Attractions and Places To See around Mountain View - Top 20

Mountain View offers a blend of natural beauty. You can explore the scenic trails at Shoreline at Mountain View / Shoreline Lake Park, which is perfect for walking, biking, birdwatching, kayaking, and paddleboating. The Stevens Creek Trail also provides a peaceful escape through riparian habitats and tidal marshlands. For a more community-focused green space, Cuesta Park features trails and gardens.

Yes, Mountain View has several historical sites. The Rengstorff House, built in 1867, is the oldest structure still standing in the city and is now located in Shoreline Park. You can also see The Adobe Building, Mountain View's first community center, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. For a deeper dive into local history, visit the Mountain View History Center located within the Public Library.

Mountain View is home to the Computer History Museum, which houses a significant collection of computing artifacts. The Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural hub for theater, dance, and music. Additionally, the Moffett Field Historical Society Museum chronicles the history of Moffett Field, and the NASA Ames Visitor Center offers fascinating exhibits on space exploration.

Families can enjoy outdoor activities at Shoreline at Mountain View / Shoreline Lake Park, with options for biking, paddleboating, and birdwatching. The Stevens Creek Trail is also great for family walks or bike rides. For a unique experience, the NASA Ames Visitor Center has engaging exhibits like 'Science on a Sphere' and 'REAL Moon Walk' that are sure to captivate children and adults alike.

As the heart of Silicon Valley, Mountain View's tech culture is palpable. While the Googleplex isn't fully open to the public, you can explore its surrounding areas, see the famous Google bikes, and view the Android statues. The Computer History Museum provides an in-depth look at the evolution of computing, which shaped the region's tech landscape.

Absolutely. The Stevens Creek Trail offers a scenic path through natural habitats, ideal for walking, biking, or running. Shoreline at Mountain View / Shoreline Lake Park also has extensive trails with picturesque views. For a more urban stroll, Castro Street in downtown Mountain View is perfect for exploring shops and cafes.

Castro Street is the vibrant heart of downtown Mountain View, bustling with an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and shops. It's a great place to experience the city's diverse community, enjoy a meal, or simply take a stroll. The Mountain View Farmers' Market, held every Sunday, is also a popular downtown attraction for fresh produce and local goods.

Yes, Mountain View features interesting public art. You can find a piece of the Berlin Wall displayed in front of the public library. Another notable piece is the 'Tick Tock the Crocodile' statue, adding a whimsical touch to the city's landscape.

Beyond the city's parks, the wider area offers various outdoor activities. For road cycling, you can explore routes like 'Chain of Craters Road' or 'Volcano to Keaʻau loop'. If you prefer easy hikes, consider routes such as 'Kīlauea Iki Trail' or the 'Kīlauea Iki East Overlook – Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) loop'. There are also several running trails, including 'Crater Rim Drive and Devastation Trail'.

The Moffett Field Historical Society Museum provides insights into the storied past of Moffett Field, showcasing historical aircraft and memorabilia. Additionally, the NASA Ames Visitor Center, located at Moffett Field, offers fascinating exhibits related to space exploration and NASA's research.

Yes, Shoreline at Mountain View / Shoreline Lake Park is an excellent spot for birdwatching, given its location by the lake and bay. Bedwell Bayfront Park, with its proximity to the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, also offers increased chances of seeing diverse wildlife and is popular for birdwatching.

The SF Bay Trail crosses the San Tomas Aquino Creek, providing scenic routes for cyclists and hikers. You can also access the Bay Trail from Bedwell Bayfront Park, which offers 160 acres for hiking, running, and bicycling with views of the bay and opportunities for wildlife spotting.