{ "_meta": { "origin": "95051 Santa Clara, CA (37.3541, -121.9836)", "radiusMi": 100, "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24", "note": "Seeded with real, named venues only. distanceMi is computed client-side from lat/lng, so the origin can be changed without rebaking this file. priceTier: 0 free, 1 cheap, 2 mid, 3 splurge. durationMins is a typical visit, not a maximum." }, "places": [ { "id": 1, "name": "Rancho San Antonio Preserve", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Trails", "blurb": "The default Peninsula hike. Wide valley floor path for an easy hour, or climb to Wildcat Loop and the Deer Hollow Farm spur for a proper half day. Parking fills by 9am on weekends.", "address": "22500 Cristo Rey Dr", "city": "Cupertino", "lat": 37.3323, "lng": -122.0836, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "Dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "solo", "dogs", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.openspace.org/preserves/rancho-san-antonio", "source": "Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 2, "name": "The Tech Interactive", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Science", "blurb": "Hands-on science and tech across three floors, plus an IMAX dome. Genuinely engineered for kids without being condescending to the adults who brought them.", "address": "201 S Market St", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.3312, "lng": -121.8901, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 210, "hours": "Wed to Sun, 10am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "rainy", "group" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.thetech.org", "ticketLink": "https://www.thetech.org/visit", "partner": "", "source": "The Tech Interactive", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 3, "name": "Filoli Historic House and Garden", "category": "parks", "subcategory": "Estate garden", "blurb": "A 1917 country estate with 16 acres of formal garden. The walled gardens peak in spring and again for the autumn dahlia beds. Timed entry, so book ahead.", "address": "86 Canada Rd", "city": "Woodside", "lat": 37.4712, "lng": -122.3095, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 210, "hours": "Tue to Sun, 10am to 5pm", "seasonality": "spring peak", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://filoli.org", "ticketLink": "https://filoli.org/visit", "source": "Filoli", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 4, "name": "Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk", "category": "family", "subcategory": "Amusement", "blurb": "The last of the great West Coast seaside boardwalks. The 1924 Giant Dipper is a National Historic Landmark and still the best ride there. Free to enter, pay per ride.", "address": "400 Beach St", "city": "Santa Cruz", "lat": 36.9641, "lng": -122.018, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 300, "hours": "Seasonal; daily in summer", "seasonality": "summer peak", "goodFor": [ "kids", "group", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://beachboardwalk.com", "source": "Santa Cruz Seaside Company", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 5, "name": "Cantor Arts Center", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Art", "blurb": "Stanford's art museum, free every day, with one of the largest Rodin collections outside Paris. The outdoor sculpture garden alone justifies the trip.", "address": "328 Lomita Dr", "city": "Stanford", "lat": 37.4325, "lng": -122.1707, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Wed to Sun, 11am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "rainy", "outoftown" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://museum.stanford.edu/visit", "source": "Stanford University", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 6, "name": "Hakone Estate and Gardens", "category": "parks", "subcategory": "Japanese garden", "blurb": "The oldest Japanese-style residential garden in the Western Hemisphere, terraced into the hills above Saratoga. Small, quiet, and best on a weekday morning.", "address": "21000 Big Basin Way", "city": "Saratoga", "lat": 37.253, "lng": -122.0388, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 90, "hours": "Daily, 10am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.hakone.com", "source": "Hakone Foundation", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 7, "name": "Ano Nuevo State Park", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Wildlife", "blurb": "Northern elephant seals haul out here by the thousand. December to March requires a guided walk booked in advance; the rest of the year you can walk the dunes on a permit.", "address": "1 New Years Creek Rd", "city": "Pescadero", "lat": 37.1222, "lng": -122.3111, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 210, "hours": "Daily, 8:30am to sunset", "seasonality": "seals Dec to Mar", "goodFor": [ "kids", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=523", "ticketLink": "https://www.reservecalifornia.com", "partner": "recreationgov", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 8, "name": "Winchester Mystery House", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Historic house", "blurb": "Sarah Winchester's 160-room maze of stairs to nowhere and doors into walls. The standard mansion tour is good; the extended Explore More tour is better value.", "address": "525 S Winchester Blvd", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.3184, "lng": -121.9511, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Daily; hours vary by season", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "group", "rainy", "outoftown" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://winchestermysteryhouse.com", "ticketLink": "https://winchestermysteryhouse.com/tours", "source": "Winchester Mystery House", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 9, "name": "Castle Rock State Park", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Trails", "blurb": "Sandstone outcrops, a seasonal waterfall and the best ridge views in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Saratoga Gap loop is the classic. Bring layers, the ridge is windy.", "address": "15000 Skyline Blvd", "city": "Los Gatos", "lat": 37.2308, "lng": -122.0964, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 270, "hours": "Sunrise to sunset", "seasonality": "waterfall in winter", "goodFor": [ "solo", "group", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=538", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 10, "name": "SFMOMA", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Modern art", "blurb": "Seven floors of modern and contemporary work, including the Fisher Collection. Free for anyone 18 and under. The living wall on the third-floor terrace is the quiet highlight.", "address": "151 Third St", "city": "San Francisco", "lat": 37.7857, "lng": -122.4011, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 210, "hours": "Mon to Tue and Fri to Sun, 10am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "rainy", "outoftown" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.sfmoma.org", "ticketLink": "https://www.sfmoma.org/visit", "source": "SFMOMA", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 11, "name": "Santana Row", "category": "markets", "subcategory": "Shopping district", "blurb": "Open-air shopping and dining laid out as a European-style street. Best used as a dinner-and-a-stroll destination rather than a shopping trip.", "address": "377 Santana Row", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.3212, "lng": -121.9479, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Daily; store hours vary", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "group", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://santanarow.com", "source": "Federal Realty", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 12, "name": "Shoreline Lake and Park", "category": "parks", "subcategory": "Lake", "blurb": "Sailing and paddling on a saltwater lake with a decent lakeside cafe, ringed by baylands trails. Windsurfers get the afternoon breeze off the bay.", "address": "3160 N Shoreline Blvd", "city": "Mountain View", "lat": 37.4319, "lng": -122.0797, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Daily, dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "date", "dogs", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.shorelinelake.com", "source": "City of Mountain View", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 13, "name": "Computer History Museum", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Technology", "blurb": "Two thousand years of computing, anchored by a working reconstruction of Babbage's Difference Engine and a restored PDP-1 running Spacewar. Demo schedules are worth checking first.", "address": "1401 N Shoreline Blvd", "city": "Mountain View", "lat": 37.4142, "lng": -122.0774, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "Wed to Sun, 10am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "solo", "rainy", "group" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://computerhistory.org", "ticketLink": "https://computerhistory.org/visit", "source": "Computer History Museum", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 14, "name": "Big Basin Redwoods State Park", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Redwoods", "blurb": "California's oldest state park, reopening in phases since the 2020 CZU fire. The regrowth is its own kind of remarkable. Reservations required; check status before driving up.", "address": "21600 Big Basin Way", "city": "Boulder Creek", "lat": 37.1722, "lng": -122.2222, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 300, "hours": "Reservation required", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "solo", "group", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=540", "ticketLink": "https://www.reservecalifornia.com", "partner": "recreationgov", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 15, "name": "Municipal Rose Garden", "category": "parks", "subcategory": "Garden", "blurb": "Five and a half acres and several thousand rose bushes in the Rose Garden neighborhood. Free, peaks in May, and half the city proposes here.", "address": "1649 Naglee Ave", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.3283, "lng": -121.9282, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 60, "hours": "Daily, 8am to half hour past sunset", "seasonality": "May peak", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "kids" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.sanjoseca.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/2295/2028", "source": "City of San Jose", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 16, "name": "Mountain Winery", "category": "nightlife", "subcategory": "Amphitheatre", "blurb": "Summer concert series in a 2500-seat amphitheatre carved into a Saratoga hillside above the valley. Go for the setting as much as the bill.", "address": "14831 Pierce Rd", "city": "Saratoga", "lat": 37.2477, "lng": -122.062, "priceTier": 3, "durationMins": 240, "hours": "Event nights, May to Oct", "seasonality": "summer season", "goodFor": [ "date", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.mountainwinery.com/things-to-do/", "ticketLink": "https://www.mountainwinery.com/events", "source": "Mountain Winery", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 17, "name": "Half Moon Bay State Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "Four miles of sand with a paved coastal trail linking the beaches. Fog burns off later here than inland, so aim for afternoon.", "address": "95 Kelly Ave", "city": "Half Moon Bay", "lat": 37.4636, "lng": -122.4436, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "dogs", "date", "solo" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=531", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 18, "name": "San Pedro Square Market", "category": "food", "subcategory": "Food hall", "blurb": "Two dozen food and drink stalls around a central bar in downtown San Jose, built around the 1797 Peralta Adobe. The easiest answer when a group cannot agree.", "address": "87 N San Pedro St", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.3363, "lng": -121.8949, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 90, "hours": "Daily; vendor hours vary", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "group", "date", "rainy", "kids" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://sanpedrosquaremarket.com", "source": "San Pedro Square Market", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 19, "name": "Mount Umunhum Summit", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Summit", "blurb": "Drive or climb to 3486 feet for a 360-degree view from the Monterey Bay to the East Bay hills, with the Cold War radar cube at the top. Road closes in snow.", "address": "Mt Umunhum Rd", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.1583, "lng": -121.8983, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "Dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.openspace.org/what-we-do/projects/mount-umunhum-summit", "source": "Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 21, "name": "Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello", "category": "wine", "subcategory": "Winery", "blurb": "Tasting room at 2600 feet on the Monte Bello ridge, with one of the most respected Cabernet programs in California and a view down both sides of the range.", "address": "17100 Monte Bello Rd", "city": "Cupertino", "lat": 37.3119, "lng": -122.1594, "priceTier": 3, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Thu to Sun, by reservation", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.ridgewine.com", "ticketLink": "https://www.ridgewine.com/visit/monte-bello/", "source": "Ridge Vineyards", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 22, "name": "Happy Hollow Park and Zoo", "category": "family", "subcategory": "Zoo", "blurb": "A small zoo and gentle rides scaled for under-tens, next to Kelley Park. Two to three hours is the right dose before the meltdown.", "address": "748 Story Rd", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.3293, "lng": -121.8617, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "Daily, 10am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://happyhollow.org", "ticketLink": "https://happyhollow.org/visit", "source": "Happy Hollow Park and Zoo", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 23, "name": "Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Redwoods", "blurb": "Redwood canyon on the coastal side of Skyline, quieter than Big Basin and open all year. Whittemore Gulch descends steeply; the north ridge is the easier return.", "address": "Purisima Creek Rd", "city": "Half Moon Bay", "lat": 37.4361, "lng": -122.3583, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 240, "hours": "Dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "solo", "dogs", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.openspace.org/preserves/purisima-creek-redwoods", "source": "Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 24, "name": "Mountain View Farmers Market", "category": "markets", "subcategory": "Farmers market", "blurb": "Sunday market beside the Caltrain station, eighty-plus growers and a strong prepared-food row. Arrive before 10am for the good stone fruit.", "address": "600 W Evelyn Ave", "city": "Mountain View", "lat": 37.3946, "lng": -122.0836, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 75, "hours": "Sundays, 9am to 1pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "solo", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.cafarmersmkts.com", "source": "California Farmers Markets Association", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 25, "name": "Hiller Aviation Museum", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Aviation", "blurb": "Fifty-odd aircraft including a 747 nose section you can walk into and a flight simulator bay. Reliably the best rainy-Saturday option on the Peninsula for kids.", "address": "601 Skyway Rd", "city": "San Carlos", "lat": 37.5122, "lng": -122.2494, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Daily, 10am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "rainy", "group" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.hiller.org", "ticketLink": "https://www.hiller.org/visit", "source": "Hiller Aviation Museum", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 27, "name": "Monterey Bay Aquarium", "category": "family", "subcategory": "Aquarium", "blurb": "Still the benchmark. The kelp forest tank and the open sea wall are worth the drive and the timed ticket. Book weeks out for weekends.", "address": "886 Cannery Row", "city": "Monterey", "lat": 36.6182, "lng": -121.9018, "priceTier": 3, "durationMins": 300, "hours": "Daily, 