.
Bruce S. — Google review
Stanford Shopping Center is a great place to shop, or simply walk about on a beautiful day. It is outside, and the stores are world-class design shops. Every shop space is filled, and there is no sign of malaise as can be seen at many shopping centers. The shoppers are also world-class shoppers, with a mix of local families, Stanford University families, and world travelers.
Blayney-Paul Foster — Google review
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660 Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
Stanford University, a leading private research institution established in 1885, is renowned for its exceptional academic programs in law, engineering, business and medicine. It boasts of being one of the best private universities globally with an outstanding campus lifestyle that is super clean and organized. The university's buildings and structures exude a dreamland aura full of castles that are perfect for exploration by multiple visits due to the enormity of the campus.
What cozy and beautiful campus! The community is vibrant and feel the youth energy there! Plus the diversity and diversity make this university so fantastic!!!
Le monde Tibet — Google review
This review is on the walkability and grounds of Stanford University rather than the academics or admissions. Quite simply one of the most beautiful college campuses in the U.S., abs worry the visit even if one is not currently shopping colleges. Stanford is vast and mostly flat. There are many areas shaded by trees that helps with cooling on a hot day. Those from warmer climates will appreciate the gorgeous weather most of the year. There are plenty of areas to sit but restrooms are hard to come by for visitors. The campus is also great for skateboards, bikes, both manual and electric. The chapel is gorgeous and the Rodin Garden is lovely. A wonderful place to get your 10k steps!
KGQ NYC — Google review
Stanford campus is one of the must-visit Bay Area sites. Campus is vast and beautiful. The weather is almost perfect all year round. It typically take about 4-6 hours to have a full tour of the enormous campus. I have taken a few pictures for us to share. Hope you would like them.
American Credit — Google review
Picturesque university with beautiful church and buildings. Great for afternoon walk around the campus and even you can go up the Hoover tower for fabulous views.
Subhankar Das — Google review
Enormous campus. Very beautiful. In town from Wisconsin. Bookstore didn't have wrestling gear. Had to go on a journey to find the other store near track stadium. Wish that info was clearer. But got to explore campus
Brian Hinkle — Google review
I had lived in the Bay area for 10 years and never made it to the Stanford campus.
I'm so glad I got to come here today and loan a little bit about the Stanford story.
Education is for everyone.
I feel humbled to have been in the space where the greatest minds belong and innovation is at the heart of it all.
The clock tower, the church and the quad are just beyond beautiful.
Div Manickam — Google review
One of the best private universities in the world with their academics and campus lifestyle. Everything here is super clean and organized. The buildings and structures in the campus makes you feel as if you are in dreamland full of castles. The campus is super huge, so one might as well take multiple visits to explore.
Prajna Shenoy — Google review
It is a well-known university. It has been seen in several American movies. There are not too many tourists, easy to access and easy parking. I advise you to go there outside school hours so that it is quieter.
Steven Rancourt — Google review
I’m not a student, but this place is something that you can not miss!
Amazing architecture, Rodin garden with unique sculptures with big hands, and a spirit of student life are the most important things which give you a full impression.
Parking lot is huge.
Church has working hours and not open for visitors all day long.
Restrooms and cafeterias are working for you.
Ksusha Malysheva — Google review
The place with nice vibe. We had just a small walk here. I was never dreaming about studying in such a place. But the understanding that here is The university with huge history, so old and beautiful made me happy
Anna Shtatskaya — Google review
No doubt one of the top universities in the world. Silicon Valley is the proof! Got a quick tour today. Not able to attend the Mass due to time limit. Wish kids can have the chances to study here one day.
Edward Zhang — Google review
A trip to Stanford University during our summer vacation turned out to be an extraordinary experience, leaving us in awe of the excellence and beauty that this prestigious institution has to offer. From the moment we set foot on the sprawling campus, we knew we were in for a treat.
The first thing that struck us was the picturesque setting of Stanford University. Nestled amid lush greenery and framed by majestic palm trees, the campus exuded an atmosphere of tranquility and sophistication. The meticulously maintained grounds and stunning architecture created a sense of grandeur, making us feel like we had entered a world of academic brilliance.
The Hoover Tower, with its commanding presence, offered a breathtaking view of the entire campus and the surrounding landscape. We stood in awe as we took in the panorama, realizing the vast potential that Stanford University holds for its students to make a positive impact on the world.
If you're looking for an opportunity to ignite curiosity and inspire young minds, a visit to Stanford University is an absolute must. The blend of academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and picturesque surroundings make it an unforgettable destination for families and aspiring scholars alike.
Rav Misra — Google review
Our recent visit to the Stanford Campus was an absolute delight. From the moment we stepped foot onto the grounds, we were captivated by the refreshing atmosphere, lush green landscapes, and unique vibe that permeated every corner of this prestigious institution.
One of the most striking aspects of the campus was the abundance of trees and verdant landscapes. As we strolled along the pathways, we found ourselves surrounded by a picturesque natural setting that provided a serene backdrop for our exploration. The meticulously maintained gardens and vibrant flora added a touch of tranquility to the entire experience.
During our visit, we had the opportunity to explore the renowned East Asia libraries with a day pass. The libraries proved to be a treasure trove of knowledge, housing an extensive collection of books and resources. The ambiance was both serene and studious, allowing us to immerse ourselves in a world of intellectual discovery.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to the Oval, where we witnessed a truly breathtaking sunset. The vast expanse of the Oval provided an ideal vantage point to soak in the vibrant hues painting the sky, creating a scene that was nothing short of magical. It was a moment of pure serenity and beauty, etching a lasting memory in our minds.
What truly struck us during our visit was the palpable sense of history and stories that seemed to resonate from every corner of the campus. Whether it was the iconic buildings or the quiet nooks and crannies, there was an undeniable aura of significance and heritage. It felt as though each space held its own narrative, inviting visitors like us to become a part of the rich tapestry of Stanford's legacy.
In conclusion, our visit to the Stanford Campus was an enchanting experience from start to finish. The refreshing ambiance, abundant greenery, and unique vibe create an atmosphere that is both invigorating and serene. Whether you're academic enthusiasts, nature lovers, or simply seeking a place of beauty and inspiration, Stanford Campus offers a captivating journey filled with history, natural wonders, and stories waiting to be discovered. We wholeheartedly recommend a visit to this remarkable institution.
Ashwini Suryavanshi — Google review
The campus is very nice to walk around. The buildings, Rodin's sculpture garden, and the art museum are all worth a visit. The bookstore is full of things to buy as gifts.
Amy W — Google review
Very large campus with some attractions. Visit the Hoover Tower (elevator) and the Hoover exhibition halls. The Memorial Church with its beautiful windows all with free entrance. Also the Rodin-Replicas outside the Cantor Arts Center are in open air and free to visit. For parking, you can use a website to pay per hour, even foreign credit cards works. Wait for good weather, it's nothing you wanna do in the rain.
Manuel Girisch — Google review
The architecture is phenomenal. Loved the church, the arena, and the labs! It's summer, so lucky me! Plenty of parking around 7 pm on a Wednesday! So guess what's gonna happen in the Fall!!
The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum houses one of the largest collections of Egyptian artifacts in western North America. The museum has exhibits from pre-dynastic times through Egypt's early Islamic era, and also features a replica 18th dynasty Rosicrucian Peace Garden.
Very interesting museum. If you can’t go to Egypt anytime soon and really need to feed your curiosity about ancient Egyptians, this place will definitely help. They covered a lot, very well planned place. Amazing collections. Easily can spend a day. Outdoor gardens are amazing. It wasn’t that crowded at all. Ticket prices are fair and totally worth it.
Ru Ra — Google review
Recommend to download their app and get the audio tour. Description in museums are self-explanatory. Some portions of exhibition reminds of movie The mummy. They have nice outdoor spaces as well.
Sunita Khanal — Google review
I didn't know this museum was here. Anywho, this place is awesome. It is surprisingly much larger than it looks from outside the compound. Inside the museum, there are plenty of authentic artifacts and relics to look at and to read about. The tomb replica were you walk-thru was a nice touch and gave it an immersive experience. Will definitely go back since it's local.
BikeTrails WaggingTails — Google review
When 1st looking into visiting, google hinted at the average stay time of 2 hrs. I stayed nearly 5 hrs and really enjoyed both the grounds and the museum (I'm a bit of an art history nerd). They allow in & out privileges, too. Parking is free, easy, and nearby. The art is incredible.
Michon Garemani — Google review
Great museum with many gorgeous artifacts. It was quite busy this Sunday, but we were able to see all exhibits at our leisure. Don't miss the tour through the tomb. It's worth your time. The exterior is absolutely wonderful.
Marion Backbier — Google review
If you are in San Jose, this museum you should visit. It's a cool place for family too. If you drive to this museum, there are two free parking (on Chapman St) behind the museum. Must visit the garden, it is beautiful. The biggest hibiscus tree I have not ever seen. If it's your first time, please stop the section behind the reception. The video shows the introduction of this museum. I love the idea they have their own app. It's so interesting to learn from this app and visit every sections. My trip for this museum was around 2.5 hrs. Love it. Strong recommend!
Ella Zhang — Google review
I've been coming here off and on since I was a kid and honestly nothing has changed and that's totally okay because now I have my own kid and he was so excited to just be around somewhere that had what was to him "monsters". We explored inside first and then afterwards he got to do all the running around in the garden.
Vanessa C — Google review
This museum is a hidden gem and houses a wealth of history. My family and I visited late in the day and we were only able to see the main building. However, we did take a quick walk around the gardens which are beautiful. We will return to see the library next time.
Sydney Hayes-Roc — Google review
Very Cool! Tons to see and read. Very Large Exihbit. Make sure you have at least 2 hours or more, to really see everything.
The staff were professional and friendly.
I highly recommend this museum for all ages. A great place to take your family.
I recommend bringing ear pods or headphones, so that you can do the audio part, through your cel phone.
Parking was pretty easy in the back. We went on the weekend.
Enjoy.
Michael Farley — Google review
You could easily lose sense of time if you are here at Rosicrucian's. It is a quaint place , telling you the history of one of the oldest & very impressive civilization on earth ! They also conduct workshops to engage visitors of all ages. Fortunately, on the day of my visit they had mummification workshop, where folks were given a kit with fake organs to wear like a jacket and the experts explained the process of mummification. It was fun and very educational. The artifacts, slabs, sculptures and the overall experience is very authentic. Also enjoy their peace garden, just roam around and you would be transferred into another world.
If you get tired or need to step outside for a hot beverage, there is a Starbucks just around the corner , roughly 200 ft down the road.
You must plan your next visit soon.
Mahesh Singhal — Google review
Great time, the self-guided tour was easy to follow. Accessibility can be a bit challenging, but they have ramps for all the stairs. The gardens are beautiful! So many ancient artifacts. The passport book is great for kids
Savvy Reader — Google review
I can say that I thoroughly recommend this museum for all groups of all ages. The curation is diverse and entertaining. There are guided and self-guided tours with a passport system to keep track of what you've done. There are interactive games for you to play and the area itself is free to browse.
They maintain their grounds well, you can tell a lot goes into keeping this place looking prim and proper. There's complimentary parking on the side and ample street parking all around.
Khiem Nguyen — Google review
Highlight for me when visiting this museum? The Egyptian tomb beneath it. The audio gave a detailed explanation of what I saw on the walls. This museum has plenty of beautiful relics, models of archaeological sites, sarcophagus, and even an outdoor garden to enjoy. You won't regret visiting this museum of you are into Egyptian history.
Manny Ortiz — Google review
The tour of a replica Egyptian burial tomb was the best part. Very old aesthetic, inside the museum. A good amount of the museum is about death, coffins, and mummies. The lighting inside is very dim. The outside garden could be kept better. There are some nice Egyptian fixtures out there. Parking is free with a lot behind the building.
T. Farris — Google review
Pretty nice Collection! They have a helpful guided tour too. Wish they had lunch options on site and were stroller friendly.
Swetha Chellappa — Google review
My husband and I visited this museum about a year ago during our vacation. It was super interesting with lots to see and read inside. Also did the fun, little guided tour through the "tomb". The garden landscape outside was neat too.
Pineapple Princess — Google review
This museum is amazing. I highly recommend a visit. The gardens are so beautiful and peaceful, and the museum's exhibits are fascinating. The overall feel of the place is wonderful! The staff was really nice too. Thank you to the organization that offers this to the community. It is a thoughtful and treasured gift!
Michelle M — Google review
Amazing hidden gem in the heart of San Jose. I have lived in the area for years and never thought much of going to this. It looks small from the outside but like the ancient pyramids, there's more than meets the eye! There are actually several levels inside, including an underground tunnel and recreation of a tomb deep within the catacombs. The grounds are much more extensive than what can be seen from the street and are nothing short of spectacular, including sculptures, fountains and ancient Egyptian symbols hidden amongst the myriad trees and swaying Papyrus. I'm so glad I finally went with my family! It's also reasonably priced and they even offer discounts for students, veterans and more. Do yourself a favor and take a trip through ancient history to visit Egypt in your backyard!
Marc Kleinmaier — Google review
Fantastic collection of historic items and insightful remnants. Everything from collected pieces of tools and wares, to scale models of various buildings and temples, to even some full-body preserved remains. There's lots to see here, and it's all presented really well. There's also a guided walking tour through a mock-up of an Egyptian tomb, which is absolutely worth checking out (though it can be a bit claustrophobic in some areas). Absolutely worth the visit, and it's also worth it to check out the gardens outside the main building as well.
Nikolas Hayes — Google review
Very nice place not to expensive
$10 for adults over 18
And discounts for children under 18 and college students or Military
Was pretty busy. But amazing
ALOT to see outside as well Friendship Gardens and Koi fish on the water. Very pleasant trip.
JR FLORES — Google review
What a beautifully curated museum with fine attention to detail and thorough respect to all of the artifacts!
There is literally so much to see and read! It took us about 3 hours to get through the in door portion of the museum.
Please make sure to spend some time in the beautiful tranquil garden and relax, eat a picnic lunch or read a book. You won't regret it!
Brianna — Google review
This is our second time here and it was just as fun as the first time!! The exhibits are so informative and well laid out. We always learn something new!
Must go into the Tomb it is so cool but a little dark to give the effect of being underground. So many details to look at. There is a room with diagrams of different life styles, like the queen in her room, or carpenters building, a family having dinner, etc. The details in the displays are so great and well done!
Entrance cost $20 for two people and we spent a whole afternoon here. There are outside grounds you have access to before paying to enter the museum part. The outside grounds are beautiful, clean and relaxing. You could take a book and sit out there for hours!
We will be back. Also staff was so friendly!
K M — Google review
Great museum to visit with kids! They have a passport book and stamps for kids to collect and it was fun way to keep them engaged.
The highlight for me was the rock cut tomb! It felt very realistic and an experience that I wasn't expecting to get in a museum. We went on a weekday, and there was a guided tour of the tomb that I highly recommend!
Rashmi Ramaswamy — Google review
Great place for an Egypt enthusiast. I didn't see a gift shop, but we may have missed it. We enjoyed the indoor displays as well as the gardens. I'd highly recommend!
Teresa Breon — Google review
Educative museum that contains way more inside than what it seems on the outside, with an actual preserved mummy! The grounds are beautiful too with many paths through greenery. Can be quite busy on the weekends.
Bo Han Zhu — Google review
Best and one of the only Egyptian museums around. Many genuine artifacts. They have a very good current exhibition on Alchemy from the ancient world. $10 bucks gets you in so it's also one of the cheapest ways to spend a few hours.
Saiho Kwan — Google review
The museum is very cool. Grandkids enjoyed it. The tomb tour was fun. Two tour guides did a very good job.
But they need to hire a grounds keeper. Part of the experience is enjoying the outside areas. I couldn't because it is in such poor condition and the pond is so dirty. I was very upsetting to see the 2 Koi fish in disgusting dirty water. The peaceful garden was definitely not peaceful.
The Winchester Mystery House is a sprawling landmark built by Sara Winchester in the late 1800's. It is said to be haunted by the spirits of those killed by Winchester rifles, and contains many strange features designed to confuse ghosts.
Cool tour. The tour guides were amazing. I highly recommend taking the extra tour after taking the first tour, it made the overall experience that much better. Gift shop to shooting range, axe throwing to house tour, this site holds a lot of adventure to be had.
Warning: I and my guests experienced paranormal activity while in the house. My experience was not nearly as bad as my guests but be aware, paranormal experiences are possible and my not be suitable for all people.
Drew Lichty — Google review
In March we took the House tour and loved it. We came back in July to take the Walk With Spirits Tour.
We had a blast! We love the tours here. Staff are so knowledgeable and friendly. The house is amazing, great for those into history and spirits.
We bought our tickets online prior, which made it so easy, no wait at all. Highly recommend all of the tours they offer here.
Sheri Mccolloch — Google review
I absolutely love the house. It's cute, quirky, and inspiring. However the tickets were way overpriced, considering it wasn't even the whole house and the inside was incredibly hot (I get that AC is quite impossible but feel like some of the money on the ticket could be spent on more and better fans), and that the tour is quite short for the price (the turnaround rate is high, which again I get, but I wish we had more time to check out every room, instead of being rushed by the next tour.) Worth visiting and it was super fun, but get ready to spend.
Yu Jung Hou — Google review
We were in San Jose for a concert and found the Winchester Mystery House while searching for things to do during the day, and I'm glad we did. The one hour tour was great, and our tour guide gave us some great history while injecting a lot of humor as well. It was a really good time, and we enjoyed learning about and seeing the house. All of the different features meant to confuse the ghosts were fun to see.
(They were set up for a Halloween event, so some of my photos have those items in there that normally aren't set up.)
Jamie Lawson — Google review
Definitely a must see in San Jose, I attended a walk with the spirits tour. It lasted around 1 hour, or guide Katy was kind and very informative. The tour takes you through a lot of the house and there’s tight spots where you have to duck and wear a hard hat. So if you have mobility issues it could be a little challenging. Theres also stairs to climb. But overall a great tour. My group had a lot of fun!
Kennedy F — Google review
It was interesting, the house was a novelty and a fun piece of history. Sarah, our guide, was nice and very knowledgeable. My other thoughts: the tour ran about 90 minutes, which was a little long for me at the end, though the most elaborate rooms are at the end so it ends on a high note. The price is very high, totalling $90 for the two of us. I've been to a lot of historic monuments, palaces, castles, etc. and that's the highest price I've ever seen. I don't think it's worth it-as a comparison, the Tower of London or Westminster Abbey is almost half the price. Interesting, but priced too high. Tickets sell out so you might want to reserve online.
Michelle Mitton — Google review
We were there on March 12, 2024. Amazing house. We loved some of the woodworking details. Sarah had put a lot of thought into the details of the house. Some things weird, like stairs going up but nowhere, walls behind doors, etc. Our guide was knowledgeable. I would like to see a smaller group (about 4-5 persons less) so everyone can get into the rooms. Loved the bedroom areas
If you are in the area, you must visit. We enjoyed it.
Pam Sulak — Google review
We did an afternoon tour on a weekday. Drove there and was able to purchase tickets for the next tour. Each tour lasted about an hour and it was packed with fun facts about the house.
I highly recommend this tour. Very unique house full of mystery and history. My kids and I all enjoyed it. Our guide was awesome!
Sharon Black — Google review
This place is amazing. We were fortunate to go during the narrow window of time when they were offering an extended version of the tour to areas that are usually off limits. Very cool. The tower room with the crazy acoustics was probably my favorite part. I love the entire house and property though. Fantastic experience. I'm so grateful that this place has been preserved. It's really cool.
James Angelo — Google review
What a fun experience. The house is lovingly maintained and the grounds are exquisite especially the garden. It was fun to walk around after the tour. The tour guide was informative if not rehearsed but I guess that's to be expected after saying the same thing all day every day. Kind of funny to see this house and grounds smack in the middle of the city with condos and offices around but also loved the old photos of what the area looked like when it was originally purchased. Gift shop was well stocked with everything you could imagine. Fascinating story of Sarah Winchester.
Allison M — Google review
We had a wonderful time at this fabulous old home! Our guide Griffin was exceptional; kind, patient and very knowledgeable. The home itself is fascinating and beautiful, and the gardens are lovely! Buy tickets in advance and for first thing in the morning during the summer months as it does get hot!
Traci B. — Google review
Loved our visit to this place! Me and my bestie have always wanted to see the Winchester Mystery House and it did not disappoint! Only thing disappointing was that urban sprawl has encroached upon the surrounding area and has the essence of putting this beautiful property in a little hole. My friend always imagined it as being away from the city and on its own little land high on a hill somewhere. But still, the mansion was cool and mysterious, even during the day. My friend said she felt anxiety in one of the rooms and, for some reason, the seance room was much colder than any of the other rooms. I thought a window was open, but there wasn't! Our tour guide had a dry humor, but it was appropriate for this kind of establishment. Slightly creepy, very interesting, and just the right amount of historical facts to make the tour enjoyable. Bring your walking shoes! This place was huge!
Theron Langhorne — Google review
For 13 years I've been waiting for this tour and it was worth every penny. The tour guide was fantastic, the gardens were easy to navigate and the gift shop was pretty alright. The gift shop was a tad expensive but if you want memorabilia it was perfect. I love this place and I hope to return another time.
Casey Johnson — Google review
The Winchester Mystery House tour is amazing and so completely worth visiting! Our guide, Kai, was knowledgeable, captivating, and friendly. He shared facts, not fiction, while sharing the story of Sara Winchester's life. The house is a piece of fascinating, historic architecture, full of interesting tales and visuals. I would totally take this tour again, it was so fascinating I am sure I missed things because I was so enthralled! The gardens are beautiful and so peaceful to stroll through. We went on the regular tour but will definitely go back for the Candlelight tour! Oh! And the Menagerie of Oddities & Curiosities Market that was taking place was super rad with local artisans and artists, can't wait to go back!
Cami Cipolla — Google review
Impromptu visit on Saturday--reserve your tour ahead of time online. They seem to fill up fast!
Wish the tours had a smaller group limit so that we could see a little more of the house and spend more time with tour guide.
Overall, the home is amazing.
If you enjoy Victorian design and stained glass, then this is a must see.
Great way to spend some time in downtown San Jose if the weather is nice.
Brenda was our guide and she was very friendly and hospitable.
Lauren B — Google review
Loved this place. The house and grounds are beyond stunning. Parking was easier than I expected and the tour guides were fun. I enjoyed learning about the history. We did both tours and felt the price for the explore more tour was not a great value, but the $ you pay helps fund the restorations needed so I'm okay with that. Also we arrived basically one minute before our scheduled tour and they were very accommodating and offered to change our time before I could even ask.
Charlie Ramey — Google review
We toured on our weekend getaway. What an AWESOME experience! Very unique! Just wish there was a little more time in between rooms; not only for pictures but to allow the available presence(s) to come through more. Faces are within paintings/pictures in pictures. Definitely does not sell short of the energy in that building! Beautiful architecture! Captivating! Now, we just need a midnight tour or sleepover! ☺️
Elaina Kirshman — Google review
We were driving through and I wanted to stop to see it. I have heard so much about the house. My wife and just gone on the house tour and "spirits" tour several weeks before with her girlscout troop. The girls really enjoyed both tours. We walked around the grounds and gift shop, but did not go inside. It is a beautiful home. They do a great job taking care of it! It is amazing to think it used to be a working farm, surrounded by orchards. Now it is surrounded by office buildings and apartments. If you are in the area, you have to stop and see it.
