Wayne Kao

Last night we visited the water temple and found Filoli will reopen on 4 PM. Out of curiosity, we went and found it is the last days of holiday light display. Luckily we lined up early and got 3 walk-in tickets. This is our first time in Filoli in dark light. It's cold which gives us a true sense of Christmas again. Night in Filoli. We all love it.

+16

Sara Ar

We went for holiday lights and it was beautiful. I did not expect so much crowd despite rain. Everyone in their rain coats, umbrellas with kids visited. Plenty of parking space. The cafe had really good options to grab something if you are tired after your walk. Really recommend visiting even without holiday lights as the building and garden is beautiful.

Anne Carr

I have visited here many times over the past 20 years as a Chaperone for my kids on a school outing, and as a guest visiting for my own enjoyment. It is beautiful any time of the year, however the Holidays are extra special to visit. Everything is decorated beautifully and the grounds are a delight to wander through, while listening to music.

+4

Shelley Shakes

I love Fioli House and Gardens! I bought a membership earlier this year specifically to come back during the holidays. If you haven't been, what are you waiting for? It is a magical place during every season.

+1

Sam Getrich

Beautiful grounds/property. Fantastic blend of natural environment and incredibly maintained gardens. Visited in winter so much of the gardens were dormant but it's obvious they are even more breathtaking in Spring and Summer. Some of the trails were closed (assuming due to inclement weather) but those that were open were stroller friendly. Sandwiches at the cafe were delicious!

Dianne Jones

Beautiful grounds and house to explore. The lights and trees were absolutely magical. We had tickets to the champagne reception which is held in the stunning ballroom. The perfect way to cap off the holiday season.

+8

D J

One of my family’s most tranquil places to visit to recharge. Especially during the Holidays and Christmas when Filoli’s gardens and main building are festively decorated. We walk alongside groups of bird watchers, young families with babies and toddlers, couples holding hands, and grandparents explaining to their grandkids the different varieties of plants, flowers, herbs, and life inside the mansion during the previous decades 20’s, 30’s, etc. The night lights enliven the holiday decor and makes the surrounding areas pop with vibrancy. It can get busy with difficulty to enter without a reservation. Enjoy and recharge.

+6

Salim Ali Khan

Our visit to Filoli earlier this year was absolutely amazing. If there’s a place in the Bay Area that naturally blends elegance, history, and the calming beauty of nature, it’s Filoli. From the moment you walk in, the entire atmosphere feels refreshing and almost like stepping into a peaceful world tucked away from everyday noise. Parking can be a bit challenging, especially during peak hours or seasonal events. You may have to circle around once or twice, but you will eventually find a spot. Once you start walking toward the gardens, the parking struggle becomes an afterthought. The gardens are truly the highlight bursting with color, beautifully structured, and meticulously maintained. Every section offers something special: blooming flowers, hedged pathways, fountains, and quiet corners perfect for relaxing or taking photos. It’s the kind of place where you naturally slow down and just soak in the beauty. The mansion is a masterpiece of preserved architecture. Each room tells a story, and the thoughtful layout, antique furnishings, and detailed décor give you a fascinating glimpse into the estate’s history. The staff and volunteers provide wonderful insights without overwhelming you. Clearly laid out path that helps you walk around in the estate definitely is a big plus. Beyond the main gardens and house, Filoli offers expansive trails where you can enjoy a longer stroll surrounded by nature. It’s calm, peaceful, and ideal for visitors looking to unwind. The gift shop (clock tower shop) at Filoli is definitely worth a visit. It’s beautifully curated with everything from garden-inspired decor to seasonal items, books, accessories, and unique finds. Whether you’re looking for a keepsake or a thoughtful gift, this place has options that feel both elegant and meaningful. They do happen to have a trailhead store as well for your hiking essentials, souvenirs etc. Right by the entrance area is the little café/coffee spot (The Opener), and it was a pleasant addition to the entire experience. It’s perfect for grabbing a coffee, tea, or a light bite while taking in the peaceful surroundings. The outdoor seating makes it an ideal spot to relax before or after exploring the gardens. The drinks were good, the pastries fresh, and the overall vibe warm and inviting. They do have an amazing spot to grab a bite or drink at the Quail cafe as well. Filoli is truly a must-visit Bay Area gem. Whether you’re there for the gardens, the history, the trails, or simply a relaxing day out, it offers something beautiful at every turn. The gift shop and café add an extra charm, making the whole visit feel complete.Parking aside, everything about Filoli is exceptional. We left the estate feeling refreshed, inspired, and already planning our next visit.

