Attractions and Places To See around Redwood City - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Redwood City include a diverse array of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and expansive natural preserves. Located on the San Francisco Peninsula, the region offers a mix of urban and natural experiences. Visitors can explore significant historical buildings, vibrant community spaces, and extensive outdoor areas. The landscape features redwood groves, rolling hills, and bayfront ecological reserves.
Best attractions and places to see around Redwood City
- The most popular attractions is Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, a lake that offers a scenic ride on a shared pedestrian footpath. The Crystal Springs Regional Trail, which runs along the reservoir, is a top spot for cyclists with mostly paved paths and minimal car traffic.
- Another must-see spot is Old La Honda Road, a climb known for its consistent grade and light traffic. This road provides a good workout for cyclists, lasting for almost 3 miles with an average grade just under 8%.
- Visitors also love Kings Mountain Road, a cycle_way that descends for over 4 miles. This narrow and twisty road offers a fast and exhilarating descent through moderate tree cover.
- Redwood City is known for its historical landmarks, natural preserves, and cultural hotspots. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from museums and theaters to extensive hiking trails and ecological reserves.
- The attractions around Redwood City are appreciated by the komoot community. With 16 highlights, more than 60 upvotes, and 6 photos, there are many places to explore.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Speed limit: 15 mph, difficult for high-end road bikes to stay below, so bring a bell: some hikers stand and talk in the center of the trail ;-)
San Andreas segment: From Skyline Boulevard south of San Bruno Avenue the trail drops to the head of San Andreas Lake, with pretty views across to the west of the wilderness slope of Montara Mountain. It rides along the lake 2 miles to an access point near Larkspur and 0.6 miles to another (at Hillcrest) where it connects to the Sawyer Camp segment.
Sawyer Camp segment: This is a gorgeous, easy bike ride, where you drop 400 feet over the span of 6 miles to Crystal Springs Dam. The route descends into riparian woodlands for 2.5 miles to Jepson Laurel picnic grounds, then runs along Crystal Springs Reservoir for 5.2 miles. You can continue another 1.7 miles to Cañada Road for Bicycle Sunday (no cars).
Cañada Road/Crystal Springs segment: South along Upper Crystal Springs Reservoir for 2.1 miles to the Pulgas Water Temple. It continues another 2.1 miles past Filoli Botanical Center and Phleger Estate to Edgewood Road
sfgate.com/outdoors/sundaydrive/article/Crystal-Springs-Trail-links-lakes-woodlands-4723374.php
parks.smcgov.org/crystal-springs-regional-trail
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Old La Honda Road
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
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Kings Mountain Road
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Junipero Serra Boulevard
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Car traffic is everpresent on this route, and it can get particularly busy during commute hours on weekdays, though this shouldn't concern you much because (other than having to switch to the left-hand side of the right-turn lane at some intersections) you will be mostly independent of the traffic lanes in your own bike lane during this ride. Meanwhile, weekends with good weather will result in heavy bicycle traffic, in which case it would be worthwhile to pay extra attention to fast riders that might be approaching from behind, at least when you're stopping or resuming after a stop.
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Pulgas Water Temple
Highlight • Monument
On October 28, 1934, the roar of Hetch Hetchy mountain water greeted everyone gathered at Pulgas Water Temple to celebrate its arrival. With vivid memories of the fire that had raged after the Great Earthquake of 1906, the city rejoiced in its new secure, plentiful supply of high quality drinking water. The frieze above the columns expresses the city’s relief: “I give waters in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people.”
Pulgas Water Temple was designed in the Beaux Arts style by William Merchant, a San Francisco architect trained by Bernard Maybeck. Merchant’s design featured fluted columns and Corinthian capitals to reflect the architecture of ancient Greeks and Romans, whose engineering methods were used to build the new water system. Artist and master stone carver Albert Bernasconi brought Merchant’s drawings to life.
Pulgas Water Temple is located about one-half mile south of the Cañada Road trailhead.
Open free to bikers & pedestrians every day, car parking opens only M-F 9-4
sfwater.org/index.aspx?page=93
Biketrail with more highlights and annotated photos at komoot.com/tour/11413421
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Tips from the Community
A fun, pretty place to stop while riding Cañada road. I has water and an air pump and bathrooms. Take a photo with friends.
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You're not hallucinating: This monument was deliberately built in the style of ancient Greek and Roman architecture, to commemorate the Great Depression-era Hetchy Hetchy Project that brought water down from the mountains to the Bay Area. The frieze says, “I give waters in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people.”
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Didn’t OLR used to turn into Dirt before reaching Skyline? Is it all pavement now?? Scott
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The Crystal Springs Regional Trail is a top spot for cyclists, featuring mostly paved paths with minimal car traffic. The trail runs through scenic areas like Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, offering beautiful lake views. On Sundays, you can ride the car-free Cañada Road segment for a more relaxed experience. Be mindful of the 15 mph speed limit, especially around hikers. The Sawyer Camp segment provides a gentle descent and stunning views, perfect for an easy ride through woodlands and along the reservoir.