10am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "date", "rainy", "outoftown" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.montereybayaquarium.org", "ticketLink": "https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/visit", "source": "Monterey Bay Aquarium", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 28, "name": "Sunnyvale Baylands Park", "category": "parks", "subcategory": "Baylands", "blurb": "Seasonal wetland with boardwalks, a big shaded playground and enough picnic capacity for a real party. Small parking fee on weekends.", "address": "999 E Caribbean Dr", "city": "Sunnyvale", "lat": 37.4197, "lng": -122.0025, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Daily, 8am to half hour past sunset", "seasonality": "wetland in winter", "goodFor": [ "kids", "group", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.sunnyvale.ca.gov/recreation-and-community/parks-and-trails/baylands-park", "source": "City of Sunnyvale", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 29, "name": "San Jose Museum of Art", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Modern art", "blurb": "Modern and contemporary work with a West Coast and Latin American focus, in a converted 1892 post office on Plaza de Cesar Chavez. Small enough to do properly in ninety minutes.", "address": "110 S Market St", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.3327, "lng": -121.8896, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 110, "hours": "Thu to Sun, 11am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "rainy" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://sjmusart.org", "ticketLink": "https://sjmusart.org/visit", "source": "San Jose Museum of Art", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 30, "name": "Pinnacles National Park", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "National park", "blurb": "Volcanic spires, two sets of talus caves and California condors overhead. The Bear Gulch caves need a flashlight and close seasonally for bat roosting.", "address": "5000 Highway 146", "city": "Paicines", "lat": 36.4906, "lng": -121.1825, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 360, "hours": "Daily; caves seasonal", "seasonality": "spring wildflowers", "goodFor": [ "solo", "group", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.nps.gov/pinn/index.htm", "ticketLink": "https://www.recreation.gov", "partner": "recreationgov", "source": "National Park Service", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 31, "name": "Stanford Dish Loop", "category": "sports", "subcategory": "Walking loop", "blurb": "A 3.7-mile paved loop over the foothills past the radio telescope. Steep enough to count as a workout, and the sunset light on the bay is the real draw.", "address": "Stanford Ave and Junipero Serra Blvd", "city": "Stanford", "lat": 37.4093, "lng": -122.178, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 90, "hours": "Daily, 5:30am to 8pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "solo", "date", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://dish.stanford.edu", "source": "Stanford University", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 32, "name": "Alviso Marina County Park", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Salt ponds", "blurb": "Levee trails out into the south bay salt ponds, with the best shorebird numbers in the county and a genuinely strange industrial-pastoral landscape. No shade at all.", "address": "1195 Hope St", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.4325, "lng": -121.975, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "birds in winter", "goodFor": [ "solo", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://parks.santaclaracounty.gov/locations/alviso-marina-county-park", "source": "Santa Clara County Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 34, "name": "Ulistac Natural Area", "category": "parks", "subcategory": "Native habitat", "blurb": "Forty acres of restored native habitat on the Guadalupe River, volunteer-tended and the only open space of its kind in Santa Clara. Quiet, flat, and ten minutes from home.", "address": "4901 Lick Mill Blvd", "city": "Santa Clara", "lat": 37.3961, "lng": -121.9422, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 60, "hours": "Dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "spring bloom", "goodFor": [ "solo", "kids", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.ulistac.org/where-is-ulistac", "source": "City of Santa Clara", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 35, "name": "Great America", "category": "family", "subcategory": "Theme park", "blurb": "Full-scale theme park next to Levi's Stadium, with the Gold Striker wooden coaster and a summer water park. Check operating status before planning a trip.", "address": "4701 Great America Pkwy", "city": "Santa Clara", "lat": 37.3969, "lng": -121.9747, "priceTier": 3, "durationMins": 420, "hours": "Seasonal", "seasonality": "summer season", "goodFor": [ "kids", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.cagreatamerica.com", "ticketLink": "https://www.cagreatamerica.com/tickets", "source": "California's Great America", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 36, "name": "Half Moon Bay Coastside Trail", "category": "sports", "subcategory": "Cycling", "blurb": "Seven flat paved miles hugging the bluff from Mirada Surf to Poplar Beach. Rent a bike at the north end and turn around when the wind picks up.", "address": "Mirada Rd", "city": "Half Moon Bay", "lat": 37.5019, "lng": -122.4747, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "kids", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=531", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 37, "name": "Japanese Friendship Garden", "category": "parks", "subcategory": "Japanese garden", "blurb": "Free six-acre garden in Kelley Park modelled on Korakuen in Okayama, with koi ponds and a teahouse. Pairs naturally with Happy Hollow next door.", "address": "1300 Senter Rd", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.32, "lng": -121.8622, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 75, "hours": "Daily, 10am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "kids" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.sanjoseca.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/2835/2028", "source": "City of San Jose", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 38, "name": "Guglielmo Winery", "category": "wine", "subcategory": "Winery", "blurb": "Fourth-generation family winery in the Santa Clara Valley, founded 1925. Unpretentious tasting room, shaded courtyard, and prices from before the valley got expensive.", "address": "1480 E Main Ave", "city": "Morgan Hill", "lat": 37.1519, "lng": -121.6303, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Daily, 10am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.guglielmowinery.com", "source": "Guglielmo Winery", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 40, "name": "Pescadero State Beach and Marsh", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Coast", "blurb": "Beach on one side of Highway 1, Butano Marsh boardwalk on the other. Stop at Arcangeli Grocery in town for the warm artichoke bread on the way through.", "address": "Highway 1 at Pescadero Creek Rd", "city": "Pescadero", "lat": 37.2633, "lng": -122.4119, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=522", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 41, "name": "Los Gatos Creek Trail", "category": "sports", "subcategory": "Multi-use trail", "blurb": "Ten paved miles from Lexington Reservoir through Vasona Park into San Jose. Flat, shaded in stretches, and the most useful everyday running trail in the west valley.", "address": "Main St at Los Gatos Creek", "city": "Los Gatos", "lat": 37.227, "lng": -121.9786, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 90, "hours": "Dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "solo", "dogs", "kids" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://parks.santaclaracounty.gov/locations/los-gatos-creek-county-park", "source": "Santa Clara County Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 42, "name": "Triton Museum of Art", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Regional art", "blurb": "Free museum of Bay Area art in a seven-acre sculpture park, with the 1866 Jamison-Brown house on site. The most overlooked cultural asset in Santa Clara.", "address": "1505 Warburton Ave", "city": "Santa Clara", "lat": 37.3528, "lng": -121.9502, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 75, "hours": "Tue to Sun, 11am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "solo", "rainy", "date" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.tritonmuseum.org", "source": "Triton Museum of Art", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 43, "name": "Natural Bridges State Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "The remaining sea arch, tidepools at low water, and a eucalyptus grove that hosts overwintering monarch butterflies from October to January.", "address": "2531 W Cliff Dr", "city": "Santa Cruz", "lat": 36.9508, "lng": -122.0575, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "monarchs Oct to Jan", "goodFor": [ "kids", "date", "solo" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=541", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 45, "name": "Sanborn County Park", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Redwoods", "blurb": "Redwood and mixed-oak canyon climbing to Skyline, with walk-in camping and the Peterson Memorial Trail loop. Cool and damp even in August.", "address": "16055 Sanborn Rd", "city": "Saratoga", "lat": 37.2394, "lng": -122.0656, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 210, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "group", "solo" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://parks.santaclaracounty.gov/locations/sanborn-county-park", "source": "Santa Clara County Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 46, "name": "Ferry Building Marketplace", "category": "food", "subcategory": "Food hall", "blurb": "Permanent artisan food arcade on the Embarcadero, with the big outdoor farmers market on Saturday mornings. Take Caltrain and walk up from Fourth and King.", "address": "1 Ferry Building", "city": "San Francisco", "lat": 37.7955, "lng": -122.3937, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Daily; market Sat mornings", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "group", "rainy", "outoftown" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com", "source": "Ferry Building Marketplace", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 47, "name": "Vasona Lake County Park", "category": "family", "subcategory": "Lake park", "blurb": "Pedal boats, a carousel and the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad, a working miniature steam line. Close to ideal for a low-effort Sunday with small kids.", "address": "333 Blossom Hill Rd", "city": "Los Gatos", "lat": 37.2394, "lng": -121.9694, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://parks.santaclaracounty.gov/locations/vasona-lake-county-park", "source": "Santa Clara County Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 48, "name": "Hidden Villa", "category": "family", "subcategory": "Farm", "blurb": "A 1600-acre working organic farm and wilderness preserve in the Los Altos Hills, with barnyard animals kids can actually meet and eight miles of trail above it.", "address": "26870 Moody Rd", "city": "Los Altos Hills", "lat": 37.3403, "lng": -122.1447, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "Tue to Sun, 9am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "solo", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.hiddenvilla.org", "source": "Hidden Villa", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 49, "name": "Calera Wine Company", "category": "wine", "subcategory": "Winery", "blurb": "Limestone-driven Pinot Noir from the Mount Harlan appellation on the flank of the Gavilan range. Remote, serious, and worth pairing with Pinnacles the same day.", "address": "11300 Cienega Rd", "city": "Hollister", "lat": 36.7736, "lng": -121.3506, "priceTier": 3, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "By reservation", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.calerawine.com", "source": "Calera Wine Company", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 50, "name": "Stanford Theatre", "category": "arts", "subcategory": "Repertory cinema", "blurb": "A restored 1925 movie palace running classic film on real prints, with the Mighty Wurlitzer played live before evening shows. Ticket prices are from another decade.", "address": "221 University Ave", "city": "Palo Alto", "lat": 37.445, "lng": -122.1617, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Screening nights", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "rainy" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://stanfordtheatre.org", "ticketLink": "https://stanfordtheatre.org", "source": "Stanford Theatre Foundation", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 51, "name": "Coyote Creek Trail", "category": "sports", "subcategory": "Multi-use trail", "blurb": "Fifteen uninterrupted paved miles from Hellyer Park south toward Anderson Lake. Flat, fast, and empty on weekday mornings.", "address": "985 Hellyer Ave", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.2828, "lng": -121.8117, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "solo", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://parks.santaclaracounty.gov/locations/coyote-creek-parkway", "source": "Santa Clara County Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 52, "name": "Gilroy Gardens", "category": "family", "subcategory": "Horticultural park", "blurb": "A nonprofit horticultural theme park built around the Circus Trees, grafted into impossible shapes over decades. Gentler and greener than a standard coaster park.", "address": "3050 Hecker Pass Hwy", "city": "Gilroy", "lat": 37.0031, "lng": -121.6197, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 300, "hours": "Seasonal", "seasonality": "spring to fall", "goodFor": [ "kids", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.gilroygardens.org", "ticketLink": "https://www.gilroygardens.org/tickets", "source": "Gilroy Gardens", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 53, "name": "Mission Peak Regional Preserve", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Summit", "blurb": "Three miles up and 2100 feet of gain to the summit pole above Fremont. Fully exposed, brutally hot after May, and the East Bay's most-photographed viewpoint.", "address": "680 Stanford Ave", "city": "Fremont", "lat": 37.515, "lng": -121.91, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 240, "hours": "6:30am to sunset", "seasonality": "cool months best", "goodFor": [ "solo", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.ebparks.org/parks/mission-peak", "source": "East Bay Regional Park District", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 54, "name": "Palo Alto Baylands Preserve", "category": "parks", "subcategory": "Baylands", "blurb": "Fifteen hundred acres of largely undisturbed marsh, the biggest remaining tract on the bay, with a boardwalk out to open water and a nature interpretive centre.", "address": "2775 Embarcadero Rd", "city": "Palo Alto", "lat": 37.4597, "lng": -122.105, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "birds in winter", "goodFor": [ "solo", "kids", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.paloalto.gov/Departments/Community-Services/Parks-Open-Space-Golf-Division/Neighborhood-Parks/Baylands-Nature-Preserve", "source": "City of Palo Alto", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 55, "name": "Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Local history", "blurb": "A small museum that punches well above its size, with strongly community-built exhibitions and the Abbott Square food market attached to it.", "address": "705 Front St", "city": "Santa Cruz", "lat": 36.9741, "lng": -122.0247, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 110, "hours": "Wed to Mon, 11am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "rainy" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.santacruzmah.org", "ticketLink": "https://www.santacruzmah.org/visit", "source": "Santa Cruz MAH", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 56, "name": "Saratoga Village", "category": "markets", "subcategory": "Main street", "blurb": "Four walkable blocks of Big Basin Way with independent shops, wine bars and patio restaurants at the mouth of the canyon. The best short stroll in the west valley.", "address": "14503 Big Basin Way", "city": "Saratoga", "lat": 37.2558, "lng": -122.0331, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Daily; hours vary", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.saratoga.ca.us/276/Saratoga-Village", "source": "City