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GIVE | Travel with Purpose

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Travel with Purpose

Want to see the world & make a positive impact? Us too. GIVE’s immersive, all-inclusive trips engage you in meaningful volunteer projects, authentic cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path adventures so you can discover the world and find your purpose in it.

Transformative & Immersive Travel Experience

Locally led & sustainably operated, all-inclusive itineraries & 360° support, transformative & immersive travel, locally led & socially responsible, 360° support & all-inclusive itineraries.

  Meaningful travel With GivE

You deserve to  find your purpose . You’re eager to explore the world and have a positive impact . But how? Our all-inclusive trips engage you in meaningful volunteer projects, authentic cultural immersion, and epic adventures so you can discover the world and find your purpose in it.

Our award-winning trips will transform your life, igniting new passions and inspiring incredible personal growth.  Work hard, play hard  alongside local people on locally-led projects, immerse yourself in new cultures , build lifelong friendships , and  become a global citizen  with GIVE.

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  The impact you’ll make

  empowering communities from the ground up.

Work alongside community members on sustainable projects that drive lasting change — education, eco-friendly infrastructure, regenerative agriculture, women’s empowerment, reforestation and wildlife conservation projects.

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  Recent Awards 

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“GIVE changed my entire life. From the very first day of reaching the island of Zanzibar, I saw the world in a different light. The cliche expectations of serving others and volunteering were achieved but I had no idea that I would experience the best 2 weeks of my life. Giving is a lot more than monetary handouts. If you want to change the world, go and get your hands a little dirty. But trust me when I say that the locals will help you more than you could ever help them. Don’t sit and wonder what it’s like or ask others what it’s like. Go. Go and give your time and effort with the best organization you could find.” – Chase, Tanzania.

Learn more about our Tanzania trip.

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“There is no other tour. Regular tourists go to touristy locations and crowded spaces full of people vacationing. This trip gives you the opportunity to be in remote villages that no other tourist will experience. You’re surrounded by Thai culture and learn some of the language. If you want to be immersed and experience Thailand with strangers that become best friends, I recommend GIVE. ” – Daija, Thailand

Learn more about our Thailand trip.

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“ Do it . It is the best thing that you will ever do. The people you meet, the friendships that feel like family, and the difference you are making. If you are ever traveling whilst volunteering I’d go with GIVE a million times over because of their morals and ethics towards how to go about working with these communities.” -Erin, Laos

Learn more about our Laos trip.

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“I have never been so affected by a trip or a group of people in my life. GIVE has offered me the chance to grow as a person and help others who I believe are deserving of every possible opportunity I have, and they have given me more than I thought I would receive. They have given me a new family, a new home, and a new mission and passion in life… I have learned more about myself and who I am. I now am part of a community that will forever be connected worldwide…I have been abroad before and have done volunteer work in the past but nothing compares to this trip and these people” – Alexandra, Nicaragua

Learn more about our Nicaragua trip.

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“This trip was a life changing experience to have. You get to immerse yourself in the culture and learn something new every minute you’re there. You get to meet locals and natives of Hawai’i and learn their stories and ancestry lineage and work with them in helping with bringing back their culture. Wither by helping on sustainable farms or cleaning up on beach sides, you get to become connected to the land and the people you’re helping. You also get to meet new people from around the world and hear about why they are also there to help and what their own stories are as well. It is an eye opening and life changing experience and it is worth the time and effort that is put into getting on the trip” – Hailey, Hawai’i

Learn more about our Hawai’i trip.

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“I learned, experienced and grew so much on this trip. I signed up because I was excited about elephants and scuba diving, but the reasons I’ll definitely go on another GIVE trip is the connections I made and the growth I experienced.” – Dan, Thailand Scuba

Learn more about our Scuba Conservation trip.

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“Spending a week learning about elephants through their mahout was incredible! We were able to see a bond between the two and learn all about the beauty and intelligence of Asian elephants. Visiting the sanctuaries and trekking through the jungle was so cool and I made lifelong friends!” – Ava, Elephant Experience

Learn more about our Elephant Experience trip.