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While this is an expressway, there is good room for safe riding and most of the day it isn't too heavily trafficked which makes for a great, rolling straight run
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Old La Honda Rd downhill video: https://youtu.be/icnBpBZQ8gE?si=xYovaH-Nr8llwLEM
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features and outdoor activities can I find around Redwood City?
Redwood City offers a variety of natural features and outdoor activities. You can explore the diverse habitats of Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve, known for its vibrant wildflower displays and hiking trails with panoramic views. Adjacent to it, Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve also provides hiking trails and views of rolling hills. For impressive redwood groves, visit Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. The Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir is a popular spot for cycling along the Crystal Springs Regional Trail, offering scenic lake views. The bayfront areas like Bair Island Ecological Reserve and Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge are excellent for birdwatching.
Are there any historical landmarks or cultural sites to visit in Redwood City?
Yes, Redwood City is rich in history and culture. The San Mateo County History Museum, housed in the historic Redwood City Courthouse, offers insights into the region's past. The Fox Theatre is a stunning Art Deco and Gothic Revival building that hosts various performances. You can also visit the Pulgas Water Temple, an architectural marvel commemorating the Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct. Other notable sites include the Lathrop House, a preserved Victorian-era home, and the Domini Hoskins Black History Museum & Learning Center.
What are some family-friendly attractions in Redwood City?
For families, the Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir and its Crystal Springs Regional Trail offer a scenic and mostly paved path suitable for walks and bike rides. The Pulgas Water Temple provides a serene setting for reflection and photography, often enjoyed by families. Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve has easy trails and beautiful wildflower displays in spring, making it a pleasant outdoor experience for all ages.
Where can I go for a scenic view or viewpoint in Redwood City?
Several locations offer scenic views. Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve provides panoramic views of the Bay Area from its hiking trails. The Crystal Springs Regional Trail along the Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir offers beautiful lake vistas. For cyclists, the climb up Old La Honda Road can lead to rewarding views, and the descent on Kings Mountain Road offers exhilarating forest scenery.
Are there hiking trails suitable for different difficulty levels near Redwood City?
Yes, Redwood City has a range of hiking trails. For easy hikes, you can explore options like the Blue Oak and Polly Geraci Trail or the Arroyo Ojo De Agua Loop, as well as trails within Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve. Moderate trails can be found in Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve and Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. You can find more details and routes on the Easy hikes around Redwood City guide.
Can I find dog-friendly hiking trails in the area?
Yes, Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve is known for being dog-friendly and includes a fenced off-leash area, making it a great option for hiking with your canine companion. Always check specific park regulations before visiting, as rules can vary.
What cycling opportunities are available around Redwood City?
Redwood City is a popular area for cyclists. The Crystal Springs Regional Trail, which runs along the Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, is a top spot with mostly paved paths and minimal car traffic. For a challenging climb, try Old La Honda Road, known for its consistent grade. The descent on Kings Mountain Road offers a fast and exhilarating ride. Junipero Serra Boulevard also features generous, paved bike lanes. You can find more cycling routes in the MTB Trails around Redwood City guide.
Where can I experience redwood trees near Redwood City?
While Redwood National Park is further north, you can experience local redwood groves near Redwood City. Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, just outside of town, offers impressive groves of redwood trees and scenic trails for hiking and enjoying the forest. Huddart Park also provides access to redwood forests.
What is the best time to visit Redwood City for outdoor activities?
Spring is particularly beautiful for outdoor activities, especially if you want to witness the vibrant wildflower displays at Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve. The weather in Redwood City is generally mild year-round, making it suitable for hiking and cycling in most seasons. However, checking local weather forecasts is always recommended before planning your visit.
Are there any less crowded attractions or hidden gems in Redwood City?
For a quieter experience, consider exploring the Mezes Park Historic District, which showcases well-preserved Victorian homes and offers a picturesque journey through Redwood City's architectural history away from the main tourist hubs. The Union Cemetery, established in 1859, is another historic site that offers a peaceful glimpse into the city's past.
What kind of wildlife can I spot on trails around Redwood City?
The natural preserves around Redwood City are home to diverse wildlife. At Edgewood Park & Natural Preserve and Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, you might spot deer, various bird species, and smaller mammals. The Bair Island Ecological Reserve and Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge are particularly excellent for birdwatching, attracting numerous waterfowl and shorebirds in their tidal channels and salt marshes.
What is there to do in Downtown Redwood City?
Downtown Redwood City has been revitalized and offers a vibrant atmosphere. You'll find a variety of locally-loved restaurants, boutique shops, and community spaces like Courthouse Square, which hosts numerous events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and outdoor movie nights. The Fox Theatre is also located downtown, offering cultural performances.
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