Computer History Museum San Francisco
Explore the fascinating journey of computing from its earliest days to the AI-powered present.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus
Computer History Museum San Francisco
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focus

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the fascinating journey of computing from its earliest days to the AI-powered present.
"More exciting and fascinating than I thought, a must-visit for tech fans!"
🎯 Caltrain is Key
Take Caltrain to Mountain View, then Uber or walk. Some suggest the MVGO shuttle for weekdays.
💰 Look for Ticket Deals
Check Groupon for discounted tickets; regular admission is around $20.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Dawn of Computing
Early Computing Exhibits
Witness the evolution from early mechanical calculators to the first computers.

The Internet's Birth
Internet History Exhibits
Explore the innovations that shaped the digital age and the World Wide Web.

Silicon Valley Pioneers
Industry Leaders Section
Discover the stories of the visionaries who built the tech giants.

Retro Tech Wonders
Main Exhibit Hall
See iconic machines like Cray supercomputers and early Google racks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: It's a Journey!
Time & Tickets: Plan Ahead
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Caltrain is Key
Take Caltrain to Mountain View, then Uber or walk. Some suggest the MVGO shuttle for weekdays.
💰 Look for Ticket Deals
Check Groupon for discounted tickets; regular admission is around $20.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
You'll need 2-3 hours minimum to see everything. Time flies here!
🗣️ Free Tours Available
Call ahead to check the schedule for free guided tours, often included with admission.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Caltrain is Key
Take Caltrain to Mountain View, then Uber or walk. Some suggest the MVGO shuttle for weekdays.
💰 Look for Ticket Deals
Check Groupon for discounted tickets; regular admission is around $20.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
You'll need 2-3 hours minimum to see everything. Time flies here!
🗣️ Free Tours Available
Call ahead to check the schedule for free guided tours, often included with admission.
🚶♀️ Safe Suburban Walk
Walking from the Mountain View Caltrain station is safe and pleasant, about 30-60 mins.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Computer History Museum for its comprehensive and engaging exhibits, offering a deep dive into the evolution of computing and Silicon Valley. Many are surprised by how fascinating it is, even if they aren't 'computer geeks.' The sheer volume of information and artifacts means a single visit is often not enough.
"It's all about how the Silicon Valley started and how it progressed over the years till now. Journey of computers progress starting from year 1930 to present day AI based computers.
It's divided into 18 sections + 2 additional sections outside the main entry.
Every fee of 12$ is more than worth it. Knowledge and information you get there is exceptional. Children upto 7 age free entry.
If you are really interested in computers history of progress then be ready to spend about 2-3 hours here. Inside you may not know how fast the time is tickling."
Jagdish Thadani
"I thought it would be boring because I’m not a computer geek like my husband who really loves this place, but it turned out more exciting and fascinating than I thought. Looking through the history of machine revolutions, it was really amazed how the people back then could think of and create all these stuffs from scratch. Of course, there were multiple experiments and failures before they reached success, but the process was really awesome!
Just 1 visit cannot make you understand and remember all these history. I’d gladly come back again!"
Judy Margaret Chen
"Insane amount of information to go through and items from the very beginning of the computer era to this day. Two hours is nowhere near enough to see everything and properly digest all the info. So many cool items like the original Cray or Google's first rack. Plan your day well as you do not want to be rushed since there is so much to see! I will certainly be back for more. An absolute must-visit for all computer technology fans if in the neighborhood."
Szymon Bakowski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is in Mountain View. The most common public transit route is taking Caltrain to the Mountain View station. From there, you can take a short Uber ride to the museum, or enjoy a walk of about 30-60 minutes. Some users mention weekday shuttle options like MVGO.
Yes, walking from the Mountain View Caltrain station is generally considered safe, with sidewalks available. It's a pleasant suburban walk, though it can take 30-60 minutes depending on your pace.
While Caltrain is the primary recommendation, some Reddit users mention VTA buses or specific weekday shuttles like MVGO that might connect from Caltrain stations to the museum area.
Yes, the museum has a parking lot. Driving is an option if you're coming from other parts of Silicon Valley or prefer not to use public transport.
If you're in Palo Alto, Caltrain is still a good option to head towards Mountain View. Alternatively, a short drive or Uber/Lyft would be convenient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is typically around $20 per adult. Children under 7 often get free entry. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, many visitors recommend checking sites like Groupon for potential discounts on admission tickets.
While not always strictly necessary, booking tickets in advance, especially for weekends or holidays, can save you time at the entrance. You can usually purchase them online through the museum's website.
The museum typically operates Tuesday through Sunday, with hours usually from 10 AM to 5 PM. It's best to verify the exact hours on their official website before your visit, as they can vary.
Many guided tours are included with the admission ticket. It's recommended to call the museum directly to inquire about the schedule for free tours, as website information may not always be up-to-date.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the exhibits. Many find that even this isn't enough time to see everything in detail.
Highlights include the early computing machines, the history of the internet, iconic tech like Cray supercomputers, and the evolution of software and AI. The IBM 1401 demonstration is also a popular draw.
While it's not primarily geared towards young children, the museum offers fascinating exhibits that can engage older kids and teens interested in technology. Younger children (under 7) often have free admission.
Yes, the museum often features demonstrations, such as the Babbage Difference Engine. It's advisable to check their schedule upon arrival or on their website for any special events or talks happening during your visit.
The museum shop offers a variety of interesting items related to computing history, from books and educational toys to unique souvenirs. It's a good place to find gifts for tech enthusiasts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafe that offers reasonably priced food and drinks. It's a convenient spot to take a break during your visit.
The museum is located in a suburban area of Mountain View. There are various restaurants and cafes in the surrounding business parks and downtown Mountain View, a short drive or Uber away.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum galleries. However, there might be designated areas for picnics or snacks. It's best to check the museum's policy upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas of the museum. However, flash photography and tripods may be restricted in certain exhibits to protect the artifacts. Always look for signage or ask staff if unsure.
Iconic exhibits like the Cray supercomputers, early mainframes, and the Babbage Difference Engine are great for photos. The overall layout showcasing the progression of technology also makes for interesting shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨💻 Tech Enthusiasts & Developers
👨👩👧 Families with Older Kids
🤓 History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to the Museum: The Caltrain Connection
To cover this final stretch, most visitors opt for a short Uber or Lyft ride. Alternatively, if you enjoy walking and have the time, it's a safe and pleasant suburban walk of approximately 30-60 minutes. Some users suggest using specific trails like the Stevens Creek Trail for a more scenic route. For weekday visitors, there might be local shuttle services like MVGO that can bridge the gap between the station and the museum.
If you're driving, the museum offers a parking lot, making it a convenient option for those coming from other parts of Silicon Valley. Remember to factor in travel time, as the journey from San Francisco can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours one way.
Maximizing Your Visit: Time and Exhibits
Key exhibits that consistently receive praise include the Babbage Difference Engine demonstration, the impressive Cray supercomputers, and the original Google rack. The museum does an excellent job of showcasing not just the hardware but also the software, the pioneers, and the societal impact of these technological advancements. Don't miss the chance to see working vintage computers from the 1960s, which offer a tangible connection to the past.
For those seeking deeper insights, consider inquiring about guided tours. While the website schedule might not always be current, calling the museum can reveal opportunities for free tours led by knowledgeable staff. These tours can provide context and highlight lesser-known stories, enriching your understanding of computing's incredible journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit