Filoli: A Glimpse into Gilded Age Grandeur

Discover a stunning Georgian mansion and 16 acres of English Renaissance gardens at this meticulously preserved estate, a National Trust Historic Site, south of San Francisco.

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Filoli Historic House & Garden

Step back in time at Filoli, a stunning country estate nestled in Woodside, California, just south of San Francisco. This meticulously preserved property features a grand Georgian-revival style mansion, 16 acres of exquisite English Renaissance gardens, a flourishing Gentleman's Orchard, and hundreds of acres of natural lands with diverse ecosystems and hiking trails. Originally built in 1917 for the Bourn family, Filoli offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a bygone era of elegance and experience the beauty of nature seamlessly intertwined with human design. From the opulent ballroom to the serene gardens, Filoli provides a captivating escape and a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped this remarkable estate. Don't miss the chance to wander through the historic house, admire the meticulously maintained gardens, and discover the tranquility of the surrounding natural landscape.

A brief summary to Filoli Historic House & Garden

86 Cañada Rd, Woodside, California, 94062, US
+1650-364-8300
Visit website

Local tips

Purchase tickets online in advance, especially for weekends and special events, to guarantee entry and streamline your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on both paved and unpaved surfaces throughout the gardens and estate trails.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated picnic area near the parking lot, as outside food is not permitted within the gardens.
Check the Filoli website for seasonal events and guided tours to enhance your experience and learn more about the estate's history and horticulture.
Visit during the spring or fall for the most vibrant blooms and comfortable weather, but be prepared for potential crowds.

Getting There

Driving

From Highway 280, exit at Edgewood Road and head west. Continue on Edgewood Road until it intersects with Cañada Road. Turn left onto Cañada Road. Filoli will be on your right in approximately 1.5 miles. Parking is free and included with your ticket. Carpooling is encouraged due to limited parking.
Public Transport

Take SamTrans Route 17 from San Francisco or Redwood City to the Filoli stop on Cañada Road. Check the SamTrans website for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information. A one-way fare is approximately $2 - $5. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the Filoli entrance.

Discover more about Filoli Historic House & Garden

Filoli, formally known as the Bourn-Roth Estate, stands as a testament to early 20th-century elegance and the enduring allure of country estate living. Located in Woodside, California, approximately 25 miles south of San Francisco, this magnificent property encompasses 654 acres, featuring a sprawling Georgian revival-style mansion, 16 acres of meticulously designed English Renaissance gardens, a 6.8-acre Gentleman's Orchard, and extensive natural lands. Originally constructed between 1915 and 1917 for William Bowers Bourn II and his wife, Agnes, Filoli embodies their vision of a self-sustaining and aesthetically pleasing country retreat. Bourn, a prominent San Franciscan who made his fortune through the Empire Gold Mine and investments in utility companies, sought to create a refuge where he could devote himself to nature and personal pursuits. 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 mansion, designed by renowned architect Willis Polk, boasts over 54,000 square feet and 56 rooms, showcasing a grand ballroom, libraries, drawing rooms, and servant quarters. The interiors reflect the opulence of the era, with Versailles-inspired gilded moldings, expansive windows, and historically accurate furnishings. The ballroom, in particular, is a highlight, featuring murals by American painter Ernest Peixotto that evoke the Irish landscape of the Bourn's daughter's estate. Beyond the mansion lies the heart of Filoli: its breathtaking gardens. Spanning 16 acres, the English Renaissance gardens are a masterpiece of horticultural design, featuring yew-lined avenues, lush flower beds, and meticulously manicured lawns. The gardens are divided into distinct areas, each with its own unique character and charm. The Sunken Garden, with its reflecting pool and symmetrical layout, offers a serene oasis, while the Walled Garden showcases a vibrant array of seasonal blooms. The Gentleman's Orchard, with its rows of fruit trees, provides a glimpse into Filoli's self-sustaining past. In 1937, Filoli was purchased by William and Lurline Roth, who further enhanced the estate's beauty and legacy. Lurline Roth, in particular, took a keen interest in the gardens, working with the original designer to add to its splendor. After William's death, Lurline donated Filoli to the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 1975, ensuring that its beauty and history would be preserved for future generations. Today, Filoli operates as a non-profit organization and a vibrant cultural center, welcoming visitors from around the world. The estate offers a variety of activities and experiences, including self-guided tours of the mansion and gardens, guided nature hikes, and special events throughout the year. Visitors can explore the estate trail, which winds through the natural lands and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The Quail Café provides a delightful dining experience, while the Clock Tower Shop offers a curated selection of garden-inspired gifts. Filoli is also committed to education and community engagement, offering a range of programs for children and adults. These programs include horticultural workshops, historical lectures, and art exhibitions, all designed to connect visitors with the estate's rich history and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, a garden enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Filoli offers a captivating experience that will leave you inspired and refreshed. From the grandeur of the mansion to the serenity of the gardens, Filoli is a testament to the enduring power of beauty, nature, and shared stories. Throughout the year, Filoli hosts a variety of special events, including summer nights with live music, harvest celebrations in the autumn, and festive holiday decorations during the winter months. These events provide unique opportunities to experience Filoli in different seasons and celebrate the estate's rich cultural heritage. Filoli's commitment to preserving its history and natural environment has earned it accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition afforded to the nation's museums. This accreditation signifies excellence to the museum community, governments, funders, outside agencies, and the museum-going public. As you wander through Filoli, take a moment to reflect on the words of William Bourn: 'Fight for a just cause; Love your fellow man; Live a good life.' These words serve as a reminder of the values that shaped Filoli and continue to guide its mission today. Filoli stands as a symbol of beauty, nature, and shared stories, inviting all who visit to honor the past, embrace the present, and create a vibrant future.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Ralph D. Percival Memorial Vista Point

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War Memorial

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Len Turner Memorial Vista Point

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Ralston Hall Mansion

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Skylawn Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory

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Discover tranquility at Skylawn Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory, a serene space for reflection and remembrance in San Mateo, California.

