Planning a visit to Silicon Valley? Here’s a list of some of the best things to do in Mountain View and neighboring communities.

Explore Castro Street

Walk down Downtown Mountain View’s pedestrian-friendly main drag, Castro Street. This street boasts an array of the city’s best restaurants, unique shops, and vibrant nightlife options.

Tour the Googleplex

Take a leisurely stroll around Google’s headquarters campus and capture selfies next to the quirky art installations, Android lawn sculptures, and the colorful campus bikes.

Learn About Tech History

Discover the Computer History Museum, where you can take a fascinating journey through the entire history of computing.

Learn About Space Exploration

Visit the NASA Ames Research Center’s public visitor center to explore exhibits focused on NASA’s groundbreaking space research and aeronautics. Admission is free!

Take a Hike

Shoreline Park offers eight miles of trails perfect for walking, jogging, and biking. These local trails connect to Stevens Creek Trail, Permanente Creek Trail, and the Bay Loop Trail. Additional hiking trails can also be found throughout Silicon Valley.

Fly a Kite

In Shoreline Park, the Kite Lot is dedicated as the official kite-flying spot for the City of Mountain View, providing a windy open space perfect for this fun outdoor activity.

Watch a Concert at Shoreline Amphitheater

Many of the biggest musical acts in the Bay Area perform at Shoreline. This outdoor amphitheater accommodates 22,500 attendees, featuring 6,500 reserved seats and 16,000 general admission seats on the lawn.

Watch a Theater Performance

Catch a show at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, the Pear Theater, or the Peninsula Youth Theater for an enjoyable evening of entertainment.

Visit With Baby Farm Animals

Take a trip to Deer Hollow Farm, a historic 160-acre ranch and educational farm located in the Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve in Cupertino. Entry is free!

Shop Fresh at an Open-Air Market

Mountain View hosts a year-round, weekly farmer’s market on Sunday mornings at the VTA/Caltrain station parking lot. Additionally, the Milk Pail Market (2585 California Street) is a beloved outdoor gourmet food market known for its artisan foods sourced from California and rare European imports.

Popular Annual Festivals and Events

• The Irish Fleadh (May)
• Japanese Obon Festival (July)
• Mountain View Art and Wine Festival (September)
• German Oktoberfest (October)

Head Over the Hills to the Beach

Mountain View is conveniently located just a quick, 30-minute drive from the beautiful beaches along the Silicon Valley coast. There are numerous activities available in nearby Half Moon Bay and Pescadero, CA.