Scott Wolf — Google review
Historical aspects that were beautiful to see. Great tour guide with a sense of humor. We went in August so it was hot but we still enjoyed the tour. Lots of walking, lots of stairs, some original items, but most things were brought in to recreate the home dynamic. We definitely want to go back and see the other tour options.
Teasha Vasquez — Google review
Have never been here before so I will review everything I did individually….
Oct 6- Unhinged experience VIP 930pm
This is a fun experience for kids, but pricey and in my opinion not worth the price.
Oct 7- spirit tour 150pm
Fun and informative. Vic was a great host with a lot of stories and experience (I believe he has been there since 2018)
Answered any and all questions- great host! A+
Oct 8- mansion tour
Also fun and informative! Victoria was our host this day. It was only her second day and you would have never known it! She was wonderful. Answered all questions and was so much fun. Everyone truly enjoyed her, I feel she has a long time employment here (maybe even into the afterlife 🤣)
I bundled the last 2 tours which made it a great deal. Also, these 2 tours take you to different parts and rooms of the house so I highly recommend doing both! I really loved all the stained glass in the house.
Robin McFaul — Google review
A must-see experience for every fan of the eccentric or unusual or even Victorian architecture. It's difficult to convey my feelings about the Winchester Mystery House. I'm not a believer in spooks or spirits, so the exact reason why my memory of the house has lingered at the front of my consciousness for weeks after my visit is peculiar to put it mildly. My initial impression was simply how overwhelming the maintenance of the house must be on an ongoing basis. We paid for the 10:50 am "Guided Mansion Tour" on a Saturday. Tickets were $41.99 each. Our tour guide was Marissa, a lovely young lady wearing a period costume. She was professional, enthusiastic about the property (she referred to the Winchester House as a "home" throughout the tour), and a delightful host. We heard some of the other tour guides that overlapped ours due to the layout of the house, and I am pleased that we were lucky to be assigned Marissa for our tour. She was great! Highly recommended!!!
Lloyd Lindberry III — Google review
We absolutely loved this house! Our tour guide Olivia Maldonado went above and beyond for our tour. We loved the architecture, history, "haunted" part and everything else. Olivia let us rest when my Make-a-Wish kiddo needed a break and we got to use ghost hunting tools in the house. We got to hear the history behind doors that lead to nowhere, the stairs that lead to nowhere, the number 13 throughout the house and so many more fun tidbits. Their gift shop is huge and super well priced. Olivia made the tour so enjoyable! 100% worth your time to go and enjoy as there's something for everyone.
Briana Taylor — Google review
We made a detour on our camping trip on our way home from the Coast of California and visited the Winchester Mystery House. You must do this tour! You'll be telling friends forever that they should go too! After we had a really great lunch in town at an upscale Mexican Restaurant just a 5 min. Walk from there. Great day!
shelley murphy — Google review
Creepy but fun! Definitely has spooky vibe, but we had a good time. We had a novice guide so she did her best. Would like to go back during October and do the nighttime tours! 👻
Sweet Ness — Google review
The Winchester House offers an unforgettable experience. The mansion's beauty is matched only by the quality of the guided tour. Each corner reveals intriguing stories, expertly explained by the guides. Exploring its mysteries is a true delight, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an enriching and captivating experience in history and architecture.
Clément Muth — Google review
My wife and I had the opportunity to attend a TAPS Paranormal investigation at the Winchester Mystery House. I have been to the Winchester house about 4 times with my first time being about 55 years ago, but never at night and in the dark. The event was top-notch with friendly staff and knowledgeable staff from TAPS West Coast. The TAPS crew were using a vast array of equipment, and each of the guests had their own K2 EMF detector. We went into areas previously unavailable to the public. If they ever offer this experience again, do it.
Phil Wilson — Google review
Beautiful house. I did enjoy my tour guide, Milo. Very quirky and fun. Gets really into it and knew a lot of other facts not mentioned. Although the introvert in me wouldn’t mind a self guided mobile tour as well. Very touristy with the gift shop but I did get a shirt and magnet. Was a nice piece of history. The cool part of history. Was eye easy to buy tickets online and go right inside to the waiting area.
Allieya DePaolantonio — Google review
Emma. The tour guide was awesome and lovely to listen too Very outgoing and well prepared and spontaneous. Loved every minute was thrilling and exciting to learn very informative. Definitely recommend to take some time and take the tour of this beautiful home.
Look forward to do the extended tour with spirits soon.
Triple777black — Google review
Experience: really good experience. The house is exactly how you would imagine, quirky rooms, strange staircases, lots of windows and very unique features.
The tour guide was very informative and knowledgeable but he went too fast. As soon as he finished telling us about the area we were in, it was time to walk on to the next area. So there was not much time to take it all in.
It would have been nice if he spoke just a tad slower and paused before moving on.
In their defense though, there is ALOT of information to cover. The house has so much character.
I recommend visiting if you have a spare couple of hours.
holly brooks — Google review
I love this place. It's been twenty plus years since I've been over here so I thought I should check it out again. It's amazing how much you forget over the years. It's just a neat old quirky house. The story behind it really does enhance the experience. We only did the house tour because it was raining. Like I already said, I loved it. The guide was great and there was plenty to see. Would recommend. Not a lot of pics because I was too busy looking with my eyes.
Herb Busler — Google review
Well worth a trip to see the kooky Winchester mansion. It's well furnished, and the Christmas decorations were fun and fitting in the house. The multiple sets of stairs on the standard tour are worth consideration if you're going with children, seniors, or mobility restricted people. The tour is about a mile of walking. They do offer ADA tours as well.
California's oldest state park offers backpacking, mountain biking & other outdoor activities.
Very scenic road trip. We loved our trip there. Don’t forget to stop at sunset vista point. You will see lot of road bikes and many racing motorcycles. Many sports cars also go there.
Biswajit Maity — Google review
To say I was able to finally go to see the California Redwoods makes me so happy! Our visit was shortly after they re-opened the forest after the fires in 2020. It is still so beautiful I can't imagine what it must have been like before the fires. The damage is evident in most areas, but to see the growth and resiliency of the forest coming back is a welcoming sight. At this time, you do need to make a reservation as they are limiting the amount of people and have limited parking space at this time - SO PLEASE CALL BEFORE HAND to make sure you can get in to see the forest!
Kathleen Crowley — Google review
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a natural gem nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains of California.
Enchanting Redwood Forest: Big Basin Redwoods State Park is home to ancient and majestic coastal redwood trees, some of which are over 2,000 years old and reach staggering heights. Walking among these towering giants is a truly awe-inspiring experience. The serene and tranquil atmosphere created by the dense forest of redwoods offers a sense of peace and connection with nature.
Scenic Hiking Trails: The park offers a variety of well-maintained hiking trails suitable for all levels of hikers. From leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes, there are options for everyone. The trails wind through lush fern-filled canyons, cross sparkling creeks, and lead to picturesque waterfalls. Each step reveals new wonders of nature, making the hiking experience unforgettable.
Diverse Flora and Fauna: Big Basin Redwoods State Park is teeming with diverse plant and animal life. Besides the magnificent redwoods, the park is home to a variety of ferns, wildflowers, and other unique plant species. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a range of animals, including deer, squirrels, birds, and even the elusive banana slug. Exploring the park offers an opportunity to appreciate the delicate balance of nature.
Waterfalls and Creeks: The park features several beautiful waterfalls, such as Berry Creek Falls and Silver Falls, which cascade down moss-covered rocks and create a soothing ambiance. The glistening creeks meander through the forest, providing tranquil spots to relax and immerse oneself in the peaceful sounds of nature.
Campgrounds and Picnic Areas: Big Basin Redwoods State Park offers well-equipped campgrounds and picnic areas for visitors who want to extend their stay. Camping amidst the redwoods under a starry sky is a magical experience. Picnic areas provide a lovely setting for enjoying a meal surrounded by nature.
Educational Opportunities: The park offers interpretive programs and guided hikes led by knowledgeable park staff. These educational experiences provide insights into the history, ecology, and conservation efforts of the park. Learning about the significance of preserving these ancient forests enhances the overall visit.
Tranquil Atmosphere: Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a place where one can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. The peacefulness and tranquility found within the park's boundaries allow visitors to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate.
Conservation Efforts: The park plays a vital role in the conservation of old-growth redwood forests. Efforts to protect and preserve this natural treasure ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate and benefit from its beauty.
In conclusion, Big Basin Redwoods State Park offers a captivating experience for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking solace in the embrace of ancient redwoods. With its stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and opportunities for outdoor activities, the park is a sanctuary where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity of one of California's most cherished natural wonders.
Vikram Singh — Google review
97% of Big Basin was affected by a devastating forest fire. After having been closed for a few years, the park is once again open. As you walk the trails, you can see the remains of the massive devastation. However, what is most evident is the fact that the redwoods are extremely resilient. Many are fully gutted from fire but yet still are living. It's a true testament to the power of the redwoods. Though the forest is much more sparse as a result, what visitors can take away is the awe in the refusal of the mighty redwoods to be destroyed by even a massive forest blaze.
5 x 🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲
Wes Inaba — Google review
We haven’t been here since before the fire in 2020. It is sad to see the remnants of so many burned and fallen trees but also inspiring and astonishing to see the many trees recovering. We came for the 5 mile loop hike past Ocean View Summit, what a great hike. We’d like to give a big shoutout to Erin at the visitor center for her helpful advice and things to look for on our hike.
Patrick Densmore — Google review
We were doing a day trip from Danville to Santa Cruz. Included in that was a stop at Big Basin Redwood. I did minimal research on the park before leaving. Saw that some areas were open. I did not pay much mind to what. We were taking my handicapped brother to do the handicap accessible trail by the visitors center. Little did we know that the park had been seriously damaged by a wildfire in Aug 2020. As we headed into the park via the north entrance hwy a sign said road closed in 4 miles. We proceeded onward anyway. The further we went down the hwy the more fire damage you saw. When we got to the road close part you could see extensive fire damage to the redwood trees/Forrest. But it was beautiful and enlightening. We stopped the car and walked around. Walking around you see the beauty of the burnt trees. The new growth of branches/leaves, and at the base of the trees. Loved it even though we did not make it to the main area of the park.
Ray Repath — Google review
It’s a bummer that fire ripped through the Redwood forest but it was still neat to hike through, there are only 2 trails open right now, I took the long trail up the mountain that meets up with a fire road then hiked up to the upper most point. You get a 360 degree view of nothing but mountains and forest all around you. It was foggy when I went so I couldn’t see the ocean but it’s to the west, I’m definitely looking forward to going back in spring to see the place re greened.
Aleks Limon — Google review
We loved walking through the state park! We completed the Redwoods loop and the moderate hike to the Ocean View Summit and back. Seeing the effects of the 2020 fire really put an appreciation for the area in perspective. We only wish we could have seen prior to 2020 to fully understand the difference.
Amanda Fields — Google review
This park is in recovery from a devastating fire. The facilities are very limited. Despite this, the staff were very helpful, the temporary facilities were respectable, and the open trails were enjoyable. But it is hotter than you'd expect so prepare. The lack of canopy cover since the fire leaves hikers exposed to the sun. There is no water here so you must bring your own.
My 4 star rating simply reflects that it isn't quite ready for the number of people that were visiting the day I went, not a knock against the staff or the park itself.
elizabeth white — Google review
If you're looking for a fun place to hike, you have found it. The redwood trees are still amazing, even after the fires. There are very easy trails along with some on the intermediate scale, so be sure you're prepared. It also helps and is very important to pay and get a parking reservation in advance to be sure you're able to enter.
Neal Johnson — Google review
It’s a very beautiful state park. Went there post lunch and it was too sunny to hike. So we just went on a drive. Make sure to have motion sickness pill as the roads were too steep and curvy. The entire drive was beautiful with lush green and tall redwood trees. The route that we drove led to a reservoir and we relaxed a bit. It’s a good drive in bay area and an amazing place for hiking enthusiasts.