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“This was such a unique experience that allowed me to learn more about conservation and the importance of mindfulness about the land that we live on. I was able to learn more about the Snoqualmie tribe while responsibly working and recreating in their landscape. The people I’ve met are so special and as passionate as I am! The volunteer work and experiences that we accomplished in such a small period of time was truly inspiring and got me thinking about a career in conservation and sustainability.” – Nick, Pacific NW

Learn more about our Pacific NW trip.

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“I completed the WILD course this past March, and it was one of the best experiences I have ever had as a student. I honestly did not think I could learn as much as I did within one week, and the course was a perfect balance of learning and fun. Not only did we get to learn in the classroom, but we would venture out into the Cascade Mountains and do real-time Wilderness First Aid scenarios, which solidified our knowledge of the topics we discussed. The lodge staff was so kind and went above and beyond to ensure we had a comfortable stay, and the fellow students I met during the course were awesome and we have stayed in-touch with one another since! Those running the course were not only great teachers, but created an inspiring, nurturing, and fun environment for each student to step into their own leadership roles.” – Haylie, WILD

Learn more about our WILD course.

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“Costa Rica is the most beautiful country I’ve ever been to. You really get to see the entire country from the jungle to the Caribbean. I learned so much about permaculture and how to apply it to all things in life. Can’t wait for my next GIVE trip! ” – Carly, Costa Rica

Learn more about our Costa Rica trip.

and why we do what we do

  • Our Mission & Methodology

GIVE’s Mission:  To inspire growth, empower global citizens,  and ignite sustainable change worldwide .

Give’s promise: people, projects & principles above profit.

With over 10 million people volunteering abroad each year and more than a  thousand different organizations offering volunteer programs abroad, it’s no surprise that one of the most common questions we hear is, “What makes GIVE different?”  In fact, it was  this very question that inspired GIVE’s founding in 2011.  After  witnessing the good, the bad and the downright ugly sides of the volunteer  tourism industry, we ultimately determined that there is real potential for international volunteers to have positive impacts in lower-income countries, but it would require a fresh, focused approach to truly foster sustainable change. That’s why we’ve made  a   lasting commitment to put  people, projects and principles above profit.   SEE MORE

GIVE’s Family: Happy People Sail Fast

This principle is clearly manifested in both our host community members and volunteers, and it all starts with our unrivaled team of staff. The GIVE family is a concept we’ve fostered since day one, as we’ve established a clear pipeline for international staff to learn and grow over several years of experience in the field. All of our international staff started as GIVE volunteers, gained necessary certifications and skill sets during GIVE’s WILD course, went on to increase their involvement as in-country interns, and are now facilitating an unparalleled volunteer experience as GIVE Guides and Project Coordinators. We are also proud to employ local Guides and Project Coordinators in each of our destinations, who act as a critical link between our volunteers and the communities we empower. These are truly some of the most passionate, responsible and inspiring human beings on the planet! SEE MORE.

The Places You’ll explore

On our immersive, one-of-a-kind trips.

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Mission Trips

Mission Trips

Looking for short-term mission trips with everything organized for you? Every year, International Volunteer HQ supports more than 15,000 people to volunteer abroad on mission trips in 40+ countries around the world. Since 2007, IVHQ has helped more than 136,000 volunteers complete mission trips to Africa , Asia , Europe , South America , Central America , North America , the Caribbean , Middle East , and the Pacific .

IVHQ offers safe, social and fully-supported mission trips for teens , college students , families and individuals at any stage of life, as well as for those seeking summer mission trips and medical mission trips . With long-term and short-term mission trips starting at just $20/day including accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support, IVHQ is the world’s leading mission trip organization.

IVHQ offers both short-term and long-term mission trips with durations ranging from 1 to 24 weeks. Through IVHQ, you can choose from a diverse range of volunteer projects to support, inclduing: childcare volunteering , wildlife conservation , environmental conservation , medical volunteering , teaching abroad , and much more. These international volunteer opportunities enable you to support locally-driven projects that uplift under-resourced communities around the world.

