40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (2024)

The top stops along the way from Brookings to San Jose (with short detours) are Alcatraz Island, San Francisco Cable Car Museum, and PIER 39. Other popular stops include Fisherman's Wharf, V. Sattui Winery, and Six Flags Discovery Kingdom.

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V. Sattui Winery

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Winery

Food & Drink

V. Sattui Winery is a renowned wedding venue and winery situated in Saint Helena, California, at the heart of Wine Country. The winery provides house wines that can be tasted in their tasting room or enjoyed with gourmet takeout on their expansive grassy grounds. With Dean and Deluca conveniently located nearby, visitors can enjoy snacking on tasty treats while sipping wine under the sun.

Did an impromptu picnic lunch and bought a bottle of wine, a sandwich, cheese and Crackers. Ate under the shaded picnic area. The weather was perfect! A very pleasant experience. I love their wines and a big selection of food. I Will definitely go back again and again.

Rica Carlos — Google review

I don't know what else to tell you except that I love V Sattui. Been coming here for over 20 years. They have a good store with gourmet goodies, cooked, cheeses, meets, breads, olives, etc. decently priced for the most part.Perhaps buy a bottle of wine or three in the wine tasting room. Note it costs $45 per person per tasting. And you're going to have to make reservations because they're so busy. But you can of course buy without tasting.Then take your goodies outside to their grounds where you'll find picnic tables and benches. Beautiful scenery and trees, lawns, and just pure joy.It has really changed a lot over the past 20 years. They're catered to the picnic goer and out in so much more parking and seating.They sell their standard wines as well as master class. It's really a great place to spend a few hours on a sunny weekend.

G Lee — Google review

Went there two times and had great experience. All staff were nice and friendly. The environment is nice and pleasant. First time we went for wine tasting and second time we went for a picnic. Overall we all loved it. Definitely will be back and back again!

D L — Google review

Last here ~41 years ago. Was just a counter offering baguettes, cheese and wine with open space to picnic.Really developed, offering a wide selection of food and beverages in the deli building, wine related items and great service. Tons of picnic tables and now a beautiful venue for events. Highly popular and rightfully so!

Eric Shaffer — Google review

Justin and Lorenzo were great at suggesting wines during our tasting. We were surprised how much we liked the Madeira. There was a barbecue food truck at the picnic grounds on the Saturday that we went. The grounds are beautiful!

Alexis Stoner — Google review

We were able to do tasting without making reservations. Carlo & Joe were great and we had a really nice time trying out the different wines they offer.Heating available if you choose to do the tasting outdoor.Surprised that their Madeira is really good. Kindly note that they only sell their wines here. So grab whatever you like while you are there. We were offered 10% on 6 bottles (able to mix)They weren’t pushy on sales or the membership/club.Overall we enjoyed our visit, had great time exploring the compound and dont skip the marketplace too as they have lots of treasures in there!

Hester Pamela — Google review

Great wine tasting and selection at V. Sattui. Lots of people were here when we went on a Sunday afternoon. Definitely make sure you have a reservation for a tasting. This place seemed very family friendly; we noticed a surprising amount of children here. Lots of parking available and is easy to navigate. Good variety of wines available here. V. Sattui will definitely have something everyone/anyone will like. Would recommend to families on vacation, couples that are just starting wine tastings and wine lovers alike.

Scott Coble — Google review

Great wines! The person who assisted me was Carlo, he knew the wines to perfection. He asked me a couple of questions and he knew exactly which wines I would like. I enjoyed the place and almost all the wines except for the desert one, I didn't like it. I ended up tasting about 10 different wines and i was only supposed to taste 6 I believe. You also get two chocolates while wine tasting. The place has sandwiches which are make there while you look at it. The parking lot was full and it was free however I was told that you need reservations, which I already had but I thought you may like to know if you never been there. One can also get married here the place has a little area for the ceremony and reception. It has beautiful white roses, green grass, and it also has a patio area with benches where you can enjoy your sandwich and more wine of your choice. Some people were dress to impress I wear jeans, white t-shirt and sandals. 🤷🏾‍♀️ the bathrooms were clean, the place itself was clean. Enjoy and have fun!

Cataleya Arriaga — Google review

V. Sattui is the place to go for anyone looking to hangout and have a good time! Not only do they have a wine tasting room, they also have a market and deli with a plethora of wine to choose from.Food: They have a market and deli here with sandwiches/pastas and easy eats. They also have lots of cheese, wine, and cracker choices.Atmosphere: I haven’t been to the wine tasting but I have family who went and thought it was enjoyable. I truly enjoy the outdoor seating with picnic tables under the trees. It is a beautiful and spacious area, however it does get crowded very easily as this place is incredible.Price: Prices are normal for everything here because it’s Napa Valley prices but worth it for the vibes.Parking: Parking can be tricky when it’s super busy but they have lots of parking to the side and back of the building. You don’t have to pay for parking.

Millie Obregon — Google review

Lovely winery, very relaxed with good options (deli & wine tasting). Good for first timers too :) you get to choose the 5 wines you taste from a list of over 12 wines - red, white & dessert wines. Best to make a reservation in advance.

Nicole Koen — Google review

This is one of the best wineries in the Napa Valley. The good part of this winery is they accept walk-ins. You have the option to buy wine from their store and drink in their common area even if you don’t have an appointment. Their winery tour do require appointment and would advise to get it in advance. The winery is really beautiful and plenty of seating and walking space. Their architecture is very good with plenty of parking space and overall we had a really good time.

Aditya Nahar — Google review

We made a stop here whilst on our honeymoon road trip from SF to LA. We booked for the Bubble Bar tasting and it was incredible. The experience was lovely, the place was so beautiful and I must have a special mention to Denise, who works there on weekends. She truly went over and beyond to make our experience unique and incredible. Thank you so much. The bubbles were delicious, we had such a great time and even brought 2 bottles home with us!!

Natalie YVAGNES — Google review

Well reviewed vineyard that makes wine accessible to the masses. You can buy the wine, some cheese and other small bites then take them out to the yard and have a picnic under the trees. Staff are friendly and helpful and it’s a lovely place to be in spring and other months when the weather isn’t too hot.

Teck Boon — Google review

Came here with a group of 4 and what a fun experience!Good:- We got extra pours since we had 2 birthdays! Thanks Ed!- Each wine was really good quality and I liked the dessert wines a lot- It’s very pretty inside, there’s a fountain and the inside of the tasting room is well lit too- Price isn’t crazy per person eitherBad:- A little busy so it might take time for you get served!Overall super happy with the trip and getting to try out all of the different types of wine.

Jenny Xu — Google review

We went with our friends, who are members, on Friday at 11:30 for wine tasting.My recommendation is to get a reservation on Friday as early as possible before the place was crowded.The grounds are fabulous! The wines are delicious. We ended up splitting a case with our friends.

JoAnn SkyWatcher — Google review

Our wine dealer Julie is amazing. She told us a lot about the wines we tasted, the flavor profiles, and the history behind some of them! The wine is fantastic! We liked all of the ones we've tried. My favorite is the Madeira. The grounds are amazing, there's so much to look at! Great shaded areas to picnic from the cafe and drink wine. Highly recommend going here! The price was great for the quality.

Megan Rednour — Google review

An Italian style winery set in at beautiful garden. Plenty of options for different types food so you can enjoy picnic in their yards. They even have BBQ truck here. Lots of energy, vibrant and just fun for whole family.

The Foodie Architect — Google review

We had a wonderful experience at V. Sattui. We did an outside, seated tasting with a cab upgrade. Not only was the tasting worth the price, we loved the venue and the expertise of the servers. The space was so welcoming and relaxing. Would highly recommend!

Joanna Fedor — Google review

I’ve had such a great experience wine tasting. Mike F was amazing, he listened to the type of wines I love, he made great recommendations. This was definitely a personalized experience and I can’t wait to come back! make sure you get there early (10am-10:30am), less people and you can find parking. It starts to get crowded around 11:30am and parking can be difficult.Their indoor market it’s amazing: a variety of cheeses to choose from ❤️

DoinaB — Google review

Very nice gift shop. Deli food for sale inside including a huge variety of anything you might want for a charcuterie board or wine night. Beautiful outdoors area. Only drawback was you can't just buy a glass of wine. Either have to buy a whole bottle and drink it outdoors or purchase a tasting package at the entrance.

Florida Vacationeers — Google review

Guess what? They are kind and friendly here. Amazing deli, shaded tables, clean restrooms, and the most friendly staff… Your business is appreciated here, and it shows.💯 (Unlike the prior Winery I just reviewed that was the worst customer service I’ve ever received - and I’ve lived here 20years!) Thank you again for the great wine, deli, grounds and friendly staff.

Kat Soditus, Real Estate Broker (Real Estate Alliance) — Google review

Lovely wines. We went for wine tasting. Nice wines but weren’t too happy with the server.Nice place for a picnic spot.Would’ve really appreciated if there was a winery tour as well.

Ashwini J — Google review

V Sattui was such a lovely experience for my wife, baby and I. There was lots of sitting spots in the back and in the front picnic areas. The deli is not crazy expensive and you get really good stuff. You can definitely tell ingredients are high quality. We arrived around 12:30ish on a Friday and it was already busy, so definitely our next visit will be earlier! Try the Spicy Italian sandwich 🥪 it was so goooood!

Noel Ruiz — Google review

My most favorite winery so far. The experience was wonderful, the wines outstanding and the service is OMG I have no words. Alicia has so much knowledge and her carisma makes everything special. You sit outside and the view is amazing. They have a market where you can find delicacies, souvenirs, wines and more.

Vicky Suarez — Google review

Very nice winery. Oscar explained the history and assisted in our wine tasting. We purchased wine, bread, olive oils, and cheese. Took nice pictures. The property is amazing and great for weddings and grippy events. The staff I interacted with was Julianna, Oscar, and the cashier, who was not very pleasant after it advised her that she overcharged me for bread, had an attitude, and questioned my request. Unprofessional!Parking was adequate.

Melissa F — Google review

4.4

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4.5

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1111 White Ln, St Helena, CA 94574, USA

(707) 963-7774

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Mumm Napa

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (8)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (9)

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (10)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (11)

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Winery

Museums

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

Tamara Norton — 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

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

4.3

(645)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (12)

4.5

(936)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (13)

8445 Silverado Trail, Rutherford, CA 94573, USA

(800) 686-6272

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40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (14)

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Frog's Leap Winery

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (15)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (16)

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (17)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (18)

Mentioned on

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Winery

Food & Drink

Frog's Leap Winery is a rustic and charming farmstead that boasts of beautiful gardens and orchards. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, with an emphasis on enjoyment. While Sauvignon Blanc is a popular wine, the Merlot should not be overlooked. Additionally, their Cabernet stands out in Napa due to its dry and restrained nature. Owner John Williams has a humorous approach to winemaking that translates into an entertaining yet informative experience for visitors.

Great time with a wonderful host. She was very informative and knowledgeable. Great wines for their price range and all organic. Definitely worth doing a tasting and tour! We ended up signing up for their Frog Fellow group.Make sure to try out some of their hot sauce as well!

