The 30 Best Tourism attractions in Mountain View, California

Nix Nature Center is a park and tourist attraction located at 18751 Laguna Canyon Road in Laguna Beach, California, United States. The center is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors can explore the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, with 40 miles of trails winding through oak and sycamore woodlands, rocky bluffs, and scenic vistas. The park is home to diverse ecosystems and wildlife, including rare and endangered species like the California Gnatcatcher and Orange-Throated Whiptail. The Nix Nature Center offers exhibits, wildlife viewing areas, and regular guided tours by volunteer naturalists. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and more in this beautiful natural setting. The park is part of the Natural Community Conservation Planning program, dedicated to preserving Orange County's disappearing Coastal Sage Scrub community. Explore the beauty and biodiversity of Laguna Coast Wilderness Park at Nix Nature Center.

The Otay Open Space Preserve is a sprawling park and tourist attraction located at 2155 Otay Lakes Road in Dulzura, California. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the chance to explore over 8,000 acres of pristine natural landscapes, including rolling hills, oak woodlands, and stunning vistas. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this peaceful and scenic setting. With its diverse wildlife and stunning views, the Otay Open Space Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Moffett Field Historical Society Museum, located on Severyns Avenue in Mountain View, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for history buffs and technology enthusiasts alike. This museum is dedicated to educating the public about the rich heritage of Moffett Field and NASA Ames Research Center, showcasing its role as a vital military installation and research center. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight Moffett Field's significance in Silicon Valley's technological innovation, making it an essential stop for those interested in the region's history and impact on the world. Plan your visit today to discover the fascinating story of Moffett Field and its contributions to science and technology.

Northwood Park, located at 3620 Avenida Verano in Thousand Oaks, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park in the area. The park offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including a rubber-surfaced jogging trail, fitness stations, benches, picnic areas with BBQ grills, volleyball and basketball courts, a playground, and a permanent restroom. The park's scenic hillside location provides stunning sunset views, a view of the Mount Clif Ridge profile, and distant hills. The first phase of development was completed in 2009, with additional improvements completed in 2010 and 2017.

Tierra Rejada Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 11900 Mountain Trail Street in Moorpark, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features lush greenery, walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you're looking to relax, exercise, or simply enjoy nature, Tierra Rejada Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and explore this hidden gem in the heart of Moorpark!

Trinity Alps Wilderness is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Junction City, California, United States. Known for its breathtaking scenery, this wilderness area offers visitors the opportunity to explore pristine forests, rugged mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching in this remote and unspoiled natural setting. With over 500 miles of trails to explore, Trinity Alps Wilderness is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting outdoor adventure, this institution offers something for everyone.

Bowerman Barn is a charming tourist attraction located on Guy Covington Drive in Trinity Center, California, United States. This historic barn offers visitors a glimpse into the region's agricultural past with its rustic architecture and picturesque setting. Explore the grounds and learn about the barn's significance in local history, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings and scenic views. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a relaxing stop on your travels, Bowerman Barn is a must-see destination in Trinity Center.

Swift Creek Trailhead is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Trinity Center, California, United States. This popular destination offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area through various hiking trails and scenic views. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast looking for a challenging hike or simply seeking a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy nature, Swift Creek Trailhead has something for everyone. Come and discover the beauty of this hidden gem in Northern California.

Westport-Union Landing State Beach is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 25000 Hillshore Drive in Westport, California, United States. The park offers over 3 miles of rugged coastline, with 86 campsites available in three campgrounds overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The stunning views, sunsets, and tree-covered mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for visitors and photographers alike. The park is named after the early communities of Westport and Union Landing, known for supplying lumber and railroad ties to schooners offshore. The park offers fishing opportunities, with smelt and rock fish available to catch. The weather can be changeable, so layered clothing is recommended.

The Greathouse Visitor Center is a park and tourist attraction located on Nortonville Road in Pittsburg, California, United States. The center offers a variety of programs and tours related to the Black Diamond Mining History. The park's gate hours vary throughout the year, with parking fees applicable for vehicles, trailered vehicles, buses, and dogs. The center is temporarily closed for maintenance but staff are available on weekends for park information and activities. Visitors can explore the history of coal and sand mining in the area through exhibits, photographs, and artifacts at the Greathouse Visitor Center. Tours of the Hazel Atlas Mine and the new Coal Mine Experience exhibit are also available, with advanced reservations recommended. The park features 65 miles of trails through various types of vegetation, offering opportunities for hiking and nature study.