If you’re looking to join a mission trip in 2024 or 2025, we’ve outlined IVHQ’s most popular types of mission trips and all the information you need to know to find your perfect mission.

What is a mission trip?

A mission trip is an international volunteering opportunity centered around collaborative efforts with local communities to provide essential support where it is most needed. These trips can be either religious or non-religious in nature, aiming to uplift individuals, local communities, and natural environments across the globe. IVHQ offers inclusive volunteer abroad programs that welcome participants of all ages and life stages.

Through IVHQ’s diverse range of mission trips , individuals can make a tangible impact while fostering new friendships, discovering diverse cultures, and broadening their horizons—all while contributing to the well-being of those who require assistance the most.

Why do people go on mission trips?

Mission trips are a popular way to combine your desire to travel and see with world with your motivation to give back and make a difference in the world. While some people see mission trips as an opportunity to put their faith into action, others go on mission trips for a variety of non-religious reasons, including:

To make a difference: Many people go on mission trips make a positive impact in the world through providing support to communities in a range of different ways. This could involve volunteering to teach English , building schools or homes , providing medical care , volunteering with animals or supporting environmental conservation .

To gain a new perspective: Traveling to a new country and immersing yourself in a different culture can be a life-changing and transformative experience. Mission trips allow you to see the world with fresh eyes and gain a better understanding of different cultures and ways of life.

To meet new people: Mission trips offer an opportunity to connect with people from all around the world. International volunteers work together towards a common goal, often forming life-long friendships and connections along the way.

To get out of your comfort zone : Mission trips are an opportunity to discover a new sense of purpose by stepping out of your comfort zone, discovering new countries and cultures, and living like the locals. This can be equally challenging and rewarding! Taking a mission trip is an opportunity to growth as person, discover your strengths and weaknesses and redefine your purpose in life.

While people go on mission trips for a variety of reasons, at the heart of it is a desire to make a positive impact on the world, connect with others and build a better future together.

Quote from IVHQ Volunteer Ruth Cartwright - Childcare in Sri Lanka

I recently returned from a mission trip to Sri Lanka and it was everything I dreamt it would be. I lived with a family in the jungle next to the longest river in the country, volunteering in a disabled childcare center. I was so happy with the project and had a wonderful - and sometimes challenging - experience. I would recommend this mission trip to anyone who wants to travel alone.

How much does it cost to go on a mission trip?

The cost of going on a mission trip varies depending on the destination and duration of the trip. IVHQ makes mission trips accessible to volunteers worldwide through affordable volunteer program fees and flexible durations.

For example, the cost of a 2-week mission trip with IVHQ to Tanzania is US$415, while a 4-week trip to India is US$585. These costs cover accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, and in-country support from IVHQ’s local team.

Additional costs that volunteers need to consider include the IVHQ registration fee , airfares, travel insurance, and any necessary visas or vaccinations. However, IVHQ provides detailed information and support to help volunteers prepare for their mission trip and manage these additional costs.

It’s worth noting that IVHQ also offers a range of fundraising ideas and resources to help volunteers cover the costs of their trip. For example, volunteers can create a fundraising page via IVHQ’s fundraising partner and share it with friends and family to collect donations.

IVHQ’s fees are transparent and inclusive, making it easy for volunteers to plan and budget for their trip without breaking the bank.

Why do a mission trip with IVHQ?

If you’re looking to join a mission trip, you likely have a social or environmental cause in mind that you’d like to contribute to. Just as you place importance on the program you join, it’s equally as important to choose a responsible mission trip organization.

At IVHQ, we believe that mission trips should contribute positively towards society. Environmental and social impact has always been at the heart of what we do, which is why we’ve undergone rigorous assessment to become a Certified B Corporation , holding us to the highest ethical standards. We’re also the first and only global volunteer travel provider to declare a Climate Emergency and our operations are certified as 100% carbon neutral.

