Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, San Carlos, CA

WOODSIDE. Remember the TV series "Dynasty?" The house and grounds used as the setting for the Carrington home...

WOODSIDE. Remember the TV series "Dynasty?" The house and grounds used as the setting for the Carrington home actually belong to this idyllic estate. Built in 1917, the Georgian-style residence and elaborate gardens are reminiscent of a more gracious time and have been preserved for the 21st century to enjoy. In the 16+ acres of formal gardens are 500 varieties of roses, formal boxwood hedges, greenhouses, and special seasonal displays of rhododendrons, tulips, and camellias. Self-guided tours of the house and gardens are available, as are docent-led tours, which require a reservation.

Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-3:30pm; Sun 11am-3:30pm

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Diner's Club

SAN MATEO. This renowned tea garden features the work of landscape architect Nagao Sakurai of the Imperial Palace of...

SAN MATEO. This renowned tea garden features the work of landscape architect Nagao Sakurai of the Imperial Palace of Tokyo. Visitors enjoy not only stone lanterns, a granite pagoda, and large stands of bamboo but also beautiful blooms and unusual plants that surround the teahouse. Koi feedings at the pond are usually at 11am and 3pm if you're interested in seeing the colorful fish gather as they eat (call to confirm times). A wonderfully quiet retreat.

Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-4pm; Sat-Sun 11am-4pm

MENLO PARK. Sunset Magazine, started over 100 years ago, was the country's first region-specific lifestyle publication....

MENLO PARK. Sunset Magazine, started over 100 years ago, was the country's first region-specific lifestyle publication. With contributions by writers like Jack London and Mark Twain, the magazine aspired to entice people to move west. Today, visitors can visit the place where it all began, especially these grounds, where many gardening photos and story ideas are developed. A self-guided tour lets visitors browse beautifully planted areas organized by sections of the country the magazine covers.

Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm