The Mystery Spot: A Gravity-Defying Enigma
Experience the inexplicable at Santa Cruz's Mystery Spot: a gravity-defying adventure that will challenge your senses and spark your imagination.
The Mystery Spot, a roadside attraction near Santa Cruz, California, has been baffling visitors since 1939 with its seemingly gravity-defying illusions. Within a circular area of effect, approximately 150 feet in diameter, perceptions of gravity, height, and perspective are skewed, leading to a unique and disorienting experience.
A brief summary to The Mystery Spot
- 465 Mystery Spot Rd, Santa Cruz, California, 95065, US
- +1831-423-8897
- 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-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Purchase tickets in advance, especially on weekends and holidays, as tours often sell out.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time to allow for parking and ticket pick-up.
- Bring your camera to capture the bizarre optical illusions and gravity-defying moments.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a short, steep uphill walk.
Getting There
-
Driving
The Mystery Spot is located at 465 Mystery Spot Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95065, about 10 minutes from downtown Santa Cruz. From Highway 1 North or Highway 17 South, take the Ocean Street exit. Follow Ocean Street and turn left onto Water Street, then left again onto Market Street. Continue for approximately 2.9 miles; the Mystery Spot will be on your left. Parking is $5 per vehicle, payable upon arrival.
-
Public Transport
While there is no direct bus route to the Mystery Spot, you can take public transportation to downtown Santa Cruz and then take a taxi or rideshare. From the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, take the line 19 bus to Front & Soquel Ave, then a 7-minute taxi ride to the Mystery Spot; the total cost is approximately $17-$26. From the University of California Santa Cruz, take the line 18 bus to Front & Soquel Ave, then a taxi. A taxi from downtown Santa Cruz to the Mystery Spot costs approximately $16-$20.
Discover more about The Mystery Spot
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visitor Center | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
5.9 km
Discover the enchanting redwoods and rich natural history at the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Visitor Center in California.
Redwood Grove Loop Trail
5.9 km
Experience the majestic beauty of the Redwood Grove Loop Trail in Felton, CA, where towering redwoods and serene pathways await your exploration.
Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
8.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fall Creek Unit in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a must-visit hiking destination in California's majestic redwood forests.
SS Palo Alto
9.5 km
Explore the haunting history of SS Palo Alto, a submerged historical landmark offering a unique glimpse into the maritime past of California's coastline.
San Lorenzo Valley Museum, Grace Episcopal Gallery
15.2 km
Discover the captivating history of the San Lorenzo Valley at this charming museum, showcasing artifacts and stories of the region's past within a historic redwood church, offering free admission and engaging exhibits.
Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
17.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, a must-visit nature haven in Los Gatos, California, rich with towering redwoods and scenic trails.
Castro Adobe State Historic Park
18.7 km
Explore the authentic heritage of California at Castro Adobe State Historic Park, where history and stunning architecture await every visitor.
John Steinbeck House
23.9 km
Visit the historic John Steinbeck House in Monte Sereno, a literary landmark celebrating the life of the iconic author and his contributions to American literature.
Casa Grande
24.2 km
Step back in time at Casa Grande, home to the Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum, and discover the captivating history of California's mercury mining era in the heart of the New Almaden Historic District.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
27.6 km
Explore the towering redwoods and tranquil beauty of Big Basin Redwoods State Park, an iconic Californian destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Jack Fischer Park
27.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Jack Fischer Park, a beautiful green space in Campbell, CA, perfect for picnics, play, and peaceful walks.
Carlyle Hotel Campbell
28.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Carlyle Hotel Campbell, your ideal base for exploring Silicon Valley.
Extra Space Storage
28.8 km
Discover reliable and secure self-storage solutions at Extra Space Storage in Campbell, California, designed for convenience and peace of mind.
Travieso Winery
29.4 km
Experience the heart of California's wine country at Travieso Winery, where exceptional wines and stunning landscapes await every visitor.
Campbell Plaza
29.5 km
Discover the charm of Campbell Plaza, a bustling business center in California with shopping, dining, and leisure activities for every tourist.
Unmissable attractions to see
Garden of Eden - Henry Cowell Redwood State Park
4.9 km
Discover the Garden of Eden: A secret swimming hole nestled in the heart of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
San Lorenzo Park
5.0 km
A vibrant downtown Santa Cruz park offering recreation, events, and a scenic riverfront setting for locals and tourists alike.
