Filoli House & Gardens |Woodside, California

It was a few years ago when I went to the wonderful Filoli estate in Woodside with my parents and friends. We went in April which was an ideal time to see all the newly bloomed flowers that were welcoming us into spring. The weather was perfect for spending a day walking outside. Going in the summer would have been too hot and dry.

As we walked around the house, we learned the history of the home. For starters, it was owned by the Bourn family and Roth family before it was donated to National Trust for Historic Preservation. Since it’s opening to the public in 1978, it’s been featured in films, commercials, and catalogs for small and major studios and companies. I remember being told that Robin Williams had been there when they were filming a movie he was starring in. This stood out to me because his death still felt so recent at the time.

Looking around the home was nice, but the real gem was the acres of land around the home. It’s so lovely to walk through since the gardens are stunning. Filoli is definitely one of those properties you fantasize about owning as you walking around.

Location:

86 Cañada Road,
Woodside, CA 94062

For specific directions on how to get there & where to park, click here.

Hours:

Wednesday 10AM–5PM
Thursday 10AM–5PM
Friday 10AM–5PM
Saturday 10AM–5PM
Sunday 10AM–5PM
Monday Closed
Tuesday 10AM–5PM

Best Time to Visit:

April.

When the flowers have bloomed & the days aren’t too hot yet.

Recommendations: 

→ Wear sunscreen. Especially if you’re spending a few hours here in Summer.

→ Be wary of bees. Some flowers, of course, had more bees than others. Try to avoid those plants if you have a phobia.

→Be prepared for harsh sunlight if you’re taking professional photos in spring and summer. The museum isn’t open during those ideal daylight hours. & contact visitorservices@filoli.org if you plan on doing a professional photoshoot. This doesn’t apply to those of you taking casual photos for your personal enjoyment.

Special Events:

Spring Tulip Tea

Mother’s Day Mad Hatter Tea

As well as drawing, painting, & craft classes!

Reason to Visit:

Filoli is the perfect place to visit if you are a nature and plant photographer (amateur or professional), need photographs in celebration of an event (e.g. announcing an engagement), or are on an afternoon date with your partner or parents.

My experience at Filoli was wonderful and I recommend it to anyone who happens to be in the area. Just watch out for bees!

-Ayla♥