With a B Corp stamp of approval , Program Fees starting at just $20/day including accommodation, and more than 16 years of experience , IVHQ is proud to be the mission trip organization of choice for thousands of individuals and groups looking to take a meaningful mission trip in 2024 & 2025.

What it is like volunteering abroad with International Volunteer HQ.

Best mission trip opportunities across the globe

Volunteering in Africa with IVHQ

IVHQ offers a range of meaningful volunteer programs in Tanzania, Zambia, Victoria Falls, Madagascar, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Morocco, Zanzibar and Namibia. Explore Africa’s beauty while conserving endangered wildlife or giving back to local communities in need.

Available in 11 countries

Volunteering in Asia with IVHQ

IVHQ offers volunteer programs in 15 incredible destinations across Asia, including Bali, Cambodia, China, India, Laos, Nepal, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. Discover new cultures and play a hands-on role in supporting local social and environmental projects.

Available in 10 countries

North America

Volunteering in North America with IVHQ

Join a volunteer program in Mexico or the USA and choose from a range of meaningful projects, from Childcare and Teaching to Animal Care and Environmental Sustainability. IVHQ’s North American volunteer opportunities are based in New Orleans, or in Merida, Mexico.

Available in 2 countries

Central America

Volunteering in Central America with IVHQ

Based in the popular destinations of Costa Rica and Guatemala, IVHQ offers a range of impactful volunteer programs in Central America. Support community initiatives, work alongside locals and embrace unique cultural traditions for up to 24 weeks.

South America

Volunteering in South America in 2024 with IVHQ

IVHQ’s volunteer trips to South America are based in iconic Latin American locations across Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. With unique opportunities in Teaching, Construction, Wildlife Conservation, Medical, Amazon Jungle Conservation, and more, there’s something to suit every volunteer!

Available in 6 countries

Volunteering in the Caribbean with IVHQ

IVHQ’s Caribbean volunteer opportunities are based in and around the stunning islands of Jamaica, Belize, Trinidad and Tobago, and Puerto Rico. Give back to the local community through Teaching, Marine Conservation, Childcare, Animal Care and other impact led volunteer projects.

Available in 4 countries

Volunteering in Europe with IVHQ

Discover Europe’s rich culture and history on a volunteer program in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Romania or Croatia. Choose from a range of meaningful projects including Wolf Conservation, Youth Support, Teaching, Childcare, Special Needs Support, Environmental Scuba Diving and more.

Middle East

Volunteering in the Middle East with IVHQ

Explore the Middle East on a volunteer trip to Jordan. Choose from a range of community projects such as Youth Support, Women’s Education, Teaching and more. When you’re not giving back, you can explore the Middle East’s unique culture through our exhilarating tours and add-ons.

Available in 1 country

Volunteering in the Pacific with IVHQ

Experience the vibrant culture and welcoming communities of the Pacific on a volunteer trip with IVHQ. Choose from a range of life-enriching programs, from preserving the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and coastal waterways in New Zealand to teaching on the beautiful island of Fiji.

Available in 3 countries

Find the best mission trip for you

  • Teens & High School Students
  • College Students
  • Summer Trips

Mission trips for teens & high school students

Joining a mission trip is one of the best ways to step outside of your comfort zone, gain new perspective and give back to communities in need. IVHQ offers a range of mission trips for high school students and teens , meaning you don’t need to be 18 to go abroad and make a difference.

Since 2007, IVHQ has supported thousands of young people to volunteer around the world on our youth mission trips. More than 20% of our volunteers are under 20, so we know a thing or two about providing life-changing, reliable travel experiences for young explorers.

We offer safe and affordable volunteer opportunities for teens and high school students in 17 destinations around the globe. Learn more about how to join a mission trip for under 18s .

Top mission trips for teens & high school students:

Volunteer in costa rica.

