Woodside Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, activities, food, culture, safety tips, transportation options, and more in Woodside, California in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Woodside

Nestled in the stunning Peninsula in the Bay Area of California, Woodside is a hidden gem loved by locals and tourists alike. This tranquil town is surrounded by towering redwoods, sparkling lakes, and rolling hills, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore all that Woodside has to offer, from its natural beauty to its cultural attractions and delicious cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Woodside

Here are the top places to visit in Woodside:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Filoli Historic House and Garden
  2. The Woodside Store
  3. The Horse Park at Woodside

Natural Attractions of Woodside: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Windy Hill Open Space Preserve
  2. Huddart Park
  3. Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve

Hiking/Biking Routes of Woodside

Woodside boasts some of the most incredible hiking and biking trails in California:

  1. Skyline Ridge Open Space
  2. The Bay Area Ridge Trail
  3. Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve

Best Things to Do in Woodside: Activities and Tours

  1. Horseback riding at the Woodside Horse Park
  2. Wine tasting at Thomas Fogarty Winery
  3. Scenic drive along Cañada Road

Week-Long Itinerary for Woodside

Day 1: Visit Filoli Historic House and Garden and enjoy a picnic lunch at the Formal Gardens.

Day 2: Embark on a hike at Skyline Ridge Open Space and enjoy the scenic views of the Peninsula.

Day 3: Visit the Woodside Store Museum to learn about the area’s rich history before cycling down Cañada Road.

Day 4: Explore Huddart Park and enjoy a picturesque horseback ride in the park.

Day 5: Take a scenic drive along Skyline Boulevard and stop at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve.

Day 6: Visit Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve and hike through the majestic redwoods.

Day 7: Enjoy a relaxing day at the pool at Woodside’s beautiful hotels like the Rosewood Sand Hill or the Woodside Hotel.

Food and Drink Scene of Woodside

Woodside has a diverse food and drink scene that includes must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Grass-fed beef at Flea Street Cafe
  2. Artisan pizza at The Village Bakery
  3. California-inspired cuisine at The Mountain House

Local Beverages

  1. Wine from Thomas Fogarty Winery
  2. Craft beer from Freewheel Brewing Company

Where to Stay in Woodside: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Rosewood Sand Hill
  2. The Woodside Hotel
  3. Private cottages

What to Buy in Woodside: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handcrafted jewelry made from local gemstones
  2. Artisan honey from nearby farms
  3. Woodwork and crafts from local artisans

Local Culture and Customs of Woodside

Woodside is known for its equestrian culture and love of nature, with residents engaging in activities such as horseback riding and hiking. The community is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the area, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit Woodside

The best time to visit Woodside is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild. In the spring, the hills are covered in wildflowers, and in the fall, the leaves on the trees turn vibrant shades of orange and red.

Do’s and Don’ts of Woodside

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Woodside:

Do:

  • Embrace the equestrian culture and go horseback riding
  • Explore the stunning natural beauty of the area
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or disturb the natural beauty of the parks
  • Approach horses if you are not familiar with handling them
  • Ignore traffic rules when cycling on roads

Safety and Health

Safety in Woodside

Woodside is a safe town, but visitors should still take precautions such as locking their cars and securing their valuables. When hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, it is essential to carry plenty of water and wear sunscreen.

Health in Woodside

Visitors to Woodside should be aware of the risk of tick-borne diseases when hiking in areas with tall grass or foliage. It is advisable to wear protective clothing and use insect repellent.

Getting to Woodside: Transportation Options and Logistics

Woodside is approximately 25 miles or 35 minutes south of San Francisco. Here are the transportation options available:

Airports Near Woodside

  1. San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
  2. San Jose International Airport (SJC)

Bus Stations Near Woodside

  1. Caltrain Station in Palo Alto
  2. Greyhound Station in San Jose

Other Options

  1. Renting a car
  2. Hiring a private car service

How to Get Around in Woodside

The best way to get around Woodside is by car or bike. Visitors can rent bikes or join a cycling tour to explore the town’s stunning scenery.

Where to Go Next from Woodside: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Half Moon Bay
  2. Palo Alto
  3. San Francisco

Conclusion

Woodside is a unique destination that offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures and cultural attractions to delicious cuisine and stunning scenery. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful town.