Getting to Know Redwood City, California
Redwood City in California is easily overlooked. Nestled in San Francisco Bay, the city is a small settlement that straddles the borders of San Jose and San Francisco, meaning that it is often traveled through, but rarely stayed in. However, with so many luxurious and great value Redwood City Hotels in the area, it would be a loss not to make a stop-off during your visit to the West Coast and Northern California area.
So what makes Redwood such an interesting stopover for California tourists? This list gives an overview of some of the historic, cultural and wildlife attractions of Redwood, and why they stand out as significant landmarks in the scenic San Francisco Bay area.
Redwoods History
Redwoods is a small city just 27 miles away from San Francisco and although limited in size, has a long history to it. Dating back to 1867, the city was the first to be incorporated into San Mateo County. Once part of the Ranchos de las Pulgas, the city was originally part of Mexico until control of California was won by the USA. Whilst the land had been owned by the Mexican Arguello family, their right to it was challenged after the aforementioned war, but defended successfully by their lawyer Simon M Mezes. As thanks, Mezes was sold some of the ranch’s land, and it is here that Redwood began to be developed. You can still find Meze park in Redwood, named after the fearsome lawyer.
Independence Day Celebrations
Known as the largest Independence Day celebrations in California, the July 4th celebrations for the Declaration of Independence in 1776 in Redwoods California is a citywide celebration that sees markets, floats and parties take over the streets of the city. If you manage to visit the Good Nite Inn Redwood City during the early July period, make sure not to miss these celebrations, which date back annually to 1861.
Stanford University
Stanford University is housed in the neighboring Stanford and is known for being one of the top Ivy League Universities in the USA. With its history dating back to the 1880s, this university is well worth visit, not just for its libraries and educational prowess, but for its magnificent Victorian architecture.
Pulgas Water Temple
This Water Temple was constructed at the end of the Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct to celebrate its completion in 1934. This unique stone structure overlooks a glistening man-made pond and was designed by William G Merchant. Based at 86 Canada Road, this unique structure is surrounded by beautiful Upper Crystal Springs Reservoir and Filoli Botanic Gardens, which itself is well worth a visit from Good Nite Inn Corporate visitors for its historic collections of Irish Yew Trees, apple and pear trees.
Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
For the Good Nite visitor to Redwoods looking for a little fresh air, the Russian Ridge nature reserve offers wide meadows of beautiful grassland which overlook the San Francisco Bay. With its 10 and a half miles of trails, this parkland is nestled between the bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering plenty of stunning views and relaxing walks.