Sharadha Ramaswamy — Google review
Please be forewarned that the entire park is currently closed to visitors following a recent major forest fire. This prohibition includes pedestrians.
Mary Kay Ogden — Google review
The park provides a different hiking experience where you can a see a redwood forest in the healing process after the devastating wild fire. Online reservations are required for parking inside the park. The park rangers were very nice and explained the open and closed areas. As of August 2022, only 2 trails are open, the redwood loop trail and the dool trail. Took the dool trail to the ocean view summit and enjoyed the hike. Make sure to bring water and sun hats since the trail isn’t shaded.
Ahmed Nabawe — Google review
Sad to hear that these trees were caught wild fire. When went and saw all the trees were black in color, burnt.
But it’s really good to have some time spent here with giant woods.
The experience was really good. The trail is simple to complete and will see many big trees in the path.
The park assistants were also very friendly and will guide you clearly.
It was not crowded and parking was available.
Santosh Kumar Turangi — Google review
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is an absolute gem nestled amidst the enchanting landscapes of California. As an avid nature lover and explorer, I was captivated from the moment I set foot in this majestic haven. This review hardly does justice to the breathtaking beauty and awe-inspiring experience that awaits you at Big Basin.
First and foremost, the park's crown jewels are undoubtedly its ancient and towering redwood trees. Stepping into their midst felt like entering a realm of giants, as these magnificent giants stretched skyward, their enormous trunks cloaked in vibrant hues of green. The sheer grandeur and age of these trees left me in complete awe, igniting a sense of wonder that is rare to find in today's fast-paced world.
The trails within Big Basin Redwoods State Park offer a myriad of unforgettable adventures. Whether you're a casual stroller or a seasoned hiker, there are trails suited to every skill level. I highly recommend embarking on the Skyline to the Sea Trail, which takes you on a mesmerizing journey through dense forests, babbling brooks, and scenic vistas that seem like they've been plucked straight from a postcard. Every twist and turn along the trail offers a new revelation, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
The park's commitment to preservation and conservation is truly commendable. The well-maintained facilities, informative signs, and knowledgeable park rangers all contribute to a memorable and educational experience. I had the pleasure of joining one of the guided tours, where the ranger's passion for the park and its ecosystem shone through. Their wealth of knowledge about the flora, fauna, and history of the area enriched my visit and left me with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of nature.
If you're seeking solitude, Big Basin Redwoods State Park has plenty of quiet spots where you can reconnect with yourself and nature. There's something inherently calming and rejuvenating about sitting beneath the towering trees, listening to the gentle rustle of leaves and the symphony of birdsong. It's a sanctuary away from the chaos of everyday life, offering a much-needed respite for the weary soul.
Camping enthusiasts will find Big Basin Redwoods State Park to be an absolute paradise. The campgrounds are well-maintained and offer a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature. Falling asleep to the soothing sounds of the forest and waking up to the fresh scent of pine is an experience that words can hardly capture. Additionally, the park's proximity to nearby attractions, such as the Pacific coastline and other state parks, provides ample opportunities for exploration beyond its borders.
In conclusion, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is an absolute must-visit for anyone who seeks a true connection with nature. Its ethereal beauty, ancient redwoods, diverse trails, and commitment to conservation make it a five-star destination. Prepare to be humbled by the grandeur of nature, find solace in its tranquility, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
Sayak Das — Google review
One of the most stunning state parks in California, the main park area was devasted by fire in August 2020 leaving all buildings and campsites destroyed, and most of the trees charred. Run the clock forward 3 years and you can see the forest in active regeneration. Most all of the redwood branches were burned off except for a few of the highest. You can see in the photos new bushy growth from the trunks and upper branches and new baby trees reaching 6-10 feet in height. Very nice experience hiking the limited set of trails that have reopened.
Philip Levy — Google review
Never in my life have I felt the true power of the phrase "Wild and Wonderful." I felt so truly connected with nature here, and I think this is what heaven must be like. There's no pressure to buy things, parking was streamlined, and the option of trails ranged from easy to all-day. The rangers were kind and knowledgeable. The bana slugs were bountiful! (I saw 25 on the redwood trail alone!) The fences marking the trails often blended into the wildlife, so it really felt like you were wandering through the most majestic woods on earth. I left my heart here, and I can't wait to come back.
Emm Fowler — Google review
Every weekend we go to a different park! And this one is sure to be one of our favorites! You can walk in the sunshine during the cold weather, and take refuge on the shady trails during the heat.
Also liked that there are so many trails, so we won't get around all the options in one or two days. Will definitely go back there many more times! Highly recommended
Priya Shakha Dasa — Google review
One of the most underrated State parks in California! It was incredibly beautiful & well maintained! We took a 3-hour trail & loved it!
Ron — Google review
Grateful I am to visit this epic state park. At first I thought it was closed due to the fires but just took the chance and make my way there. It’s amazing to see the drastic change and a beautiful Redwoods regrowth. These trees are truly remarkable. The contrast between green and black has made the state park even more unique.
Nas Sol — Google review
Very interesting but ofcorse sad to see what happened to this grand wilderness during the fire which started by lightnings in 2020 and kept on for 2 years! All buildings at the park as well as 1000 homes in the area were destroyed. A very nice lady from Boulder Creek told us the story and explained the history of this very large forest and how is was effected by the fire and how it will slowly recover. She also told us she herself was evacuated from her home for 3 months. Some of the trails are still closed and you cannot reach any of the waterfalls at the moment.
The Tech Museum of Innovation is a popular museum in downtown San Jose with exhibits on cyber-security, app development and more. It's located next to the historic Montgomery Theater and is the perfect place for anyone interested in gadgets.
Really fun and highly interactive place with 3 floors, the first floor is the place to check-in either with your membership card, online or on-site purchase, IMAX, and the souvenir shop; the second floor with the exhibit of human body and organs, and other tech activities; the underground is a place that you may have experienced hand-made creativity and other games. Definitely is a ideal place for kids to releasing energy and to kill the time for at least 3 hours! After stamping on the card of the nearby parking lot next to the Marriott by the staff of the Tech Interactive, you will enjoy the most great deal with $5 a day for the parking! Strongly recommend this place.
Angel Hou — Google review
This is the best museum to visit with children on a rainy day. As an experiential museum, a wide variety of tech activities are possible. All-day parking in the attached parking lot is $5.
Irene “MJ” Kim — Google review
Great place for all ages to learn and experience the beauty of science and technology. Fun, interactive exhibits including a challenge to build a contraption that catapults balls as far and high as you can. Awesome place. It also has a built in IMAX theater, but it doesn't play blockbuster type movies. Had a blast here.
Jay Tee — Google review
Had a great day! Lots of cool exhibits for the kids to inspire them to enjoy science. Our 8 year old grandson said that it was the best day! Parking is an adventure. There are a couple of lots that are $5 with validated with admission. The restaurant is reasonable and decent mix of food. Adults can get in free admission on the 1st weekend of the month with a Bank of America card. There are Groupon and Veteran discounts.
Christopher Divens — Google review
Came down as a chaperone for a school field trip. I do love science museums and this one was no disappointment. There was quite a variety exhibits to interact with I just wish we had more time.
We took part in the physics roller coaster class that the kids really enjoyed. The living colors lab was also very insightful.
If you for get to bring your lunch the cafe has plenty of options.
Jason Moore (SirArgonaut) — Google review
This is definitely an ages 5-15 place. They have a lot of interesting interactive exhibits focused on science related topics. This is definitely a great place to bring your kids.
Mr. George — Google review
Fun and educational for both kids and adults. The IMAX movie is awesome and worth revisiting.
Henry Wang — Google review
We bought tickets to see Beautifica, and the show was great. BUT, if you don't want to enjoy it, buy the normal tickets. You'll have to wait outside in a very long line to enter, and then wait even longer for people with VIP tickets to go in first. When you finally get inside, there are hardly any good seats left near the front.
I understand the difference between VIP and regular tickets, but this was a terrible experience. I'll never go back. It felt very rude.
Mark Hassin — Google review
We thoroughly enjoyed the interactive experiences here. It covers lots of important topics that other places don't have, such as environment protection and sustainability etc. A must if you have young kids visiting San Jose.
A K — Google review
If you come for a movie the parking and snack situations leave much to be desired. This is the only snack line and seats kinda gave me a headache :(
Mark Teffeteller — Google review
I can’t entirely imagine what demographic this really hits with, but it wasn’t my husband and I and definitely isn’t toddlers.
Some may say I should have known better, but from what I saw on the website- there were enough lights and electricity to make it seem interesting. My tech-centered husband was most excited, and he too was disappointed.
With a Groupon, this cost over $80 for me, my husband and our toddler. I would say it was the equivalent of an expo with lots of booths and large posters of words to read. Go to learn something, don’t go for entertainment. That was our bad.
We have a planetarium in our area at home that is free and infinitely cooler than this place. Needless to say, I’m disappointed.
I’m sure someone out there would like it, but like I said- don’t go for the entertainment factor
Hilary Cavanaugh — Google review
Super cool with lots of hands on activities for kids
Helen M — Google review
Amazing local museum. We went during the week (but on the local schools' winter break) so it wasn't too busy. The "Solve for Earth" exhibit that launched last year is breathtaking. It was surprisingly emotional watching my young son "fix" the Earth by turning dials on the Connections Wall. Just really beautifully done.
The museum seems a bit run down, we tried a number of things that didn't work, but it's so interactive and gets so much traffic that things are bound to break I suppose. Really glad we took the day to visit.
I think the museum is really more of a sweet spot for 9-12 year olds (understanding most of the exhibits requires a lot of reading and the topics are quite complex), but we still got a lot out of it, and the space is fun to explore. Had it been any more busy it would have been a bummer because queues form at the most interactive exhibits even with relatively low capacity.
Appreciated the little café as well so we could grab a snack!
The Mystery Spot is an interesting tourist attraction in Santa Cruz that features illusions that seem to defy gravity. It's a circular area with tours and a gift shop where visitors can experience the strange effects of tilt-induced visual illusions.
Tour guide makes a TON of difference, since there are no self tour, the people that run this had to think of a creative way to make this from a meh experience to a wonderful and interesting one. Their script is spot on and their ability to get the audience involved is great, from getting you warmed up to comfortable in participating. Only thing is if they can reduce the party size so everyone can truly experience the “spot” and get to take photos too. I still give it a 5 star just for the humor and creativity of the whole program,
Nes Borne — Google review
Went here 10/22 with my family. We all really enjoyed ourselves! There is a bit of a steep climb up the hill, most of which is handicapped accessible. Make reservations ahead of time as they get quite busy. They are open every day of the year. The site hasn’t changed much and really emphasize the strange physics of the place. They have a cute little gift shop, some vending machine snacks, clean restrooms, and a snack bar when they are really busy. Their parking lot can handle a tour bus or RVs and they had plenty of parking.
Tye Bratton — Google review
This place was, indeed, a mystery.
The ticket price isn't bad, $10 per person and $5 for parking. It's located in the forest, lots of beautiful trees, and the waiting area has a beautiful vine and flower roofed veranda. The website gives you most of the details but should probably add one; if you have motion sickness, be prepared.
The building where the phenomenon happens seems to be right at the center, and the closer you get to the middle of the tour building, the stronger it gets. My daughter and I couldn't explore much because we were trying not to be sick.
Overall, it wasn't a bad experience. The tour guide was a little funny with some good dad jokes. The gift shop was cute and had plenty of inventory, and the weather was great. I'm not sure if I'd go back for myself unless I took someone who hadn't experienced it before.
Christina Warden — Google review
Overall it’s a cool experience. The earth gives us some cool tricks. But I feel the tilted house was built in purpose, giving false illusion, to attract tourists. If the house is leveled, it would be more impressive to experience the earth’s tricks of the area.