of Saratoga", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 57, "name": "Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Redwoods", "blurb": "An easy flat loop through old-growth redwoods including the Giant, plus river swimming holes in summer. The Roaring Camp steam railroad runs from the same site.", "address": "101 N Big Trees Park Rd", "city": "Felton", "lat": 37.0403, "lng": -122.0656, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "group", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=546", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 58, "name": "Oakland Museum of California", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "State history", "blurb": "Three galleries covering California art, history and natural science, with a terraced garden courtyard and a Friday night street-food series.", "address": "1000 Oak St", "city": "Oakland", "lat": 37.7972, "lng": -122.2639, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "Wed to Sun, 11am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "rainy", "kids" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://museumca.org", "ticketLink": "https://museumca.org/visit", "source": "Oakland Museum of California", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 59, "name": "Coyote Point Recreation Area", "category": "parks", "subcategory": "Bayfront", "blurb": "Bayfront park with a swimming beach, windsurf launch, and CuriOdyssey, a combined science museum and native wildlife rescue centre, on the same site.", "address": "1701 Coyote Point Dr", "city": "San Mateo", "lat": 37.5906, "lng": -122.3178, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "Daily, dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "dogs", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.smcgov.org/parks/coyote-point-recreation-area", "source": "San Mateo County Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 60, "name": "Grant Ranch County Park", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Grassland", "blurb": "Nine thousand acres of oak grassland on the Mount Hamilton road, with fifty miles of trail and the county's best spring wildflower display. Little shade.", "address": "18405 Mt Hamilton Rd", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.3392, "lng": -121.7283, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 240, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "spring wildflowers", "goodFor": [ "solo", "group", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://parks.santaclaracounty.gov/locations/joseph-d-grant-county-park", "source": "Santa Clara County Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 61, "name": "Lick Observatory", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Observatory", "blurb": "An 1888 working research observatory at 4200 feet on Mount Hamilton. Free daytime visitor gallery and the summer evening Music of the Spheres programme. The road up is 25 miles of switchbacks.", "address": "7281 Mt Hamilton Rd", "city": "Mount Hamilton", "lat": 37.3414, "lng": -121.6428, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "Thu to Sun, noon to 5pm", "seasonality": "evening programme in summer", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.lickobservatory.org", "ticketLink": null, "source": "UC Observatories", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 63, "name": "History Park San Jose", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Local history", "blurb": "An open-air village of relocated and rebuilt historic buildings in Kelley Park, from a working 1927 trolley to O'Brien's ice cream parlour. Grounds are free to wander.", "address": "635 Phelan Ave", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.3193, "lng": -121.858, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Grounds daily; buildings Fri to Sun", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "solo", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://historysanjose.org/plan-your-visit/history-park/", "source": "History San Jose", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 64, "name": "New Museum Los Gatos", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Regional art", "blurb": "A compact contemporary art and local-history museum in the old town library, with rotating shows that punch above the building's size. Ninety minutes does it.", "address": "106 E Main St", "city": "Los Gatos", "lat": 37.227, "lng": -121.98, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 75, "hours": "Wed to Sun, 11am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "rainy" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://numulosgatos.org", "ticketLink": "https://numulosgatos.org/visit", "source": "New Museum Los Gatos", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 65, "name": "Emma Prusch Farm Park", "category": "parks", "subcategory": "Urban farm", "blurb": "A 47-acre working farm park kept as a piece of the valley's agricultural past, with a rare-fruit orchard, community garden plots and a big 1920s barn. Free.", "address": "647 S King Rd", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.3419, "lng": -121.838, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 90, "hours": "Daily, 8am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "dogs", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.sanjoseca.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/2180/2028", "source": "City of San Jose", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 66, "name": "McClellan Ranch Preserve", "category": "parks", "subcategory": "Nature preserve", "blurb": "A former horse ranch on Stevens Creek kept as an 18-acre nature preserve, with a nature museum, community gardens and the county's environmental education programmes. Quiet and close in.", "address": "22221 McClellan Rd", "city": "Cupertino", "lat": 37.317, "lng": -122.057, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 90, "hours": "Daily, dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "solo", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.cupertino.gov/Parks-Recreation/McClellan-Ranch-Preserve", "source": "City of Cupertino", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 67, "name": "Fremont Older Open Space Preserve", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Trails", "blurb": "Oak-savanna ridges above the west valley with the Hunters Point knoll as the payoff view. Popular with trail runners and mountain bikers; parking at Prospect Road fills early.", "address": "Prospect Rd", "city": "Cupertino", "lat": 37.306, "lng": -122.087, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "spring green", "goodFor": [ "solo", "dogs", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.openspace.org/preserves/fremont-older", "source": "Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 68, "name": "Almaden Quicksilver County Park", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Mining history", "blurb": "Four thousand acres over the old New Almaden mercury mines, with interpretive relics along the trails and the county's best spring wildflower ridges. Almost no shade.", "address": "21785 Almaden Rd", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.183, "lng": -121.825, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "spring wildflowers", "goodFor": [ "solo", "dogs", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://parks.santaclaracounty.gov/locations/almaden-quicksilver-county-park", "source": "Santa Clara County Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 69, "name": "Uvas Canyon County Park", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Waterfalls", "blurb": "A tight canyon in the hills west of Morgan Hill with a short waterfall loop that actually runs after winter rain. Small, shaded, and the reservation fills fast in spring.", "address": "8515 Croy Rd", "city": "Morgan Hill", "lat": 37.083, "lng": -121.8, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 210, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "waterfalls Jan to Apr", "goodFor": [ "kids", "solo", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://parks.santaclaracounty.gov/locations/uvas-canyon-county-park", "source": "Santa Clara County Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 70, "name": "Testarossa Winery", "category": "wine", "subcategory": "Winery", "blurb": "Tasting in the stone-walled cellar of the 1888 Los Gatos Novitiate, one of California's oldest continuously operating winery