+21

Michael McNulty

Great fun for adults and kids! Nothing scary besides the cakes in the kitchen. Lots of pumpkins with quite designs. Pumpkins are not real but they have to last a month so not surprising. The house is gorgeous, be sure to look closely at the various Halloween decorations they put out. Also the Cafe food is fantastic!

+4

Jennifer Miles

We had the best experience here for Nightfall! Pretty pricey but we enjoyed everything. Yummy food, good drinks, amazing decor and activities. Can’t wait to come back and explore the grounds during other seasonal events.

+7

Dharma M

A very nice place to visit. You can join as member or pay when you visit. I have been here couple of times mostly summer. Yesterday visit was nice as it has Halloween 🎃 theme and trolls. It was a nice walking under the on and off rain and warm. This place is nice to visit with ftiends and families and has walking trail beside the garden.

+1

Matthew Yost

Took the family on a Sunday evening. Didn’t know what to expect. Absolutely a good time. The property was well decorated. The house was beautiful. The grounds were vast, but fun (especially for the kids). Just a great time.

+18

Nars

It was a fun day to spent with family or friends outdoor!!! It is so beautiful that I forgot to take pictures how beautiful the garden is!!! I heard that this is a great place to visit if its spring time There are trolls to visit from the mansion which is a one mile walk. Be prepared to be on hike outfit if you want to complete visiting the trolls! We only got to see the 3 trolls because i have 1year old with me, and we went there in the middle of scortching ☀️!! Be sure to bring your water bottles too!!! Stay hydrated

+30

Shaleen Hinestroza-Keen

Beautiful location for the family. The Trolls exhibit was so much fun for the little to find. Walking to the gardens was pleasant and an adventure to stroll the different parts of the garden...put your feet in the pool. There was even a flower shop to buy plants and garden items. There are restrooms throughout the gardens, and they are very nice. The staff is really friendly.

Murillo Pontual

Filoli is a beautiful estate with a stunning house and gorgeous gardens. It offers a nice glimpse into the Bay Area’s past. The on-site restaurant is a bit overpriced, and the food is just okay, though they also have food trucks as an alternative. Parking is free and easy to find. I do recommend visiting—I spent a lovely afternoon there.

+46

William Joy

What a spectacular place to visit! There are so many things to do, such as hiking some of their trails, exploring the main house, and admiring the beautiful grounds! The mansion in wonderful condition, and the architecture inside and out is amazing. There are many plaques explaining the history behind the estate, both inside the house and on the grounds. While walking the grounds of the estate, we were so amazed about everything it offered! There is a colorful rose garden, along with a great garden house and many nice fountains. There is also a majestic rectangular pond with plants and grass, which is probably the best spot for a photo. Towards the back is a large vegetable and fruit garden, with mature plants and trees. Whether you are doing a photoshoot, hosting an event, or just looking around, this is an amazing place to do so! I highly recommend!

Yihshyong Leong

It was really fun Sunday experience with the kids. There are trolls around the woods each specializes in something unique to nature preservation. The garden is beautiful as it has always been and nicely kept. We took a tour inside the mansion as well, it was very well maintained. Highly recommend for family day trip!

+4

Preslli Ponce

The house itself was very cool, no doubt many hours and much effort went into the decorations of the property. The details in the house and garden were amazing and I would have loved to stay longer admiring all the little details. However my partner and I made our way through the property rather quickly and this was because we spent most of the dodging screaming children. And before anyone dislikes my comment, I don’t dislike children or anything like that. I understand that they are welcomed to visit and enjoy too. But this event was designed in a way where visitors wander each room at their own pace, without supervision. Which resulted in kids playing tag, running and pushing past crowds, and parents yelling at them from across rooms and hallways. This made the vibe feel like any other expensive Christmas gimmick. You can get that kind of ambiance for free at Xmas in the park. I think if the vibe of the visit was curated to be more like a museum; quiet, respectful, and relaxing, then the visit would have been much more pleasant and we would have stayed longer. Even just having staff at the entrance of the rooms reminding people to be respectful, could have turned the experience from 3 stars to 5 stars, in my opinion.