Winchester Mystery House: A Victorian Enigma
Explore the bizarre and beautiful Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, a Victorian mansion filled with architectural oddities and haunted tales, built by Sarah Winchester.
The Winchester Mystery House in San Jose is a captivating architectural marvel born from the eccentric vision of Sarah Winchester, heiress to the Winchester Repeating Arms fortune. Grief-stricken and purportedly guided by spiritualists, Sarah embarked on a continuous construction project that lasted 36 years, resulting in a sprawling mansion filled with oddities: staircases leading nowhere, doors opening onto walls, and windows overlooking other rooms. This intriguing landmark draws visitors from around the globe, eager to explore its 160 rooms and unravel the mysteries within its walls. Beyond the peculiar architecture, the house offers a glimpse into Victorian craftsmanship and the fascinating life of a woman driven by both sorrow and an unwavering belief in the spirit world. Today, the Winchester Mystery House stands as a testament to Sarah's unique story, inviting guests to step back in time and experience a truly unforgettable piece of California history.
A brief summary to Winchester Mystery House
- 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, West Valley, California, 95128, US
- +1408-247-2000
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially on weekends, as they often sell out.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the Mansion Tour involves a lot of walking and stairs.
- Consider the limited-time Basement Access add-on for a deeper dive into the mansion's paranormal hotspots (available until August 1, 2025).
- Arrive early to take advantage of the complimentary parking, as it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
- Check the Winchester Mystery House website for special events like flashlight tours or paranormal investigations, especially around Halloween and Friday the 13th.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From San Jose Diridon Station, take the VTA Bus Line 23 towards Alum Rock Station. The bus departs from the San Carlos & Barack Obama stop, located near the station. Ride for approximately 17 minutes and disembark at the Stevens Creek & Winchester stop. From there, walk a short distance north on Winchester Blvd, and the Winchester Mystery House will be on your left. A single ride on VTA costs $2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From San Jose Diridon Station, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) offers a quick and convenient way to reach the Winchester Mystery House. The journey typically takes around 6 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Expect to pay between $15 and $19 for the ride.
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Driving
If driving from the I-280, take the Winchester Blvd exit. Turn left at the stoplight onto Winchester Blvd and proceed for two stoplights. The Winchester Mystery House will be on your left. Free parking is available on-site in the front lot and an overflow lot behind the estate off Olsen Drive. Be aware that Olsen Drive does not permit on-street parking.
Discover more about Winchester Mystery House
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