Ravenswood Open Space Preserve — Attraction in Menlo Park

It seems recently renovated. The road is no longer in bad condition as older reviews mentioned. There is now a shiny new "education center," although I didn't go inside to investigate. The paths are paved and pristine. Lots of free parking. When I visited in April the area was green with lots of California poppies dotting the area with orange flowers. Overall not really much to see, but it was a nice place to walk. Zero shade (fully exposed) so you'll have to wear appropriate clothing, sunscreen and bring water. I'm sure it will be very hot in the summer. The area surrounding the path is sort of swampy with brown water, but there was no smell and the views of the bay area nice. The area isn't very noisy besides the frequent drone of small planes flying low overhead. It wasn't very busy when I went, either. Lots of parking and only crosses a few people...

When it was built more than 125 years ago, Ravenswood was the summer home of a prominent local citizen enamored with the area’s natural beauty.

Though it has undergone several renovations and upgrades over the years, much of the home is now in near-original condition. It’s a popular venue for special events like weddings and professional photoshoots.

The grounds include impressive gardens and orchards, and outbuildings like a carriage house and cottage.

Guided tours are conducted by docents clad in authentic era garb a few times a month. Check their website or give them a call to...

Amazing deck/boardwalk. The entire route is great for biking and a relaxed afternoon walk. Fully exposed and hard to find a tree to rest. However, 4 chair at the beginning of the boardwalk can have some social gathering. No big pond or river as Baylands so I didn't see a lot of birds as I can see in Baylands. Community Center has not opened yet and when I was there a teacher used the space to teach dance. The restrooms inside the building and outside the building are both opened. Parking is...