Named after its spectacular views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Mountain View is a laid-back California city on San Francisco Bay. Along with a prime location between two of California’s biggest cities, Mountain View boasts its own enthralling attractions, including nature trails, wildlife refuges, historic homes and fascinating museums.

Things to do

Nature lovers and outdoor adventurers are spoiled for choice in Mountain View. Stevens Creek courses down the Santa Cruz Mountains, providing a scenic stretch of hiking trails and picnic areas. Venture out onto San Francisco Bay to explore the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, home to an abundance of native flora and fauna, including migratory birds.

Are you visiting Mountain View with your children? Take to them Mitchell Park for a day of fun at the playgrounds, splash pad, tennis courts and horseshoe pits. If it’s just you and your significant other, visit the Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve to tour orchards and secluded woodlands or taste boutique wine at Ridge Vineyards.

Discover a significant part of California’s history at the Computer History Museum, home to one of the largest collections of computer artefacts in the world. You can see rare one-of-a-kind supercomputers, along with a Liquid Galaxy that explores the world through satellite imagery.

While you’re in Mountain View, spend a day up in San Francisco, only a 45-minute drive away, to experience some of the city’s world-famous sights. Tour the storied prison on Alcatraz Island, see the iconic Painted Ladies houses and watch world-renowned musicians at The Fillmore.

Getting around

The Downtown Mountain View Station connects Mountain View to San Francisco via the Caltrain rail system. There are also numerous bus lines and a light rail system connecting the city’s suburbs. You can fly into San Jose International Airport, San Francisco International Airport or Oakland International Airport.