Joshua Ludy — Google review

The famous 1973 cab that won in the Judgement of Paris 1976, is here. This wine is excellent. The estate is so relaxing.

Mark McHugh — Google review

We had a fantastic experience at Frog’s Leap! Our guide Aaron was awesome, the weather was incredible, mustard flowers in full bloom and the wine was great. The citrus trees were in full bloom as well. It was gorgeous and really fun. Would 100% come back.

Alex Johnson — Google review

We took the guided tour here and were really glad that we did. The vines, grounds and all the local produce and flowers were beautiful. Our guide did a nice job teaching us about how Frog's Leap came to be. We had some nice wines along the tour. It was really hot out that day and our guide did a really nice job keeping us in the shade. The barn was so cool to see with all the stills and barrels. It finished with a nice seated tasting and some light bites. We really enjoyed the wine as well as some of the preserves so we purchased several to ship home.Pro-tip: Make sure to tip your guide. They just spent 1.5 hours walking you through the winery and teaching about the wine. They deserve a tip.

Andi Myers — Google review

With the fall colors, the most beautiful winery I've ever been too. Garden is stunning. The craftsman style home of the winery was fantastic, everything was clean, the employees were welcoming and unintrusive, wines are made in a unique old school style that I appreciate, they have a respect and love of the environment.

Matthew Serna — Google review

Wow!!! What a winery! Went on the tour, which was super informative and personable at the same time, with multiple tastings along the way. The grounds are amazing…AND THEY ALLOW DOGS!!! Make your reservations when you’re in town, you won’t be disappointed!

Eric Barnes — Google review

We went here with our two children and in-laws and the staff was absolutely wonderful. Very accommodating and so sweet. The entire experience was just lovely. We walked the grounds and enjoyed everything this winery had to offer. The gardens are so special and the tasting house is just such a homey and warm place. Highly recommend!

Sarah Lewallen — Google review

Beautiful property and strong message of sustainability. Don’t get me wrong, the wines we had were exceptional, but they openly state that they could be better if they sacrificed their philosophy of being dry and kind to the environment. They do not irritate, and they strive to use natural processes, predators, and plants for fertilization and pest control. I loved hearing about the use of owls, kestrels, and other birds to prevent ground pests. Michelle, our guide, was amazing. She knew the wine, grapes, and process perfectly and presented it in an approachable way. I would highly recommend this property and the tours.

Jason Lassourreille — Google review

GORGEOUS winery to visit with super reasonable prices, friendly/informed/accommodating staff, magnificent views and quiet atmosphere. I greatly enjoyed my visit to Frog’s Leap but I will say, their wines weren’t entirely to my liking which is why it wasn’t a 5 star experience for my. I preferred their reds over their whites though!Would love to come back and do another wine tasting in the future.

Madeleine Bellard — Google review

This winery is absolutely stunning. So many flowers and beautiful places to sit and enjoy your wine. This quickly became one of our favorite wineries. We became apart of the Fellowship of the Frog wine club and love receiving our wine shipments monthly. Will be returning and thankful for this experience.

Arielle Cox — Google review

I went here because I watched a bunch of tik toks and though the garden is nice to wander around in, and they have the wraparound porch thing I just wasn’t impressed as much as some of the other ones that we went to that week. The wine we tasted, wasn’t really my favorite, but you did get to wander around the garden with it, so that was nice! as for service they were just OK. Again, I went here because of all the videos I saw, but I would not go again.

Terra Scott — Google review

Frog’s Leap is beautiful and the main building where the tastings take place is beautiful. Our experience was lacking because of the wines themselves and our guide. The wines were interesting, but not my favorites. Our guide was chatty but seemed nervous and inexperienced.

Dana Loughrey — Google review

Loved the site! Not quite the range of wines other places had but perfect for a relaxing afternoon on the porch! The Sauvignon blanc and Merlot were a huge favorite! The staff was also incredibly kind. Grateful for the cheese/snack between the wines to get the full effect! Thank you for a lovely tasting!

Silena Yow — Google review

Visited this winery last week with a bunch of friends for my birthday. It was fantastic. Beautiful space, staff were attentive and friendly, wine was great, got to learn about the process but also were given time to walk around and enjoy tasting the wine. Definitely recommend, was our favorite stop of the trip.

Karen L — Google review

Our bachelorette group loved Frog’s Leap! Jazz took great care of us and made it such a fun time for our first winery stop. Our tasting included chips and the yummiest cheese, we can’t wait to go back!

Judy Jauregui — Google review

After wine tasting for a few days in the area, we were so happy with our experience at Frogs Leap. The setting is beautiful, and the tables on the porch were so cozy under the heaters and blankets, with beautiful views of the vineyards a stones’ throw away. Jazz was our fantastic server- he told us he would never let our glasses go empty and he never did! He was knowledgeable and fun, and he made the experience especially enjoyable. The wines were delicious, and we really appreciated the thoughtful snacks that the winery provides for each table. Highly recommend.

Alison Kean — Google review

We had such an amazing experience here with our tasting. Not pushy on their club. Beautiful property, generous pours, complimentary snacks and amazing goat cheese. They allow you to walk the property and even let me pick an apple (which was so delicious)!We will come back and their Rose was so delicious!

Dan Okavage — Google review

4.6

(535)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (19)

4.5

(708)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (20)

8815 Conn Creek Rd, Rutherford, CA 94573, USA

(707) 963-4704

4

Robert Mondavi Winery

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Winery

Food & Drink

Wineries & Vineyards

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!!!

Kaci Korn — Google review

4.3

(160)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (25)

4.5

(1552)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (26)

7801 St Helena Hwy, Oakville, CA 94562, USA

5

Sonoma Plaza

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (27)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (28)

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Plaza

Nature & Parks

The centrally located Sonoma Plaza is a bustling hub of restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms that is popular for locals and visitors alike. The plaza features 1800s buildings that are lined with lush green space. The centerpiece of the plaza is the Mission Revivalstyle city hall which was built in 190608. Additionally, the Bear Flag Monument marks Sonomas moment of revolutionary glory. The weekly farmers market takes place at the plazas northeast corner every Tuesday from April to October.

Great little square! Had lunch at Mary's and walk the park! The history was really cool, too! Didn't know about any of it!

N L — Google review

I've never experienced such community love. Every Wednesday they get together for a community wide "festival" That is held at the plaza. Food trucks, live music, nearby stores attract over 800 people with their lawn chairs. Chairs the main attraction is each other. Folks just sit down and start talking. Enjoying the food and the music. This is what downtown's across America want to look like. Diverse, united, fun.

Jim Alvey — Google review

Sonoma is a great little town. Lots of places to taste wine but expensive. We are used to trying for free and then buying what you like.

Mark Jones — Google review

Loved walking through the park like setting with all the flowers, benches, trees and beauty of buildings mixed with nature. Surrounding the square is a great mixture of history, wineries, shops and restaurants. A great way to spend the day!

Cynthia Hoeft — Google review

Sonoma Plaza in downtown Sonoma is a fantastic place to visit! It's a beautiful park with a well preserved historical building and lots of shops, wineries and restaurants. You can walk around, eat delicious food. It's a perfect mix of history, culture, and yummy food. There are bathrooms next to the amphitheater. I highly recommend it!

Michel Kattan — Google review

I love spending time at the square. There are a ton of restaurants, bakeries, and shops to occupy your time, plus the square itself is a wonderful place for a picnic. If you're here on a Tuesday night there's also a fun festival with a street food and music!

Rachel McKay — Google review

Always a good place to visit. The roses were blooming and there were a few ducks in the duck pond. I love to get a coffee and a pastry at the Basque Bakery and then sit in the park. The Mission looked beautiful today, too, with lots of poppies in bloom.

Penny Magnusen — Google review

Such a wonderful clean park rich in history. Ww were there during the music festival and the whole place had a wonderful community vibe. Great access to good food vendors and quiet seating.

Brett Cole — Google review

If you like historical sites and/or taking pictures you should consider dropping by the plaza. The court house, Presidio, Mission, Blue Inn and Bear Rebellion Statue are all right there. The General Vallejo Home and Train Depot Museum are within easy walking distance of the square. Presidio has nice displays. Mission has some displays, a chapel and mission paintings from the 1800s. The Square has lots of shops and eateries. Went on a Friday in April and place was busy. Imagine weekends would be pretty packed.

Evan Huntzinger — Google review

Really good square, on Tuesday from 5-8 they have the farmers market and live music/food trucks/stands. Fun experience if your visiting during the week. It is very quiet and most spots around don't open until 11am.

Jean Baptiste — Google review

Sonoma is a beautiful town in the Valley of the Moon, just over the hills from Napa Valley. It is one of California's best wine regions. The center of the town is old and beautiful, with a green central park surrounded by shops, restaurants, wine tasting rooms, a theater, and more. There are some historical places of interest right in the center of town: the Sonoma Mission, and Presidio of Sonoma where the Mexican army gave up without a fight in the Bear Revolt to claim California for the US. There are many great wineries in Sonoma Valley, with an emphasis on zinfandel. A visit to Jack London State Park is recommended.

Dennis Falt — Google review

I have lived in sonoma for 37 years and the plaza is always welcoming and beautiful. There is something for everyone there. Great food, parks, and even a free daddy day care (town square). Great place for the family or a getaway with friends.

Pokey P — Google review

Summer // Tue Night Farmers Market with live music. Charming.Throughout plaza park goers (couples, families, small groups) gather- laying out blankets, chairs, some with their own mini picnic tables, others go all out decorating with e-lamps, flowers. Pack picnic food/wine or enjoy pop-up food/beverage vendors or grab “to-go”from local restaurants on square. Also lining plaza are pop-up stands: Farmers market produce, jewelry, soap, local crafts, etc. Relaxing Tuesday summer night in wine country.

lin coln — Google review

Beautiful and historic. Restaurants, wine bars, shops, wonderful fun!

Mark McHugh — Google review

A short drive from Santa Rosa through the beautiful wine country, my wife and I made it to our destination at a store in the Sonoma Plaza. It was a great weekend excursion that even a rainy day could not dampen. The square has many shops and restaurants to explore. There were many people enjoying the day and parking was not too bad. Alot of people were walking their dogs there andPets and people were all having a spectacular experience.

Alan Hennessy — Google review

My favorite place to go put of the city also if you have friends visiting town it’s the best place to go and with kids too!You have so many options to eat, wineries close by, also places that sells wine, ice cream, shopping and more!The plaza it’s an amazing place they also has parking around the plaza and for me every time I go there it’s easy to park.

Ana Torres — Google review

This plaza is nice. Inside the "square" / plaza there is a park with pond and there are ducks during our visit...don't know if they are there all the time. There are two playgrounds. The playground we were at has sandy ground..be prepared the tiny feet to track those sand inside shoes/socks 🫣 lots of shops and boutique. Nice and clean bathroom behind the historic building. Please support the boutique to keep them afloat.

Liza B — Google review

U mostly only go through it for the ice cream shop, and Pokémon GO but, is it really pretty place,volunteer opportunities and amenities, it can get super crowded. There's never enough parking and I advise against going there at night. Unless you're a drinker.

