Discover Redwood City - Your bayside getaway in the heart of Silicon Valley

Redwood City, CA is located in the heart of Silicon Valley on The San Francisco Peninsula, approximately 27 miles from San Francisco and 24 miles northwest of San Jose. The city is known for its ideal climate, walkable downtown, community events and its unique blend of history and innovation. With easy access to tech innovation, the San Francisco Bay and natural beauty, it's kind of wild how much there is to explore in Redwood City. 

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About Redwood City

Redwood City is the oldest city on The San Francisco Peninsula. The area was originally inhabited by the Ohlone people before Spanish explorers claimed the land. It became a bustling port town during the Gold Rush and officially became the first incorporated city in San Mateo County in 1867. Over the years, the city evolved from a timber and shipping hub into the Silicon Valley tech hub it is today. It’s also known for its great climate and profound sense of community. The city enjoys 255 sunny days a year, which it boasts via the city slogan: "Climate Best by Government Test." 

Visitors enjoy exploring the city’s revitalized downtown, which features the beautifully restored, 20-screen Fox Theater, locally-loved restaurants and Courthouse Square, which hosts many community events, concerts and festivals throughout the year. Redwood City is also home to the San Mateo County History Museum, Canada College, Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve and the Port of Redwood City — the only deepwater port within the south bay of San Francisco. With so much to see and do, Redwood City is the perfect place to make the most of your trip to The San Francisco Peninsula.

Hotels in Redwood City, CA

Stay in Redwood City to be right in the heart of Silicon Valley’s tech hub and surrounded by the city’s rich history. Whether you’re here on business or are looking for a memorable getaway, Redwood City offers a hotel for every traveler and budget. Stay in luxury at the Grand Bay Hotel, which offers stunning waterfront views, elegantly appointed rooms and award-winning dining at its on-site restaurant. For more budget-friendly options, check out the Budget Inn or Capri Motel. Or enjoy the comfort and hospitality of a bed and breakfast at the Atherton Inn. 

Located midway between San Francisco and San Jose, Redwood City is a great home base for visitors looking to explore The San Francisco Peninsula. Many of the hotels in the city’s downtown are within walking distance to great restaurants, shopping, community events and popular attractions like the Fox Theater and San Mateo County History Museum. For outdoor enthusiasts, staying in Redwood City puts you near popular outdoor attractions like Redwood Shores, the Bay Trail and Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve. The city is also easy to get around with many public transportation options and is only minutes away from the San Francisco International Airport (SFO). 

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Things to Do in Redwood City

Pulgas Water Temple  

The Pulgas Water Temple, with its magnificent Corinthian columns and reflecting pool lined with cypress trees, is an Instagram-worthy spot that needs to be on your must-visit list. It was built as a monument to commemorate the 1934 completion of the Hetch Hetchy Project, which brought water more than 160 miles from the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the Bay Area. The Temple grounds and parking lot are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

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San Mateo County History Museum 

Head to the San Mateo County History Museum to learn about the history of The San Francisco Peninsula from the times of the Ohlone Tribe to the Spanish explorers to pioneer logging, agriculture and the great estates of the Victorian era. The museum is housed inside the historic county courthouse, built in 1910 in Redwood City. The history museum also features the largest stained glass dome in a public building on the West Coast. Pop in Tuesday through Sunday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

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Gourmet Haus Staudt 

Enjoy a taste of classic German fare at Gourmet Haus Staudt in downtown Redwood City. This three-generation family-owned and operated German market and Biergarten sells rare chocolates and candies, seasonal treats and a huge selection of German and European beers. The “jumbo pretzel with salami and cheese” is a must-try. 

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Local Events & Happenings 

Content Direction: There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Redwood City. Be sure to check out the famous Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival in March. Bring the whole family out to Redwood City’s 4th of July Parade & Festival for the largest Independence Day parade in Northern California, live music, food and a drone show. Enjoy free concerts with Music on the Square during the summer or watch a free play with Shakespeare in the Park. Raise a stein at Redwood City’s annual Oktoberfest. And the city goes all out for the holidays with its festive Hometown Holidays parade and tree lighting ceremony, as well as its Hanukkah Festival and Lunar New Year Celebration.  

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Redwood City, CA known for? 

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Redwood City is known for its tech innovation, rich history and lively downtown. The city is also known for its great climate, which it boosts with its city slogan: “Climate Best by Government Test.”

Where is Redwood City, CA? 

Located on the bayside of The San Francisco Peninsula in the heart of Silicon Valley, RedwoodCity is located approximately 27 miles from San Francisco, six miles from Stanford University and just over 23 miles from the San Francisco International Airport (SFO). 
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What are the top things to do in Redwood City, CA? 

There’s so much to see and do in Redwood City. Wander through the city’s lively downtown, visit the San Mateo County History Museum, explore Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve, snap a selfie at Pulgas Water Temple or grab a bite to eat at Gourmet Haus Staudt. 

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Where are the best places to eat in Redwood City, CA? 

Redwood City is filled with everything from MICHELIN-recognized restaurants to locally-loved dining options. A few favorites include Angelica’s, La Viga Seafood & Cocina Mexicana, Hurrica Restaurant and more. 

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