Volunteer abroad in Costa Rica with International Volunteer HQ

Volunteer in Guatemala

Volunteer abroad in Guatemala with International Volunteer HQ

Volunteer in Tanzania

Volunteer abroad in Tanzania with International Volunteer HQ

Mission trips for college students

Today’s student demographic is more progressive than ever before. That’s why student mission trips have become a popular alternative to studying abroad. Instead of studying abroad, many are opting for a more meaningful form of international travel - one that is regenerative and makes a positive impact on local communities.

IVHQ offers mission trips for college students in more than 40 countries around the world. Our mission trips to Africa are particularly popular amongst students. With fees starting at just US$20 per day, our low-cost mission trips are an affordable way for students and young professionals to discover a new country and gain a global perspective while making the world a better place.

When you go on a mission trip with IVHQ, you also have the opportunity to gain academic credit while you volunteer from as little as US$599 for 5 credits - making a super affordable alternative to studying abroad!

Top mission trips for college students:

Volunteer in peru.

Volunteer abroad in Peru with International Volunteer HQ

Volunteer in Victoria Falls

Volunteer abroad in Victoria Falls with International Volunteer HQ

Volunteer in Zambia

Volunteer abroad in Zambia with International Volunteer HQ

Mission trips for families

Planning a family mission trip can be a challenge, especially if you’re trying to accommodate multiple age groups. IVHQ’s fully-hosted mission trips mean that you can get away and make a difference without having to coordinate and plan for the entire family. The best part? Lots of IVHQ programs offer private room and accommodation upgrades at a very affordable price!

If you have young children, IVHQ has great options that will give you quality time together while instilling the values of service. Family mission trip opportunities are available in Africa , Asia , Europe , Central America and South America .

Our team of Volunteer Travel Experts can provide you with personalized family mission trip recommendations to match your budget and the causes you care about. Learn more about how you can go on a mission trip as a family .

Top mission trips for families:

Volunteer in kenya.

Volunteer abroad in Kenya with International Volunteer HQ

Volunteer in Portugal

Volunteer abroad in Portugal with International Volunteer HQ

Best short-term mission trips

IVHQ offers short-term mission trips for 1 to 3 weeks in over 40 countries, starting at just $20 per day including accommodation . This means you can get away and experience a new culture without needing to take ample time away from your day-to-day priorities.

Our short-term mission trips are designed for those who want to maximize impact in a short period of time and are perfect for students and professionals who are looking to take an alternative break . With everything organized for you, including airport pickup and 24/7 in-country support, you can hit the ground running as soon as you arrive at your destination. Check out our top short-term mission trips for 2024 & 2025:

Top short-term mission trips:

Volunteer in croatia.

Volunteer abroad in Croatia with International Volunteer HQ

Volunteer in Ghana

Volunteer abroad in Ghana with International Volunteer HQ

Volunteer in Mexico

Volunteer abroad in Mexico with International Volunteer HQ

Best summer mission trips

Summer is one of the most popular times of year to go on a mission trip, allowing you to immerse yourself in a new culture and interact with locals while soaking up the sunshine. With time off from work and school, it’s the perfect opportunity to see the world and make a difference alongside like-minded people.

Whether you have a desire to volunteer abroad with animals or want to find a medical volunteer program , check out these top summer mission trips for 2024 & 2025 .

Top summer mission trips:

Volunteer in puerto rico.

Volunteer in Puerto Rico with International Volunteer HQ

Volunteer in South Africa

Volunteer abroad in South Africa with International Volunteer HQ

Volunteer in Zanzibar

Volunteer Abroad in Zanzibar with IVHQ

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Visit Googleplex: A Comprehensive Tour Of Google's Headquarters

Next time in Silicon Valley, consider visiting Googleplex - Google's massive headquarters.

Read update

More Information About Visiting Googleplex

If one is interested in the great modern tech companies of the world, then consider popping in and visiting their headquarters in Silicon Valley. Many of them are based in the Bay Area and some have visitor centers, while others are closed to the public. It is possible to walk around Google's headquarters and see how one of the largest and most innovative companies in the world plans its workspace. Many people would love to have a Googleplex tour and see a Google Visitor Center.