Shanie Baxter — Google review

Historical center of Sonoma is undeniably charming and beautiful place. 1800’s building surround the little park offering everything you may want from strolling downtown. Here you will find wine tasting rooms, the best restaurants in the area, art galleries, shopping and even little museum. Absolutely charming place it is!

vikka max — Google review

Nice little plaza in this beautiful town! Lots of restaurant options to grab lunch/dinner after wine tasting

Maria Rocha — Google review

4.7

(3787)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (31)

4.5

(929)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (32)

453 1st St E, Sonoma, CA 95476, USA

(707) 996-1090

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6

Jarvis Estate Winery

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (40)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (41)

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Winery

Nature & Parks

Jarvis Estate Winery is a popular hilltop winery offering tours and tastings. The winery boasts an underground cave with large oak barrels and a waterfall, creating a unique experience for wine enthusiasts. Visitors can learn about the art of wine making and witness the dedication of Jarvis Winery to their craft through engaging tour guides who are knowledgeable about the process. Despite being sold out at times, it is highly recommended for those looking for an exceptional wine tasting adventure.

Jonathan is our tour host and he is amazing. Our tasting experience is wonderful, get to know about the winery, their owner, and most importantly tried many of their best wines. Highly recommend.

Yandong Li — Google review

If you do only one winery tour while visiting Napa, this should be high on your list! Because all phases of the wine making occur in this cave, you learn about each of the processes while touring a really cool facility! And the wines were magnificent! A definite must do!

Lynn Jeffers — Google review

One of the most beautiful place I've a definitely hidden gem. Due to personal issue have not have the time to write a review. but Gods know there is nothing unperfect that place. The plan, the care, the mastermind among many other details in the whole process is incredible; nevertheless the cave or the estate. I even have the honor to meet he owner. Today my best friend was there because I did recommended he told me they delivery I just want to say thank you for everything and keep the good wine coming For those people that don't know their Tempranillo and Chardonnay aside from their signature Cabernet are so amazing

William Torres — Google review

We visited Napa Valley for the first time and want to visit several wineries. We visited Jarvis the first day and 3 others the next day. We made reservations weeks in advance which is recommended. They were all different and all had their pros and cons. Jarvis was very unique with the winery underground. It was very classy and upscale. The wines were very good but also out of our price range.Our tour guide (forgot her name) was excellent! Very informative and very friendly.This was our favorite wine tour and the most unique. Highly recommend!

John Mal — Google review

Jarvis is one of the best wineries / tours we have ever been on. We've been members here off/on - no doubt about it - it IS exclusive and expensive. But it is oh, so worth it. This is an experience that is worth the tasting fee. The estate is magnificent, the doors into the caves simply breathtaking and the caves themselves are just..... there are no words. OK - maybe.... Magnificent. We have never been disappointed here. I don't know what was going on with some of these negative reviews, but for us - every time has been beyond amazing. The tour, the caves, the wines, the cheese. If you are looking for an experience that you can talk about for years to come - this is it. Ask for Rob - he's great!

Laura Albrecht — Google review

Great wines and Rob made us laugh throughout the entire tour. The cave system is quite amazing. Some of our best pics and best wines all weekend! Thank you Rob for making our birthday party fun!

Glen Boehm — Google review

Absolutely a must! Small group and a very informative tour. The wine tasting had a wide variety of 6 wines including vintage. Family owned businness with a lot of history! Wonderful experience!

ana regina Myrrha — Google review

Our absolute favorite Estate Winery in the Napa region. If your in the area and are a true wino this place is a must.They are reservation only and definitely on the pricey side, but its well worth it. Came here in March for a private tour and had a great time.The Wine cellar itself is located in a man-made cave located in one of the hills on the estate.The cellar is huge, cool, and something I've never seen before.Now as for the wine, there all delicious. Your tasting is paired with a yummy French imported goat cheese, crackers, and assorted nuts.The wine tour guide was fantastic and taught us not only about the property, its history, and wines; but also wine history and pairing it.Overall a must if your in Napa, cheers!

Matt G — Google review

Awesome experience. Melinda was a great tour guide, extremely knowledgeable and engaging throughout the whole visit. This really makes you appreciate the art of wine making and how dedicated the Jarvis Winery is to the craft. Highly recommended!

G Argentini — Google review

Nestled in a ridge in beautiful Napa, this winery actually extends over 1300 acres in different locations near the cave. I promise you, you will never experience such unique time with the guided tour. $100 will get you the experience of the guided tour full of details about the history of the owners and how they acquired such property back in the 80's. Their unconventional methods of producing wine is what makes them so unique and interesting. The tour consists of taking you inside the man made cave where they explain their wine producing methods, a showcase of their gathering room for private parties and of course the wine testing which is very private, and informative. You are placed in a room with cheese and crackers and six empty glasses at which time, the guide will start with the first wine, explaining the characteristics of it as she is serving it. For each subsequent wine the guide will do the same, placing attention and care to each wine. At the end of the tour you can purchase a bottle. These are high end bottles of wine I highly recommended it follow me and my adventures ig @sin_aguayo_canelito

Sin Aguayo — Google review

As a frequent wine drinker I don’t get amazed as frequent these days. But the Chardonnay and Cab Franc is truly world class. That is the only Cali chard I think is worth $175 and I am not even a white wine lover.

Yolande Tian — Google review

Wow, the cave tour was really great and having the opportunity to see the production areas, the waterfall and the ballroom was really special. The tasting was great, I felt like it was slightly rushed towards the end, but I guess it has to end at some point. Overall great tour, great cave and great wine. We took a few bottles home to enjoy in the future.

Eddie A — Google review

4.7

(115)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (44)

5.0

(354)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (45)

2970 Monticello Rd, Napa, CA 94558, USA

(707) 255-5280

7

Jacuzzi Family Vineyards

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (46)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (47)

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (48)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (49)

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Winery

Food & Drink

Wineries & Vineyards

Jacuzzi Family Vineyards, founded by the Jacuzzi brothers who emigrated from Italy to America in 1907, offers wine tastings on a veranda overlooking their vineyards and a Tuscan-inspired courtyard. They have built a dynasty based on agricultural innovations which led to the invention of the famous Jacuzzi. Visitors can enjoy cheeseboards and tastings in a spacious yet warm atmosphere.

Fantastic tasting in Sonoma! Highly recommend. The atmosphere is lovely. The woman who did our wine tasting was very frigid but it didn’t take away from our experience

Brinn Garcia-Mcghee — Google review

A beautiful Italian winery on the Southern end of Sonoma. They encourage reservations for tastings, but when we went on a Sunday afternoon, we were seated right away. Our tasting guide was very knowledgeable and a joy to talk to. An added treat was that their resident pipe organ tuner came in and played during our tasting.They allowed us to walk around the grounds after our tasting, taking in the full beauty of the winery. There is also a small shop at the front that would satisfy any wine fan.

Ryan Garcia — Google review

My sisters and I had a great time there.Great service, good wine, and beautiful views.

Lussy Garcia — Google review

One of my favorites. We did a wine tasting and absolutely loved it. The staff was so friendly and knowledgeable and really made our experience a relaxing time. They had a tower you could go up to get some great views. They also have a gift shop on site with the olive press products, which were amazing! Had a nice variety of whites and reds to sample. Would come here again. Really amazed by the family and vineyard’s history. They were setting up for an event later in the day and showed us around the event spacing to get a better look!

Jess — Google review

Went for a tasting and had a cheeseboard. Both were very good. Atmosphere was very nice. Spacious but still warm. Bonus is The Olive Press is right within same building. Would definitely recommend and will go back.

Brandon Cable — Google review

Excellent wine and great tasting experience, happy to be a member here as all the wine is great and with so many Italian varietals to choose from there is something for everyone. Beautiful court yard for tasting when the weather is good and also a great place to buy a bottle of wine and enjoy on property. Love jacuzzi!

Joshua Engberg — Google review

Came here with my wife for a wine tasting reservation on a Sunday at 11am, and we had an amazing time! We did the Taste of Italy wine tasting on the patio outside, which is stunning. The complimentary bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar was delicious, and we loved all the wines! We each got to select 4 wines to try from the list. My wife prefers whites and I prefer reds, so it worked out really well that we were allowed to each select our own wines. We also added on a charcuterie board, which was excellent. The house-made seasoned almonds are to die for, and the cheeses (sourced from a local cheese shop) were fantastic! Our server, Mady, was super sweet and very knowledgeable. She let us choose an extra wine to try at the end, which was awesome! We ended up buying 4 bottles at the end, which waived the tasting fee. After the tasting we explored the grounds and went up the watchtower to see the views of the valley. We also bought some different balsamic vinegars from the shop at the front before we left. Will definitely come back if we’re in Sonoma again!

Justin Wolfman — Google review

Beautiful vineyard, the malvasia bianca is so unique! Our hostess Colleen made the experience that much more enjoyable, she was so lovely and we truly enjoyed our conversations with her.

Karen Wall — Google review

The venue is breathtaking!! Super staff, very friendly. The wine was not quite my taste but the olive oils were incredible. Thank you for a lovely experience!!

Meredith Robinson — Google review

My wife and I were visiting Sonoma for our anniversary and because we're both Italian we wanted to visit this winery. Fortunately on a Sunday afternoon they were not too busy to take us for a tasting. If there are two of you we suggest splitting and getting separate flights of wine to try both. A bonus if she is there is Colleen to serve you. The wines taste great so much so we ended up buying 6 bottles. Take a walk around the grounds too as they are beautiful. Between the service and the location it feels like a little bit of Italy in Sonoma.

Michael C — Google review

Beautiful property with great views. The 2020 rose wine is amazing. Highly recommend buying a bottle and tasting.

Arin Canbolat — Google review

Good wine and olive oil tasting. The person helping us in their store was very helpful and gave us lots of oil mixing suggestions. The location was also quiet and pretty.

Piccolos Daughter — Google review

We were heading to Sonoma from Sacramento and decided to stop into Jacuzzi Vineyards.It was raining but they had a beautiful courtyard with a clear cover above to keep out the rain but let all the light in. We were seated by our hostess.We bought 4 bottles to try. We did like the aglianico best.There was a nice barrel room and outdoor Italian fountain. Due to the rain, we weren't able to enjoy the nice outdoor courtyard in the back.They also have delicious olive oils and balsamic vinegar tastings as well in their cute gift shop.

Sharon Black — Google review

We recently had our wedding at Jacuzzi and could not be any happier!! The venue itself it just stunning, but Jessica made our experience so seamless and easy. She was on top of all details, easy to work with and very responsive. And, of course the wine is just incredibly delicious! Our guests had such a lovely experience, everyone told us how beautiful the property was and we couldn't agree more. Oh, and it is dog friednly, which is perfect since we really wanted out furbaby to be part of our special day. Thank you Jacuzzi!!!!

