Published Sep 23, 2025
Silicon Valley may be known worldwide as the epicenter of innovation, billion-dollar ideas, and cutting-edge technology…
but beyond the gleaming campuses and bustling co-working hubs lies a completely different side of the region. Step away from the code, the conferences, and the corporate intensity, and you’ll find a surprising number of hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re visiting for business or planning a leisure escape, this guide reveals some of Silicon Valley’s most unexpected delights, and why staying just north of the valley at Pacific Heights Inn gives you the perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and adventure.
- Filoli Historic House & Garden – Woodside’s Lush
EscapeTucked quietly in Woodside, Filoli offers a serene break from Silicon Valley’s fast pace. Its expansive formal gardens, historic house, and seasonal blooms make it feel like stepping into another era. Spend a morning wandering through rose-lined walkways, or enjoy a quiet lunch on the terrace café. Most people come to Silicon Valley for work, not gardens but Filoli is a local treasure worth slowing down for.
- Palo Alto Baylands – Wildlife in the Tech Capital Just minutes from Stanford and downtown Palo Alto, the Baylands Nature Preserve offers over 1,900 acres of wetlands, trails, and wildlife. It’s one of the best bird-watching spots in California and an ideal location for a sunrise walk or a quiet bike ride. Visitors may expect buildings and labs – not some of the best urban marshlands on the West Coast.
- Hakone Estate & Gardens – Japan in the Valley Located in Saratoga, this 100-year-old Japanese garden is one of the oldest in the Western Hemisphere. With tranquil koi ponds, bamboo forests, and peaceful tea ceremonies, Hakone offers a moment of zen just a short drive from the hub of innovation.
It’s overshadowed by the region’s wineries and big-name attractions, but locals know it as a must-see retreat.
- San José’s Little Portugal – A Cultural Deep Dive Explore the colorful streets of Little Portugal, where bakeries, markets, and traditional eateries thrive. Stop at a neighborhood café for pastéis de nata, or immerse yourself in the historic Five Wounds Portuguese National Church. San José’s tech boom tends to steal the spotlight, leaving its cultural pockets overshadowed.
- Hidden Wineries of the Santa Cruz Mountains Many visitors don’t realize world-class winemaking happens right above Silicon Valley. Beyond the valley floor, winding mountain roads lead to boutique wineries with spectacular views. From Ridge Vineyards to Thomas Fogarty Winery, you’ll enjoy top-tier tastings without Napa’s crowds.
Where to Stay: Discover Comfort Beyond the Valley at Pacific Heights Inn
After exploring Silicon Valley’s unexpected gems, return to the charm of nearby San Francisco at the Pacific Heights Inn. Strategically located in one of the city’s most beloved neighborhoods, it offers:
- Comfortable rooms at a great value
- Walkable access to Marina District, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Lombard Street
- Easy transit connections to Silicon Valley
- A peaceful, safe neighborhood ideal for business or leisure stays
Whether you’re mixing work and play or simply looking for a comfortable hub for Bay Area adventures, Pacific Heights Inn gives you the perfect balance.
Book your stay today and experience Silicon Valley and San Francisco like a local.
