Since my post about the Pulgas Water Temple was very popular and was shared hundreds of times, I figured it’s time for me to do another blog post on another Bay Area hidden gem because you guys seem to like it! If you have not been to The Filoli Historic House and Garden, you’re missing out on a true hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains and just 40 minutes from San Francisco. Last weekend, I decided to explore this beautiful estate garden and let me tell you, it was a day filled with stunning scenery, history, and a whole lot of relaxation.
Where is Filoli Historic House and Garden
Located in Woodside, California, Filoli is about 30 miles south of San Francisco. The drive itself is quite scenic, winding through the rolling hills and offering glimpses of the bay. There’s ample parking on-site, so no need to worry about that.
What is the best time of the year to go to Filoli?
The best time to visit Filoli depends on what you want to see. Spring (March-April) offers vibrant blooms, while summer (June-August) is ideal for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. Fall (September-November) boasts stunning foliage, and winter (December-February) transforms the estate with festive holiday decorations.
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Planning your Visit
Filoli is open to the public year-round, offering a unique experience for every season. Here’s what you need to know before planning your visit:
- Admission:
- General Admission: $25 for adults, $18 for seniors (65+), $15 for students (with ID), and $12 for children (4-17).
- Filoli Members: Free admission
- If you hold a library card , the Discover and Go program gives you free admission
- Special Events: Admission fees vary depending on the event.
- Book tickets online as they sell out super fast in person
- Getting There:
- Filoli is located at 86 Cañada Road, Woodside, CA 94062.
- Public Transportation: Take the SamTrans Route 17 from San Francisco or Redwood City to the Filoli stop.
- Parking:
- Free parking is available on-site.
Why you should visit the Filoli Historic House and Gardens
- So you can get lost in a fragrant rose maze among other gorgeous flowers
- Enjoy a free birdie concert with the symphony of chirps and tweets
- You can channel your inner aristocrat in the mansion (Bridgerton Vibes), pretend to sip tea in the grand interior
- To see a dazzling display of fluttering wings
- Spot whimsical miniature houses
- Be able to snap Insta-worthy pics of the gardens
- So you can have a picnic in a serene garden with cascading waterfalls
- Have your partner get annoyed on the amount of times you ask to get a picture🤣
Filoli Historic House and Garden
We went on a long weekend in May and it was not terribly busy. Between marveling at the grounds, walking around, getting coffee ( they have a coffee shop ) and taking tons of pictures, we spent about 4 hours. I did not think we would have spent that much time, but time just flew while we were there. But then again, there are 16 acres of formal gardens to explore.
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A Brief Overview of the Historic House and Gardens
You will be overwhelmed with how much there is to see at the estate. Here is an overview of what it has to offer
- 16 acres of meticulously designed formal gardens
- Italian Renaissance Garden: symmetrical layout, colorful flower beds
- Four Seasons Garden: each section represents a different season
- Redwood Meadow: towering redwoods, awe-inspiring atmosphere
- Bourn-Roth Estate- grand interiors, high ceilings polished wood floors, and intricate moldings
- Hiking trails
- Estate Trail: 1-mile loop through different ecosystems, stunning mountain views.
Making the Most of Your Day at the Filoli Gardens
To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Filoli, consider spending a half day exploring the grounds. Here are some ideas to make the most of your visit:
- Morning: Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the gardens in their peaceful morning light. Take a guided tour of the mansion to learn about its history and architecture.
- Afternoon: Pack a picnic lunch and find a spot in the Sunken Garden or the Four Seasons Room to relax and enjoy the scenery. Explore the various garden sections and discover hidden nooks and crannies.
- Late Afternoon: Hike the Estate Trail or venture further into the natural lands for a dose of fresh air and exercise. Enjoy the sunset views from the hills overlooking the estate. It’s a great way to get some exercise and appreciate the natural beauty of the area
Food and Souvenirs
- Eat lunch at the cafe on-site offering fresh, seasonal dishes and local treats. I highly recommend the roasted vegetable sandwich and a slice of their homemade apple pie – it was the perfect ending to a perfect day.
- Before heading home, browse the gift shop ( probably the prettiest one you will see) which is filled with unique items inspired by the gardens and the estate’s history. I picked up a beautiful book of garden photography, because I just could not resist!
Other Things to Do After Visiting Filoli
If you’re looking to extend your Filoli experience, there are plenty of other things to explore in the area.
- Nearby, you can visit the charming town of Woodside, known for its art galleries and antique shops
- Head to the Crystal Springs Reservoir for a scenic hike or a picnic by the water
- Go to the beautiful Pulgas Water Temple for another dose of beauty in the same day
- Explore nearby towns like Portola Valley or Menlo Park
- Tucked away in the hillside- Alpine Inn in Portola Valley. Lovely outdoor seating area, food is amazing, kids and pet friendly.
- Visit the Stanford University campus, nice to walk around as they have really pretty campus
- Hike in the nearby trails of Huddart Park, they have really nice redwood trees
Bonus Tips
- Check the Filoli website for special events and exhibitions throughout the year.
- Pack a picnic lunch if you want to enjoy the outdoors.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
- Consider becoming a Filoli member for year-round access and additional benefits.
Conclusion
I never knew I needed a visit to the Filoli Gardens until I went. Being a nurse, my mind can be in the gutter sometimes, so that is my que to get outside. Being that the gardens were just 30 minutes from me, I just had to go. And I am happy I did, it was so worth it. So, next time you’re looking for a hidden gem in the Bay Area or need to get your head out of the gutter, make sure to add Filoli Gardens to your list! Please dont forget to comment and share if you’ve enjoyed this post!
