Silicon Valley Tech Tour: Private Day Trip from San Francisco
Overview
On your private day trip from San Francisco, see first-hand what makes Silicon Valley the world’s most dynamic hub of global technology and entrepreneurialism. Learn how Silicon Valley was born and how some of the world’s most influential companies were founded. On your private day trip, you will: Discover how Silicon Valley became a capital of innovation, venture capital and progressive "Techie" Culture; Learn the stories of the founding of major players like Stanford University, Tesla, Apple, HP, Google and Facebook- and their predecessors; Explore the expansive Googleplex Campus promenade and the comical Android Garden; Visit the Computer History Museum and delve into the evolution of computing technology; Stop at The HP Garage, known as the birthplace of Silicon Valley, where Hewlett-Packard was founded; Tour the Stanford University Campus and learn about its significant contributions to technology and business; Step into the Apple HQ Visitor Center and delve into interactive stations showcasing their latest technology and browse the fully-stocked Apple Store; Enjoy a scenic ride back to San Francisco through the Crystal Springs Reservoir and San Andreas Lake. Embark on a private full-day trip from San Francisco to Silicon Valley, the epicentre of technology and innovation. This immersive experience will take you behind the scenes of some of the world’s most influential tech giants and offer a glimpse into the dynamic culture that drives them. With a knowledgeable guide, you'll explore iconic campuses, delve into the history of computing, and enjoy a day packed with unique insights and unforgettable moments. Your journey begins with a convenient pick-up from your San Francisco centrally located hotel. Relax in a comfortable, private vehicle as you leave the bustling city behind and head south towards Silicon Valley. Arrive at Googleplex, Google’s headquarters in Mountain View and immerse yourself in the unique campus culture that defines this tech giant. Wander through the open spaces, and see quirky sculptures, bike lanes, and themed offices. Snap photos with the iconic Android statues and explore the visitor centre to learn about Google’s groundbreaking projects and products. Next, delve into the rich history of computing at the Computer History Museum. Explore exhibits that span 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 and learn about the visionaries who paved the way for today’s digital age. Pause for lunch in Palo Alto, where you’ll have a variety of dining options based on your guide’s recommendations (Lunch not included). Experience daily life in one of the five most expensive cities in the U.S., home to some of the nation's most educated residents. Palo Alto is often considered the epicentre of Silicon Valley, home to numerous high-tech companies, startups, and venture capital firms. Major tech giants like Hewlett-Packard (HP), Tesla, and VMware have roots or significant operations in the area. Continue with a brief stop at the humble HP Garage, often referred to as the birthplace of Silicon Valley. Hear fascinating stories about how this small garage became the starting point for a global tech revolution. Then, stop at the prestigious Stanford University for an ideal photo opportunity. Capture the stunning architecture of the main quad, including the beautiful sandstone buildings and iconic Hoover Tower. Learn about Stanford's significant contributions to technology and business, and its role in the birth of Silicon Valley. Finally, experience Apple’s newly-opened Visitor Center in Cupertino. Explore interactive stations showcasing their latest technology, relax in the world-class café, and browse the fully-stocked Apple store. Although the corporate headquarters are off-limits, you can take a virtual reality tour of the top-secret campus using an iPad. After spending a full day retracing the steps of today's tech leaders, we'll head back to San Francisco. Enjoy a scenic and green ride as we pass the protected Crystal Springs Reservoir and San Andreas Lake. We'll return just in time for dinner in the city. Ever thought of trying your hand at big tech? This private day trip to Silicon Valley is the perfect chance to see what it's like to live, work and study here in the 21st Century. Hit the most well-known sites and come away with an understanding of what powers Silicon Valley. See how Google and other tech company employees live, and perhaps even network with future tech founders over coffee! Please note: Google, Apple and other possible stops on this tour are places of business, and people are working in the buildings. We are able to see many of the public areas, but you will not be allowed into the working buildings on the campuses.
Location
Hotel pick-up is available upon request. If we do not receive your hotel information, your guide will meet you at the Hilton Union Square's side entrance 298 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States
Duration
9 hours
Start Time
07:50
Address
251 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA
Inclusions
- A friendly, professional English-speaking driver for your own private group
- Plenty of time to take photos of your favourite places
- Hotel pick up and drop off from centrally located hotels
- Tickets to the Computer History Museum
Exclusions
- Food & Drink
- Gratuities
Venues
- Silicon Valley
Over the last five decades, Silicon Valley has become world famous as the home of Microsoft and Apple, two giants of the technology world. Many other companies have since joined them: Google, Facebook, Uber, Airbnb and Intel, to name a few. The name originated from the silicon chips used in computers, and although pretenders have popped up all over the world (Silicon Roundabout in East London, anyone?), the valley is still the boss. Boys and their toys Silicon Valley is home to some 4 million people and 28% of private sector jobs are in high-tech. It also has the most millionaires and billionaires per capital of anywhere in the US. Amusingly, but actually rather damningly, there are 15% more men than women in the area. The Intel Museum may seem a little dry - you certainly won’t find queues here - but it’s a very interesting place. You can learn all about microprocessors, how our computing devices work (let’s face it: most of us have no idea), and how they took over the world. Afterwards, grab a bite at Buck’s of Woodside, Silicon Valley’s most well-known meeting place for venture capitalists and entrepreneurs. It’s an unassuming place but mountains are moved on those tables: both Hotmail and Tesla were incorporated here. They serve classic and reasonably-priced diner fare throughout the day. But if you want to get out and into the wild then you can head to the nearby Santa Cruz mountains. You can drive to Mount Umunhum, the fourth-highest peak in the range, and enjoy a spectacular view from over 3000 metres. Also in Silicon Valley are the Levi’s Stadium, home of the San Francisco 49ers, and Stanford University, the wonderful campus of which is near Palo Alto.
- Googleplex
- Stanford University
- Computer History Museum
- Apple HQ Visitor Center
Cancellation Policy
No refund is possible if you cancel.
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