Mountain View Travel Guide
Mountain View is a vibrant, tech-centric city nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, renowned as the global headquarters for industry giants like Google. It offers a unique blend of cutting-edge innovation, suburban charm, and scenic outdoor spaces with stunning vistas of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
About Mountain View
Originally home to the native Ohlone people, the area was later part of Mexican land grants before being settled by European-Americans in 1852 as a stagecoach stop. Throughout the early 20th century, it remained a quiet agricultural community known for its orchards and grain production, earning the region the nickname 'Valley of Heart's Delight.' The city's transformation into a technological powerhouse began in earnest after World War II, fueled by the establishment of the NASA Ames Research Center at Moffett Field and the arrival of pioneering semiconductor companies like William Shockley's laboratory in 1956. This shift from agriculture to aerospace and electronics laid the foundation for the modern Silicon Valley, cementing Mountain View's role as a cornerstone of the digital age.
The culture of Mountain View is a dynamic fusion of high-tech ambition and relaxed, community-oriented suburban living. The city's social heart is Castro Street, a bustling, pedestrian-friendly downtown district packed with a diverse array of international restaurants, cozy cafes, and local boutiques that reflect the area's multicultural population. Beyond the office campuses, residents and visitors embrace an active, outdoor-focused lifestyle. The community frequently gathers for local events like the annual Art & Wine Festival, while the arts scene is anchored by the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of theater, dance, and musical performances throughout the year.
Practical info
Quick facts
- The city is named for the spectacular, clear views of the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains.
- Shoreline at Mountain View, a massive 750-acre park and wildlife sanctuary, was built on top of a former municipal landfill.
- Mountain View is one of only three cities in California to hold a prestigious AAA credit rating, reflecting its exceptionally strong financial management.
- The city is widely considered the 'Birthplace of Silicon Valley' due to the 1956 founding of the first semiconductor company in the region.
- The Googleplex campus features unique perks for employees, including free bicycles for getting around the massive grounds and multiple swimming pools.
Top things to do in Mountain View
The 0 attractions, museums, viewpoints, and experiences travelers visit most.
Nearby destinations
Frequently asked questions
What currency is used in Mountain View?
The currency in Mountain View, United States is United States Dollar (USD).
What language is spoken in Mountain View?
English is the primary language spoken in Mountain View.
What's the weather like in Mountain View?
Warm-summer Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers.
How many days do you need in Mountain View?
Most travelers spend 2–5 days in Mountain View. With 0+ attractions and 7+ noteworthy restaurants, three days hits the highlights, while five lets you dig into neighborhoods and day trips. Use the Periplo iPhone app to lay out a day-by-day plan.
What are the must-see things to do in Mountain View?
Top picks include Googleplex and Android Statue Garden, Computer History Museum, Shoreline at Mountain View, Castro Street, Shoreline Amphitheatre.
Plan Mountain View in your pocket
Open the Periplo iPhone app for a day-by-day itinerary, offline maps, and live event picks tuned to your taste.
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