Google is a company that needs no introduction, its Google Maps are also some of the best in the world for navigating - regardless of the country one is in. Google tries to be an innovative and fun company that people would want to work for. While using Google Maps or other Google services, keep an eye out for Google's humorous Easter Eggs.

UPDATE: 2023/04/30 16:46 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Googleplex is one of the most notable complexes in Silicon Valley today. Googleplex is the dynamic headquarters of Google (Alphabet) and visiting facilities are subject to change. This article was updated and expanded with more information about visiting Googleplex and if there are any Googleplex tours or a Google Visitor Center to explore.

What To Know About Google's Headquarters - Googleplex

Googleplex is the name of Google's corporate headquarters and is located at 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway in Mountain View, California. It is the home of the search giant's parent company, Alphabet Inc.

  • Location: 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View
  • Area: Spread Out Over 12 Acres
  • Parent Company: Alphabet Inc.
  • NYC Office: At 111 Eighth Avenue

At 2 million square feet of office space, Googleplex is Google's second-largest office space complex after its building at 111 Eighth Avenue in New York City.

The name of the headquarters takes its name from "Google" and "Complex" - i.e. a complex of buildings. It is also a reference to Google's name - "googolplex" impossibly high number large number 10(10100), or 10googol.

  • "Googolplex": 10(10100), or 10googol

Googleplex is on the site that was previously used by Silicon Graphics (SGI) - some of their properties were purchased by Google in 2006 for $319 million.

Related: The Biggest Mistakes Tourists Make In New York City (And How To Avoid Them)

Facilities And Attractions At Googleplex

The complex is a sprawling one and covers a large area. The buildings are not high rise and are of relatively low height.

Inside can be trippy and the lobby boasts a piano and a projection of current live Google search queries. One can find a dinosaur skeleton there and a replica of SpaceShipOne. The purpose of the T-Rex skeleto n (with twirling flamingos) is a reminder to its employees (called Googlers) to stay relevant and not become dinosaurs.

Built with an eye to a more relaxed vision of workspace, Googleplex offers free laundry rooms, two small swimming pools, volleyball courts, and eighteen cafeterias.

  • T-Rex Skeleton: On Display In Googleplex - The Main Building
  • Cafeterias: Eighteen Cafeterias With Diverse Menus
  • Employee Facilities: Include Access To Fitness Classes, Massages, A 24/7 Gym, An On-Site Doctor, Dry-Cleaning Facilities, Cafeterias

Around 3 miles or 5 kilometers away from the main Googleplex headquarters is another large campus called "The Quad". It is located in Mountain View at 399 N Whisman Road.

Related: 20 Surprising Things About Times Square Tourists Should Know

Visiting Google's Googleplex

"While visitors can visit the grounds, they are not permitted inside the buildings unless they are escorted by a Google employee. The company doesn’t run tours." CNBC

Unfortunately, the buildings are not open to the public. Visiting the complex, one will find it to be more of a campus than an office building. Google doesn't run tours as such.

To get from one side of the campus to the other, Google supplies its employees with free colorful “G Bikes.”

Attractions and Instagramming spots include a sculpture garden featuring various Android statues, one for each version of Android. The Android statues are all named after sweets and candies - there's a cupcake, donut, ice-cream sandwich, KitKat, gingerbread, and honeycomb.

  • Android Statues: One Of The Main Instagramming Attractions at Googleplex

In 2018 Google was pushing forward with plans to expand and build massive new buildings that would include more than 10,000 square feet of publicly accessible areas. Those areas include retail space, cafes, or other amenities located in the middle of the building.

There was a retail store called Google Merchandise Store located at 1981 Landings Drive, but that closed. Instead, one can shop online .

Another Silicon Valley tech giant to visit is Apple's, Apple Park . While the main building and campus are closed to the public, they do have a visitor center with a cafe. There are not really any specific Googleplex tours, but if one would like a tour of Silicon Valley in general, there are options for that.