Horse Statue

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I Dumpling

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Redwood Tattoo Co

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Ike's Lair of Redwood City

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Crouching Tiger Restaurant & Bar

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Spill the Tea

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Methuselah Tree (Sequoia sempervirens)

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201 Marshall

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Sequoia Station

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Experience the vibrant shopping scene at Sequoia Station, where retail therapy meets culinary delights in Redwood City.

Tong Sui Desserts & Drinks (Redwood City)

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Tong Sui Desserts & Drinks (Redwood City)

Unmissable attractions to see

Pulgas Water Temple

1.6 km

Discover the Pulgas Water Temple, a stunning monument to San Francisco's Hetch Hetchy water system, blending classical architecture with serene natural beauty in the heart of Redwood City.

Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve

1.9 km

Discover scenic trails, an expansive off-leash dog area, and panoramic Bay views at Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, a natural escape in the heart of the Peninsula.

Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve

2.9 km

Explore the serene beauty of Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve, a lush haven for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying nature in Redwood City, California.

Huddart Park

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Escape to Huddart Park: Hike through redwood forests, explore scenic trails, and discover a peaceful natural retreat in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Redwood Picnic Area, Huddart Park

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Escape to the serene Redwood Picnic Area in Huddart Park for a refreshing retreat surrounded by towering redwoods and natural beauty.

Woodside Store Park

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Teague Hill Open Space Preserve

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Burton Park

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San Carlos's oldest park, a vibrant community hub with sports, recreation, and events for all ages.

Stafford Park

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San Carlos Museum of History

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Twin Pines Park

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Red Morton Park

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Laurelwood Park

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Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve

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Hiller Aviation Museum

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Essential places to dine

The Mountain House

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Canyon Inn

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Wakuriya

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Stacks

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Higuma Japanese Restaurant

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Redwood Bistro

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Zadna Grill

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Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Zadna Grill in Redwood City – where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.

Seoul Kitchen

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City Pub

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Kemuri Japanese Barú

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Little Madfish

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Chick-fil-A

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Sushi Shin

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Ogiku Kaiseki

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Sole Ristorante Italiano

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Explore the vibrant world of music at The Record Man, Redwood City's premier store for vinyl records and music memorabilia.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Field Club

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Sodini's

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The Village Pub

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The Hub RWC

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840 Wine Bar & Cocktail Lounge

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Bobby D's Cocktail Lounge & Sports Bar

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Antone's Cocktail Lounge

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CRU Wine Bar & Shop

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Hidden Tap And Barrel Redwood City

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Saddle Room Bar

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Gemelos Cantina & Sports Bar

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Steamies Bar

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Nighthawk

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Villa Roma

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The Swingin' Door

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Filoli Historic House & Garden with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Filoli: A Glimpse into Gilded Age Grandeur

A brief summary to Filoli Historic House & Garden

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Public Transport

Unlock the Best of Filoli Historic House & Garden

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Filoli Historic House & Garden

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Ralph D. Percival Memorial Vista Point

War Memorial

Len Turner Memorial Vista Point

Ralston Hall Mansion

Skylawn Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory

Horse Statue

I Dumpling

Redwood Tattoo Co

Ike's Lair of Redwood City

Crouching Tiger Restaurant & Bar

Spill the Tea

Methuselah Tree (Sequoia sempervirens)

201 Marshall

Sequoia Station

Tong Sui Desserts & Drinks (Redwood City)

Unmissable attractions to see

Pulgas Water Temple

Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve

Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve

Huddart Park

Redwood Picnic Area, Huddart Park

Woodside Store Park

Teague Hill Open Space Preserve

Burton Park

Stafford Park

San Carlos Museum of History

Twin Pines Park

Red Morton Park

Laurelwood Park

Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve

Hiller Aviation Museum

Essential places to dine

The Mountain House

Canyon Inn

Wakuriya

Stacks

Higuma Japanese Restaurant

Redwood Bistro

Zadna Grill

Seoul Kitchen

City Pub

Kemuri Japanese Barú

Little Madfish

Chick-fil-A

Sushi Shin

Ogiku Kaiseki

Sole Ristorante Italiano

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Secrets Boutique - Redwood City

Isis Candle Shop

Pickled

The BottleShop Wine Bar + Kitchen + Retail

Villa Plaza

Whole Foods Market

Barnes & Noble

See's Candies

The Vitamin Shoppe

Bluemercury

Vibes Smoke Shop & Piercing

Mademoiselle Colette

Laurelwood Shopping Center

Shop Cute Buys

The Record Man

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Field Club

Sodini's

The Village Pub

The Hub RWC