Courtney Schreiber — Google review

Attending my friend's wedding at Jacuzzi Family Vineyards in Sonoma, CA was an extraordinary experience, made even more special as my BFF and I had the honor of creating the floral arrangements for the event. Nestled in the heart of Sonoma Valley, the winery boasts a captivating history that adds a layer of richness to any celebration.The Jacuzzi Family Vineyards stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of its founders, Valeriano and Francesco Jacuzzi, who planted the seeds of their winemaking expertise in California over a century ago. Their vision has flourished into a stunning estate, where every corner exudes timeless elegance and charm.We were truly enchanted by the venue's enchanting ambiance and picturesque surroundings. Crafting the floral arrangements was a labor of love, inspired by the natural beauty that enveloped us. Against the backdrop of rolling vineyards and lush landscapes, our arrangements added a touch of whimsy and romance to the occasion, perfectly complementing the winery's rustic charm.The staff at Jacuzzi Family Vineyard were exceptional hosts, ensuring that every detail of the wedding was executed flawlessly. Their professionalism and dedication to excellence were evident at every turn, making the planning process seamless and stress-free.

Buck Stallion — Google review

Jacuzzi is a quaint and picturesque Vineyard nestled in the valley of Sonoma. It was our first stop of our trip and this place set the bar high for juicing vineyard experiences. Beautiful countryside setting and an amazing atmosphere were a perfect setting for enjoying wine!

Mark Salloum — Google review

We had an amazing experience here! The staff were 10/10. They were so knowledgeable, kind, and genuine. We had a bottle of rose and the charcuterie board and both were perfect!! The courtyard and outside area are beautiful and peaceful.

Christina Smith — Google review

Such a fun winery to visit! Andrea was made our tasting a great experience. The wine is amazing and the bread olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting are a plus. A very neat spot!

krystal dash — Google review

4.6

(498)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (50)

4.5

(732)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (51)

24724 Arnold Dr, Sonoma, CA 95476, USA

(707) 931-7500

8

Domaine Carneros

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (52)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (53)

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (54)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (55)

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Winery

Food & Drink

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 longCons:-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 reimbursem*nt 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. Mytaste 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 ableto 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

Lynsey R — Google review

4.3

(1455)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (59)

4.5

(1558)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (60)

1240 Duhig Rd, Napa, CA 94559, USA

(707) 257-0101

9

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

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Mentioned on

5 lists

Theme park

Water & Amusem*nt Parks

Enormous amusem*nt 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 outBathrooms 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

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 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 amusem*nt 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

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.

Briana Taylor — 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

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

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

10

Vallejo

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (67)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (68)

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (69)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (70)

Ferry terminal

Transportation

Ferries

Every year my husband and I get San Francisco Giants tickets. This year for some reason we were having so much difficulty figuring out the Giants ferry online. We went to the ferry office in Vallejo and a very kind woman named Tracy walked us through everything helped us to purchase our tickets and introduced us to the clipper card which saved us quite a bit of money. It’s so refreshing they have wonderful customer service. And of course we love the ferry and out of the city so convenient.

wendy harris — Google review

Between driving, casual carpooling, driving+BART, drive+bus+BART, the ferry has everything beat for what you get for your money. As of today, it'll cost you $10.40 one-way with a Clipper Card.You may buy a ticket onboard with cash or credit.5 morning departures during the weekdays will certainly accommodate everyone. On time, everytime departures. Rough weather may cause some slowdowns but those are days I-80 or BART suffer too.Remember it's first-come-first-served, plus regulations dictate everyone has to have a life saver. So everyone gets a seat... if you never travelled before show up 20 min. before departure until you get comfortable. When the boat is at max capacity (275-349 people depending on the vessel) doors close and you will be prohibited from boarding even if you are next in line. On the plus side, you'll never rub elbows with anybody.Once inside, you'll find seats with tray tables, solo seats, 2 and 3 row seats. Tables for 4, 6 and even 8 passengers. Power outlets throughout. A coffee/snack/alcohol bar (cash only), an outter deck with amazing views and more seats, 3 bathrooms or more, windows throughout.If the splashing and morning sun doesn't put you to sleep, feel free to catch up on work or update your status. No one takes your stuff (where can they run with it?), and everyone respects and gives ample space to everyone.In the afternoon gaze at I-80 all jammed up while you sip a beer in the outter viewing area with the warm summer air. Then return inside to follow on a group's poker game.You will arrive SF or Vallejo relaxed and rested. There is no competition to this mode of transportation.The chartered game vessels require a separate review as they are reserved, unique and no alcohol can be sold after the game. ;)

LEONARDO FAYE — Google review

The boat is very big and extremely relaxing! Such a great trip on the ferry! And you can sit outside while riding! Also it is pretty cheap! If you get your tickets online the trip is even cheaper, even though I always purchase in person.

Just me, Blessed Up . — Google review

Don’t take ferry to Oracle park if you want to get there before the game Twice the ferry has been waiting in the bay for space at Oracle park ferry landing while game has started because the don’t have capacity at ball park for Vallejo ferry. I will be driving next time.

Steven Goetz — Google review

The Ferry Building has my favorite coffee shop in it as well as a top room, so it's a social hangout spot while you wait for the ferry to arrive. I've only used the ferry itself once, and it was an easy experience. It can get EXTREMELY busy, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time.My favorite thing about the ferry building? THE VIEWS. The whole area is beautiful. It's right across the water from Mare Island, which make for beautiful scenery. Make sure to stay and walk around and enjoy the waterfront.

Ashley — Google review

Catamaran provides plenty of seating, a smooth and efficient ride. Best way to avoid traffic!

Brook Mark — Google review

Just came down here with my grandpa and we went to San Francisco having a good time but when we come back the Catalac Converter is gone!! The people at the front desk were talking about it happening everyday but there continues to be no security or cameras. DO NOT PARK HERE

Kassidy Campbell — Google review

Absolutely avoid parking in the assigned parking area! It’s not worth it. You might as well drive to San Francisco yourself. My family and I drove down 3 hours for a Giants game. We thought taking the fairy would be fun. Came back and our Cadillac converter was stolen from our car. This WAS DONE IN PURE DAYLIGHT. This place definitely lacks security. There is absolutely no security cameras. Sketchy people parked all around that will sit there for hours watching people as they leave. Homeless tents everywhere and doubled the 3 hours we were gone. Last time we choose to go. Environment is not safe.

Da Char — Google review

We love taking the Ferry from the Vallejo Ferry Building. It’s the perfect travel experience into San Francisco. There is a walkway along the water, a nice coffee shop, brewery and restaurants for convenience while waiting to catch the ferry.

Jennifer Thibodeaux — Google review

Took the Giants game ferry boat, they left that poor bartender with no register and she wasn’t allowed to sell drinks/snacks on the way to the game. The captain said he couldn’t wait for another boat to grab their POS system. Many passengers are furious!

Felicia Sandoval — Google review

We arrived with tickets to leave with the ferry that leaves at 10:30 and they tell us to wait that another ferry is coming (with no additional info). Other people started asking information and we couldnt hear what he was saying. We started asking him what time it was coming and he said to look at the schedule. Other people started asking him more questions and he started yelling at people. We waited for for next ferry that said 11:30 on the scehdule and then we get notification at 11:20 saying 40 minute delay. Worst ferry service in United States

Jaime Gutierrez — Google review

Very nice weather, It is not crowder like big cities.

Enrique Arellano — Google review

Don't be scammed for not displaying your parking Ticket in your Car Widshield. They will still issue you a ticket if you don't display it, even though in the tickets it say "No Need to display ticket".

Dante Ibarra — Google review

4.3

(153)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (71)

4.5

(346)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (72)

289 Mare Island Way, Vallejo, CA 94590, USA

I'll never travel to San Jose without this trip planner again

Learn more

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (73)

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I will never travel to San Jose without this app againAvailable on the App Store

11

Alcatraz Island

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (80)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (81)

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (82)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (83)

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Historical place

Sights & Landmarks

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 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

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

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

I visited 18 years ago and honestly NOTHING has changed! Just the way I remember. Love the history and all the information they provide. The rangers are so informative and friendly. Boat ride made me a little sea sick but it was fun! Had the kiddos and they liked it all but the hiking. It's a lot of walking and hiking. Just prepare for that.

KK1618 Buttercup! — 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

This is something I've always wanted to do. Just the ferry ride alone was worth the price of the admission ticket, because the views are spectacular! There's so much beauty in the place that had so much ugliness. The audio tour was very well done. You really do get a sense of what it was like as a prisoner there. Plus it is an excellent History lesson. The gardens around the penitentiary are beautiful and the vies of SF and the bridges are amazing. Also, this is a fantastic place for anyone who loves birds, as it is also a bird sanctuary. It was a very interesting trip. I highly recommend. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will walk a few miles in total if you walk the entire island tour.

Annie Byers — 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

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

4.7

(38239)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (84)

4.5

(56196)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (85)

San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

(415) 561-4900

12

Fisherman's Wharf

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (86)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (87)

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (88)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (89)

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Sights & Landmarks

Neighborhoods

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.

4.0

(19626)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (90)

San Francisco, CA, USA

13

PIER 39

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (91)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (92)

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (93)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (94)

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Sights & Landmarks

Fishing pier

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

A nice little spot, though it’s a bit touristy at times. There’s a lot of options for families and people who want to see some amazing views. Alcatraz is right off the pier and you also have the amazing seals just hanging out in their own spot on the pier. It has a real fair feel to it. Recommended visiting for sure.

Masked Maniac Reviews — 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).

Roberto Ferraris — Google review

4.6

(121141)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (98)

4.0

(22926)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (99)

The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

(415) 705-5500

14

Lombard St

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (100)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (101)

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (102)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (103)

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Notable street

Sights & Landmarks

Points of Interest & Landmarks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4.6

(1494)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (106)

4.5

(18379)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (107)

San Francisco, CA, USA

15

San Francisco Cable Car Museum

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (108)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (109)

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (110)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (111)

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Rail museum

Transportation

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

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

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

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

4.7

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4.5

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1201 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94108, USA

(415) 474-1887

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16

Ferry Building

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Historical landmark

Shopping

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

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.

Eda Smurthwaite — 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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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 pastriesI 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

4.6

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4.5

(7433)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (132)

1 Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA

(415) 983-8000

17

Oracle Park

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Stadium

Sights & Landmarks

Arenas & Stadiums

Located in San Francisco, the Oracle Park has stunning views of the bay and is home to the 8-time World Series Champion San Francisco Giants. In addition, major events such as Beyonce's 2015 performance have taken place here. The stadium is well-designed and a must-see for visitors to San Francisco during baseball season.

It’s a beautiful Baseball stadium the views are magnificent! The food a bit pricey but there are definitely a few gems worth eating at. If you are going to a night game I would recommend bringing a jacket even in the summer it gets pretty cold.

Alice Hopkins — Google review

Beautiful park to watch baseball and enjoy the great views. The only reason I give it 4* is the concourse’s are narrow and when it’s packed it’s hard to get around and use the restroom, get drinks and food. We sat In the upper deck on the third base side and you still felt close to the field and action. I really wanted to walk around and check out the stadium, so if you go, go early enough to take it all in. Wish I would have.

Kirk Maringer — Google review

Beautiful stadium. The views of the water and the mountains are unmatched.We had box seats which also had outdoor seating. Even the food was amazing. If you order get the pulled pork, Mac n cheese, crab sandwiches, pizza, and watermelon.The staff are friendly and very thorough, coming in frequently with masks and gloves removing trash.Restrooms are not the cleanest however.