Silicon Valley: Self-Driven Audio Tour for Technology Lovers is a tour that enables one to discover the modern world's birthplace on a self-driven tour in Silicon Valley. One will see the headquarters of tech giants like Facebook and Amazon, and explore tech headquarters open to visitors, like Google’s Googleplex.

Are There Googleplex Tours & A Google Visitor Center?

Previously it was possible to explore the visitor center with an escort. People needed to contact the Google Public Affairs team in advance to arrange an escort, but Google seems to have discontinued that now.

The Google Visitor Center was a great way to learn about the history of Google and see some of its early products. The visitor center was set up more as a museum complete with a replica of the original Google search engine. The entrance ticket was $17.50 and offers a behind-the-scenes tour into some of the buildings of the complex - including Googleplex.

However, as of 2023, it seems that the Google Visitor Center is permanently closed and Googleplex tours are no longer offered.

Still, people can visit Googleplex and see the 100 buildings in its sprawling campus at Mountain View and Sunnyvale. Check out the Google Merchandise Store at 1674 N Shoreline Blvd., Mountain View, CA and buy shirts, hats, cups, and other Google, YouTube, and Android branded merchandise.

Visitors are still able to wander around the campus and see Stand the T-Rex, ride colorful bikes, etc. Take the time to snap some Instagram photos with the Android lawn statues. After visiting Silicon Valley, take the time to visit the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

Next: 10 Destinations For All Of Us Obsessed With Technology (10 Where We Can Escape It)

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How to Get to the Googleplex and Tour the Campus

Last Updated: August 23, 2023 Fact Checked

Getting to the Googleplex

Exploring google campus, touring with a google employee.

This article was reviewed by Seth Hall and by wikiHow staff writer, Ali Garbacz, B.A. . Seth T. Hall (ICF ACC, CLC, and MNLP) is a Certified Life Coach and Founder of Transformational Solutions, a Los Angeles-based life-coaching company that helps people achieve their toughest goals, find their own voice, and think outside the box. He has been a life coach for over 10 years, specializing in personal development, relationships, career and finance, and wellness. He has helped his clients break the negative cycles in their lives and replace them with a positive, proactive mindset. Seth believes that everyone has the potential to live a fulfilling and rewarding life, and works passionately to help them reach their full potential. With a deep understanding of how our minds work and the power of positive thinking, he encourages his clients to find their unique paths in life and find success on their own terms. He is a certified master practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming, a featured co-author for WikiHow, and co-author of "The Mountain Method”, “The Happy Tiger”, and “The V.I.S.I.O.N.S. Program”. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 226,469 times.

Have you ever wanted to explore the place where all of the magic of Google happens? Well, if you happen to be in Silicon Valley, specifically Mountain View, you’ll be able to stop by the infamous Googleplex. While there are no official tours, visitors are more than welcome to walk around the outside of the Google campus. We’re here to give you all the insider information and tips about how to visit the headquarters of one of the world’s biggest tech companies. We’ve also got a lot of suggestions for fun things to do while you’re there, so keep reading!

Things You Should Know

  • Get to the Googleplex (1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View, CA) via car, bus, or train. Parking is free on the Google campus.
  • Explore the outside of the Google campus on foot and look out for famous landmarks, like the giant T-rex statue named Stan.
  • Ask a friend or acquaintance who works at Google to give you a tour of the inside of the office buildings.

Step 1 Drive to the Googleplex in Mountainview, California.

  • The Google campus is open for tourists to walk around 7 days a week. However, most office buildings are closed on weekends.
  • To keep with the theme of your trip, use Google maps to plot out your journey efficiently.
  • Google has 35 office and retail locations spread throughout the United States. Other U.S. cities that house Google offices include Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, New York, and Portland.

Step 2 Access Google's headquarters by train and bus instead of driving.

  • Caltrain is a commuter rail service that operates within the San Francisco Bay Area region.
  • If you take the Mountain View city buses, the nearest stop to the Googleplex is Charleston & Google. From there, it’s about a 0.2 mile (0.3 km) walk to Google HQ.
  • If you’re taking the Caltrain, get off at the Mountain View Caltrain Station and transfer to Mountain View city bus #40. Take this bus to the Charleston & Google stop, then walk the 0.2 miles (0.3 km) to the Googleplex.
  • A day pass for the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority costs $7.50 while a one-way ticket costs $2.50 (for adults). [3] X Research source
  • A day pass for the Caltrain costs $7.50 while a one-way ticket costs $3.75. [4] X Research source

Step 3 Park in one of the lots on the north end of the campus (if you’re driving).

  • The parking lots are labeled A, B, C, D, and E.

Step 4 Follow Billy Graham Parkway and cross Amphitheatre Parkway.

  • If you’re taking the bus and get off at Charleston & Google, you’ll be dropped off on the south end of the Google campus. Simply cross the street behind the bus stop to get to the Googleplex.

Step 1 Explore the outside campus on foot.

  • There is no longer a Google Visitor Center for tourists to visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to help you trek across the campus without hurting your feet.

Step 2 Visit the Google head office at the center of the campus.

  • Make this the first stop on your Googleplex tour since it’s easy to access from the campus parking lots.
  • In addition to the Google head office, Google Buildings 41, 42, and 43 are also in this cluster.
  • There is also a volleyball court and a small green area near these buildings.

Step 3 Look for the life-sized T-Rex skeleton replica.

  • If you’re lucky, you might see Stan wearing fun accessories, like pink flamingos.
  • The giant T-Rex is also a nod to Silicon Graphics, a Hollywood effects company that worked on the huge dinosaurs that appear in the Jurassic Park movies. [10] X Research source

Step 4 Keep an eye out for the self-driving Google car.

  • You might also be able to see the Google Street View car. This is the car that drives around and takes pictures for the street view option on Google Maps. [12] X Research source

Step 5 Make use of one of the outdoor volleyball courts.

  • If you do manage to score a tour, remain respectful and discreet as you tour the buildings. This is a workplace after all, and you wouldn’t want to disturb the hard-working people who are busy revolutionizing the tech industry.

Step 2 Have a meal in the Googleplex cafeteria.

  • Green represents maximum healthiness.
  • Yellow indicates food that features both healthy and unhealthy ingredients.
  • Red signifies that the food is more decadent and not ideal for a healthy diet.

Step 3 Check out the Google

  • These "nap pods" were created by a company called MetroNaps. [17] X Research source

Step 4 Ask if you can see the Google Garden.

  • The Google Garden also has vast green spaces and meditation spots for Googlers to use freely.

Community Q&A

Community Answer

You Might Also Like

Get a Tour of Pixar Studios

  • ↑ https://about.google/locations/?region=north-america
  • ↑ https://chasethehorizon.co/blog/96/visiting-google-and-twitter-headquarters-in-san-francisco
  • ↑ https://www.vta.org/go/fares
  • ↑ https://www.caltrain.com/fares/farechart
  • ↑ https://www.sanjose.org/listings/googleplex-android-statue-garden
  • ↑ https://www.siliconvalleyguide.org/
  • ↑ https://youtu.be/72zcF1sQWEY?t=65
  • ↑ http://business.financialpost.com/business-insider/an-inside-look-at-googles-luxurious-googleplex-campus-in-california
  • ↑ https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2011/07/what-googles-famous-cafeterias-can-teach-us-about-health/241876/
  • ↑ https://youtu.be/Z-pT0XDYvDM?t=144
  • ↑ https://metronaps.com/
  • ↑ https://youtu.be/Z-pT0XDYvDM?t=213

About This Article

Seth Hall

To visit Google headquarters, plan a trip to Mountain View, California, which is where the Googleplex is located. From there, you can explore the campus on foot and see some of the sights like the life-sized replica of a T-Rex skeleton. Check out the Visitor Center and the gift store for souvenirs, or grab a bite to eat at the Googleplex cafeteria. If you know someone who works at Google, ask them to give you a tour for greater access. For more information on how to visit Google headquarters and what you can do there, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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