The area is known for its diverse population and vibrant community that celebrates and values cultural diversity.
There are several cultural attractions in Old Mountain View that highlight the area’s rich cultural heritage, including:
Public Art in Old Mountain View
The Public Art Program has art pieces or installations in public spaces such as parks, plazas, or streetscapes. This program aims to enhance the aesthetic quality of public spaces and provide opportunities for artists to showcase their work.
Old Mountain View is home to a dozen pieces of artwork in the city’s Public Art program. Many of them are right around the Civic Center, library, Eagle and Pioneer parks. Check out the city’s public art map
Annual Art and Wine Festival
Castro street is home to one of the nation’s top art festival, the Mountain View Art and Wine Festival. It is one of the largest and most popular festivals in the Bay Area, attracting over 200,000 visitors each year.
The festival features a wide range of activities and attractions, including:
Fine art displays: Over 500 artists from across the country showcase their works in a variety of media, including painting, photography, ceramics, and sculpture.
Wine and beer gardens: Visitors can sample local wines and craft beers from dozens of vendors, including many from the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains wine region.
Live music: Multiple stages throughout the festival feature live music performances from a variety of genres, including rock, jazz, blues, and country.
Kid’s Park: A dedicated area with carnival rides, games, and hands-on art activities for children.
Food vendors: Over 25 food vendors offer a wide range of cuisine, including traditional festival fare such as corn dogs and funnel cakes, as well as more gourmet options.
The festival is typically held over a weekend in early September and is free to attend. It has become a beloved tradition in the Mountain View community and draws visitors from throughout the Bay Area and beyond.
Old Mountain View is a culturally rich and diverse community that offers a wide range of opportunities for residents and visitors to celebrate and learn about different cultures.
Little Free Library & Art Gallery
Old Mountain View is dotted with several Free Little Libraries. They are a popular way for neighbors to come together and share their love of reading.
A Free Little Library is a small, outdoor book exchange box to promote community, literacy, and the love of reading. Anyone is welcome to take a book to read, and they can also leave books for others to enjoy. The idea is to provide a way for people to share books and discover new authors in their communities.
To add your library, Old MV residents should send location to the webmaster.
| Library Name | Location |
| Area 181 (aka the Tardis) | On Church near Ehrhorn |
Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts
Old Mountain View is delighted to have The Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, a three-theater performing arts complex in the heart of our neighborhood.
The complex hosts a wide range of performances, including music, theater, dance, and comedy shows with performances by both local and international artists, as well as productions by local theater companies and school groups. The center also offers educational programs and workshops for aspiring artists and performers.
It is an important cultural institution that provides a venue for artistic expression and creativity, as well as entertainment and enrichment for the community. For tickets and information.
Mountain View Library
The Mountain View Public Library is in the heart of downtown and our neighborhood. The library has been praised for its commitment to technology and innovation.
Visitors can explore a large collection of books, movies, music, and other materials. There are also public computers, free Wi-Fi (one of the first in the nation), and printing and copying services, and cutting-edge technology services, such as 3D printing and virtual reality experiences. They host a variety of events and programs for all ages, such as storytimes, book clubs, author talks, and cultural celebrations.
Library is a great place to visit for anyone interested in exploring the community, learning about its history and culture, or simply enjoying a quiet space to read or work.
old public art map.