Ashlee Carlisle — Google review

This is by far my favorite baseball stadium out of the dozen or so I've been to. The view is incredible pretty much anywhere you sit. I've been right behind the dugout, in the bleachers, in the reserves, and I look forward to sitting in other spots as well. Section 138 and 139 in the outfield are solid sections for snagging a ball (home run or player tossed). Definitely try the Crazy Crab sandwich and the garlic fries when you can. If you have a kiddo or two, be sure to take them to the area near the co*ke bottle for a mini ballpark for them to enjoy and multiple slides. Absolutely walk around the back side of the stadium to check out the views of the Bay and some great Giants history. The hot dog vendors on the street outside the stadium are the best. We are looking forward to many more games. Go Giants!

Mark Ackermann — Google review

Probably the most breathtaking stadium I’ve ever been to. We got lucky with the weather and the views of the bay were stunning. The baseball wasn’t bad either which made it a perfect day. Tickets were fairly reasonable as well.

Nick Whales — Google review

Booked last minute tickets to watch the Giants!!! This is one beautiful ball park! Lines move quick, everything is easy to navigate, and we had the best view in that stadium. Yes it was high, yes it was a bit chilly!!! Yes it was worth every penny. As expected prices for things are like any other venue or attraction. Plan on walking around the park at least once, the concept is very open and you can pretty much watch the game the entire walk around. Very nice.

Obie Tric — Google review

This is easily one of the best baseball parks to visit. Whether you’re a fan of the Giants or not, it’s a staple with a huge variety of food and drinks vendors - frequently it’s local restaurants who have a space inside the park. It’s easy to go to this park during a game and not watch any baseball because of the spectacular views, activities, and overall great vibes. It really doesn’t matter where you sit, the whole thing is an experience every time you go!

Landon Ledbetter — Google review

Our Family joint the 2023 Giant Race which is my very first time to the Giant stadium!Parking is easy, stadium are just beautiful and race was a such fun if you like to race of just like our family which we took easy by mostly walking!We saw many people, young and old all participating in the race!The event was very nicely organized that free water, energy bars or drinks or banana provided.The actual game tickets are some what reasonable as we have couple Giant fans in the family!

Steven Cheng — Google review

Great place to watch a baseball match, enjoy some food and have a good time with friends. Seats are comfortable and corridor distribution makes it easy to find your seat. It's easy to follow the score with the large screen and there is nice entertainment during the moments in which the game is stopped.Merchandising is very interesting with great quality items. I really enjoy going there.

Miguel P.C. — Google review

This is a really nice stadium. Great game and atmosphere. The one draw back are concessions. I paid more for a beer than for my ticket. This is the most expensive ball park concessions I have seen and I have been to a large handful of parks.

Ralph Hershberger — Google review

Just checking off our list of ballparks visited and I would have to say, Oracle Park is one of the top on our list! Such a great venue for baseball! You will definitely not be bored at this park as there is a lot to do and see. From the views of the bay and the city, to the slide for the kids and even a garden! The food was great and had plenty of options. This game we sat in the outfield which was nice but don’t forget sunscreen. The park does have sunscreen around the park but it is like SPF 1000 so just keep that in mind for backup. Nothing really bad to say about this park. Staff was friendly and it was great to enjoy a game here! Would definitely come back anytime! Enjoy! ⚾️ Go Phils

Ali Afsharkhah — Google review

Excitement in the air. It was my first time here. I don’t think there is a bad seat in the park. We chose a different section for all the games. We sat underneath the covered area for game one. Game two was just behind first base row 2. Third game was in section 105 row 21. Every seat gave us a good view of the field and plays. The food was a little pricey but it’s the ball park. I really enjoyed the variety of foods and that a lot of vegan/vegetarian options were available. A must do is MoMo’s after the game. You will enjoy it!

Kentrell Charles — Google review

By far the prettiest stadium in the league, the foods great and so are the staff the are nice and helpful. Also the seats are comfortable and the overall vibe is amazing! The teams nice and the mascot cool. When I went the players were throwing baseballs up to kids and it seems like everyone was enjoying it.

Rylan Seiler — Google review

Sat in club level seats and enjoyed a pretty spectacular summer sunset overlooking the water. What a beautiful ballpark. Game didn’t go the way we wanted, but the food and views were awesome.Enjoyed some chicken strips and garlic fries (16.00) which were good for ballpark food, though we wish the chicken was hotter. And then a big ol bowl of clam chowder in a bread bowl (15.00). The soup was hot and savoury, really good clam chowder. The sourdough was also good, but wish it wasn’t so dried out (likely cut ahead of time).

Jacinda K — Google review

Love this park! On a great sunny day, there is a lot to see and take in right around the park. The bay was beautiful the other day, and my wife even said that we should do this more often. And she doesn't really like baseball. Go Giants!!

Michael Gates — Google review

The sunset is amazing, and it's a nice stadium that can accommodate a lot of people. This was my first time watching it from the lower floor, and the food was more diverse and delicious than the upper floor. Do not use the elevator. It takes a very long time. You can reach your destination much faster by using the stairs next to the elevator. I was able to enjoy the view while watching a wonderful sunset, just like you see in the photo. Because the stadium is small, home runs are frequent.

Owen Son — Google review

It is a baseball stadium where the San Francisco Giants baseball club is located. Inside Oracle Park, there are large 'Coca Cola' bottles and large baseball gloves. Coca-Cola bottles can be seen well outside the baseball stadium. Recently, Lee Jung-hoo was transferred, and if you go to a souvenir shop, they are also selling uniforms. Statues and copper plates of famous players from all time are on display outside the baseball stadium.

Bab Bab — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94107, USA

(415) 972-2000

18

Lindsay Wildlife Experience

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Museum of zoology

Nature & Parks

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 greatJust 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.

Amanda Battles — Google review

4.7

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4.5

(249)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (147)

1931 1st Ave, Walnut Creek, CA 94597, USA

(925) 935-1978

19

Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park

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Park

Nature & Parks

Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park is a forest located in Oakland, California, with over 1,830 acres of redwoods. The forest is home to many deer, rabbits, squirrels and other rare wildlife. The park also includes picnic areas, campsites and trails for hikers and cyclists.

This park provides a large network of trails for hiking. There are two parking lots on the south west and eastern sides that charge $5 for parking. The added bonus with the fee parking is that there is always parking available. The large network of trails provides opportunities for biking, 4-10 mile loops for hiking, and plenty of picnic areas. The trails are dog friendly with the typical leash requirements. There is a nice paved trail near the Canyon Meadow Staging Area which provides about 2-3 miles of flat elevation great for families with young children. Other trails provide roughed moderate to difficult steep terrain for those looking for some elevation gain. The lowest point around Redwood Creek is around 600 feet and trails connect up to Redwood Peak at 1539 feet. Enjoy the park and don't forget to wave to those passing by. We are all one community connected with this lovely park to enjoy.

Josh Klaus — Google review

This is another great jewel of a park in the East Bay Regional Park District. Easy to drive to, good parking, picnic areas with tables, BBQ pits, a couple of play areas for children, lawn areas and plenty of shade. The Stream Trail from the Canyon Meadow Staging Area to the Skyline Gate Staging Area and back took about 3 hours meandering on the first leg and then making good time on the second leg on the way back. There were wonderful breezes under the beautiful redwoods and serene places along the way like the Old Church to just sit and soak it in the beautyof God's great creation. Great for walkers, joggers, hikers, families. Another must see for those who enjoy the numerous EBRPD locations!

Larry L — Google review

Great place to hike and walk around especially in the summer as there are a lot of trees that provide ample shade. Very dog friendly and the trails are wide. Just have to watch out for the mountain bikers as sometime they go really fast so stay alert.

jaime cho — Google review

The toughest yet most beautiful hike I've ever done. But it's all worth it after you spend about 3 hours hiking from the bottom foot of the mountain to the top with a beautiful view along the way up. A lot of people are mountain-biking here. This park is just about 5-10 minutes away from the city and it is breathtakingly beautiful!

Jane E. — Google review

I really like the hiking trails at this park. They're well maintained. The people that I pass were all quite friendly with their children and their pets. I will definitely be returning here. It's wonderful because it's less than 2 miles away from my friend's house so that we can go hiking together on the weekends.

Austin Goodwin — Google review

I was visiting from out of state and was looking for a good yet easy to access redwoods hiking site. I had already done Muir Woods but it's a little out of the way and required reservations, parking fees, entrance fees, etc. I'm very happy I came across Reinhardt. I was able to do a really nice 4 mile hike in the morning and make it to a Giants game at noon. I started from the upper parking lot and wasn't impressed at the beginning of the hike, but the middle section of the park with all the redwoods was beautiful.

Scott Perdue — Google review

As soon as we got off the plane we took BART then met up with a local contact. Maybe after a flight it’s best to rest up but the nature in this redwoods really energized our group. Though we wouldn’t recommend it some of us hiked barefoot to better connect with the planet!Aside from those eccentricities this is a fine place to hike about it’s not quite isolated enough to forget the outside world but it almost is. I’ve seen man elderly people hiking about here and if they can do it so can you!

mansa shaka — Google review

Awesome views around and flown in from San Diego and coming to check out this country side and see some redwood trees was lovely. If I had more time I believe we pass by some places in the area you can probably camp out or do some trail hiking.

Annie Chanthavysouk (Chanthavysouk) — Google review

10 mile hike on the trails. Tons of mushrooms & a gazillion ladybugs. 1st time here. Gorgeous place to enjoy nature. The giant redwoods are amazing.

Rosanna Mendoza — Google review

Short to long trails for hiking in this beautiful park with redwood trees. Although it was a quick hike for us, one can do a very long hike if they wish. Popular and parking areas are full of people smoking what not, but just a few minutes walk takes you to relatively quiet places.

Sankha S Hota — Google review

Gorgeous local place for a family picnic and to explore. Wish the creek was accessible but understand why its not. Hiking trails everywhere with info stands often and plenty of restrooms and picnic tables.

Ant Martinez — Google review

Came here to see the ladybugs in mid Nov. Was blown away witnessing a phenomenon where thousands of ladybugs congregate. If you are here to see the ladybugs, take the Stream Trail. Follow the trail till you see a sign about the ladybugs. Be careful on where you step as they are everywhere!Ladybugs aside, it is an absolutely beautiful trail in the redwood forest. Fresh air with eucalyptus scent. Truly a relaxing hike.

Ymun — Google review

Something about this park just feels right. It lets you get away from the rat race without having to go too far. There are plenty of trails for hiking and biking.Stream trail is good even with a stroller until you hit the part where there are no bikes allowed. After that it's a bit challenging with a stroller.There's even a little playground, although one of the slides has been broken for a while.

Maximus Bavaricus — Google review

I went here for a hike. I took the main stream trail to the fern trail which led me to the French trail back down. The stream trail is the main paved way most people take. It is a nice walk with some parts being uphill. This park has lots of restrooms, benches, and even has a playground. The redwoods were beautiful and I enjoyed getting out in nature!

