Background

Filoli: A Glimpse into Gilded Age Grandeur

Discover Filoli, a historic country estate with a grand mansion, stunning gardens, and natural beauty, offering a glimpse into the opulence of a bygone era just south of San Francisco.

4.7

Filoli, a stunning country estate in Woodside, California, offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the opulence of the early 20th century. Originally built as a private residence in 1917 for William Bowers Bourn II and his wife Agnes, this 654-acre property boasts a magnificent Georgian revival-style mansion, 16 acres of exquisite English Renaissance gardens, a 6.8-acre Gentleman's Orchard, and a nature preserve with miles of hiking trails. Now a National Trust for Historic Preservation site, Filoli provides a captivating blend of history, horticulture, and natural beauty. Explore the meticulously maintained gardens, wander through the grand rooms of the historic house, and discover the stories of the families who shaped this remarkable estate. With seasonal blooms, special events, and guided tours, Filoli offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

A brief summary to Filoli Historic House & Garden

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance, especially for weekends and holidays, as they often sell out.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Bring a picnic blanket to relax by the pool pavilion in the walled gardens.
  • Check the Filoli website for special events and seasonal blooms to plan your visit accordingly.
  • Download the Filoli app for maps, information about the House, Garden, and trails, and details on current events.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from the north or south on I-280, exit at Edgewood Road in Woodside. Head west on Edgewood Road, then turn left onto Cañada Road. Filoli will be on your right in approximately 1.5 miles. Parking is included with your ticket, and there are designated accessible parking spaces available. Carpooling is encouraged due to limited parking during peak seasons.

  • Public Transport

    From various points in San Francisco and San Jose, take SamTrans bus route 295 to the intersection of Woodside Road and Cañada Road. From there, it is approximately a 15-minute walk (0.7 miles) south on Cañada Road to the entrance of Filoli. A single ride on SamTrans costs $2.50, exact change required. Check the SamTrans website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information.

Unlock the Best of Filoli Historic House & Garden

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Filoli Historic House & Garden

Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, about 25 miles south of San Francisco, lies Filoli, a country estate that whispers tales of a bygone era. More than just a historic house and garden, Filoli is a journey into the heart of early 20th-century elegance and a testament to the vision of two prominent families. William Bowers Bourn II, heir to a gold mine fortune, and his wife Agnes Moody Bourn, envisioned Filoli as a self-sustaining country retreat. Construction began in 1915, and by 1917, the magnificent Georgian revival-style mansion was complete. Designed by renowned architect Willis Polk, the 54,000+ square-foot house boasts 56 rooms and 15 bathrooms, a testament to the Bourns' wealth and social standing. The name 'Filoli' itself is derived from Bourn's personal credo: 'Fight for a just cause; Love your fellow man; Live a good life.' The Bourns filled Filoli with lavish parties and cultivated a life of refined leisure. However, tragedy struck when William suffered a stroke, confining him to the estate. The ballroom murals, depicting an Irish landscape reminiscent of the Muckross Estate where their daughter lived, were commissioned to evoke cherished memories and provide solace. Following the deaths of William and Agnes Bourn in 1936, Filoli was purchased by William and Lurline Roth in 1937. Lurline, heiress to the Matson Navigation Company, embraced Filoli with passion, adding her own touches to the gardens and preserving the estate's grandeur. After William's death, Lurline recognized the importance of sharing Filoli with the public and donated it to the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 1975, ensuring its preservation for generations to come. Today, Filoli welcomes visitors from around the world to explore its captivating beauty. The 16 acres of formal gardens are a horticultural masterpiece, featuring a series of distinct areas, including the English Renaissance Garden, with its yew-lined avenues and meticulously manicured flower beds; the Sunken Garden, a tranquil oasis; and the Wedding Place, named for Berenice Roth's wedding in 1941. The Gentleman's Orchard showcases a variety of fruit trees, while the working gardens provide fresh flowers and vegetables for the estate. Beyond the formal gardens, Filoli's 654-acre estate encompasses a diverse range of natural landscapes. The Estate Trail offers visitors the opportunity to hike through oak-madrone forests, redwood groves, and chaparral, discovering the natural springs, creeks, and reservoir that sustain the property. The Sally MacBride Nature Center provides educational exhibits and insights into the local flora and fauna. Stepping inside the historic house is like stepping back in time. The grand ballroom, with its Versailles-inspired moldings and Ernest Peixotto murals, evokes a sense of opulent entertaining. The library, drawing rooms, and servants' quarters offer glimpses into the daily lives of the Bourn and Roth families and their staff. Changing exhibits throughout the house bring Filoli's history to life, showcasing different aspects of the estate's past. Filoli offers a variety of guided tours to enhance the visitor experience. The Discovering Filoli Tour provides an overview of the estate's history and highlights, while the House Curatorial Tour offers behind-the-scenes access to the curatorial offices and historic bedrooms. Garden tours delve into the stories of the treasured plants and the magic that makes the gardens thrive. For those seeking a more active experience, Sunset Hikes explore the natural lands and offer breathtaking views. Throughout the year, Filoli hosts a variety of special events, from botanical art exhibits and private tea experiences to lavish holiday celebrations. Summer Nights invite visitors to explore the House and Garden in the golden hour, while autumn brings the harvest peak in the Gentleman's Orchard. These events provide unique opportunities to experience Filoli in different seasons and discover its ever-changing beauty. Filoli is more than just a beautiful estate; it is a place where history, nature, and beauty converge. It is a place to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and immerse oneself in the tranquility of a bygone era. Whether you are a history buff, a garden enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Filoli offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired and refreshed. Filoli is dedicated to connecting our rich history with a vibrant future through beauty, nature and shared stories, so that one day all people will honor nature, value unique experiences, and appreciate beauty in everyday life. Filoli's mission and vision strive to live Mr. Bourn's original credo authentically: to fight for a just cause, love your fellow man, and live a good life. The estate operates as Filoli Center, a private, non-profit organization with its own Board of Governors, staff, and volunteers. As of 2022, Filoli was drawing about 400,000 visitors per year. The average visit to Filoli is 90 minutes.

Popular Experiences near Filoli Historic House & Garden

Popular Hotels near Filoli Historic House & Garden

Select Currency