You need to reserve ahead, space is limited. I came on a Wednesday and it was crowded. It has a canteen and a gift shop. I love the trail, front of the spot/house, it’s nice to walk up hill under the red wood trees. The road leads to the spot is beautiful/scenic with many switchbacks, though you can get lost
Tracy H — Google review
So much peace and tranquility in this place!
Friendly, and enthusiastic, staff and interesting sights. It is a nice escape from life's fast pace. My little kid enjoyed it a lot.
Sitting there at the table, under super high trees, with cool breeze, in a nicely designed area, you get a surreal feeling, that is rare to have in crowded California. So I guess the trip here is not so much about experiencing the "mystery unbalance" as much as it is about feeling the holistic calmness and peacefulness of the place that can be great for relieving stress.
You can bring your own food or buy from their "canteen".
I was supposed to get a ticket fee waiver as a military discount, but for some reason ended up only getting free parking.
The hike up in the forest across from the gate was a nice one although a little steep in some parts.
Ronny Landu — Google review
This was such a nice experience, especially for couples & families. The place is BEAUTIFUL with amazing quality air. I wish I could take more photos, but it was a Saturday, so it was crowded EVERYWHERE. We decided to go early for an hour to beat traffic. When we arrived, there was a cute gift shop to your right and a patio with restrooms. Though, it smells extremely horrible when you sit near the restrooms. Please be mindful when you drive due to the road quality. 10/10 would recommend
MoonRule — Google review
Came here with the family. This place is really interesting and cool. There are many weird things here that defy logic. Our your guide was fun and informative. There is an extremely steep walk up to the cabin, so beware. The only reason I did not rate 5 stars is that I think they allow too many people in each group, which makes the cabin quite crowded to try out the features and to wait longer to get photos of those in your party. Prices were good for the value received.
Bartley Settle — Google review
Definitely get tickets in advance. When we were picking up our tickets (that we purchased online the day before), people who hadn't bought in advance were being told it would be over an hour to 2 hr wait. It was very interesting. Cute, funny tour. Our tour guide was sweet, there were several young kids and she let them all be helpers with her experiments. The walk up is very steep, and you feel the gravity pulling you down. The cabin was very interesting, but it did make me and 2 other ladies pretty nauseous. Definitely worth checking out tho. I've never experienced anything like it.
Bre D — Google review
Spent the day at mystery spot with my family. Guided tours only. The tour guide gives history of the the mystery spot along with different activities that are unexplainable but very interesting. I personally got a little sick in the mystery spot which stuck with me for awhile but way cool to check out. The only way I can describe my feelings here were like vertigo. I would suggest buying tickets in advance tickets get sold out quickly. No problem with parking, admission was 10$ a person 5$ for parking hiking trails, merchandise and food available on site. Out of this world experience!
Vallory Bozeman — Google review
First things first - book your ticket in advance to avoid the tours being sold out for another hour or two. I had no idea that a weekday would be that busy, and that you can't enter without the guide.
So this place was on my list for a while and so clubbed it with our Santa Cruz trip. Reached directly at the spot and was told that the tours were booked for next 90 mins. We bought the next available tour and paid for parking immediately and left to spend an hour on a nearby beach. That's also an option if you don't want to book in advance.
Coming to the spot, it's a good experience and kids would love it. Our guide was pretty entertaining. She demonstrated some visual anomalies and distributed the "Mystery Spot" stickers. We didn't see the famous banana slug. Not sure if that's seasonal.
They have a cool restaurant with vegetarian options and a gift shop. Clean restrooms.
Recommended 👍🏻
Aishwarya Kher — Google review
During my summer break, I had the chance to explore the Mystery Spot last Friday. It's conveniently located close to Santa Cruz, but I'd advise booking reservations in advance, given its popularity and the potential unavailability of tours on the day of your visit.
Admission tickets are priced at $10 per person, and parking comes at an additional cost of $10. The site is encompassed by majestic redwood trees, though it's worth noting that cell reception isn't very reliable in the area.
The staff provided an excellent experience, and our tour guide led us through the site while sharing captivating stories. The entire adventure lasted approximately 2-3 hours and involved a moderate uphill walk.
The Mystery Spot stands out for its unparalleled optical illusions and intriguing gravitational phenomena. You'll encounter remarkable phenomena, including people appearing to tilt strangely and objects defying gravity and rolling uphill due to these unique effects.
Facilities such as a gift shop, a compact snack bar, and well-maintained restrooms are available for visitors.
Having personally taken my family and friends on tours around the Bay Area, I've consistently recommended the Mystery Spot as a must-see experience.
vinod palan — Google review
First time being here..it was fun the tour guide was excellent at what she does. Its crazy I would say it is sure a mystery a bit pricy 10 dollars for kids 3 and older plus parking is 4 bucks. But I definitely would visit again.
Sok A. — Google review
Mystery Spot is a must visit if you sway along Santa Cruz! It is a fun, mind boggling place that will play tricks on your mind. You can also enjoy the great natural scenery of Santa Cruz!
BayArea FoodTravelw — Google review
I didn’t know what I was getting into when we bought tickets. Definitely buy them ahead of time to get a time that works best for your group. They book up quick. I can see why too it’s so funny and just a strange overall place to be! Our tour guide (Bennett) was funny and not shy to show how the gravity there works. He also took a picture or two for us which was really nice. The tour isn’t long at all and a great price.
There is a small trail too at the end of the parking lot. We went just to look at redwoods and we ended up seeing 3 banana slugs in the wild. Definitely check out the trail too.
Joe “JoeColor” — Google review
Fun attraction. $8 for a visit which I think it's pretty fair however It is a very short tour - too short on my opinion (I can understand that, because they don't have much to show, and yet.... We drove there for an hour and a half so at least I wish it was a little bit longer.
I love how they present the anomaly. The staff is young and fun and they really play in that. Their presentation and the jokes are super fun.
Definitely a unique experience, you don’t experience every day.
Cons: Too short.
Karin Da — Google review
Interesting spot. Our tour guide was awesome 👌! It did take about 40 minutes to get in and make our way up to the cabin but that was our fault for not having a reservation. They have a nice little gift shop and the prices are reasonable.
Emilia Florean — Google review
This place is really different from other mystery houses one would have seen. Does play with your mind with gravity defying objects. Involves hiking in the woods in serene surroundings. Our guide Vanessa made it fun. Has a lot of seating to have your picnic after the visit. You can also buy snacks from there. Gets booked very quickly so online buying is better. The team was pretty flexible with rescheduling our slot for a later time. Reasonably priced@$10 per person, free for kids 3 and under. Would recommend. Pets are not allowed inside, however they have a separate hiking trail in the redwoods (~30 minutes) where the pets can accompany.
Ruchita Agarwal — Google review
Definitely an interesting visit. Worth the $15 ($10 ticket, $5 parking). Be prepared to trek up the side of a hill (not far) and stand on the side of a hill for the tour. This is a gravitation anomaly so it may mess with your head and balance making you feel slightly nauseous. Not bad though. Still worth it. I don’t recall the website saying it’s uneven ground and up a hill, which is why I took off a star. Definitely not accessible for some or older individuals.
Jamie Buck — Google review
An absolute blast is the phrase that comes to mind for this local attraction. A somewhat indescribable experience of an anomaly, you just have to see for yourself!
Their location is down a narrow road and tucked into the rolling hills surrounded by forest. There is plenty of parking and they also have a dedicated area for larger vans and busses. The gift shop has a fun assortment of items, there is a cantina (closed during visit), seating areas, and restrooms at the entrance.
Maurice or "Moe" was our guide into this unique adventure and was engaging, enthusiastic, and definitely enjoying his job. He was fantastic with getting children and adults to participate during demonstrations and explaining the theories surrounding this strange place.
The trail leading to the center of the spot is steep, but there are railings to help support visitors who need it. I would suggest wearing sturdy shoes because sandals or flip-flops may not have the best traction for inclines and declines.
I highly recommend this location for young and old visiting the area because you will not be disappointed!
happylioneatsprey — Google review
Our first time there but we had a great experience, staff is very courteous, gift shop has lots of souvenirs and prices are not to bad. Plenty of tables and benches to enjoy some snacks or food. Parking is $5, and there's a lot of it. That if people leave right after their tour ends.
Alex Mancia — Google review
A short, dizzy and fun experience among the dense woods. Beautiful scenery and pleasant experience. Parking is a bit hectic here, plan ahead in holidays. Reservation required and check for tour timings before going.
Jagadeesh Rahul — Google review
Our guide was so fun and funny. This place is crazy and the activity was so fun. We can lean forward or lean back and change heights in spots that were level and water or ball went upwards instead of down. The stuff here is like a mystery. So weird and so cool to check out.
Ms. San Francisco Real Estate Janice Lee — Google review
Definitely worth the visit for the price you pay. A couple of interesting mysterious spots around here which the guide takes you through. Cool spot for some great photo opportunities, too. There is also a gift shop here with plenty of souvenirs.
We clubbed this with the roaring camp train ride and the state park next to it. Not recommended for people with mobility issues as it is a steep climb. If you do have any elderly/mobility impaired person, there is plenty of seating in the cafe area.
A C Nayak — Google review
Great place to visit to experience alternate gravity points. Guess what can create that gravity that seems to pull you in different direction: cause to lose balance. Be sure to buy the tickets online or expect some wait time; they only allow in batches per assigned time zone. Bring food and drink as this is in remote area. Cell connectivity is zero; be sure to download the map offline for navigation. Overall good place to visit.
Pratik Patel — Google review
an interesting place for the whole family, the program is about an hour, there is parking, it is advisable to buy tickets in advance, on weekdays you can order a couple of days in advance, on weekends there are a lot of people, there is a place to eat and an interesting souvenir shop. The tour guide tells interesting things about this place. At this point you go up into the house and immediately start to feel very dizzy, I couldn’t even walk and even felt nauseous, an unusual reaction on my body to the vestibular apparatus, in general, if you have a problem with blood vessels and you’re not ready for this, it’s better not to walk, for Children and youth will certainly be interested.
Анна Диордица — Google review
Definitely worth to go if you’re in Santa Cruz area! Very interesting tour. I’m not sure if there are self guided tours, doesn’t seem like it. But the tour is definitely worth it. Our tour guide was humorous, witty, and was really fun at showing us how funky the mystery spot truly is! Parking is plenty and they also have a cool gift store!
Shiki Dixit — Google review
The mystery spot is a must see when coming to Santa Cruz area. You can buy tickets in advance online or show up and hangout.
Thanks to Dean ?(Ruben or Owen)¿ we laughed and had fun as a crowd. It's a quick 40 or so minutes tour that was well worth the $10 per person!
Isaiah Maher — Google review
Everyone at mystery spot were super cool, very accommodating and amazing. Made our first time and definitely not the last experience super memorable. The shop team played classic rock and were also Rockstars themselves. Finally but certainly not the last, special mention to our awesome tour Master Owen as he was hilarious, spontaneous and genuinely nice all through out. The crowd was laughing hysterically all throughout the tour. Thanks to everyone and Godspeed to all.
Ina Salvilla — Google review
Fun place for all ages! Must see spot while in Santa Cruz. Make sure to do a reservation online or over the phone or you might not be able to tour. I believe you can do same day but it might be full or long wait. Also you can't go to mystery spot without group tour. It's only $10 p/p. Parking was $5. So it's a super cheap and fun tourist attraction.
Lawana Ofisa — Google review
What a place! Visiting this spot is a must! Even if it's only one, as6 in my case. The feel in the cabin made me hot, dizzy, and nauseous. I love the ambiance. A big courtyard with many interests. Their food is even decently priced. It isn't the best for people with back and knee issues, but we accomplished the 40-minute, highly intriguing tour. Our guide was the best! -Regina
Gregg and Regina Bussey — Google review
We had Eric as our magical guide through the enchanted forest of the mystery spot. His tour was like hugging a ball of cotton candy while majestically riding a unicorn. The disorientation was like your trip was turning bad, but then Eric pulls you back on the right guided path. 5 thumbs up. Grand experience. Would recommend. Needs better jokes though. And a pay raise!
