History and Setting

The original Woodside Store, now a museum, was a major center of logging activity in the 1800s. By 1880, wealthy San Franciscans chose the area for summer estates, including coffee tycoon James Folger and millionaire spice magnate August Schilling. Today, the intimate yet vibrant village center is surrounded by the soaring second-growth redwood groves that distinguish the area. Major estates abound, and among its internationally famous residents is Oracle CEO Larry Ellison. Also making her home here is Koko, the gorilla who communicates in sign language. Since incorporating in 1956, Woodside has focused on protecting the rural nature of the community. Large properties provide opportunities for extensive stables and executive vineyards.

Attractions

The village of Woodside features long-established locally owned businesses including spa retreats, epicurean markets, and restaurants that are known throughout the Bay Area. Residents enjoy a charming public library and a large county park in addition to close proximity to several open space preserves with hundreds of miles of hiking and riding trails. Multiple freeways also provide easy access to Stanford University, major business centers, and the upscale shopping, dining, and cultural events found in Menlo Park and Palo Alto. Filoli, a historic local estate, features year-round house and garden tours and a variety of concerts and seasonal festivities. A wide range of top-quality equestrian facilities are available at The Horse Park at Woodside.