The Los Altos History Museum is a meticulous exploration of the people who have lived in this area through the ages, and how they have used its land to their advantage. The museum's motto is to “collect, preserve and interpret the history of the Los Altos area”. Exhibits are many and varied, catering for young and old visitors alike. For a comprehensive history of what's now known as Silicon Valley, this is the museum to visit.
On the upper level, find the Los Altos History Museum's permanent collection. The Crown of the Peninsula is an interactive exhibit which recounts the various people who have flourished here Ohlone Indians, Mexican land grantees, early California settlers and apricot growers. A definite highlight for kids is a replica of downtown Los Altos from around 1932, featuring a model railroad. Audio tours for this part of the museum are available from the reception desk.
Downstairs, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions (up to four feature every year). Most displays and artifacts are relevant to California. Past exhibits have covered architectural styles, grizzly bears, and the Evolution of the Modern American Home. Various lectures based on current exhibitions are held at the museum. Check on the website to see what coincides with your visit.
Outside the museum, explore the J. Gilbert Smith House, where an early American farmstead has been recreated, aromas and all. Amble through the apricot orchard (one of the last active in the Santa Clara Valley), and check out the vintage farming equipment. Inside the shingled house, let a guide (compulsory) show you the antique furniture, toys and decorative arts. Make use of the picnic tables situated in the grounds, beneath the huge oaks.
The Los Altos History Museum is in central Los Altos, approximately 25 kilometres northwest of San Jose. The museum is open Sunday to Thursday, and shuts on public holidays. Entry and parking is free.