Brianna Skye — Google review
This was our first time here. Eric our tour guide, did a AMAZING JOB! From his knowledge to his humorous jokes! And even after the tour was over. We were looking at the Banana Slugs we could see that were far away. He was able to pick it up so gentle so we could see it closer and take a picture.
Highly recommend to see this Mystery Spot! Thanks Eric for your great work!
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a historic amusement park located on the beach in Santa Cruz, California. It features a variety of rides and games, as well as an arcade and various attractions. The boardwalk is particularly popular among locals and tourists alike and is renowned for its charming old-fashioned look and feel.
Lots of fun, and a good place to spend some time for both nearby locals and tourists alike!!
Me and my honey travel to Santa Cruz pretty frequently, and in doing so we're presented with a lot of options of coming to the boardwalk during the season. A word of advice: if you're in a similar boat, definitely get the season pass. It's $100 and when rides cost anywhere from 2-10 tickets per single ride, it becomes well worth it. Especially when an unlimited day wristband is just half the price! It'll pay for itself in no time.
Ashley — Google review
We went on a Friday in December. The arcades are open, but none of the rides are open during the week until spring or summer. However the boardwalk is open to walk and check out. It was a very nice calm environment… A stroll down memory lane. My wife and I went here years ago when we were dating and it was fun to visit the same place without crowds and chaos.
If you want a chill place to walk with lots of fun stuff to look at go mid week; if you want to enjoy the rides and crowds visit on the weekends.
There is a parking lot across the street for five dollars, or you can park on the street and feed the meter.
You need an app to pay parking meters with a credit card, or …. Meters still take good old American quarters.
Brad and Cheri — Google review
Super great! Buy the tickets and game card online before we went and it was a great decision. The lines weren't super long and the weather was absolutely perfect. The bathrooms weren't bad. Food is pricey!! So be prepared to spend some money! The boardwalk is cashless though so keep that in mind when you visit.
HIGHLY recommend the mini golf. It was 10/10 fun 😊
Sesheta — Google review
Not a ton of rides or shops but definitely a fun afternoon. Do not be fooled by the oldest roller coaster. It is an insanely fun & thrilling ride. Lines weren’t too terrible but going earlier in the day is smart. The beach is beautiful & a nice spot to have lunch.
Elizabeth 098 — Google review
We went on weekend with children and grandchildren and we all lost in crowd and fun. The ride Typhoon and the Haunted Castle terrifying. The Sky Gliders and the one wooden boat water ride were exiting. We enjoyed good food alongside. We played hilarious Jungle Climb and The great water race and yes the Break the Plates was rewarding and a great fun. At the beach we played to the full of our energy and also with the forming waves, it was really very good experience we ever had, than we relaxed. In the evening it was too cold for us. The Board Walk and the beach, as we felt, is safe and secured and good for full day family outing. Though a bit heavy on pocket.
Arjun Gargava — Google review
The boardwalk is a bit pricey (free to enter, but $69.95 for an unlimited ride wrist band at the time of our visit), but genuinely it felt worth every penny. Each ride was better than expected. The Giant Dipper is a national historic landmark and the 5th oldest coaster in the US, but it rides like something built recently. Wipe Out is also a sneaky good time. The food fare is pretty solid, but I recommend packing a cooler to enjoy the excellent beach as well.
Mark Ackermann — Google review
I’ve been dreaming to go this place since 2021 when I saw it on US (movie). My dream came true in August, 2023! It was a sunny day! Very hot btw, so please wear your best beach outfit (shorts, sandals, Sleeveless blouse or T-shirt), use sunscreen! The boardwalk is free! However, if you want to play you need buy a card or a bracelet. I do recommend to buy a card, because you can gain points in arcade and buy things with the points that you’ve gained through the day. Also, the card never expires ;)!
In arcade games, you don’t need to wait. But if you want to get on the roller coaster, you need to wait. I went on a Sunday, at 10am, there was no line but after 12pm, You had to wait around 30 minutes for each game.
Water and food: I recommend bring your big bottle of water and food! There’s a lot of places to buy food here but it’s not cheap and they give you a small portion. Imagine if you go with your big family, you have to buy A LOT, so it’s better if you bring sandwiches! :D
Parking: there’s a private parking that cost $30 a day. We parked our car in the street and it cost 2/hour but at the end of the day, they didn’t charge us anything ^-^ awesome!
After all that has been said, I do recommend this place if you want to play, spend your day with your loved ones and ending the day walking around the beach or if you only want a little adrenaline and escape :)
Elisabet G — Google review
I have to come here and spend the day. I love the boardwalk rides, the food/drinks, the beach, and the wharf. It is so spectacular and so much fun. You have got to come and experience it😁‼️
Julie Davidson — Google review
What an amazing place to visit. We were here on our daughter's spring break and absolutely enjoyed our time at the boardwalk and beach. The boardwalk is packed with rides, shops, food, and fun. We spent the entire day soaking it all in. Plenty of restrooms, so no long walks from one end to the other looking for relief. The rides are fun and clean, and we really enjoyed taking the gondola over the crowd. If you're lucky, you can see seals in the ocean or dolphins. Parking out of the area was free and only a short walk to the boardwalk. Lots of memories were made here during our stay.
Gary Piazza — Google review
I loved this place! It has good vibes. Beach and rides I like both! Boardwalk has a lot of food options too. The restrooms were clean when I visited. Long lines for some rides though (not too bad). I went in the afternoon so there were many parking spots right in front of the boardwalk. I would love to visit this place in the evening some day with lights!
Saba Farooqui — Google review
Great rides! Not a lot of under 48"rides yet they have some.
Amazing carnival food!!
Spectacular view!!!
After 5pm we got unlimited rides for $20 and the family had a blast! The moon was full and reflected of the ocean for a magical glow. Definitely recommend!
Shontell Woods — Google review
I've been going here since I was a kid. One of my favorite places. It's not cheap. Pack food and drinks to save money. Rides are around $8 each per person, but there's no entry fee. Beach is quite crowded but still doable. Free concerts in the summer. I saw Eddie Money here years ago. Family friendly and a lot of fun if you don't mind dropping $50-100 per person.
Harry Slaughter — Google review
Loved it!! I visited there on my birthday 🎂 and enjoyed a lot all day.. Beautiful place, shows, rides and good food. Beach ⛱️ is beautiful but there is no cleanliness like other beaches. But overall good experience!! I like horror show and skyline. Highly recommend as it's not so far and you can explore all day... Have to go again soon 💕
Seema Arora — Google review
Amazing experience visiting the place.
The rides are decently priced as compared to famous theme & amusement parks.
There is not so much waiting time for ride to enjoy.
The food stalls in the area are good. However, I felt couple of addition of small souvenir shop can make it more appealing.
Because of my experience, would love to get the common room area (washroom) to be more maintained
Shefali Shanker — Google review
Grew up in Cali, never been to Santa Cruz till the last summer. Rode famous roller coaster, an Ariel tram. Was amazing! Would recommend getting the seasonal pass if you are going to go for more than a day. It takes more than one day to ride all the rides due to the wait times an lines. Did the freight walk.. awesome!!!!! Bought matching sweatshirts for me an my daughter. Had more fun in the 3 hrs we were there than at six flags.
Rohan Sunrunner — Google review
🌞⛱️🎢🎠 A Day of Pure Fun at Santa Cruz Boardwalk! 🌊🍦🤩
I recently spent a fantastic day at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, and I can’t say enough about the incredible experience! It was a true dose of California beach magic.
The moment I stepped onto the boardwalk, I was greeted with the sound of crashing waves and the scent of salty sea air. The vibrant colors of the rides and games set against the backdrop of the ocean were simply breathtaking.
And let’s talk about the food! I indulged in some scrumptious cotton candy, tried a variety of delicious treats, and relished some of the best clam chowder ever.
The best part was the genuine, laid-back, and friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where families, friends, and even solo adventurers can have a blast. Everyone was so cheerful, and the staff was incredibly helpful.
The Santa Cruz Boardwalk is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a perfect blend of seaside serenity and thrilling amusements. It’s a gem on California’s coast that never loses its shine. I’m already planning my next visit because one day is just not enough to experience all the fun and beauty this place has to offer. 🌅🎡🏖️🌊🎉
Jake Shapiro — Google review
If you don't like The Boardwalk something is wrong with you. I take my daughter and a friend here at least twice a years and it's always a blast. It's clean, the staff is always nice and there's tons of shops and food options. Plus, you're right on the beach and just a few minutes away from the pier. I even buy a wristband for myself so I can go in the rides with the kids.
Daniel Ferguson — Google review
The beach is very accessible by walking from the street. Once you reach the beach, you do have to walk a bit from the beach through the boardwalk to reach the end where you can get an amazing view of the ocean and inland. But totally worth it. Give yourself an hour to stroll through the boardwalk and an hour more if you are grabbing food here.
The boardwalk itself offers great options to be entertained.
Sriram Sundararajan — Google review
Went with the wife and kids
And we had so much fun!
So many cool rides, shops, and food.
I had lost my wallet while riding the giant dipper roller coaster but thanks to guest services for finding it ! You guys are awesome. Thank you . We will be back 😎
J C — Google review
Such a fun spot to spend a whole day roaming along the boardwalk, playing games or just taking in all the different activities. It’s great to see the diversity of people at all life phases who come out and enjoy it. We played a few games to try and win toys, took a ride on the chairlift that goes across and did a few other rides while visiting for a post lunch afternoon on a mostly sunny day. We’ll be back to check out the mini golf and other rides we didn’t get to try.
Vikram Haer — Google review
Good place for a family outing by the sea. Many restaurants and entertainment options are available with rides, stalls,games and other entertainment options.
A clean and well maintained place with adequate and clean rest rooms make things convenient.
The sea beach is inviting and on a warm day one can wade into the water.
Subir Das — Google review
We came to the boardwalk for spring break and had an amazing time! The staff were helpful and kind, there was a free magician show, and the rides were super fun as well. The beach area was also super clean. We are looking forward to our next visit!
Ellie Pinnock — Google review
What a amazing day with so much of fun and rides were amazing especially the luck games and few other rides . i liked it personally as we had fun riding . Tickets can be taken directly near the place and recharge based on the requirement .must visit place
Sushmitha JK — Google review
Haven't been to the Santa Cruz beach boardwalk in years. We were here on the weekend, so we thought we'd take a look see.
I am impressed. The last time we were here, the area was very sketchy. Loitering, crime ridden, etc. The city and the owners of the boardwalk have done a tremendous job of cleaning up the area of trash, and crime.
I watched families and children gather for fun times. Security was saturated as well as police patrols. I felt very safe, but was during the day. In all a very satisfying experience.
W Cliff Dr is an elongated pathway that runs alongside the shoreline, and displays elegant residences. It presents stunning panoramic vistas of the sea that are truly captivating.
The Santa Cruz Wharf is a popular tourist attraction in the town of Santa Cruz, California. It features restaurants, shops, fishing and boating activities, and stunning views of the ocean. The wharf is located between the Main Beach and Cowells Beach, and is a popular spot for nightlife.
Nice area with beautiful views. This wharf doesn't disappoint- several nice shops for souvenirs and a variety of restaurants and sweet treats. The sea lions are an amazing addition and more birds than I've seen at once anywhere. A clean beach is a plus!
Stephanie Mace — Google review
It is a delightful experience to visit the wharf at sunset/dinner time. I love to go there and take a stroll, check out the stores, and have dinner as I watch the sunset, the seagulls, the sea lions, and the sailboats through the windows of the restaurants. Great experience that never disappoints.