Roaring Camp
5.9 km
Discover the charm of Roaring Camp, where historic steam trains and breathtaking redwoods create unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages.
Santa Cruz Harbor
5.9 km
Discover the charm of Santa Cruz Harbor, a stunning marina offering breathtaking views, exciting activities, and delightful dining experiences.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
6.0 km
Discover ancient redwoods, diverse landscapes, and outdoor adventures in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
6.0 km
Experience thrilling rides, delicious snacks, and stunning views at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic coastal amusement park in California.
Boardwalk Bowl
6.1 km
Experience the thrill of bowling and the joy of karaoke at Boardwalk Bowl, a top entertainment spot in Santa Cruz, California.
Neptune's Kingdom
6.1 km
Experience family-friendly fun at Neptune's Kingdom in Santa Cruz, where miniature golf, arcade games, and laughter await every visitor.
Adventure Out
6.1 km
Discover the thrill of outdoor adventures in Santa Cruz with Adventure Out, offering surfing, hiking, and kayaking experiences amidst stunning coastal landscapes.
Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove
6.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Cocoanut Grove, a historic event venue nestled on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
6.3 km
Explore marine biodiversity at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, a must-visit destination for ocean lovers and conservation enthusiasts.
Cowell Beach
6.3 km
Discover Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz, California - a scenic haven for sunbathing, surfing, and family fun on the stunning Pacific coast.
Santa Cruz Wharf
6.4 km
Explore the Santa Cruz Wharf: A vibrant fishing pier with stunning views, delicious seafood, and endless activities for a perfect coastal getaway.
Capitola Historical Museum
6.5 km
Explore the captivating history of Capitola, California at the charming Capitola Historical Museum, showcasing local heritage and culture.
Capitola State Beach
6.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Capitola State Beach, a perfect blend of relaxation, recreation, and local charm along California's stunning coastline.
Essential places to dine
Nonno's Italian
15.8 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Nonno's Italian in Los Gatos - from pizza perfection to exquisite wines in a charming setting.
Effie's Restaurant & Bar
28.3 km
Discover Effie's Restaurant & Bar: A delightful blend of traditional American flavors, vibrant nightlife with karaoke, and an inviting atmosphere in Campbell.
Sorelle Italian Bistro
28.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Sorelle Italian Bistro in Campbell - where every dish tells a story.
Kirk's Steakburgers
29.6 km
Discover Kirk's Steakburgers: A family-friendly spot in Campbell serving mouthwatering burgers and classic American dishes.
El Greco Grill
29.7 km
Savor authentic Greek cuisine at El Greco Grill in Campbell - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Capers Eat & Drink
29.9 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at Capers Eat & Drink in Campbell - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
LeQuy
30.0 km
Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at LeQuy in Campbell - a culinary journey filled with flavor and culture awaits.
Thaibodia Bistro
30.3 km
Experience authentic Thai and Cambodian cuisine at Thaibodia Bistro in Campbell, CA – where flavor meets tradition in every dish.
Yiassoo
30.3 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Yiassoo in Campbell, where every dish is crafted with passion and served with warmth.
Locanda Sorrento
30.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Locanda Sorrento with exquisite cocktails and wines in a warm atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Wild Rose Eatery and Bar
30.4 km
Experience culinary delight at Wild Rose Eatery and Bar in Campbell—where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors in a lively atmosphere.
A Bellagio Italian Restaurant
30.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at A Bellagio Italian Restaurant in downtown Campbell—where every meal tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Mo's Campbell
30.4 km
Experience unique breakfast dishes and gourmet burgers at Mo's Campbell in downtown California – where every meal is crafted with care.
One Fish Raw Bar
30.4 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at One Fish Raw Bar in downtown Campbell – where Californian cuisine meets vibrant flavors.
Opa! Campbell
30.4 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Opa! Campbell - where tradition meets flavor in a lively downtown setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Redwood Store
15.8 km
Explore the Redwood Store in Los Gatos for local snacks, drinks, and essentials amidst the scenic beauty of California's Redwood Estates.
LOOP Home Goods & Gifts
29.5 km
Explore LOOP Home Goods & Gifts for unique souvenirs and corporate gifts that celebrate local craftsmanship and creativity.