Big Break Regional Shoreline is a park and tourist attraction located at 69 Big Break Road in Oakley, California, United States. The park is part of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, a large estuarine environment on the Pacific coast. The area, known as the "Inland Coast," is where salty seawater meets snowmelt and runoff from the Sierra Nevada mountains, creating a diverse habitat for birds and fish. The park is home to 70 species of birds and several species of mammals, including special-status wildlife such as black rails, northern harriers, and white-tailed kites. The park features a visitor center with public WiFi, wheelchair-accessible amenities, and a fishing pier popular with local anglers. Boaters can access the waters of Big Break from the on-site beach launch, while hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians can explore the area via the Big Break Regional Trail.

Pier Santa Barbara is a picturesque tourist attraction located at 144-152 Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara, California, United States. This historic pier offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, making it a popular destination for visitors looking to soak up the beauty of the California coast. With a variety of shops, restaurants, and activities to enjoy, Pier Santa Barbara is the perfect spot for a leisurely day by the sea. Whether you're looking to shop for unique gifts, dine on fresh seafood, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the pier, Pier Santa Barbara has something for everyone to enjoy.

The Outdoors Santa Barbara Visitor Center is a must-visit tourist attraction and travel agency located at 113 Harbor Way in Santa Barbara, California. Offering the best views in Santa Barbara seven days a week, this center is free to visit and explore. Visitors can enjoy two floors of historical and maritime art exhibits, as well as guided virtual museum tours with SBMM's Executive Director Greg Gorga. Additionally, visitors can download a printable map of the Maritime Museum and exhibits, and the museum is available for private and corporate events for Navigators Circle members. The center is a partnership between NOAA, CINP, SBMM, and the City of Santa Barbara, providing information about the Channel Islands National Park, the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, and the Los Padres National Forest.

Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve is a breathtaking park and tourist attraction located in Redwood City, California, United States. This expansive preserve offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and coastline. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking in this serene natural setting. With its diverse wildlife and plant species, Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Arroyo Verde Park is a scenic and tranquil park located on Foothill Road in Ventura, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking to relax in nature or get some exercise, Arroyo Verde Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come and experience the beauty and serenity of this beloved park in Ventura.

Elmshaven is a historic tourist attraction located at 125 Glass Mountain Lane in St. Helena, California. This beautiful institution offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved architecture and charming gardens. Originally built in the late 19th century, Elmshaven was once the home of renowned author and religious leader Ellen G. White. Visitors can explore the grounds, tour the house, and learn about the fascinating history of this iconic landmark. Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Elmshaven is a must-visit destination in the heart of Napa Valley.

Wildwood Canyon State Park, located at 12241 Canyon Drive in Yucaipa, California, is a picturesque park and tourist attraction in the Inland Empire region. With sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and the San Bernardino Mountains, this park offers a unique nature experience with grasslands, oak trees, and diverse habitats. Explore the history of the area with remnants of past ranches and homesteads. Remember to follow park rules to protect the natural resources and ensure your safety. The park's physical address is 12241 Canyon Dr. Yucaipa, CA 92399, with parking available for equestrian trailers and cars. Come visit Wildwood Canyon for a memorable outdoor adventure!

Pacifica State Beach is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 5000 California 1 in Pacifica, California, United States. This crescent-shaped beach is a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the stunning coastline just south of San Francisco. The park is for day use only and closes at sundown, offering a peaceful retreat for beachgoers. Although online reservations are not available, California State Parks Backpacking Adventures offers naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains each summer, including a new "Cars-BA" trip to the Big Basin basecamp. Online registration opens on March 1 at 9am for those interested in exploring the area on foot.

The Morton Peak Fire Lookout is a historic fire tower located at 34800 Morton Ridge Trail in Mentone, California. This iconic tourist attraction offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and take in the stunning scenery, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the area. Whether you're looking for a thrilling adventure or simply want to enjoy the beauty of nature, the Morton Peak Fire Lookout is the perfect destination for your next outdoor excursion.

Elk Meadow Turnout is a captivating zoo located in the scenic town of Orick, California, United States. This unique institution is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including majestic elk, meandering through lush meadows and towering forests. Visitors can observe and learn about these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat, making for an unforgettable experience. With its stunning surroundings and educational opportunities, Elk Meadow Turnout is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Olompali State Historic Park, located at 8901 Redwood Boulevard in Novato, California, offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Coast Miwok people who inhabited the area for thousands of years. The park overlooks the Petaluma River and San Pablo Bay, providing stunning views from the slopes of Mount Burdell. Visitors can explore the historic Burdell mansion, gardens, and ranch facility, as well as hike along the Miwok Loop Trail or venture to the peak of Mt. Burdell for a challenging trek. Dogs are allowed in developed areas of the park, but not on trails or in historic buildings. Parking is available for $8 per vehicle, payable by cash, check, or the Yodel smartphone app. The park is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm, with gates closing promptly at closing time. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and history of the park, and to enjoy the educational opportunities provided by the Friends of Olompali.