sites. Book the cellar flight, not just the patio.", "address": "300 College Ave", "city": "Los Gatos", "lat": 37.2247, "lng": -121.9855, "priceTier": 3, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Daily, 11am to 5pm, by reservation", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "group" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.testarossa.com", "ticketLink": "https://www.testarossa.com/reservations/", "source": "Testarossa Winery", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 71, "name": "Historic Murphy Avenue", "category": "markets", "subcategory": "Main street", "blurb": "Two brick-fronted blocks of downtown Sunnyvale packed with restaurants and patios, with a large Wednesday-evening and Saturday farmers market that closes the street.", "address": "Murphy Ave", "city": "Sunnyvale", "lat": 37.3782, "lng": -122.0311, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Daily; market Wed and Sat", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "group", "solo" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.sunnyvaledowntown.com", "source": "Sunnyvale Downtown Association", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 72, "name": "California Theatre", "category": "arts", "subcategory": "Concert hall", "blurb": "A lavishly restored 1927 movie palace downtown, now the home stage for Opera San Jose and Symphony Silicon Valley. Worth a ticket for the room alone.", "address": "345 S First St", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.3299, "lng": -121.8863, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Performance nights", "seasonality": "season Sep to May", "goodFor": [ "date", "group" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://sanjosetheaters.org", "ticketLink": "https://sanjosetheaters.org", "source": "Team San Jose", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-24" }, { "id": 75, "name": "Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Antiquities", "blurb": "The largest collection of Egyptian artifacts in the western United States, set in a Karnak-inspired complex. A walk-through rock tomb replica is the kids' favourite.", "address": "1660 Park Ave", "city": "San Jose", "lat": 37.3329, "lng": -121.9236, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Wed to Sun, 9am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "solo", "rainy", "outoftown" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://egyptianmuseum.org", "source": "Rosicrucian Order, AMORC", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-25" }, { "id": 76, "name": "Pulgas Water Temple", "category": "landmarks", "subcategory": "Monument", "blurb": "A Beaux-Arts colonnade marking the end of the Hetch Hetchy aqueduct, mirrored in a long reflecting pool. Quiet, free, and photogenic; grounds close on weekends.", "address": "56 Canada Rd", "city": "Redwood City", "lat": 37.4869, "lng": -122.3161, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 45, "hours": "Mon to Fri, 9am to 4pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.sfpuc.gov/learning/come-visit/pulgas-water-temple", "source": "San Francisco Public Utilities Commission", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-25" }, { "id": 77, "name": "Stanford Memorial Church", "category": "landmarks", "subcategory": "Church", "blurb": "The mosaic-clad centrepiece of Stanford's Main Quad, built by Jane Stanford in memory of Leland. Non-denominational; the gold-leaf facade catches the late sun.", "address": "450 Jane Stanford Way", "city": "Stanford", "lat": 37.4265, "lng": -122.1697, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 45, "hours": "Daily; hours vary", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://orsl.stanford.edu/visit-memorial-church", "source": "Stanford University", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-25" }, { "id": 78, "name": "Mission Santa Clara de Asis", "category": "landmarks", "subcategory": "Mission", "blurb": "The eighth of California's 21 missions, now the chapel at the heart of Santa Clara University. The rose garden and adobe wall out front predate most of the campus.", "address": "500 El Camino Real", "city": "Santa Clara", "lat": 37.3496, "lng": -121.939, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 45, "hours": "Daily; hours vary", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.scu.edu/missionchurch", "source": "Santa Clara University", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-25" }, { "id": 79, "name": "Oakland California Temple", "category": "landmarks", "subcategory": "Temple", "blurb": "A white five-spired LDS temple on the Oakland hills with terraced gardens and one of the best skyline views in the East Bay. Grounds and visitors' centre are open to all; the temple interior is not.", "address": "4770 Lincoln Ave", "city": "Oakland", "lat": 37.7906, "lng": -122.1836, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 60, "hours": "Grounds daily; hours vary", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/temples/details/oakland-california-temple", "source": "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-25" }, { "id": 80, "name": "Gray Whale Cove State Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "A pocket cove reached by a steep stairway down the bluff, tucked below Highway 1 north of Montara. Free to enter and park; go on a rising afternoon when the fog lifts.", "address": "Highway 1 near Montara", "city": "Montara", "lat": 37.5656, "lng": -122.5144, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=528", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 81, "name": "Montara State Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "A wide sandy mile with two small free lots, one across from Second Street and another half a mile north. The lots fill fast on clear weekends, so arrive early.", "address": "2nd St and Highway 1", "city": "Montara", "lat": 37.5461, "lng": -122.5153, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "date", "solo", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=532", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 82, "name": "Fitzgerald Marine Reserve", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Tidepools", "blurb": "The best tidepooling on the Peninsula, protected as a county reserve. Time your visit to a low tide for the sea stars and anemones; free to enter and park.", "address": "200 Nevada Ave", "city": "Moss Beach", "lat": 37.524, "lng": -122.5166, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "best at low tide", "goodFor": [ "kids", "date", "solo" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.smcgov.org/parks/fitzgerald-marine-reserve", "source": "San Mateo County Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 83, "name": "Mavericks Beach and Pillar Point Bluff", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "The bluff trail above the legendary Mavericks big-wave break, with a free lot on Airport Street. Winter swells draw surfers; the loop is worth it any season for the views.", "address": "840 Airport St", "city": "Moss Beach", "lat": 37.5072, "lng": -122.5028, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "big waves in winter", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "dogs", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.smcgov.org/parks/pillar-point-bluff", "source": "San Mateo County Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 84, "name": "Miramar Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "A neighbourhood beach at the north end of the Coastside Trail, reached from the Mirada Road footbridge. Free street parking and an easy walk down to the sand.", "address": "Mirada Rd and Medio Ave", "city": "El Granada", "lat": 37.4933, "lng": -122.4603, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 90, "hours": "Dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.visithalfmoonbay.org/articles/miramar-beach-hidden-coastside-gem", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 85, "name": "Poplar Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "A bluff-top lot at the south end of the Coastside Trail, popular with dog walkers and horseback riders. City parking runs about $2 an hour, $10 for the day.", "address": "Poplar St at Bluff Top", "city": "Half Moon Bay", "lat": 37.4553, "lng": -122.445, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Dawn to dusk", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "dogs", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.visithalfmoonbay.org/places/poplar-beach/", "source": "City