Katie C — Google review

It's an easy trail but I'm between a little bit rough so be cautious. It's good to put up the trail map if you're not familiar with the trail as one can miss the trail and continue to the other. Lots of shade so it's very helpful on a sunny day, just be hydrated so take water, and watch out for dogs as most of them were not on leash. Otherwise it's an easy breezy hike, enjoy!

Usha Dawn — Google review

This "2nd growth" redwood forest is always amazing, rain or shine or atmospheric river. It should have been a muddy day today after the latest rain storm, but these amazing hiking trails were only slightly muddy and easily passable.In the summertime, this lush forest is full of tall shade-bearing redwoods and a damp forest floor, full of ferns, are welcome respite from the heat and dry riverbeds only 30 miles east of here.

Bruce Polsem*n — Google review

Best park in Oakland. Dog friendly, shaded trails, different degrees of difficulty depending on the trail. Many different points of entry although the main entrance does charge in the spring and summer. People are usually very friendly here and it’s probably one of the best reasons to live in Oakland.

jim Matysik — Google review

Very quiet and beautiful park. There are many walks and hikes, both paved and not. A couple playgrounds scattered throughout as well.As a bonus, the parking fee only applies in the summer.Definitely would recommend to those passing through the area.

Mendel Berkowitz — Google review

Who needs Yosemite? Reinhardt is just outside of Berkeley and the adventure begins. There must be at least 25 trails all different difficulty factors. I took the 2.5 mile French Trail Loop. (considered easy)Took about 4 hours and was surprised by the elevation variation of 600 foot , steep, and rugged. Well worth the trip... Connected with nature at THanksgiving.

Denis LeClair — Google review

This park is a jewel to be treasured. We did a seven mile hike through and around the northern half, along the Stream and West Ridge trails. Even though I am an experienced hiker I still spent a good portion of the hike with my jaw hanging. Be aware there are few facilities, and some of the trails are quite strenuous.

TA Perry — Google review

4.8

(3203)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (155)

4.5

(421)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (156)

7867 Redwood Rd, Oakland, CA 94619, USA

(888) 327-2757

20

Mount Diablo State Park

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State park

Nature & Parks

Sizable park with a summit visitor center & observation deck, plus trails, campsites & picnic areas.

Beautiful views. Windy curvy two lane paved road with sharp switchbacks. Watch for bikes anytime you travel here. $10 entrance fee, worth exploring multiple times. Tons of hiking trails, easy trails to more difficult terrain. Not a fast trip.. plan on spending some time traveling the road safely.

Tam Davidson — Google review

Great place to hike in the bay. Signs posted at all intersections. Recommend the summit trail from Mitchell canyon visitor center. Very strenuous but fantastic views.

Jeevan Yerraji — Google review

Decided to come out here on a random day to Check out the scenery. Perfect day to drive up and see snow in Mt. DIABLO. The park is huge. Many trails to explore. The drive up was nice and easy. Drive slow since road/mountain bikers do decent down then road. Lots of spots to park up and enjoy the view. We drove up to the summit. Great view of the bay area! We even got to check out the little museum at the summit. It was small but educational if you want to know the history of the Mountain. Summer is coming up and planning to Check out some trails. Fully recommend!

Jim A — Google review

Went on a Saturday in April. The weather was awesome, 70 sunny no clouds. I enjoyed the windy drive, but take care as there are many bicyclists. You could see SF and distant snow capped peaks from the summit. The hikes are nice, no ticks for us, not Yosemite or Tahoe but still great views. It cost $10 per vehicle to enter, but was worth it.

Christopher Frey — Google review

Mt. Diablo is a place that offers everyone The experience, and the opportunity to explore its most enjoyable locations there are over 20 camp grounds on site as to some of them comes with a spectacular view as to the rest are more secluded. When your someone who lives in the city where the civilization is, it becomes your reality everyday which is great that's how you want to live. All I'm saying is there's no happiness in that. So if your from the West Coast CA your freedom to explore Awaits you over the mountain ⛰ of Mt. Diablo $10 fee at the entrance gate and you have the whole entire mountain to yourself whole day!

Tj Ilek — Google review

Does this mountain look blue from a distance to anyone else compared to the other surrounding mountains? Great views in all directions at the top with a nice wheelchair accessible trail and lots of picnic areas. It's a long winding road to the top but it's well worth it.

Internet Person — Google review

One of the best Sunset 🌇 ever. Wonderful view and nice camping site to enjoy with family and friends.

Pradeep Gupta — Google review

This is a world away from the cities yet right in the neighborhood of Danville! The drive up the mountain takes approx 40 mins by car but a lot more on bike. There is a rock cave park on the way approx 20 mins out which is a great place to hike take kids along and picnic. Top of the peak is a nice observation deck that provides surreal views of all across the bay! You can see the city on far end and deep into the Central Valley on the other side.A must visit place!!

Priyank Mohan — Google review

Takes an hour to go up the winding road. Neat look out point, don't go if you tend to get car sick (especially the back seat.) The little store up there is very cute. Plan on spending an hour+ at the top to explore.

John in LB Mallory — Google review

Cool place to visit! We were here on a beautifully sunny and not windy Tuesday afternoon in March. It was not crowded at all. We enjoyed the spectacular view in all directions from the summit.We had a fine time hiking the 0.8-mile-long Mary Bowerman interpretive, loop trail around the summit.

David Lobree — Google review

I had a time here. It was a very straightforward journey about 3000 ft total elevation to get to the top. The drive was windy and nice you could literally see the roads beneath you as you transitioned up. The top view was breathtaking. I came with my family and we loved the feeling of seeming like we were up in the clouds. I can't say enough, I'll just put up the pics . It's a great day trip out if you're looking for something low key to do at the weekend. 45mins drive total to the top from walnut creek.

hils A. — Google review

This is an absolutely lovely state park. My partner and I parked down at Mitchell's canyon, hiked up to Eagle Peak, then to Mount Diablo, and took Juniper/Deer/Mitchell Canyon Road all the back down.I would STRONGLY advise that hikers take the steep route on the way up. The dirt and gravel were pretty loose and it'd be difficult hiking down some of those slopes.

Bartholomew Roland — Google review

Mount Diablo State Park is located in Walnut Creek. The park is sprawling over the hillsides and is lush green.There is an entry fee of $10 to enter the park and it is totally worth it. There are some parking lots along the way to the peak from where lots of beautiful trails start.We visited the park multiple times in different seasons and every time it was a fun experience to hike on different trails. Once we even got to experience snow in December 2021.The weather can be unpredictable so make sure you are dressed appropriately, especially as it can get windy near the peak.

Pranav Deshpande — Google review

Drove in from Mount Diablo North Gate. $10 day pass for a single vehicle. Be sure to carefully share the road with bicyclists and pull over whenever there is a parking opportunity to take in the views as you ascend to the top to reach Mount Diablo Summit Museum and Trailhead. Parking is very limited at the summit but head slightly back down to the long term parking lot where there are restrooms, picnic tables and views to take in.A Superbloom of poppies and other wildflowers currently taking place to enjoy viewing and photographing.

Patrick Holloway — Google review

Great views from the top and you can take your car to the very top point. Plenty of picnic tables for a nice lunch with the view. One of the best state parks. However drive is quite tricky. drive safely.

ashish shrivastava — Google review

We went to visit Mount Diablo State Park in June 2019 on a weekday. We entered through the northgate entrance and parked our car at the upper parking lot. The drive to the park is mindblowing.There are many hiking trails from the park.We didn't hike, but we enjoyed the Sierra Nevada Mountain range from the Mount Diablo Summit Observation deck. There is a beacon on top of Mount Diablo Summit which is the commemorating symbol of the attack on Pearl Harbor. The beacon is also called "The Eye of Diablo".The park also offers biking, camping, fossil hunting, horseback riding, hand gliding etc.A must visit park for the nature enthisiasts.•

Tasnim Ara Islam — Google review

Amazing park with tons of hiking trails. Are you up for a cycling challenge? The only park I know which is so friendly to cyclists that you need to ride to believe. MTB and road cycling or mixed terrain, the park has it all. Rock climbing is not allowed as far as I know even if there are very impressive sandstone formations. It's called Rock City for a reason. Please support California State Parks!

G B — Google review

Not too hard to drive to the top, watch out for bicyclists on the sharing road. It’s looking stunning with 360 degree view. You need a whole day to explore other beautiful picnic areas too. And don’t miss out the City of Rocks on the way down. The water fountain up there is cold and fresh.

H Nguyen — Google review

We drove to the summit from the South Gate, which is at an elevation of 3,849 ft. Entry fee for day use is $10 which is collected much ahead of reaching the summit. It says 8 am, but the gate was open around 7.45 am as well.Pretty windy out there even on a sunny day, so dress up accordingly.The park is green right now so ideal to hike around and visit spots like Rock City Park on your way down.Driving to the summit is like a one time experience, and I wouldn't want to do it again. We walked the trail around the summit - Mary Bowerman Trail, which is partially paved. Pretty much flat and takes 30 mins. Hiking is much more recommended in the area.

Aishwarya Kher — Google review

This park was incredible. Wish we could have spent more time here. Lots of history to the peak and the views were amazing. I felt like I was in Switzerland with all the green. The weather at the top was night and day from the valley making it a true mountain peak.

Brett Tobler — Google review

It is recommended to refuel before driving up the mountain. There are tickets for day trips and overnight camping tickets. Remember to pay for the area ticket when camping. This park has a camping area, so if you are going to CCB Mountain Climbing on a day trip, it is recommended to come early in the morning, because there are many walkable areas in the park, so remember to bring water for hiking. If you come to camp, you can set up your tents and equipment and then walk around the various trails in the park. You don't have to be restricted to the camping area all the time, you can have a better life of walking and leisurely. The camping area does not provide electricity, and the use of water, toilets, and bathrooms are all concentrated in one area, so those who need electricity must bring their own power supplementary equipment. The space of the entire camping area is well distributed and the scenery is great. It is recommended to bring a shovel to smooth the uneven ground so that the tent can be set up.

Jasmine Yang — Google review

Very nice and scenic view from the top on the summit. Very informative and educational exhibit with movie on Mt. Diablo’s history as well. The road leading to the summit had no guardrails all the way up and is as well maintained as it can be due to the environment it’s in. The road is slightly narrow so as long as you follow suggested speeds and yield to bikers you will be fine. I would not recommend for new drivers or drivers with no experience on roads like this. There are adequate restrooms and water fountains on the top and good parking.

Kiara Hernandez — Google review

4.8

(2893)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (161)

4.5

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Summit Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94598, USA

(925) 837-2525

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21

Oakland Zoo

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Zoo

Zoos & Aquariums

Park

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4.6

(12037)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (174)

4.5

(710)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (175)

9777 Golf Links Rd, Oakland, CA 94605, USA

(510) 632-9525

22

Venice Beach

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Beach

Nature & Parks

Dunes Beach is one of the four beaches that make up Half Moon Bay State Beach in California, USA. The beach offers various facilities such as picnic areas, a campground, and opportunities for fishing. Visitors can also enjoy splendid views and observe spring flowers in full bloom. Although the sand is warm, visitors should bring extra wind-resistant clothes as the water and wind are cold. The beach is less crowded than other beaches in the area and has restrooms available.

Less crowded beach, spring flowers are in full bloom at the time we went. Splendid views.There is a hill atop overlooking the beach. Restrooms available.

Shreyasi Dutta — Google review

Currently beach access is restricted on this side. But you can get access from the camp ground parking side. Very nice view as always…Btw, for overnight camping this is one of the best camground with toilet facilities.

MD Mahabubul Masud — Google review

Lovely beach with picturesque views.Numerous picnic tables available, Bathroom facilities on site, Ample parking spots. Parking fee: $10

Revathi Raja Kumar — Google review

This beach is an absolute beauty! The landscapes are stunning, and the beaches are as pristine as it gets. Oh, and don't even get me started on the sunsets – they're truly one-of-a-kind. I've even witnessed couples tying the knot here.+lots of trails for hiking and biking

Ivan Corona — Google review

One of the most prettiest beaches I’ve been to in my life! Was neat, maintained and beautiful. It is a good place to watch surfers and have a cute date or picnic with friends and family. Sunsets are very gorgeous but be sure to go on a week day because on weekends it’s pretty packed, especially on holidays. There are nice coffee shops and other places to eat nearby.

thanuja ramesh — Google review

Nice beach in the half moon bay with nice view. Kids enjoyed playing in the sand but the beach isn’t suitable for swimming as the water is very cold with high waves. There are many picnic tables and bathrooms in addition to multiple parking spots. Parking fee is $10.

Ahmed Nabawe — Google review

Recently visited “Half Moon Bay State Beach”This area is clean, equipped for people having rest with tables and benches, barbecue etc.NOTE: the water is cold! The wind is cold! It feels like it’s going through your body and soul!!! So, make sure you take extra wind-resisted clothes! The sand is warm thoughWe visited on Sunday and paid $10 for parkingI think I’ll be back again in much warmer outfit!#HalfMoonBayStateBeach#BeachCaliforniaUSA

Oksana Sokaliuk — Google review

Made an impromptu plan to go watch the sunset after a long tiring weekend. Had the best time ever soaking in the surreal beauty. Pics here are not doing justice of the actual view.PS: we took a rocky trail down to the beach & although super short, it felt like a mini HIIT workout! 10/10 recommended if you like being adventurous.

Aayushi Trivedi — Google review

Great parking, short walk from the parking lot to the beach, life guard on duty, bathrooms.We were there on a warm summer morning. Left around 2pm abd it was getting really full by then. I recommend arriving before noon.

Gabrielle Olson — Google review

A very beautiful beach with camping facility.Parking here is $10 and you can do overnight camping.You can take your RV here as they have campsite with hookup facility for $50 for overnight camping.Enough restrooms . It's very beautiful currently due to full spring bloom.So many picnic tables here with bbq facility.So basically you can have a wonderful time with family and friends be it for some hours or overnight plans.There are some nets also for people to play beach volleyball as you can make out from the pics .

F K — Google review

This beach is absolutely beautiful.+ Hiking!

Mariia Shusta — Google review

During holidays and weekends, we always bring our children here to play. Fishing by the sea is also very enjoyable, and we need to wear more clothes when the wind is strong

Ella — Google review

Must visit in Summer . if you like cold breeze then visit in winter . nice walking trails. Easy and beautiful ocean view.

Aakash Mhankale — Google review

Beautiful beach scenery. Volleyball nets, lifeguards, police patrolling up and down the strip. Huge beach with bike , scooter rentals available . Lots of little shops and vendors along the path by the beach.

BeBee Frias — Google review

4.6

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4.5

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California, USA

23

Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail

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Nature & Parks

Hiking Trails

The Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail is a scenic pathway along the coast, encompassing sandy beaches and grasslands that are home to various bird species such as hawks and owls. This trail was built on an old railway line and offers stunning views of the beach and ocean with colorful flowers surrounding it. It has multiple walking paths, which helps to avoid overcrowding.

Very easy trail and I personally consider it as a jogging trail. It usually takes an hour to complete.The views were awesome, access to the clean beach and perfect vibes.I recommend this trail for beginner hikers.

Deepak Panth — Google review

Stunning! The Half Moon Bay coastal trail is so beautiful and inviting with the trail skimming the coastline in some areas and taking one through woodsy trails in others. It begins (or ends) near the Half Moon Bay Ritz Carlton, along the golf course, and ends in Pillar Point Harbor. A worthwhile hike.

KGQ NYC — Google review

It’s breathtaking with the beautiful coastline view!

Kim Holland — Google review

I love the.coast and this place is awesome recommend weekdays as weekends are traffic nightmare.

Carl Blankenship — Google review

Trail with beautiful beach and ocean view. It’s surrounded by beautiful and colorful flowers. Multiple walking paths which makes it less crowded.

Aakash Mangal — Google review

Fun dog friendly walk along the coast, well maintained trails with places to stop and sit.

Gayathri KWrites — Google review

Great beach for walks with young children. A bit busy but most had masks on.

Ian Kennedy — Google review

Absolutely stunning view

Sophie Shen — Google review

4.8

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4.5

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California, USA

24

San Francisco Premium Outlets

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Outlet mall

Shopping

Factory Outlets

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

(14759)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (192)

4.0

(615)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (193)

2774 Livermore Outlets Dr, Livermore, CA 94551, USA

(925) 292-2868

25

Stanford Shopping Center

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Shopping mall

Shopping

Gardens

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

4.5

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4.5

(878)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (199)

660 Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA

(650) 617-8200

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26

Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University

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Museum

Art museum

The Iris & B. Gerald Cantor Center for Visual Arts is a museum of classic and contemporary art with an outdoor sculpture garden showcasing Rodin bronze sculptures. Although owned by Fernando Perez Castro, the museum is not related to his winery located nearby. Admission to the museum is free but requires a reservation through Eventbrite. The staff is friendly and helpful, and there are restrooms available as well as accessible parking nearby.

We are in the area, not really plan to visit museum but we did. Admission is free but need to make a reservation and get your free tickets at eventbrite, it only take few minutes to do that😄 Beautiful and very clean museum. Very kind and helpful staff. Restroom available. Cafeteria nearby you get hungry. Parking is available nearby. Visitor pay parking during weekdays. So much learning, thank you all so much! Love everything!

Cherry Felicano — Google review

Very nice two-story museum. Covered all typical categories in a museum. Good atmosphere. I enjoyed the Asian collections and surprised by the number of sculptures from Rodin they have. Suggest spend two hours here so that you can enjoyed every galleries.

Xinchao Zhang — Google review

This is my first writing a review about a museum, and it is my honor dedicate my first review to this prestigious museum. First, I would like to clarify that I am not museum expert nor curator. My understanding to art history is minimal and this review is purely from a typical visitor standpoint. With that said, let me begin to praise how good this place is.First, this place has a Free admission. Yes! You read it right! It is free of charge to visit this museum.This place has all variety kind of artwork and antique, from stoneware from 200BC to modern painting and from eastern ancient calligraphy to western modern sculpture. My favorite one is the Buddha statue from Ming Dynasty in China and the famous New York dining painting by Edward Hoppers.The collection and variety in this place are better than other museum you can find in the bay area. And, they charge a hefty fee for admission (except for certain day of the month for certain resident). So, I was very happy with my visit to the Cantor art center. The parking was easy. What else can I ask for?However, they do require online reservations in advance for admission. No charge, but need reservation.

Carl Ho — Google review

So many interesting art pieces and exhibits! Free admission as well, although the reservation process is a bit annoying since you end up doing it on the spot. Overall would recommend.

Karen Liu — Google review

Good museum and it’s free! I’m amazed by the precious jade collections and of course, the Rodin sculptures. Please register your visit before coming. You need more than an hour to be here.

Autumn L — Google review

This is must go place if you enjoy museums. Highly intriguing and can easily spend half a day exploring. Gorgeous architecture and truly amazing collections. Very well maintained, welcoming staff.

Ru Ra — Google review

The Canter Arts Center was beautiful. We reserved a guided tour of the sculptures of Rodin that was very interesting. We also enjoyed the other exhibits and artwork. The inside of the museum is stunning. Would definitely recommend visiting Cantor Arts Center at Stanford.

L Mendez — Google review

Loved the Rodins, Richard Serra's Sequence in the courtyard out back, Ruth Ansawa's Faces, and Yinka Shonibare's The American Library which wraps books in colorful fabric reflective of our diverse voices and highlights important authors, actors, musicians, artists, and people on the spines. Free art museum. But you have to make a reservation online. And they charge for parking (but after 4 pm is free, although the museum closes at 5 pm). Also check out the Andersen Contemporary Art Museum next door.

Justin Wong — Google review

What a gem of a museum, here on Stanford's campus. The Rodin collection is incredible!! Also quite impressive exhibits from all over the world. I highly recommend Cantor Arts Center!!

Benjamin Cantwell — Google review

Tour with a very knowledgeable docent who almost talk 5 minutes a piece. Love the Gates of Hell by Rodin and stories behind it. Need to go back again by myself to cover whatever I missed. Free parking. Beautiful campus. Don’t forget to get a cup of coffee at the Tootsie cafe next door!

Catherine Wang — Google review

The Cantor Arts Center is a prominent art museum located on the campus of Stanford University in Stanford, California. Key features of the Cantor Arts Center include:Extensive Art Collection: The museum houses a vast and diverse collection of artworks spanning various periods, cultures, and mediums. It includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and decorative arts.Rodin Sculpture Garden: One of the highlights is the outdoor Rodin Sculpture Garden, featuring sculptures by renowned French artist Auguste Rodin. The garden provides a tranquil space for visitors to appreciate the artworks.Exhibitions and Installations: The Cantor Arts Center regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, showcasing contemporary and historical art. These exhibitions contribute to the vibrant cultural scene on the Stanford University campus.Educational Programs: The center is committed to education and offers programs for students, scholars, and the public. Educational initiatives include lectures, workshops, and guided tours.Free Admission: The Cantor Arts Center is known for offering free admission to the public, making art accessible to a wide audience and fostering community engagement.Architectural Significance: The museum's architecture itself is noteworthy, providing an aesthetically pleasing and functional space for art appreciation and cultural activities.Community Engagement: The Cantor Arts Center actively engages with the local community, inviting visitors to explore and connect with art through various outreach programs and events.Integration with Stanford University: As an integral part of Stanford University, the Cantor Arts Center contributes to the university's commitment to the arts and cultural enrichment.Accessibility: The museum is designed to be accessible to all, with features such as ramps, elevators, and services for visitors with diverse needs.Cultural Hub: The Cantor Arts Center serves as a cultural hub, fostering creativity, dialogue, and appreciation for the arts within the Stanford University community and beyond.