Ana Cruz — Google review
Nice wooden wharf. Largest on the west coast. Over a century old. Recently took a wave beating, so parts of the wharf are closed due to safety reasons.
There were many people fishing from the pier all ages, but on this day the fish were not biting.
Again, this is a touristy area and attraction, so food is priced accordingly. So be aware.
I'll post some menus and prices here, but the food is good.
M Ne — Google review
It was a fairly nice walk. Am glad it wasn't a busy day. There are several restaurant options and souvenir shops. My girls liked looking at the seals. Personally, would like some more shade to hangout longer, but it is a wharf.
Anabel Hernandez-Mejia — Google review
A must visit when in the Bay area. The scenery while driving there was marvelous! Enjoyable... we had a blast just absorbing nature... majestic
While arriving, we parked on the pier. A bit scary, wooden boards would rattle and shake... but we were okay, and it was a fun experience. There are so many great little shops for souvenirs, amazing restaurants... visit makai! .
The views are great... great place for photos and walks and even jogs.
The sea lions always are belching their voices.... such a surreal experience.
Top marks across the board!
Javier Rosete — Google review
Santa Cruz Wharf is a beloved landmark and popular tourist destination located in Santa Cruz, California.
Scenic Beauty: Santa Cruz Wharf boasts breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Cruz coastline. The sight of the expansive blue ocean, crashing waves, and coastal cliffs is truly mesmerizing. Visitors can stroll along the wharf and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze while taking in the stunning vistas.
Attractions and Activities: The wharf offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. From unique shops and boutiques to delicious dining options, there is something for everyone. You can browse through souvenir stores, art galleries, and specialty shops to find unique gifts and local crafts. There are also several restaurants and eateries serving fresh seafood, classic American fare, and international cuisine. It's a great place to satisfy your taste buds while enjoying the ocean views.
Fishing and Wildlife: Santa Cruz Wharf is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. Many visitors enjoy casting their lines off the wharf and trying their luck at catching various fish species. The wharf is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching, as numerous seabirds and shorebirds can be seen flying and resting in the area. If you're lucky, you might even spot sea lions or seals lounging on the nearby rocks.
Wharf Activities: The wharf hosts several activities and events throughout the year, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. From live music performances to art exhibitions and festivals, there's always something happening at Santa Cruz Wharf. These events create a lively and festive environment, making each visit a memorable experience.
Beach Access: Adjacent to the wharf is the popular Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which offers a wide sandy beach and a variety of amusement park rides and attractions. Visitors can easily access the beach from the wharf, making it a convenient spot to enjoy a day in the sun, build sandcastles, or take a refreshing dip in the ocean.
Family-Friendly Environment: Santa Cruz Wharf is a family-friendly destination with activities and attractions suitable for all ages. Children will particularly enjoy the boardwalk's amusement park rides and games, as well as the chance to spot marine life from the wharf. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal place for a family outing or a relaxing day by the sea.
Overall, Santa Cruz Wharf offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, seaside attractions, dining options, and entertainment. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll along the ocean or a fun-filled day with family and friends, the wharf provides a charming and enjoyable experience for visitors of all kinds.
Vikram Singh — Google review
Perfect place for sea Lion 🦭 observation. Not a good place for sunset 🌅 though. The village buildings are blocking the view.
Sophie Xie — Google review
This would be one of my favorite place in California. Those sea lion are too adorable. They fight each other’s with their neck 🤣🤣🤣 also sleeping while there’s are sea lions fighting beside, how could they be so chill. I could just want their fight for one hour still not feeling bored.
??? — Google review
The wharf was fascinating! They have cute shops and eateries. We just went to walk around and explore. It wasn’t super crowded but we got there about 4pm on a Sunday.
It was a lovely walk on a beautiful evening and fun to see the boats and the fishermen. My favorite part was being able to see the sea lions. There are multiple spots to watch them at the end of the pier. They are loud but adorable!
We didn’t go to the amusement park so I’m not sure about there. We did have to pay for parking, we were there for about an hour or so, we ended up only paying $2. So definitely go if you’re here cuz it’s lovely!!
Chelsea Ramsey — Google review
Nice place to hangout. Has a lot of shops for souvenir, good food and has kayaking rental shops too. On a good day you will find it crowded with lots of cars and people.
Vasu Jain — Google review
Known for fishing, boat tours, viewing various marine life, delicious dining, nightlife and gift shops, the Santa Cruz wharf was built in 1914, the last of six built on the site, and is operated by the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Office. Composed of over 2000 70 ft. Douglas fir pilings driven 21 feet into the ocean floor, the wharf was 2,745 feet long and is revered as the longest pier on the entire West Coast. It is the crown, pride, and jewel of Santa Cruz's tourism.
Christopher P. — Google review
Cool sea air. Mild temperature. Lots of people fishing on the wharf and swimming on the beach. Many nice seafood restaurants, fast food and souvenir shops.
There are also many cycling services around the beach to take people from the parking lots to the beach and vice verse. $20 per ride (one way).
We came here to get away from the hot temperature in San Jose and to see the sea lions 🦭
The only minus point is that many people with similar thoughts. Hence. The route here is always jammed with traffic, even on the freeway.
Judy Margaret Chen — Google review
Visiting Santa Cruz for the first time!
Especially since I’m a skateboarder!!!
I made my way around the city by foot since you are not allowed to use your bicycle roller-skate,skate board, any-wheel devices are not allowed throughout Santa Cruz. ((It’s literally illegal))
Which caught me off guard as I am an avid a bicyclist, skateboarder, skate, roller skater, and so forth. Santa Cruz is known for skateboarding, and yet you cannot skateboard.
I want to make that very clear that if you get caught biking skateboarding skating by the police, you will get in trouble.
Walking along the wharf at Santa Cruz first you notice shops start to appear on the right hand side.
The further you walk down the wharf you start to hear noises from the sea lions.
As you’re walking the wharf you’ll have majority of your shopping in the center of the pier.
There’s also spots to where you can look down and see the sea lions.
There’s opportunities to catch fish and clean them while at the pier. There are cleaning stations on either side and on the front towards the ocean.
There’s also opportunities for you to use the binoculars for some change.
I definitely recommend taking a walk down the Santa Cruz wharf.
It’s definitely an experience that you cannot find anywhere else.
You get to have an up close and personal experience with sea lions watch dolphins in the waves and see whales making spouts!
From diving seagulls to the beautiful crashing of the ocean sound. This is definitely a nice stroll on the quieter side. So if you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the every day loud noise. This is a place for you.
KM FM — Google review
We had been here during the evening, right at the sun downer. It’s lovely to watch the sea loin when they go to sleep. The view is also very nice and the shops are nice if you want to buy some Santa Cruz clothes.
Laura — Google review
Walk on the wharf is so good to smell the ocean air and look at these incredible views. There are seals too and they are fun to watch. Nice shops and little seafood restaurants.
Tiina — Google review
Very nice relaxing place to visit and very beautiful! Myself and my family really enjoyed our visit here and can't wait to come back! Strongly recommend if visiting Santa Cruz!
Lasalle Pinnock — Google review
Hadn't heard anything about this wharf when we stopped by for a stroll. Imagine the fun when I saw the sea lions. They were so loud! Echoing off the underside of the wharf, they really demand your attention. Which was fine, because they were so fun to watch. The battles for perches and their playful way of swimming around the piers were entertaining to watch from the special viewing hatches at the end of the wharf.
Anne Margaret White — Google review
One of the must go to’s if visiting Santa Cruz . The wharf has everything from beach area to great food . If your looking to go kayaking or fishing those are available as well . Recommend the MaKia tiki bar, great drinks. Majority of the food on the wharf isn’t the best and would recommend the Jack O’Neil restaurant if you want something good kinda on the wharf . Humble sea has a pop up spot for great bear in the spring/summer time . All around a great time for the family and only a few steps away from the boardwalk area .
TheBafsta — Google review
Neat strip of tourist traps on the warf. Great candy and chocolate store, a couple nice surf shops.... well tshirt shops, no surf gear.... and the absolute best clam chowder I have ever had.
Michael Friberg — Google review
So beautiful! So serene 😍 lots of stores around for souvenirs and there was a cute ice cream place too
Akshita Srivastava — Google review
Love parking near the wharf. Great food shops and beach
Rides & attractions plus gardens draw crowds at this bustling, family-friendly amusement park.
I had never been here before and we went on January 1st. It was great! There was probablyess people than most days and my 8yr old got to get on all the rides multiple times. It's a great park that isn't too big and has a lot to see. The walk around is great with some forestry and waterfalls a lake that really makes you feel like you're hiking and not in an amusement park.
Rex — Google review
This is, without any doubt, the most beautiful theme park in America! We had a wonderful time. The rides are fun and well-maintained. The food was really good (Try the Gilroy Garlic Fries!) But, most of all, this part was stunningly gorgeous. There is so much shade and so many places to relax during your visit.
Alex Sabatka — Google review
Excellent place to spend time with family especially with little kids under 7-8 years of age. There are many age appropriate rides for little kids, 2 roller coasters, banana split for adults a little lake is there inside the park which allows you to do paddle boating. A train ride which takes you around the entire park so that you can become familiar with the place, and also it’s super fun. Limited eating joints with fast food, ice creams, popcorn etc are available. Their premium membership is worth taking if you live within 50 miles of the park and plan to come again for visiting. Kids under 3 go for free. They also allow you to take some snacks/water for kids/seniors for emergency purposes. During summer it’s open all week, but before n after that it’s only open for weekends. Down side is older kids might not enjoy the park so much since there are not many exciting rides for them. Also their water park area which opens in summers is awesome for all ages to enjoy.
Aastha Gupta — Google review
It should be a fun park for little kids. The parking lot is large enough for visitors. It has some water playing activities which should be nice in hot summer. The cons are that waiting time for each ride is too long. Overall, it is a nice little theme park. Pay attention to those strange trees.
Zhong Shang — Google review
Big amusement park in the land of beautiful gardens. The rides are suitable for smaller kids - even an 18-month old.
Bought an annual pass and got two free holiday tickets, so we essentially just went into the park with one annual pass, which is around 100 bucks. It got us to buy food in the park with 20% off.
The holiday feast seems nice but we didn't go with that because we didn't want to have time constraints.
It is a bit cold during the night in the park. Prepare layers as the daytime is warm.
Some rides have long wait times - especially the train station one and the car ride. Prepare to be in line for 20-30 min. Other rides had no line or wait time.
Overall a good experience.
Dongjing He — Google review
Update : Reduced from 5 stars to 3 stars.
Great place for kids, but operations are too slow. It takes them 6 minutes to unload/load 20 folks for a 1 minute roller coaster ride. The wait times can be easily 45 minutes to an hour on a moderately busy day.
Arshad Khan — Google review
Went on a very cold day was lucky and got an igloo the rides were a bit antiquated, the gardens need a lot of clean up and work sad that I only seen a few tree that are works of art. The place looks a lot diffrent when I was young... Now it's got a carnival feel! Payed for the Dinner it was very good and well worth it.. The lights for Christmas at night were beautiful. I hope that they put more money into the park to clean up and paint a little!
Robert Herrera — Google review
I love taking my kids here. They all love going and they have so much fun. I like that the park is filled with pretty gardens and lots of shade. The lines go by pretty fast and the bigger rides often have no lines. This place is great for kids ages 13 and under. The food here is good and they also serve alcoholic drinks in the evening, which is nice if you enjoy having a refreshing drink.
Brenda Madrigal (Central Valley Foodie) — Google review
This amusement park is well maintained and have a good variety of rides. Park is in general clean and there are many pretty flowers, plants and amazing trees. Staff are friendly and food is reasonably priced (of course, a little more expensive than the outside restaurants). The single day ticket is $50. Parking is $20 but $5 cheaper if purchased online. Membership is $110 for the entire year. Great America membership can get free admission for adults and kids.
