Woodside: Filoli Historic House and Garden Entry Ticket

Discovering Filoli: A Garden and Historic House Experience in Woodside, California

If you’re seeking a well-rounded day trip that combines history, art, and nature, the Filoli Historic House and Garden in Woodside offers an intriguing escape just outside San Francisco. This tour is a fantastic way to spend a day wandering through beautifully curated gardens, exploring a grand Georgian mansion, and enjoying scenic California landscapes. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 from six reviews, it clearly appeals to visitors craving a mix of culture and nature.

What makes this experience worthwhile? First, the chance to step inside a stunning early 20th-century mansion that feels both opulent and inviting. Second, the 16 acres of gardens blossom with seasonal displays—think tulips in spring or roses in summer—that provide endless photo opportunities. Third, the miles of nature trails, showcasing six different California ecosystems, offer a peaceful retreat into the wilderness. One potential consideration? This tour involves some walking and outdoor time, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Ideal for those interested in architecture, horticulture, or simply a relaxing day outdoors, this tour suits families, couples, and solo travelers alike. It also pairs nicely with nearby outdoor exhibitions, like Thomas Dambo’s “TROLLS: Save the Humans,” starting in mid-2025, for those eager to combine art and nature in one visit.

Good To Know

• Historic Charm: Explore a grand Georgian mansion built in 1917, filled with character and elegance.
• Garden Beauty: Wander through 16 acres of gardens that change with the seasons, providing fresh sights each visit.
• Natural Trails: Discover six different ecosystems along scenic trails perfect for nature lovers.
• Affordable and Convenient: At $37 per person, this ticket provides access to multiple areas within a day.
• Accessibility: The experience is wheelchair accessible, and guides are available to enrich your visit.
• Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance helps keep your plans flexible.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What You Can Expect from Your Visit to Filoli

Arrival and Entry

Your day begins at the main parking lot, where you’ll check in at the kiosks and receive your entry ticket. Filoli’s location makes it a short drive from San Francisco and nearby Silicon Valley, making it an easy yet immersive escape. Once inside, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace, whether you want to start with the mansion or the gardens.

The Mansion: A Walk Through Time

The 54,000-square-foot Georgian-style estate is the centerpiece of your visit. Built in 1917, the mansion offers a glimpse into early 20th-century luxury, with rooms decorated in period style. Visitors often comment that guides are knowledgeable, adding layers of context about the home’s history and architecture. While the main highlights are the grandeur of the rooms and the craftsmanship, some reviews mention that the mansion’s size and detail make every corner worth a closer look.

The Gardens: Artistic and Seasonal Displays

The highlight for many is the 16 acres of meticulously curated gardens. Filoli’s planting schemes are arranged to showcase seasonal blooms, providing a constantly changing palette of colors and scents. Reviewers like Tyson appreciate the freedom to walk around “and see the stunning garden and home, with plenty of space to explore.” From formal terraces inspired by Georgian design to the Renaissance-style garden, each area offers unique views and photo opportunities.

Seasonal and Special Features

From June 7, 2025, visitors can enjoy Dambo’s “TROLLS: Save the Humans” exhibit, which adds an outdoor art element to the natural landscape. These giant sculptures, crafted from reclaimed materials and inspired by folklore, are placed along the natural lands and trails, making the walk both playful and thought-provoking. It’s a lovely addition for art enthusiasts and families alike, who will enjoy spotting these friendly giants among the trees.

Nature Trails and Ecosystems

Filoli’s landscape includes miles of trails that reveal six different ecosystems native to California. The variety means you can see different plant life, bird species, and natural terrain, enhancing the feeling of being in a living, breathing landscape. Reviewers mention the trails are well-maintained and accessible, allowing for a peaceful stroll away from the crowds.

Relaxation and Refreshment

If you’re visiting during warmer months, you’ll love the Vegetable Garden Bar, where you can grab a refreshment while watching spring blooms. Filoli also sets up seasonal pop-up bars and lounge areas, with chairs and tables that invite you to relax and soak in the scenery. Guests have appreciated the blend of art, nature, and leisure, making it a well-rounded outing.

The Practicalities: What to Know Before You Go

Pricing and Value: At $37 per person, the ticket covers entry to the mansion, gardens, shop, trail, and daily talks. For those interested in horticulture, history, or simply a scenic day out, this fee provides considerable value considering the variety of experiences included.

Timing and Duration: You can expect to spend around 4-6 hours exploring the estate, depending on your pace. The experience is designed as a full day, with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet moments.

Accessibility and Comfort: The estate is wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and well-maintained trails. The quiet, open nature of the grounds means you can enjoy the scenery comfortably, even if mobility is limited.

What to Bring: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes—walking shoes or sturdy sneakers are best—as you’ll be on your feet quite a bit. Bring sun protection if visiting during summer or spring, and a water bottle to stay hydrated.

Restrictions: To keep the environment pristine, certain items are not allowed, such as drones, bikes, pets (except assistance animals), smoking, vaping, weapons, or alcohol. These restrictions help ensure a peaceful and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Based on reviews, visitors love the guides’ knowledge, which adds depth to the experience, especially inside the mansion. One reviewer mentions that the guides “really bring the history alive,” making the visit more meaningful. The scenic views, combined with the well-curated gardens, mean you can easily spend hours wandering and discovering new angles and plant species.

A standout feature is the Vegetable Garden Bar, which offers a relaxed setting to enjoy a drink amid spring blooms—something many visitors find a special touch. The seasonal exhibitions, particularly the upcoming Dambo sculptures, elevate the estate from a traditional garden tour to a contemporary art experience that also encourages reflection on sustainability.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for art and history lovers who enjoy exploring grand homes and lush gardens. Families will find the outdoor trails a great way for kids to burn energy and learn about local ecosystems while spotting the giant trolls. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diversity of California ecosystems and scenic trails.

It’s also excellent for couples seeking a romantic outing or groups seeking a peaceful, educational escape from city life. If you’re after a complete day of beauty, history, and relaxation, Filoli ticks all those boxes.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Sum Up

The Woodside: Filoli Historic House and Garden Entry Ticket offers a well-balanced experience that combines history, stunning horticulture, and engaging outdoor art. The estate’s accessible layout and flexible ticketing make it an appealing choice for many travelers. Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and the chance to connect with California’s natural beauty.

At $37, this tour delivers excellent value, especially considering the variety of sights and activities packed into a single day. It’s perfect for those who want to learn about California’s history, enjoy gorgeous gardens, and experience a peaceful retreat just a short drive from San Francisco or Silicon Valley.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just looking for a lovely outdoor escape, Filoli offers an authentic, enriching experience that’s sure to leave lasting impressions.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the estate’s outdoor trails and gardens are family-friendly, and kids can enjoy spotting the trolls and exploring nature.

Are guided tours available?
While the ticket includes access to daily talks, the guides are known for their knowledge, enriching your visit with detailed stories and context.

How long should I plan to spend here?
Most visitors allocate around 4-6 hours, allowing plenty of time to see the mansion, gardens, trails, and relax with drinks or snacks.

Can I visit the mansion and gardens separately?
Your ticket grants access to both, so you’re free to explore the mansion first or start with the gardens—it’s flexible.

Is there any special exhibit during the visit?
Starting June 7, 2025, the Dambo “TROLLS” sculptures will be on display, adding an artsy, sustainable twist to the outdoor experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Dress appropriately for the weather, with sun protection or rain gear depending on the forecast.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

In all, if you’re craving a peaceful, visually stunning, and historically interesting day out, the Filoli estate offers a well-rounded escape perfect for a variety of interests.

You can check if your dates are available here: