Welcome to Mountain View
A tech hotspot with a bustling downtown scene
Named for its stunning view of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Mountain View is best known for being home to Google headquarters and Googleplex, and one of the perks of living in this tech haven is city-wide free wi-fi. Microsoft and LinkedIn also have large office buildings in Mountain View.
Downtown Mountain View, with its lively boutiques and cafes, inspires a European vibe, and residents love to stroll down Castro Street for shopping, sipping, and socializing. With a thriving social scene and diverse culinary options, Mountain View offers plenty to keep its residents happy, but if you want to venture out to San Francisco or San Jose, you’ll find easy access to both highways and the rail system. Homes here vary across town, with classic styles in Cuesta Park, and large, Art Deco designs in Rex Manor.
What to Love
- Thriving downtown scene
- Easy access to neighboring areas
- Scenic mountain views
- Tech industry hometown
- Outdoor recreation
People & Lifestyle
Mountain View is all about the outdoors. Residents of this scenic enclave spend their leisure time cycling, running, hiking, and playing sports in one of the many neighborhood parks.
With IT heavy-hitters like Google, LinkedIn, and Microsoft, it’s no surprise that most locals work in the tech field. The public schools here are highly rated and, considering Google has been called the best place to work in the entire world, this sweet spot makes an ideal home for families.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Mountain View’s diverse community contributes to its wide range of cuisine. The
Rose Market is the local go-to for middle eastern spices and is one of the neighborhood’s most well-loved shops. This specialty grocery store offers spices from the Middle East and surrounding regions, as well as seasonal produce, high-quality Halal meat, traditionally made Persian delicacies, and made-to-order kebabs. Grab a falafel from the deli for lunch, or sweeten up your day with some Persian pomegranate ice cream.
Cozy up for a classic French meal at the chef-owned Le Petit Bistro. With classics like coq au vin and escargots de bourgogne, this quaint, family-run eatery offers traditional French cuisine in a romantic setting.
Whether you’re looking to furnish your new home, stock up on wine and gourmet goodies for that housewarming party, or find the perfect hostess gift, World Market has what you’re looking for. This retail chain features an eclectic mix of handmade items, imported housewares, furniture, seasonal decor, specialty foods, and wine.
After your shopping trip, revive yourself at Alexander's Patisserie with afternoon tea and a tart. This upscale bakery and sandwich cafe brings a European patisserie vibe to the Bay Area and is a favorite destination for high-quality coffee, macarons, and an assortment of sweet treats. Browse the nearby art galleries and boutiques for a true staycation feel.
Things to Do
Mountain View is an outdoor recreation oasis, offering plenty of ways to enjoy the endless sunny days and gorgeous weather. Held each Sunday, the Mountain View Farmers' Market is a neighborhood institution. One of the best-certified farmers’ markets in the Bay Area, it features 70 local growers and food vendors selling seasonal and organic produce, freshly prepared food, and homemade goods. This is Mountain View’s weekly go-to for eating, drinking, socializing, and celebrating.
Mountain View may be home to tech giants, but that doesn’t mean computers get all the attention. Residents have an affinity for music, and the Shoreline Amphitheatre is the place to find it. This outdoor venue has a capacity of 22,500, with 6,500 reserved seats and 16,000 spots for general admission on the lawn, and attracts some of the biggest names in the business.
