Silicon Valley Tech Tour
What your day looks like
Explore the history and future of California's Silicon Valley: the birthplace of tech and computers in America! Visit the Computer History Museum, Apple campus, Google campus, and the famous Facebook "like" sign. Want to see where it all began? Let us take you back in time while driving you into the future for a day tour of Silicon Valley. We’ll start the day with a visit to the world-famous Apple campus and then off to the Computer History Museum where you’ll get a chance to see some of the first mega-computers and commercially-produced machines. Next up, take a selfie in front of the Google Campus and shop at the company’s gift shop, then head over to Palo Alto for lunch, and check-in at Facebook in the afternoon before “commuting” back to San Francisco. On your educational day trip, you’ll see: - Google Campus and Google Bikes - Current and retired Google Android statues - Facebook “Thumbs Up” Sign - Computer History Museum - Apple Park Visitors Center - Startup culture in Palo Alto
The experience, in brief
- Experience the history and future of tech in California
- Visit the world famous Apple campus and then the Computer History Museum
- Take a selfie in front of the Google Campus and shop at the company’s gift shop
The journey, in full
Morning – Googleplex and the Computer History Museum 7:30 – 7:50 am: Make your way to the pre-arranged pick-up spots. We recommend you arrive at least 10 minutes early. 8:45 – 9:45 am: Our tour kicks off with a visit to the Googleplex, Google’s headquarters in Mountain View. Experience the unique campus culture that defines one of the world’s most influential tech giants. Wander through the open spaces and see the quirky sculptures, bike lanes, and themed offices that foster creativity and innovation. Snap photos with the iconic Android statues and explore the visitor center, where you can learn about Google’s groundbreaking projects and products. Witness firsthand the environment where cutting-edge ideas come to life. 10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Next, dive into the rich history of computing at the Computer History Museum, located nearby in Mountain View. This museum offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of computing technology. Explore exhibits that range from ancient calculating devices to modern supercomputers. Highlights include the rare Apple I, the first Google server, and the revolutionary ENIAC. Engage with interactive displays that demonstrate the impact of computing on society and learn about the visionaries who paved the way for today’s digital age. This stop provides a deep appreciation of the technological advances that have shaped our modern world. Afternoon – Lunch break, Palo Alto and Apple 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Now it’s time to grab some food and see what daily life in Palo Alto looks like. Depending on the recommendations from your guide, you’ll have a wide range of food options to choose from. One of the 5 most expensive cities in the U.S., Palo Alto houses some of the most educated people in the country. If time permits, we will swing by the humble HP Garage for more tech tales on how the city began its path to fame and fortune. 1:15 pm – 2:00 pm: A quick stop at the prestigious Stanford University offers a perfect photo opportunity. This renowned institution, located in Palo Alto, has been a cornerstone of innovation and research. Capture the stunning architecture of the main quad, with its beautiful sandstone buildings and iconic Hoover Tower. Learn about Stanford’s significant contributions to technology and business, including its role in the birth of Silicon Valley. Discover the university’s entrepreneurial spirit and its influence on the global tech landscape. 2:30 pm – 3:15 pm: At our final stop, you’ll experience Apple’s newly-opened Visitor’s Center. Complete with interactive stations to explore their new technology, a world-class cafe, and a fully-stocked Apple store, this unique building takes you to the forefront Apple’s new releases. No one is allowed to roam the corporate headquarters in person, but instead grab an IPad and explore the top-secret campus via virtual reality. 4:00 pm: Once we’ve completed our full day retracing the steps of today’s tech leaders, we’ll head back to San Francisco. On the way, be prepared for a green and scenic ride. We’ll pass the protected Crystal Springs Reservoir & San Andreas Lake before making it back in time for dinner in the city.
Your day, step by step
Cupertino
Sightseeing at Apple Park Visitors Center.
Mountain View
Sightseeing at Computer History Museum.
Mountain View
Sightseeing at Googleplex.
San Francisco
Sightseeing at Silicon Valley.
What to know before booking
Included
San Francisco hotel pick-up and drop-off (& select south SF meeting points) Narrated guided tour Entrance to the Computer History Museum Visit Google and Facebook public campus areas
Not Included
Meals, stops will be made to purchase food Guide gratuity
What to Bring
Camera & Charger Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes Comfortable clothes (shorts & T-shirt or similar) Sun protection Water bottle Small, soft-sided day bag only (no large luggage) Raincoat/jacket (in winter months)
Restrictions
Because of our small-size vehicles, we have limited luggage space. Each passenger may bring one soft-sided bag or regular-sized day pack with them on the vehicle. The under-seat storage space will accept ~13.5″x12″x11″ if the item is hard-sided; slightly larger if it is soft-sided. Minimum number of guests to operate this tour is 5. We can still receive bookings for 1-13 guests, however, if there are fewer than 5 guests booked for the tour we will likely need to move you to another available date with enough guests confirmed.
Meeting & Pickup
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf (2500 Mason St.) Hilton San Francisco Union Square (333 O'Farrell St.)
Languages Offered
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Planning Notes
Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Automatic
What travelers are saying
Johanna was amazing and she is so knowledgeable on the Startups and tech sector, it was simply awesome.