Charlie — Google review

Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University is a cultural gem that seamlessly combines artistic brilliance, educational enrichment, and a tranquil atmosphere.From the moment I entered the center, I was captivated by the extensive collection of artworks spanning diverse periods and styles. The layout is thoughtfully curated, allowing visitors to embark on a journey through artistic evolution. The sculptures, paintings, and installations are not only visually stunning but also enriched with historical and cultural significance.The educational aspect is accentuated by informative plaques and guided tours, providing valuable insights into the artists' intentions and the broader context of each piece. The center's commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of art is commendable.The architecture of the building itself is a work of art, offering a harmonious blend of modern design and classic aesthetics. The open spaces and natural light contribute to a welcoming and contemplative atmosphere.Cantor Arts Center's dedication to accessibility is evident in its free admission policy, making high-quality art experiences accessible to everyone. The on-site café provides a delightful space to unwind and reflect, with a charming outdoor seating area.The center's location on the Stanford University campus adds to its appeal, making it an ideal destination for both locals and visitors.In summary, Cantor Arts Center is a cultural oasis that transcends the boundaries of traditional museums. It's a place where art comes alive, education flourishes, and visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of human creativity. A must-visit for art enthusiasts and those seeking a moment of artistic inspiration.

Zamir Mamytov — Google review

Cute museum! The place feels quite modern and it's relaxing to look around. There're a lot of different rooms with separated thematic objects (African, American, European, paintings, pictures, statues etc.). The place is small and it's possible to visit it in 1 hour and half. I was satisfied by the various experiences and changing expositions.The entrance is free, and the staff is very polite. You have lockers for the bags.

Viola Bonesu — Google review

A stunningly beautiful building. The art is a little bit of a letdown since pottery doesnt excite much. No big name artists that I could find.Free admission and free parking in Sundays..Plus easy walking distance to the stunning Stanford campus.

Robert Cunningham — Google review

The best art museum in the South Bay Area and it is FREE! My favorite part is Anderson collection of modern American art in a separate building. Also check out Richard Serra outdoor corten steel sculpture - an experience in itself!

Anna A — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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328 Lomita Dr, Stanford, CA 94305, USA

(650) 723-4177

27

Stanford University

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University

Sights & Landmarks

Universities & Schools

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!!

Shahedul Islam — Google review

4.6

(3782)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (217)

5.0

(1733)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (218)

450 Jane Stanford Way, Stanford, CA 94305, USA

(650) 723-2300

28

Pescadero State Beach

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Mentioned on

9 lists

Beach

Nature & Parks

Pescadero State Beach is a picturesque, one-mile long beach located in San Mateo County, California. The area offers opportunities for fishing, picnicking and exploring the tide pools. The beach can be accessed by driving along the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles and stopping at various scenic points along the way. It is an ideal location for hiking towards the beach and enjoying a peaceful and serene atmosphere with stunning views of nature all around.

Review for December 31st 2018. Pescadero State Beach is located in San Mateo County California which is about 40 minute drive south of San Francisco. We took Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles. On the way to Los Angeles we stop by many Scenic Points off the coast of California. I'm not guilty, to say that I absolutely love the coastline to California. Also a very Scenic Place to meditate. Nice Park to have picnics and to chill and relax. , perfect spot to go hiking down towards the beach. This place is very nice in Pleasant.

annuit c?ptis — Google review

This is a very nice beach and is worth visiting. There are many animals here, including the snowy plovers and seals. There’s also many nice views of the coastal bluffs. I also recommend going across the river to the marsh nearby, where I’ve seen many birds including a bald eagle.

Sara Yuan — Google review

Beautiful views lots of places to pull off and park very peaceful and quiet even on a beautiful sunny day.

Rebecca Elkins — Google review

Would be beautiful if it wasn't for the bird poop island that stank just off the shore. Lots of sea anemones to see and clams. Easy to get to the beach and public restrooms.

Jessica Husted — Google review

Nice beach, went there bcos heard about whale sightings, migration I guess, and was lucky to see a loner at a distance, had surfaced about 3-4 times, but was close to the shores. Had a good time at teg Beach otherwise. A nice weekend day trip place.

Dinesh — Google review

One of the best beaches in CA. A beautiful long beach, with great driftwood to play with. A wonderful river. Lots of cool rocks when the tides are low. If that’s not good enough walk under the bridge to explore the nature preserve.

B K Knopf — Google review

Lovely white sand beach, white caps, easy access, parking and bathrooms.

Maksim Ivanenko — Google review

Breathtaking view and so wild beach.The most beautiful one on the route 101 in California

Daniela M — Google review

Just a beautiful place with alot of California mussels and sea snails.

KATELYNN nguyen — Google review

So much fun during low tide. At low tide, you can access and climb up the rock and enjoy the waves and observe the sea creatures at tidepool. This is a big field with lots of rocks to explore. Sometimes, could observe sea lions.

S C — Google review

Great spot for perch And stripers

Charles Levy — Google review

Places such as these should not have a rating system. They are a standard of their own, and honestly, if we leave these places as is, they would be more beautiful than they already are.One of my most cherished drives from Santa Cruz to Half Moon. And this one was a lovely stop. it has everything one can expect from nature...The Ocean, a walk down from an elevated spot, giving a full view of the beach, the fairly longish walk on sand, after walking down from the 40-50ft high "mound" from the parking off the highway, covering a small green "grass and wild flower" patch, the roar of the sea, a window cut by the waves on the rock(s) on the coast.Some pictures to reminisce the view.

Sai Sudarshan — Google review

This beautiful beach would take your breath away. Loved it!! There's so much peace and serenity in this place, perfect for jogging, yoga or just sitting by the rocks and enjoy the view. It gets pretty chilly so I would recommend I light jacket.

Aurora Calzada — Google review

Perfect Picnic tables right on the sand beach & beautiful bird watching spot !!

Nanhee Kim — Google review

4.8

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4.5

(170)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (224)

California 94060, USA

29

Mission Peak Regional Preserve

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Mentioned on

7 lists

Nature preserve

Nature & Parks

Vast mountain preserve popular for biking, hiking, horseback riding, R/C flying and hang-gliding.

Hiked from Stanford side in early morning on a cloudy day. Beautiful journey. Clouds seems to transcend from the heaven on the upper side of the hike. While starting hike, weather felt warm but it was very cold on the top. Don't forget to stay hydrated. Medium level trail. Many people tend to not follow trails even though there are multiple signs urging people to stay on trails. Please follow the trails strictly to conserve environment from erosion.

Jyoti Yadav — Google review

I have been visiting this mountain for so long in the last many many years and I really love it.The scenery is incredible and breathtaking; on certain days you can stand at the peak amidst the clouds and feel the cold breeze. There's nothing better than the refreshing feeling of making it to the top and not quitting the hike midway albeit the arduous journey and tiring path.All in all, I love Mission Peak and would deeply suggest everyone considering it to give it a try. The scenery and journey are incredibly worth it and should not be missed out on. :)

Jojo Liu — Google review

Loved the view, and as a beginner it was Hectic but completed the hike and felt so good when saw the view on the topAnd once came back felt so good though it was tiring, felt refreshed.Climate was good, it rained previous day, so the day we went was perfect. Sunny and windyWe started around 8am and reached the top around 10.30am and we took a break and reached to the parking lot by 12.30pm.View is amazing, get to see cows, chirping birds

Spoorthi U — Google review

Get your fitness checked with this hike! Views are worth every single minute. Carry sufficient water as per individual requirements. Maybe some coffee too in a thermos to sip at the top.Tip: Start as early as possible. Right when the hike opens. You’ll avoid the crowd and get to see sunrise over the valley.

Ksh*tij Bodhankar — Google review

I had an incredible hiking experience today, trekking from Stanford Ave to Mission Peak and then onward to Monument Peak. The scenic views and the overall adventure were truly awesome.However, I wanted to bring to the attention of the concerned authorities a minor issue I encountered at Mission Peak. The summit pole at Mission Peak was only half standing, with the other half broken and lying near the bushes. While this didn't diminish the beauty of the hike, it's important for the safety of the trail that this be addressed.I hope the broken summit pole can be fixed soon.

Karthika — Google review

This a beautiful hike but a long one from start to the top and back. It takes around 4 hours to complete it with breaks in between. The view from the top at 2516 feet top is gorgeous and you get to see the silicon valley from all angles 😃 I highly recommend it, just make sure you have good shoes, light clothes and no weight since on the way up and especially down your knees will be strained.

George Zoto — Google review

Moderate hike, nice views and cute animals along the way. Some wooded areas half way to the peak. Beautiful views from the summit.

Zsuzsanna Sziveri — Google review

Great view of the Bay Area. Beautiful scenery. The hike is a difficult one and there is no shade.For a good view of the city - that is on the west - you should go in the morning to have the sun on the east.

Dawood Talebi — Google review

A nice peak and trail to walk. Very steep and continued elevation. Won't recommend as easy to climb. Needs good experience. But lovely place n view.

Ravi Govindaraju — Google review

Must do / see when in town it's a escape from the everyday and congestion, not a easy hike but we'll worth it. Make sure you take 2 lites of water and wear good shoes. The views are worth it!

Patrick Sassine — Google review

I absolutely love hiking here! It's a challenging hike but worth every step. The view atop was immaculate! Worth every captured shot from your phone. Better yet is the traverse downhill.

Joe Collado — Google review

The trail offers a great workout, rewarding you with stunning panoramic views at the summit. Starting early is key to avoiding the heat. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and be prepared for a bit of wind at the peak. The sense of accomplishment at the top is worth every step

Mohammed — Google review

I went to this peak many times.There are 3 options:Ohlone trail - slightly easier, but longerStanford trail - harder but shorterHorse Heaven trail - this starts at standard staging area but near the start go right instead of left. This has many inclines but similar to Stanford.Park on the nearby streets as there's likely no parking available if you get there late. Most people start as early as 5:30.

Ravi Kurma — Google review

A beautiful mountain that offers numerous hiking trails and wonderful sights all over. At the summit you can witness the view of Bay Area and rest of the hills around. The hikes are moderate to strenuous depending on which one you pick. Not much areas of shade so gets lots of sun screen, water and food. The spring is most magical time to get here and explore. The fall timing is great too. Would totally recommend to check this place out if you are in town.

H VS — Google review

We went for a weekend hike. The day before it rained a bit a there causing a lot of mud. Around 1.5 miles of road was covered in dirt making the road slippery. However that did not deter the hike since it was expected.The last mile is particularly difficult since there is quite a lot of elevation gain. The complete hike was very scenic with a very pretty view of the whole bay area, a lot of green and a lot of cows!There are benches to rest every half a mile that also act as markers.Reaching the top definitely feels like an achievement. It is a difficult yet very satisfying hike.

Arnav Maiti — Google review

Nice spot for a medium/ beginners level hike. Good for winter, spring time hike. Have multiple trails, try to do the round trip trail instead of same trail back and forth. Not advised for summer or hot day as there is hardly any shade on the trail.

Rokin Gala — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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43600 Mission Blvd, Fremont, CA 94539, USA

(510) 544-3246

30

Pigeon Point Lighthouse

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Lighthouse

Sights & Landmarks

115-ft.-tall lighthouse built in 1872 on a scenic oceanside cliff, with scenic views & a hostel.

4.5

(431)40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (235)

Pigeon Point Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060, USA

40 Best Stops Between Brookings and San Jose (2024)
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