Filoli Historic House & Garden
An early-20th-century country estate and botanic garden, offering stunning landscapes and historic tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tulips and flowers in full bloom
Filoli Historic House & Garden
Best Time
Tulips and flowers in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An early-20th-century country estate and botanic garden, offering stunning landscapes and historic tours.
"This dreamy garden is straight out of a story-book, a magical place in the Bay Area."
Book Tickets Ahead 🎟️
Filoli can sell out, especially in spring. Book online to secure your spot!
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 16 acres of gardens and trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Enchanting Gardens
Throughout the estate
Wander through 16 acres of meticulously manicured gardens, from vibrant spring blooms to fall foliage.
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Historic Mansion Tours
The Filoli Mansion
Step back in time with tours of the grand early-20th-century estate, showcasing its architecture and history.
Seasonal Exhibits & Events
Various locations
Experience special events like the Halloween 'Nightfall' or festive holiday decorations.
Woodland Trails
Estate trails
Explore serene walking paths through redwoods and along creeks for a peaceful nature escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Plan for Walking & Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tickets Ahead 🎟️
Filoli can sell out, especially in spring. Book online to secure your spot!
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 16 acres of gardens and trails.
Pack a Picnic 🍲
Enjoy a meal amidst the beautiful grounds; there are also food trucks sometimes.
Check for Events 🎃
Filoli hosts special seasonal events like Halloween and holiday displays.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tickets Ahead 🎟️
Filoli can sell out, especially in spring. Book online to secure your spot!
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking across 16 acres of gardens and trails.
Pack a Picnic 🍲
Enjoy a meal amidst the beautiful grounds; there are also food trucks sometimes.
Check for Events 🎃
Filoli hosts special seasonal events like Halloween and holiday displays.
Family Fun with Trolls 🧝
Kids love searching for the hidden trolls scattered throughout the estate.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Filoli for its stunning, well-maintained gardens and the grandeur of its historic mansion. It's highlighted as a beautiful escape for families, couples, and photographers alike, offering a peaceful yet engaging experience with seasonal events adding extra charm. Some find the on-site restaurant a bit pricey for the quality.
"Beautiful location for the family. The Trolls exhibit was so much fun for the little to find. Walking to the gardens was pleasant and an adventure to stroll the different parts of the garden...put your feet in the pool. There was even a flower shop to buy plants and garden items.
There are restrooms throughout the gardens, and they are very nice. The staff is really friendly."
Shaleen Hinestroza-Keen
"Filoli is a beautiful estate with a stunning house and gorgeous gardens. It offers a nice glimpse into the Bay Area’s past. The on-site restaurant is a bit overpriced, and the food is just okay, though they also have food trucks as an alternative. Parking is free and easy to find. I do recommend visiting—I spent a lovely afternoon there."
Murillo Pontual
"What a spectacular place to visit! There are so many things to do, such as hiking some of their trails, exploring the main house, and admiring the beautiful grounds! The mansion in wonderful condition, and the architecture inside and out is amazing. There are many plaques explaining the history behind the estate, both inside the house and on the grounds. While walking the grounds of the estate, we were so amazed about everything it offered! There is a colorful rose garden, along with a great garden house and many nice fountains. There is also a majestic rectangular pond with plants and grass, which is probably the best spot for a photo. Towards the back is a large vegetable and fruit garden, with mature plants and trees. Whether you are doing a photoshoot, hosting an event, or just looking around, this is an amazing place to do so! I highly recommend!"
William Joy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Filoli is located at 86 Cañada Rd, Woodside, CA 94062. It's easily accessible by car from San Francisco and San Jose. Free parking is available on-site. +2
While direct public transport is limited, you can take Caltrain to the Palo Alto station and then arrange for a taxi or rideshare to Filoli, which is about a 15-20 minute drive.
From Highway 101, take the Edgewood Road exit west. Turn right on Cañada Road, and Filoli will be on your left. From I-280, take the Woodside Road exit west, turn left on Cañada Road, and Filoli will be on your right.
Absolutely! Filoli is a fantastic day trip from San Francisco, offering a serene escape into nature and history just a short drive away.
Yes, Filoli is a popular destination for those visiting from San Jose, providing a beautiful horticultural and historical experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission prices can vary, but typically range around $38 for adults and $29 for children (ages 5-17). It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing. +2
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, as Filoli can sell out, especially during peak seasons like spring.