420lifestyles
29.6 km
Explore 420lifestyles in Campbell, CA—a gift shop brimming with collectibles, health products, and unique treasures for every visitor.
Marvel Cake
29.9 km
Experience the delightful world of sweets at Marvel Cake, the ultimate bakery destination in Campbell, California, known for its custom cakes and scrumptious treats.
Kirkwood Plaza
29.9 km
Explore Kirkwood Plaza in Campbell, CA: A vibrant shopping destination with diverse stores, delightful dining, and a welcoming atmosphere.
DOTTIES ROLLER SKATE SHOP
30.2 km
Explore Dottie's Roller Skate Shop in Campbell, California – your ultimate destination for quality skates and a vibrant skating community.
Heroes
30.4 km
Explore Heroes Comic Book Store in Campbell for an unforgettable journey through comics, collectibles, and pop culture nostalgia.
Steepers
30.4 km
Discover the exquisite world of tea at Steepers, Campbell's premier tea store with a vast selection and expert guidance.
Geoffrey's Diamonds & Goldsmith
30.4 km
Discover exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance at Geoffrey's Diamonds & Goldsmith in downtown Campbell, California.
Florra
30.4 km
Discover the enchanting world of flowers at Florra, Downtown Campbell's premier floral boutique, offering exquisite arrangements and unique gifts.
Celtic Shoppe
30.4 km
Explore the Celtic Shoppe in Campbell, CA, for an unforgettable shopping experience featuring authentic Irish goods and unique gifts.
Simply Smashing
30.4 km
Explore Simply Smashing, a unique women's clothing store in Campbell, offering a curated selection of stylish apparel and personalized shopping experiences.
Nice Twice Doll Shop
30.4 km
Explore an enchanting collection of dolls and collectibles at Nice Twice Doll Shop, a must-visit destination for enthusiasts in Downtown Campbell, CA.
Recycle Bookstore West
30.5 km
Explore a treasure trove of books at Recycle Bookstore West, a charming used bookstore in Campbell, California, perfect for every book lover.
Redemption - California crafted goods curated with our community and planet in mind
30.5 km
Explore Redemption, where California-crafted gifts meet artistic flair in the heart of Campbell, California.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
29.6 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience at The Hook Sports Bar & Grill in Campbell, California, where delicious food meets thrilling sports action.
Court's Lounge
29.7 km
Discover Court's Lounge, where cocktails, karaoke, and sports come together for a fantastic night out in Campbell, California.
Coach's Sports Bar & Grill
29.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Coach's Sports Bar & Grill, where sports meet delicious grill delights in Campbell, California.
Khartoum Lounge
30.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Khartoum Lounge in Campbell, where karaoke meets a stylish bar atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.
Cardiff & Cocktails
30.4 km
Unwind at Cardiff & Cocktails, where handcrafted cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in Downtown Campbell.
Woodhams Sports Lounge
34.1 km
Discover the vibrant Woodhams Sports Lounge in Santa Clara for a lively atmosphere, refreshing drinks, and engaging entertainment like karaoke.
Lobby Lounge
34.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Lobby Lounge in Santa Clara, where stylish decor meets a diverse drink selection for the perfect retreat.
Koja Bar
34.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Koja Bar in Santa Clara, where locals and visitors connect over drinks and good company.
The Sportsmen's Lounge
34.9 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at The Sportsmen's Lounge, a top bar in Santa Clara offering great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Aces Icehouse
35.1 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Aces Icehouse in Santa Clara, where great food, drinks, and live sports come together.
Rocco's Ballpark
35.9 km
Experience the excitement of live sports at Rocco's Ballpark, Santa Clara's premier sports bar with delicious food and a lively atmosphere.
Normandy House
36.1 km
Discover Normandy House, a lively bar and cocktail lounge in Santa Clara, offering an inviting atmosphere and an extensive drink menu for all occasions.
Taplands
37.2 km
Discover Taplands, the ultimate bar and brewery in Santa Clara, CA, where craft beer lovers unite to enjoy an exceptional selection and vibrant atmosphere.
The Halford
37.2 km
Experience the perfect fusion of craft beer and New American cuisine at The Halford in Santa Clara, where flavor meets community.
thirsty.bar
37.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and affordable drinks at Thirsty Bar in Santa Clara, where locals and tourists come together to unwind and socialize.