Belden Barns is a charming food and tourist attraction located at 5561 Sonoma Mountain Road in Santa Rosa, California, United States. Nestled in the picturesque Sonoma Valley, this institution offers visitors a unique and immersive experience in the heart of wine country. Guests can enjoy tastings of locally-produced wines, farm-fresh produce, and artisanal goods while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills. Whether you're a foodie looking to sample delicious treats or a traveler seeking a taste of California's agricultural bounty, Belden Barns is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the area.

Gray Whale Cove State Beach, also known as Devil's Slide, is a picturesque tourist attraction located in Half Moon Bay, California, United States. The beach features a sheltered cove surrounded by cliffs that drop abruptly into the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views and opportunities to see migrating gray whales up close. Visitors can access the beach via a steep trail from the parking lot on the east side of Highway 1. Please note that camping is not available at this park and online reservations are not accepted. However, guided hikes and public programs can be scheduled through the Parks Events page. Additionally, California State Parks Backpacking Adventures offers naturalist-led backpacking trips through the Santa Cruz Mountains each summer.

Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve is a park and tourist attraction located in Oakland, California, United States. The preserve is known for its unique geological features, including the prominent Round Top peak, which stands at 1,763 feet above sea level. Visitors can explore several trails throughout the preserve, including the East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail and the Volcanic Trail, which offers a self-guided tour of the area's volcanic history. The preserve was originally called Round Top Park and is one of the East Bay Regional Park District's original parks. It was later named in honor of Robert Sibley, a founding member of the District. Cattle grazing has been a part of the ecosystem in the East Bay hills for many years, helping to reduce wildfire risks and maintain natural habitats for plants and wildlife.

The Lower Gondola Station is a popular tourist destination located at 9777 Golf Links Road in Oakland, California, United States. This station serves as the starting point for a scenic gondola ride that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely ride to the top of the mountain, where they can take in panoramic views of the city below. The Lower Gondola Station is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Oakland from a unique vantage point.

Lake Chabot Regional Park is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 17600 Lake Chabot Road in Castro Valley, California. The park is open daily from 5am to 10pm, with varying gate hours throughout the year. Parking is available for $5 per vehicle, with additional fees for buses, dogs, fishing access, boating, and other activities. The 315-acre Lake Chabot was built in the 1870s as a water source for the East Bay and is now open for recreational use. The park offers a variety of amenities including fishing piers, wheelchair accessible facilities, hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a marina with boat rentals. Visitors can also enjoy guided lake tours, fishing derbies, and the Lake Chabot Marina Cafe.

Fremont Peak State Park, located at 10700 San Juan Canyon Road in San Juan Bautista, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its breathtaking views of Monterey Bay and the surrounding valleys and mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails through the park's grasslands, pine and oak woodlands, and even take advantage of camping and picnic facilities. The park also features an astronomical observatory with a 30-inch telescope, offering public programs on selected evenings. For those interested in camping or lodging at the park, reservations can be made up to six months in advance, subject to availability and maximum stay rules. Wood and charcoal fires are allowed in designated fire rings, but visitors must bring their own wood as collecting materials from the park is prohibited. Fires must be monitored at all times, and citations will be issued for violations.

Pacheco State Park, located at 38787 Dinosaur Point Road in Hollister, California, is a beautiful wilderness park and tourist attraction at the top of the Coast Range. This park offers a variety of activities such as the Wildflower Hike, History Walk, and Indian Games for school field trips. The park is the last remaining portion of the Mexican land grant, El Rancho San Luis Gonzaga, and has a rich history dating back to 1843. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the Central Valley and Santa Clara Valley, as well as explore the 28 miles of trails for horse-back riding, hiking, and mountain biking. The park is home to a variety of wildlife including tule elk, deer, bobcat, coyote, fox, hawks, golden eagles, and more. Additionally, there are historic features such as an old line shack, part of the Butterfield Stage line route, and the remains of the original Pacheco adobe.

The Hot Springs Canyon Trailhead is a popular tourist attraction located in Montecito, California. This park offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is the starting point for numerous hiking trails through the picturesque Hot Springs Canyon. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, taking in the natural beauty of the area. The trailhead is easily accessible and provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a relaxing outdoor adventure, the Hot Springs Canyon Trailhead is a must-visit destination in Southern California.

The Big Horn Sheep Exhibit at the Los Angeles Zoo in California showcases these majestic animals in their natural habitat. Visitors can observe these iconic creatures up close as they roam and graze in a spacious and enriching environment. Learn about the unique behaviors and adaptations of Big Horn Sheep through informative signage and interactive displays. This exhibit offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of these rugged and resilient animals, providing an educational and memorable experience for all ages.