Filoli is generally open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, but hours can vary for special events. Always check their website for the most up-to-date schedule. +1
Filoli is a partner with Museums for All, offering admission for those with EBT cards. Inquire directly with tickets@filoli.org for details. Annual passes are also a great deal for locals. +1
While walk-in tickets may sometimes be available, it's strongly advised to book in advance to guarantee entry, as they do sell out.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Explore the stunning 16-acre gardens, tour the historic mansion, walk the woodland trails, and enjoy seasonal exhibits and events. +1
Yes, docent-led tours of the historic house are often available, providing in-depth insights into its history and architecture.
Filoli is very family-friendly! Kids enjoy searching for hidden trolls, exploring the gardens, and participating in daily storytime sessions. +1
Yes, Filoli is a popular spot for photography, especially for engagement sessions and events. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific photography guidelines.
Restrooms are conveniently located throughout the gardens and are well-maintained.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Filoli has an on-site restaurant, though some find it a bit overpriced. Food trucks are also sometimes available as an alternative.
Yes, Filoli offers a nice area for picnics, making it a great option to bring your own food and enjoy it amidst the beautiful scenery.
The restaurant offers a dining experience within the estate, though reviews suggest the food is just okay.
Beyond the main restaurant, keep an eye out for seasonal offerings or food trucks that may be present during your visit.
While convenient, many visitors opt for picnics or explore dining options outside the estate due to the restaurant's pricing and perceived quality.
📸 📸 Photography
The formal gardens, the majestic pond, the rose garden, and the mansion itself offer stunning backdrops. The Trolls exhibit also provides unique photo opportunities. +1
Absolutely! Filoli is a highly sought-after location for engagement photos due to its picturesque gardens and historic architecture.
While generally welcoming to photographers, it's always good practice to be respectful of other visitors and adhere to any posted guidelines. Drone photography is typically not permitted.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the most beautiful, soft light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
The entire estate is a beautiful canvas for photos, but the formal gardens, the mansion's exterior, and the pond area are particularly popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during special events like the Halloween 'Nightfall' for an extra dose of family fun.
+1 The estate is generally stroller-friendly in the main garden areas, and restrooms are readily available. 📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Whether you're capturing engagement sessions, wedding content, or simply seeking beautiful imagery, the 'golden hours' of early morning and late afternoon offer the most flattering light.
The estate's diverse flora means that every season presents a unique palette, from spring blooms to autumn colors. Be sure to check Filoli's website for any specific guidelines regarding professional photoshoots or commercial use. ❤️ Couples & Date Ideas
The historic mansion provides a touch of elegance and history, and finding a quiet spot for a picnic amidst the flowers can be incredibly charming. Consider visiting during the Summer Nights events for a magical evening experience in the gardens, or explore the estate during the fall for its beautiful foliage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Gardens
to the rich hues of autumn foliage, there's always something spectacular in bloom. Don't miss the iconic Walled Garden, the fragrant Rose Garden, and the serene English Garden. Each section offers a unique atmosphere and a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls and photography. Beyond the formal areas, the estate also features a Vegetable and Fruit Garden, showcasing mature plants and trees, and tranquil Woodland Trails that wind through redwoods and along creeks. These trails offer a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore every corner. The gardens are exceptionally well-maintained, offering visitors a glimpse into horticultural excellence and providing inspiration for their own gardens.
The Historic Mansion
Designed by renowned architect Willis Polk, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of its former residents, the Bourn and Roth families. Inside, you'll find beautifully preserved interiors, showcasing period furnishings and art. The architecture, both inside and out, is truly amazing, with many plaques explaining the history of the estate.
Filoli also transforms its mansion for special events, such as the enchanting Halloween 'Nightfall' where it becomes part of a spooky wonderland, or during the holiday season with festive decorations.
+1Seasonal Events and Experiences
+1 This event transforms the gardens into a Halloween wonderland, making it a unique and memorable visit. As the holiday season approaches, Filoli decks its halls and grounds with festive decorations, creating a charming winter wonderland.
In the spring, the gardens burst with color, making it an ideal time for flower enthusiasts and photographers. For a unique summer experience, Filoli offers 'Summer Nights,' where the gardens are open later on Wednesdays and Thursdays, allowing visitors to enjoy the estate in a different light. These special events often include activities for all ages, from storytimes for children to unique dining experiences, making Filoli a destination that offers something new and exciting with each visit.
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