Google, a globally renowned tech company, is known for its innovative products and services, with its search engine being the most popular. If you’re a tech enthusiast or simply curious about the company’s inner workings, visiting Google’s headquarters in Mountain View, California, can be an exciting experience.
Googleplex: The Iconic Campus
Google has been headquartered at its sprawling campus, known as Googleplex, since its founding on September 4, 1998. The campus is home to numerous interesting buildings and sculptures that reflect the company’s creative culture. Additionally, there’s a store where visitors can purchase Google-branded merchandise, making it a unique shopping experience.
The Google Visitor Center
One of the highlights of a visit to Googleplex is the Google Visitor Center. Located at 1981 Landings Drive, Mountain View, this center is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the world’s largest search engine. While the center is open to the public, access is restricted to guided tours with a Google escort.
The visitor center features interactive exhibits that take visitors on a journey through Google’s humble beginnings in a garage to its current status as a global tech giant. You can see some of the company’s first computers and learn about its early startup days. To visit the Google Visitor Center, it’s advisable to contact the Google Public Affairs team in advance to arrange an escort.
Google Headquarters Tour Price
To gain access to the Googleplex and get a behind-the-scenes look at the company’s iconic buildings, you’ll need an entrance ticket, which costs $17.50. The ticket includes a guided tour of the Googleplex, where you can learn about the history of Google, the technology behind the search engine, and the company’s corporate culture. Moreover, the Google Museum, with the world’s largest collection of Google Doodles, is also part of the tour.
Google’s Unique Work Culture
Google has long been known for its innovative and productive workplace culture. The company fosters creativity and collaboration, making it one of the best places to work globally. Key elements of Google’s work culture include:
20% Time Policy:
Employees are encouraged to spend 20% of their working hours on projects unrelated to their primary job, promoting creativity and exploration.
Flexibility and Telecommuting:
Google offers flexible work hours and telecommuting options, enabling employees to have a better work-life balance.
The Android Garden
Near Googleplex, you can find the Android lawn statues, a collection of large foam statues representing various Android robot characters used as the mascot for the Android operating system. The garden is open to the public and has become a popular photo spot for tourists and Android fans alike.
Crazy Facts About Google Office
Google offices are known for their unique and fun features that contribute to the company’s vibrant work environment. Some of the crazy facts include:
- Multiple restaurants and micro kitchens are available to employees.
- The Massage program allows employees to relax during work hours.
- The 20% Time Policy encourages innovation and creativity among employees.
- Google’s death policy provides financial support to an employee’s spouse and children.
- The use of electric vehicles ensures eco-friendly transportation within the office premises.
- Employees enjoy various forms of entertainment at work.
- Goats are employed to cut lawns, contributing to Google’s environmental sustainability efforts.
Conclusion
Visiting Google headquarters at Googleplex offers a fascinating experience to learn about the company’s history and innovative work culture. Make sure to plan ahead and arrange your visit through proper channels to make the most of this unique opportunity. The Android Garden and the Google Visitor Center are must-visit attractions for tech enthusiasts and those curious about Google’s extraordinary journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answer: Google offices offer multiple amenities, including various restaurants and micro kitchens, a Massage program for relaxation, and entertainment options for employees. The company also uses electric vehicles for transportation within the office premises.
Answer: Yes, Google is known for its innovative and productive work culture. The company encourages creativity and collaboration, and employees are given the freedom to explore new ideas through the 20% Time Policy.
Answer: The entrance ticket for a Google Headquarters tour costs $17.50. This ticket includes a guided tour of the Googleplex and access to the Google Museum, which features the world’s largest collection of Google Doodles.
Answer: To visit the Google Visitor Center, you need to arrange a guided tour with a Google escort. Contact the Google Public Affairs team in advance to schedule your visit.
Answer: The Google Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits that showcase the history of Google, its early days as a startup, and the technology behind the search engine. Visitors can also view some of the company’s first computers and learn about its corporate culture.
Answer: Yes, Google’s headquarters, also known as Googleplex, is open to the public for visits. However, access to certain areas may be restricted, and guided tours are required to explore the campus.