Located halfway between San Francisco and San Jose, Redwood City is a vibrant tech hub in Northern California. It’s home to San Francisco Bay’s only deepwater port and a family-friendly county museum, while it also offers easy access to the walking trails of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Things to do in Redwood City
In the heart of Redwood City is the San Mateo County History Museum, which is housed within an early 20th-century county courthouse. It was constructed as part of the City Beautiful Movement and is topped by a magnificent stained-glass dome. Discover how the local indigenous people used natural resources in their everyday life and learn about the evolution of the “California Dream”, as well as the experience of immigrants in San Mateo County.
In nearby San Carlos is the Hiller Aviation Museum, where you can get up close to more than 50 vintage aircraft and helicopters. It was founded in 1998 by the helicopter pioneer Stanley Hiller and is home to an experimental aircraft he designed for single-passenger, low-altitude flights. Also on display is a remotely piloted Stearman-Hammond Y-1 and a plane built by Burt Rutan.
Sprawling along the western edge of Redwood City is the Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve, which is renowned for its annual spring wildflower displays. It lies adjacent to the Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve where you can stretch your legs while enjoying magnificent views across San Francisco Bay. Combine your walk with a visit to the beautiful botanic garden of nearby Filoli Historic House.
Getting around Redwood City
Redwood City is around 30 minutes’ drive from both San Jose and San Francisco while San Francisco International Airport is just 15 minutes away. Regular trains connect to the Redwood City railway station and buses travel throughout the city.