of Half Moon Bay", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 86, "name": "San Gregorio State Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "A broad crescent where San Gregorio Creek meets the sea, forming a shallow lagoon kids can wade. Vehicle day use is about $8; sheltered from the north wind by the bluff.", "address": "Highway 1 at Stage Rd", "city": "San Gregorio", "lat": 37.3231, "lng": -122.4019, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "date", "solo" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=529", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 87, "name": "Pomponio State Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "A quieter neighbour of San Gregorio with its own creek lagoon and a long stretch of sand. Vehicle day use is about $8; good for a low-key afternoon away from crowds.", "address": "Highway 1 south of San Gregorio", "city": "Pescadero", "lat": 37.2974, "lng": -122.3969, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "dogs" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=521", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 88, "name": "Bean Hollow State Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "A rocky cove known for its pea-gravel pebble beach and tidepools, three miles south of Pescadero. Free parking at the Pebble Beach and Bean Hollow lots.", "address": "Highway 1 south of Pescadero", "city": "Pescadero", "lat": 37.2258, "lng": -122.4089, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "8am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "date", "solo" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=527", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 89, "name": "Cowell Ranch State Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "A half-mile trail across farmland to a bluff stairway down to a secluded beach; the neighbouring coves are closed to protect harbor seals. Free access, no dogs on the trail.", "address": "Highway 1 south of Half Moon Bay", "city": "Half Moon Bay", "lat": 37.4223, "lng": -122.426, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "8am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.visithalfmoonbay.org/places/cowell-ranch-state-beach/", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 90, "name": "Point Lobos State Natural Reserve", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Coastal reserve", "blurb": "The crown jewel of California's coast: cypress headlands, hidden coves and sea lions barking off the rocks. The Cypress Grove and Bird Island loops are short and unforgettable.", "address": "62 CA-1", "city": "Carmel-by-the-Sea", "lat": 36.5158, "lng": -121.9539, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "Daily, 8am to 7pm (last entry 6:30pm)", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "group", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=571", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 91, "name": "17-Mile Drive", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Scenic drive", "blurb": "A private toll road winding past the Lone Cypress, Bird Rock and the Pebble Beach coastline. The gate fee is reimbursable against a $35 spend at the resort restaurants.", "address": "17-Mile Dr", "city": "Pebble Beach", "lat": 36.5686, "lng": -121.9658, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Daily, sunrise to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "group", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.pebblebeach.com/17-mile-drive/", "source": "Pebble Beach Company", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 92, "name": "Carmel Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "A wide crescent of white sand at the foot of Ocean Avenue, framed by cypress. Dogs run off-leash under voice control. Best at sunset with a walk into town after.", "address": "Ocean Ave", "city": "Carmel-by-the-Sea", "lat": 36.5552, "lng": -121.9295, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Daily, open all hours", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "dogs", "solo", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.carmelcalifornia.com/carmel-beach/", "source": "City of Carmel-by-the-Sea", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 93, "name": "Bixby Creek Bridge", "category": "landmarks", "subcategory": "Landmark", "blurb": "The most photographed span on the Big Sur coast, arcing across a steep canyon to the sea. Note: roadside parking beside the bridge is closed through the 2026 pilot, so use the marked pullouts farther along Highway 1.", "address": "Highway 1", "city": "Big Sur", "lat": 36.3715, "lng": -121.9017, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 45, "hours": "Daily, daylight", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.visitcalifornia.com/experience/bixby-bridge/", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 94, "name": "Pfeiffer Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "Purple-tinted sand and a wave-cut arch rock, reached down a narrow lane off Highway 1. Parking is limited and cash-only; arrive early. No camping or fires.", "address": "Sycamore Canyon Rd", "city": "Big Sur", "lat": 36.2384, "lng": -121.8143, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Daily, 9am to 8pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/lospadres/recreation/pfeiffer-beach-day-use", "source": "US Forest Service, Los Padres National Forest", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 95, "name": "Villa Montalvo Arboretum", "category": "parks", "subcategory": "Garden", "blurb": "The grounds of a 1912 Mediterranean villa, now a Santa Clara County park: an arboretum, sculpture-dotted trails and formal gardens open to walk for free.", "address": "15400 Montalvo Rd", "city": "Saratoga", "lat": 37.2394, "lng": -122.0289, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Trails sunrise to sunset; grounds 8am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://parks.santaclaracounty.gov/locations/villa-montalvo", "source": "Santa Clara County Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 96, "name": "Picchetti Winery", "category": "wine", "subcategory": "Winery", "blurb": "An 1896 ranch winery on the edge of Picchetti Ranch Open Space, tasting five-pour flights on a shaded patio with peacocks wandering the grounds. Walk-ins only.", "address": "13100 Montebello Rd", "city": "Cupertino", "lat": 37.3056, "lng": -122.0862, "priceTier": 2, "durationMins": 90, "hours": "Daily, 11am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "group", "solo" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://picchetti.com", "source": "Picchetti Winery", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 97, "name": "Pigeon Point Light Station", "category": "lighthouses", "subcategory": "Lighthouse", "blurb": "One of the tallest lighthouses in America, an 1872 tower on a bluff south of Pescadero. The day-use grounds are free; the visitor centre and park store open Thursday to Tuesday.", "address": "210 Pigeon Point Rd", "city": "Pescadero", "lat": 37.1819, "lng": -122.3944, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 75, "hours": "Grounds 8am to sunset; centre Thu to Tue 10am to 4pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=533", "source": "California State Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 98, "name": "Point Montara Lighthouse", "category": "lighthouses", "subcategory": "Lighthouse", "blurb": "An 1875 fog-signal station on the bluff at Montara, now grounds shared with an HI hostel. The tower itself is closed, but the grounds and the coastal view are open by day.", "address": "8800 Cabrillo Hwy", "city": "Montara", "lat": 37.5375, "lng": -122.5194, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 45, "hours": "Grounds 9am to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.hiusa.org/find-hostels/california/montara", "source": "HI USA", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 99, "name": "Point Pinos Lighthouse", "category": "lighthouses", "subcategory": "Lighthouse", "blurb": "The oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast, lit since 1855 at the tip of Pacific Grove. Docent-staffed afternoons let you climb up to the original Fresnel lens.", "address": "80 Asilomar Ave", "city": "Pacific Grove", "lat": 36.638, "lng": -121.9339, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 60, "hours": "Docent-staffed afternoons; check ahead", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "group", "outoftown" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.pointpinoslighthouse.org", "source": "Point Pinos Lighthouse", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 100, "name": "Point Bonita Lighthouse", "category": "lighthouses", "subcategory": "Lighthouse", "blurb": "An 1855 light on a rocky spur of the Marin Headlands with sweeping views back to the Golden Gate. The suspension bridge is closed for repairs, but the viewing platform opens the third Saturday of each month.", "address": "Field Rd, Marin Headlands", "city": "Sausalito", "lat": 37.8158, "lng": -122.5297, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 90, "hours": "Third Saturday monthly, 12:30pm to 3:30pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.nps.gov/goga/pobo.htm", "source": "National Park Service", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 101, "name": "Muir Beach Overlook", "category": "landmarks", "subcategory": "Scenic overlook", "blurb": "A cliff-top lookout on the Marin Headlands with fenced platforms stepping down toward the surf and views up the coast to Point Reyes. Free WWII-era base-end stations still notch the ridge above the trail.", "address": "Overlook Rd off Highway 1", "city": "Muir Beach", "lat": 37.8631, "lng": -122.5856, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 45, "hours": "Sunrise to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.nps.gov/goga/planyourvisit/muirbeach.htm", "source": "National Park Service", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 102, "name": "Point Reyes Lighthouse", "category": "lighthouses", "subcategory": "Lighthouse", "blurb": "An 1870 light bolted to the cliffs at the windiest, foggiest tip of the Point Reyes headland. Three hundred stairs drop to the lantern room; the walk out crosses open grassland with the ocean on three sides. A prime spot to watch gray whales in winter.", "address": "27000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Point Reyes National Seashore", "city": "Inverness", "lat": 37.9958, "lng": -123.0195, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 150, "hours": "Fri to Mon, 10am to 4:30pm; stairs close in high wind", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.nps.gov/pore/planyourvisit/lighthouse.htm", "source": "National Park Service", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 103, "name": "Drakes Beach", "category": "beaches", "subcategory": "Beach", "blurb": "A sheltered cove of pale sand under chalk-white cliffs on the calmer, bay side of Point Reyes. The gentlest beach on the peninsula for a walk or a picnic, with a visitor center and cafe steps from the sand.", "address": "1 Drakes Beach Rd, Point Reyes National Seashore", "city": "Inverness", "lat": 38.0263, "lng": -122.9606, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Daily, sunrise to sunset", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "kids", "solo", "group", "outoftown" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.nps.gov/places/point-reyes-drakes-beach.htm", "source": "National Park Service", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 104, "name": "Pier 39", "category": "family", "subcategory": "Waterfront marketplace", "glyph": "attractions", "blurb": "A two-level boardwalk of shops, chowder counters and street performers jutting into the bay, best known for the raft of sea lions that haul out on the K-Dock. Sweeping views to Alcatraz and the Golden Gate.", "address": "Beach St and The Embarcadero", "city": "San Francisco", "lat": 37.8087, "lng": -122.4098, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 120, "hours": "Daily, 10am to 9pm; shops and restaurants vary", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "group", "outoftown", "date" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.pier39.com/", "source": "Pier 39", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 105, "name": "Coit Tower", "category": "landmarks", "subcategory": "Observation tower", "glyph": "attractions", "blurb": "A 210-foot Art Deco column on Telegraph Hill, ringed inside by 1934 WPA murals of California life. Ride the elevator to the open top for a full sweep of the bay, the bridges and the downtown skyline.", "address": "1 Telegraph Hill Blvd", "city": "San Francisco", "lat": 37.8024, "lng": -122.4058, "priceTier": 1, "durationMins": 60, "hours": "Daily, 10am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://sfrecpark.org/facilities/facility/details/Coit-Tower-290", "source": "SF Recreation and Parks", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 106, "name": "Golden Gate Bridge", "category": "landmarks", "subcategory": "Bridge and viewpoint", "glyph": "attractions", "blurb": "The 1937 suspension bridge in its unmistakable International Orange, spanning the strait between the city and the Marin Headlands. Walk the east sidewalk, or take in the whole span from the Welcome Center and Battery East overlooks.", "address": "Golden Gate Bridge, US-101", "city": "San Francisco", "lat": 37.8078, "lng": -122.475, "priceTier": 0, "durationMins": 90, "hours": "Sidewalks open daily; hours shift with the season", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "date", "solo", "outoftown", "group" ], "indoor": false, "link": "https://www.goldengate.org/bridge/", "source": "Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 107, "name": "California Academy of Sciences", "category": "museums", "subcategory": "Science museum and aquarium", "glyph": "science", "blurb": "A natural history museum, planetarium, aquarium and four-story indoor rainforest under one living roof in Golden Gate Park. A full rainy-day itinerary on its own, and a reliable hit with kids.", "address": "55 Music Concourse Dr", "city": "San Francisco", "lat": 37.7699, "lng": -122.4661, "priceTier": 3, "durationMins": 180, "hours": "Mon to Sat 9:30am to 5pm, Sun 11am to 5pm", "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "kids", "rainy", "group", "outoftown", "date" ], "indoor": true, "link": "https://www.calacademy.org/", "source": "California Academy of Sciences", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 108, "name": "Foothills Nature Preserve", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Nature preserve", "city": "Palo Alto", "address": "3300 Page Mill Rd", "lat": 37.363, "lng": -122.1721, "blurb": "A 1,400-acre open-space preserve of oak woodland and grassland ridges above the valley, with quiet trails, a small lake and some of the closest real backcountry to the city. Long residents-only, now open to all.", "hours": "Daily, 8am to sunset", "durationMins": 120, "priceTier": 0, "indoor": false, "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "solo", "group", "date" ], "link": "https://www.paloalto.gov/Departments/Community-Services/Parks-Open-Space-Golf-Division/Neighborhood-Parks/Foothills-Nature-Preserve", "source": "City of Palo Alto", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 109, "name": "Thien Long Son", "category": "landmarks", "subcategory": "Temple", "city": "Milpitas", "address": "3215 Calaveras Rd", "lat": 37.4458, "lng": -121.8437, "blurb": "A hillside Vietnamese Buddhist monastery and meditation park east of Milpitas, with terraced shrines, large statues and sweeping views over the South Bay. A calm, contemplative stop off Calaveras Road.", "hours": "Daily, dawn to dusk", "durationMins": 90, "priceTier": 0, "indoor": false, "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "solo", "group", "outoftown" ], "link": "https://thienlongson.org", "source": "Thien Long Son", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" }, { "id": 110, "name": "Don Edwards San Francisco Bay NWR", "category": "outdoors", "subcategory": "Wildlife refuge", "city": "Fremont", "address": "2 Marshlands Rd", "lat": 37.5321, "lng": -122.0716, "blurb": "The country's first urban national wildlife refuge, wrapping the south bay in salt marsh, mudflats and levee trails alive with shorebirds. A hilltop visitor center explains the tides, salt ponds and restoration work.", "hours": "Refuge trails daily; visitor center Sat to Sun 10am to 2pm", "durationMins": 150, "priceTier": 0, "indoor": false, "seasonality": "year-round", "goodFor": [ "solo", "group", "kids", "outoftown" ], "link": "https://www.fws.gov/refuge/don-edwards-san-francisco-bay", "source": "U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service", "verifiedOn": "2026-09-28" } ] }