Computer History Museum, San Francisco - a laptop on a table
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Computer History Museum San Francisco

Explore the fascinating journey of computing from its earliest days to the AI-powered present.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more focus

CrowdLow
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Computer History Museum, San Francisco - a laptop on a table

Computer History Museum San Francisco

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more focus

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the fascinating journey of computing from its earliest days to the AI-powered present.

4.7
(7k reviews)

"More exciting and fascinating than I thought, a must-visit for tech fans!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Dawn of Computing

The Dawn of Computing

Early Computing Exhibits

Witness the evolution from early mechanical calculators to the first computers.

The Internet's Birth

The Internet's Birth

Internet History Exhibits

Explore the innovations that shaped the digital age and the World Wide Web.

Silicon Valley Pioneers

Silicon Valley Pioneers

Industry Leaders Section

Discover the stories of the visionaries who built the tech giants.

Retro Tech Wonders

Retro Tech Wonders

Main Exhibit Hall

See iconic machines like Cray supercomputers and early Google racks.

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Planning Your Visit

Getting There: It's a Journey!

The Computer History Museum is in Mountain View, not San Francisco. Caltrain is the recommended public transit, followed by a short Uber or a walk (about 30-60 mins). Plan for travel time!

Time & Tickets: Plan Ahead

Allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore. While tickets are around $20, check Groupon for potential deals. Some Reddit users suggest calling ahead for free tour schedules.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more focus
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Two thousand and WHAT? 🫣Anyways, join us at After Dark every Thursday from 6–10 p.m. (Ages 18+ of course!). #fyp #exploratorium #sanfrancisco #museumtok #museum #learnontiktok
@exploratorium
799.8K likes • 4.9M views

🎯 Caltrain is Key

Take Caltrain to Mountain View, then Uber or walk. Some suggest the MVGO shuttle for weekdays. Reddit+1

💰 Look for Ticket Deals

Check Groupon for discounted tickets; regular admission is around $20. Reddit

Build an arch that supports itself. Can you make it stand? #LearnOnTikTok #fyp #exploratorium #sanfrancisco #bayarea #sanfranciscobayarea #bayareatok #museum #museumtok #museumtiktok #getcultured #science #visitcalifornia #thebay
@exploratorium
241.4K likes • 6.3M views
The original #WellsFargo stagecoach
my_mind_body_spirit_journey
9 likes • 0 views

⏰ Allow Ample Time

You'll need 2-3 hours minimum to see everything. Time flies here! Reddit

🗣️ Free Tours Available

Call ahead to check the schedule for free guided tours, often included with admission. Reddit

🌉 You Visit to San Francisco: Where Will You Go First?🌉 📌 Download my San Francisco Travel Guide (PDF version) with things to do, places to eat, detailed itineraries, and practical tips. Link in bio! ✨ San Francisco is filled with iconic landmarks and unforgettable experiences. If it’s your first time here, which of these must-visit spots would you head to first? ✨ Golden Gate Bridge 🎭 Palace of F...
@lisarosanty
51.5K likes • 705.8K views

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. Reddit+1

💰 Look for Ticket Deals

Check Groupon for discounted tickets; regular admission is around $20. Reddit

⏰ Allow Ample Time

You'll need 2-3 hours minimum to see everything. Time flies here! Reddit

🗣️ Free Tours Available

Call ahead to check the schedule for free guided tours, often included with admission. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Safe Suburban Walk

Walking from the Mountain View Caltrain station is safe and pleasant, about 30-60 mins. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7k reviews)

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

Fascinating historical exhibits
Journey of computer progress
Iconic retro technology

What People Dislike

Requires significant time
Can be overwhelming

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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

Yes, many visitors recommend checking sites like Groupon for potential discounts on admission tickets. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍💻 Tech Enthusiasts & Developers

This museum is a pilgrimage site for anyone passionate about technology. You'll find deep dives into the origins of Silicon Valley, the evolution of programming languages, and the hardware that powered the digital revolution. Reddit+1 Expect to see iconic machines and learn about the groundbreaking innovations that shaped the industry. Don't miss exhibits on early networking and the birth of the internet. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Older Kids

While not a typical children's museum, the Computer History Museum offers a fascinating look at how technology has evolved, which can be very engaging for older kids and teens interested in STEM. Reddit The interactive elements and the sheer scale of some of the early machines are impressive. Consider calling ahead to see if there are any specific demonstrations or tours that might be particularly engaging for younger visitors. Reddit

🤓 History Buffs

Beyond just computers, this museum tells the story of human ingenuity and innovation. You'll explore the societal impact of computing, the challenges faced by early pioneers, and the rapid pace of technological change. Reddit It's a compelling narrative of how we got from mechanical calculators to today's AI-driven world. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating to the Museum: The Caltrain Connection

The Computer History Museum is located in Mountain View, a significant distance from San Francisco. For those relying on public transport, Caltrain is the most recommended method. You'll take the commuter train south from San Francisco to the Mountain View station. From there, the museum is about 1.5 miles away. Reddit+1

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. Reddit For weekday visitors, there might be local shuttle services like MVGO that can bridge the gap between the station and the museum. Reddit

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. Reddit

Maximizing Your Visit: Time and Exhibits

To truly appreciate the vast collection at the Computer History Museum, it's crucial to allocate sufficient time. Most visitors find that 2-3 hours is the absolute minimum, and many wish they had more time to delve into the details. Reddit+1 The museum is meticulously organized into sections covering the entire spectrum of computing history, from early mechanical calculators and the birth of the internet to the rise of personal computers and the current era of AI. Reddit

Key exhibits that consistently receive praise include the Babbage Difference Engine demonstration, the impressive Cray supercomputers, and the original Google rack. Reddit 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. Reddit

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. Reddit These tours can provide context and highlight lesser-known stories, enriching your understanding of computing's incredible journey.

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