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Rengstorff House: A Victorian Gem in Mountain View

Explore Victorian elegance at Mountain View's oldest home, the Rengstorff House, a beautifully restored mansion in Shoreline Park.

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The Rengstorff House, built around 1867, stands as Mountain View's oldest home and a prime example of Victorian Italianate architecture. Originally the residence of German immigrant Henry Rengstorff, a prominent businessman, the house is now a museum and event venue nestled within Shoreline Park.

A brief summary to Rengstorff House

  • Tuesday 1 pm-4 pm
  • Wednesday 1 pm-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the City of Mountain View website for the most up-to-date tour schedule, as hours may vary.
  • Consider attending a docent-led tour to learn more about the Rengstorff family and Victorian life.
  • Explore the gardens and grounds surrounding the house for a relaxing stroll and photo opportunities.
  • If you're interested in hosting an event, book well in advance, as the Rengstorff House is a popular venue.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From within Shoreline Park, follow the signs towards the Rengstorff House. The house is located near Shoreline Lake and is easily accessible via paved walking paths within the park. The walk from the Shoreline Lake Boathouse is approximately 10-15 minutes. There is no cost associated with walking to the Rengstorff House.

  • Public Transport

    The Mountain View Transit Center is the closest major transit hub. From the transit center, you can take the MVgo shuttle or the Mountain View Community Shuttle towards Shoreline Park. Get off at a stop near Shoreline Amphitheatre or Shoreline Lake and walk towards the Rengstorff House. Shuttle services are free. Alternatively, you can take the VTA bus line 40 to the intersection of Shoreline Boulevard and Pear Avenue, and walk about 15 minutes north to the Rengstorff House. A single VTA bus fare is $2.50.

  • Driving

    From Highway 101, take the Shoreline Boulevard exit and head north. Follow Shoreline Boulevard and turn left into Shoreline Park. Continue on the main road within the park, following signs for the Rengstorff House. There are three free parking lots near the Rengstorff House. One is adjacent to the house, one is off of Shoreline Road behind Michael's restaurant, and one is near Shoreline Lake. Parking is free.

Unlock the Best of Rengstorff House

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Discover more about Rengstorff House

Step back in time at the Rengstorff House, a beautifully restored Victorian Italianate mansion located in Mountain View's Shoreline Park. Built circa 1867 by Henry Rengstorff, a German immigrant who made his fortune in shipping and agriculture, the house offers a glimpse into 19th-century family life and local history. Rengstorff, who arrived in California during the Gold Rush, constructed the house to reflect his success and provide a comfortable home for his growing family. The 16-room house features a symmetrical facade, a pillared portico, and a central gable. Inside, visitors can admire period décor, including Bradbury & Bradbury wallpapers, Eastlake furniture, and ornate brass chandeliers. The house has moved locations twice to prevent demolition. Saved by the city of Mountain View in 1979, it was moved to its current location and restored in 1991. Today, the Rengstorff House serves as a museum, open for public tours on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 1 PM to 4 PM. It also functions as a unique event venue, hosting weddings, parties, and community gatherings. The surrounding grounds feature gardens, lawns, and a charming lakeside area, offering picturesque settings for photos and strolls.

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