Henry Wang — Google review
Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park is a beautiful place. There is something for everyone. There are rides for small kids and some rides can be enjoyed by 10yrs+ or adults too. I recommend to do the paddle boat first as later in the day waiting time may be more around 20-25 minutes or more for this ride. Timber twister & quick silver coaster can be enjoyed by adults who are happy with little thrill 😀.
Food is bit pricey-.
Garlic French fries are worth to try.
Nice gardens, rides. Plenty of area to sit and relax. Overall a good place to enjoy with your family. Will plan to visit again.
Ruchi Sharma — Google review
What a heavenly place! It was so nice, shady and green, we just loved it. There was a small queue for almost all the rides, but most of the areas are in shade, it was bearable. There are lots of rides for kids of all ages. Train ride and boat ride is a must! Waterfalls and oasis/ splash pad was such a relief in the hot summer weather. Kids aged 2 and 3 enjoyed a lot. Food inside the park is fine. I really liked the garlic-parsley fries. One can take snacks and water bottles inside. Do check their FAQ, beforehand. Bring your strollers/ wagen. Getting a membership is better if u are a bigger family with kids above 3 years old. Whole garden is well maintained and engaging. Staff is friendly and helpful. Definitely coming back again soon.
Nikita — Google review
Absolutely fantastic! My only complaint is the food- not a lot of vegetarian options and overpriced for non-quality food. Cold fries, pre made salad and stale "nachos" at their "mexican" restaurant. Everything else was FABULOUS. I'd love to return but hope for better food options next time.
Empress B. — Google review
Truly a hidden gem among theme parks. It has variety of attractions for all the ages, a garden, water play area, rides and at an affordable price. You can definitely think of getting an annual pass here. There were some comments on being not well maintained etc but it is not that bad either. While the fast pass was not recommended here, the crowds during Labor Day were so huge, the wait times were more than 1.5hours for certain rides; so do buy it for long weekends. So the park is highly recommended for ages less than 10-11. They have clean restrooms, lockers, strollers for rentals and plenty of restaurants. Buying ticket online saves you much.
Ram Dongre — Google review
Fun for the whole family. Beautiful trees and plants rides were perfect for our 6 year old grandson and 3 year old granddaughter. A bit expensive for parking $25 and adult ticket. Suggest getting a great America year pass!
Jo Ann Pratt-Grey — Google review
I cannot tell you how much fun this park is for families. It is the best! Perfect! It is especially good for families with kids under 12 with some rides geared for 10 and up. Especially to roller coaster. My first impression was simply great! Every employee was over the top happy to meet us, helpful, and cheerful. I was so surprised. Just the way you would want it. The park is beautiful. Not a piece of trash to be found and the abundant and convenient restrooms were spotless. Catch the train first to see the wonderful gardens, woods, and rides then make your plan for the days adventures. Be sure to bring a change of clothes for the kids to enjoy the water. The water park is simply amazing. It even offers adult coolant for those days when the kids are exuberant and we need a bit of something to ease our weary feet and minds. Simply the best!
Dave Rogers — Google review
Our babies, 1 and 2 years old, really liked the rides they could go on. The park is beautiful and Gilroy should be proud of their little oasis near the bay.
On a Monday the park was not crowded at all. Most of the rides are perfect for the small kids. The parks website/app said almost all attractions were open but they were not staffed until later in the afternoon -1☆.
The food prices are typical of amusement parks and an adult beverage runs about $15. The souvenir shop was fairly reasonable and we got our babies little ranger vest for $15.99 each.
No outside food or drink, but there is a somewhat hidden shaded bench area available outside the main gate & parking lot near the "Box" circus tree that is perfect for a packed lunch.
Nicolas Allen — Google review
Definitely recommend this place. Is so beautiful and there is so many flowers and trees around it. The birds sounds are amazing and the river is beautiful. Rides are mostly for kids, but as an adult you will get to relax and enjoy the scenery and fresh air. There is some rides adults can enjoy and train rides that show you the park. Kids under 4 will also enjoy some of the rides. The park was not too crowded and lines were so small. All workers were kind and friendly. Food however is not good and is overpriced. It needs to improve. I recommend eating outside before going in. There is also a water park that is super cute. Place is awesome. We will be going back for halloween and Christmas.
Overall a pretty decent outlet mall. Our highlight was the Nike store. The deals are very good with friendly and knowledgeable staff. Call out to Yvonne, she has good product knowledge on the shoes.
Daniel Wang — Google review
Gilroy premium outlets offer high end brand names and designer stores at big discounted prices. Parking lot is big and it’s easy to find a parking space. There is a In-n-out burger food chain here. You might find a long queue at the burger’s drive thru.
Wen Clemnt — Google review
modesto representin! wish they didn't tear all the stores down, but can you blame them with this incredible view. snagged this photo at sunset yesterday! #modestoarch
Pants 4 Money — Google review
This outlet mall has quite many stores, scattered in 4 sections. Within each section the stores surround the parking lot in the middle. So the design is very car centric and not quite pedestrian friendly.
Vincent L — Google review
The Gilroy Premium Outlets offer a diverse shopping experience with a wide range of brand-name stores. Shoppers appreciate the variety of discounted high-end and popular brands available. The layout is generally well-organized, making it easy to navigate through the numerous stores. Bargain hunters often find great deals, making it a worthwhile destination for those seeking quality products at discounted prices.
Basu Sarathi — Google review
You would have more choices compared to the ones in the city center, worth driving 30 min. Prices are also somewhat better. The only thing I didn't like is the absence of a direct passage between the two wings of the mall.
Deha Kuran — Google review
This is good place for shopping, only downside is that there are four blocks around the crossing.
Many good outlets(Wilson leather) have been closed after covid
Pradeep Khatri — Google review
The outlets are pretty busy, the stores are good, but the facilities and nonexistent security staff are less to be desired.
Just so I am not totally negative, you can find some great deals, and the individual stores are well kept and clean. Lots of variety and quality items.
Bear Flag Mercantile — Google review
Great range of stores in close proximity. I visited for the Tommy Hilfiger outlet store and stop by whenever I am visiting California from the UK . Feeling peckish Erik's Deli is right next door to the Tommy shop. It's a great place for a coffee and a sandwich . Public toilets also on close proximity .
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Glyn Pettit — Google review
Great selection of stores and outlets for Gilroy. I loved the Calvin Klein store and adidas as well for my favorites but they also have Kate spade, coach, and more. Lucky Brand also has amazing deals for quality denim.
Skyla — Google review
I visited the bath and body store. It has a lot of the new stuff but you can find some discounts on past releases. It is not as discounted on the new items (since supposedly an outlet store,)
Linda Fowler — Google review
All the outlets in one place offering a wide array of discounts. Arranged as three sections with huge parking lot, eateries, restrooms etc makes this a family outing. There are benches and sofas for those who do not want to enter the stores while the family members shop.
Aravind R — Google review
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.
Abhishek ঘোষ (0abhishekghosh0) — Google review
This is a great area to check out. The outlet is located on 4 corners. I was shocked when I realized this. The restrooms are very clean and there are plenty of stalls. The food court (the restrooms are in the same building as the food court) is not open, I'm sure due to Covid.
Mike Harris — Google review
Easy to assess from Santa Clara if you have a car. Good afternoon of shopping!
Lots of stores and options. Some did not have outlet prices but full price that you see in regular store.
jackie burke — Google review
Its been qukte awhile since I've been here its changed alittle not much still a good selection of stores for womenn and men.
Dress clothes and business attire as well as casual. Quite a few shoes stores as well to compliment your wardrobe. Fold wise great..in and out burger 🍔
Just yummy 😋
Mc Donald's for the kids and there is a taco truck on the north side of the outside didn't try but it smelt good.
Most of the stores had some pretty good deals too being as we are changing from winter to spring
Johnny Sanchez — Google review
All the major brands are in one place. There's ample parking. Few restaurants are also nearby. Charging points for EVs are also a plus point. Since the stores are scattered, it's difficult to walk around in summer.
Tidal salt marsh that is home to birds, otters, seals & many other animals, with boardwalk trails.
What an incredibly wonderful secret, hidden in plain sight. I’ve loved four miles away from the Elkhorn Slough Reserve for over fifty years and have never stepped foot inside. Why did I wait? Why did I waste so many precious years not enjoying the beauty and serenity? I’ll never know. But I am so glad that today, I decided to take my three year old toddler out for a walk to burn some energy. Burn some, we did.
If you’re just into fresh air and exercise, you’ll love it. If you’re I to bird watching or nature photography, you’ll love it. If you want to learn about the Slough’s ecosystem and animals, you’ll love it. If you’re allergic to beauty and awe, you’ll hate it.
Sincerely, I’m not even sure I want to post this review because I’d love for this absolutely 100% free hidden jewel remains so. But God didn’t make beauty like this for just a handful of people to enjoy.
There are picnic areas and even restrooms along the trails. So there’s no excuse not to make your day better and visit Elkhorn Slough Reserve.
KDG — Google review
Nice place for family hike. Short 3 mile easy loop trail with lot of vista points. Benches on trail to relax and bird watching.
Sajid Maqsood — Google review
The Elkhorn slough is a real gem. Not only is it an interesting place to take a walk to see native plants and wildlife but it is also great to learn about the importance of wetlands in the Eco system. The museum is interesting for all ages. I was there for the Saturday morning bird walk with the docent and learned a lot. We saw a fair amount of birds too. It will be better in the fall.
Doreen O'Donovan — Google review
We've lived it here for many years. Kirby Park needs attention badly
Myles F. Corcoran — Google review
Take the safari boat tour! Its fantastic! Seals, harbor seals, and otters! We saw 31 species of birds! Don’t miss this opportunity! Its so much fun and the Guide is awesome and naturalist is very informative! Its worth the cost to see so much in natural habitat !!
Cindy VanDenBoom — Google review
A wonderful place to observe nature. The bird life is extraordinary and the trails are easy to navigate.
Harvey Trop — Google review
Elkhorn Slough National Reserve is a great place to visit to hike and enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Worth the visit and best in Spring on a clear day.
Brendan Kiely — Google review
A quaint place and definitely hidden gem. Walking trails are fairly easy and the views are great! Staff was friendly and the park is fairly clean. Lots of wildlife and not a lot of people (just the way we like it 😊)
Parina Patel Mosley — Google review
Great place for a walk, pretty birds and sea mammals. Don’t forget to borrow binoculars at the visitor center!
John Guinn — Google review
Returned again to check out some of the other trails, and down to the water's 💦 edge. Enjoyed the peaceful walk.
Very nice Slough, not crowded and easy trails. Went at low tide, lots of birds at a distance. Will be back to check out other trails and high tide perspective.
Rob Haworth — Google review
Great place to hike! There are a couple of different trails with different sights and animals. See the park's website for the different sights.
We did the South Marsh Loop Trail and highly recommend it! We did it clockwise and stopped by Hummingbird Island. Most of the trail is stroller friendly, apart from the train tracks and stairs by Hummingbird Island. The north side of trail is not shaded but the south side is mostly shaded. There is a slight elevation change at the beginning and end of the loop.
Andy Lin (Andrew) — Google review
The Reserve is a great spot for a short half mile) or long hike (about 2 miles RT), depending on your mood. If you pick the right trail, you might see the local birds, otters, seals, rays, and an occasional shark. Ask the very nice rangers what they’ve seen that day. Check the tides also; best animal and bird viewing is when the tides are up.
And don’t forget to wipe your feet before you go out there. They are protecting the native species from foreign cooties.
Myrna Johnson — Google review
Very calm and peaceful place to visit, especially at sunset.
Tam Pham — Google review
There are many easy short hike loops. This place is very open and create peaceful feeling. Some trail path through water. So it might be wise to check a ride of the day because someplace will be under water during high tide. At Humming bird loop trail, you can see a train goes through and some artistic object someone created.