Kepler’s Book Store
Founded in 1955, Keplers Book store stands today selling books tailored to non-fiction lovers, children’s literature admirers, and poetry fanatics. What makes Kepler’s worth the while is not only the wide selection of books to choose from but the rich history and passion the employees have for making a difference in the world. Kepler’s was founded by Peace Activist Roy Kepler and since its establishment over 50 years ago, the store serves to educate the public on various social topics and keep the art of reading alive. If books shopping does not hold one over for some time, Kepler’s is also known for its outstanding community events such as its youth events or occasional guest speakers who come in and read. Even if one would not consider themself an avid reader, Kepler’s has something for everyone, and if you don’t leave with a book, you will definitely leave inspired!
Elizabeth Gamble Garden
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the digitalized streets of Silicon Valley sits the serene Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden in Palo Alto. Elizabeth F. Gamble left her house to the city of Palo Alto in 1981; leaving behind a beautiful house surrounded by flourishing flowers and wildlife that all who knew her admired. The house was built in 1902 and the garden became officially open to the public (for free!) in 1985. Since the public garden was born, thousands of people have contributed to keeping the garden alive and offering community services to keep the serene hidden gem alive. As summer approaches, more flowers begin to bloom and light up the digital city of Palo Alto, making it a perfect place to spend some time in the warm sun as the weather begins to get hotter. Special events can be held at the garden such as weddings, and the gamble garden itself hosts events and community experiences such as group yoga. If this does not sound like your cup of tea that’s alright as well, the garden is free and available for visits from the public at any time.
The Record Man
It is often argued that music sounds immensely better on Vinyl, but if San Francisco is too far away to go searching for a Record Store, or Santa Cruz is too windy of a drive, Redwood City is home to The Record Man. The record man is a record store filled with archives of vinyls ranging from songs/albums that fall within a range of years. The owner himself, who refers to himself as “The Record Man,” began his business in 1988 and has grown his business to become a “great musical archive.” This statement stands evident through the walls of records that line each and every wall within the relatively small store that sits on the El Camino Real. The store sits just before entering Downtown Redwood City and Sequoia Highschool, so the store can be easy to miss; but if one can find the time to stop by and browse for a while, you’re guaranteed to find new, timeless music.
Pulgas Water Temple
In 1938, the Pulgas Water Temple was built to commemorate the establishment of the Hetch Hetchy, which took over 24 years to complete. It is one of only three other temples in the U.S that is modeled after those constructed near canals by the ancient Greeks. To get to the Pulgas Water Temple you take Interstate 280 to the Edgewood Road exit; here you can find the entrance to the site. The site is one of beauty; the building itself modeling those constructed by Ancient Greeks stands tall next to a shallow pool of crystal clear water lined on each side with cleanly tailored trees. The Pulgas Water Temple is known to be a site for visiting with friends and family, having photoshoots, or even staying awhile for a picnic on the lawn. It is free to visit and operating hours are 9:00 am to 4:00 pm everyday of the week.
Duarte’s Tavern
Since 1894, Duarte’s Tavern has stood in Pescadero near the beach, serving classic American-style meals consisting of one of a kind dishes like artichoke soup and olallieberry pie. Duarte’s Tavern is a one of a kind establishment with only one location in Pescadero. Duartes’ atmosphere is one you definitely don’t want to miss out on. The walls are lined with paneled wood to replicate an old fashioned experience, one that you will never forget. The artichoke soup is exceptional and will leave you wanting to drive all the way to Pescadero just for a bowl. In addition to its uniqueness, all produce is homegrown and produced locally, giving you an amazingly special experience you can only get at Duartes.
