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Rengstorff House: A Victorian Gem in Mountain View

Experience Victorian elegance at Mountain View's oldest home, the Rengstorff House, a beautifully restored 1867 Italianate mansion in Shoreline Park.

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The Rengstorff House, built in 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, it now serves as a museum and event venue within Shoreline Park, offering a glimpse into 19th-century life.

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 docent-led tour schedules, typically on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, for an enhanced historical experience.
  • Explore the gardens surrounding the house for photo opportunities and a serene atmosphere.
  • Consider visiting during the spring to see the gardens in full bloom.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Shoreline Lake Boathouse, walk north along the paved path towards the Rengstorff House. The house will be visible on your left after a short walk, set back from the path amidst gardens. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes on a flat, paved surface. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    From the Mountain View Transit Center (Caltrain/VTA), take the VTA 34 bus towards the San Antonio Shopping Center. Get off at the Shoreline Blvd & Rengstorff Ave stop. From there, walk north for a short distance to the Rengstorff House. Alternatively, free MVgo shuttle services connect the Mountain View Transit Center to North Bayshore, from which you can walk to the Rengstorff House. VTA bus fare is $2.50 for a single ride.

  • Driving

    From US-101, exit onto Shoreline Boulevard North. Continue on Shoreline Boulevard, and the Rengstorff House will be on your left within Shoreline Park. Follow signs for parking; free parking is available in the lots adjacent to the house and near Michael's restaurant. 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 nestled in Mountain View's Shoreline Park. Built around 1867 by Henry Rengstorff, a German immigrant who made his fortune in shipping and farming, the house originally sat on 164 acres and served as a family home and a symbol of his success. The house itself is a stunning example of Victorian architecture, featuring a symmetrical facade, a columned portico, and a central gable. Inside, visitors can explore the gracious dining room and parlors, decorated with period furnishings and Bradbury & Bradbury wallpapers. The house also features a charming garden, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing rest on one of the benches. Saved from demolition and relocated twice, the Rengstorff House was meticulously restored in 1991 and opened to the public. Today, it hosts weddings, parties, and community events, offering a unique glimpse into the past. Docent-led tours provide insights into the Rengstorff family, Victorian life, and the history of Mountain View. The Rengstorff House stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of one of Mountain View's early pioneers.

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