Atherton CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Atherton, California.
1. Holbrook-Palmer Park
HISTORIC GARDENS AND RECREATION
Holbrook-Palmer Park is a beautiful, old, and beautifully maintained local park in Atherton. It offers the perfect setting for a run or leisurely stroll through well-kept gardens and open spaces. The park provides various recreational facilities and is considered one of the top attractions in the area.
2. Music@Menlo
CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL
Music@Menlo is a highly-rated performing arts venue and chamber music festival in Atherton. The festival brings together world-class musicians for concerts, educational events, and special performances throughout its season. Visitors consistently give this cultural gem outstanding reviews for its exceptional musical experiences.
3. The Center for the Performing Arts
CULTURAL ENTERTAINMENT HUB
The Center for the Performing Arts serves as Atherton's premier venue for theatrical performances and cultural events. The center hosts a diverse range of shows, from plays and musicals to concerts and dance performances. Its intimate setting provides an excellent atmosphere for enjoying live entertainment.
4. Kepler's Books
ICONIC INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE
Kepler's Books is a beloved independent bookstore located in neighboring Menlo Park, just a short distance from Atherton. This literary landmark has been serving the community since 1955 with a carefully curated selection of books and regular author events. The store maintains a strong reputation with visitors, earning excellent reviews for its knowledgeable staff and community-focused approach.
5. Feldman's Books
CHARMING USED BOOKSTORE
Feldman's Books offers a charming bookstore experience near Atherton with shelves filled with used and rare books. The store creates a cozy atmosphere for book lovers to browse and discover literary treasures. Visitors appreciate the well-organized selection and knowledgeable staff.
6. Guild Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Guild Theatre is a historic entertainment venue near Atherton that has been reimagined as a modern performance space. The theater hosts live music, film screenings, and special events in an intimate setting with excellent acoustics. Its convenient location makes it a popular destination for residents and visitors seeking quality entertainment.
7. Pedego Electric Bikes Menlo Park
ELECTRIC BIKE ADVENTURES
Pedego Electric Bikes in Menlo Park offers visitors a unique way to explore the area around Atherton. Guests can rent electric bikes for self-guided tours through scenic neighborhoods and nearby nature areas. The shop receives excellent reviews for its friendly service and well-maintained equipment.
8. Old La Honda Road
SCENIC CYCLING ROUTE
Old La Honda Road presents a challenging and scenic cycling route near Atherton that attracts both serious cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. The climb extends for approximately three miles until meeting with Skyline Boulevard, offering beautiful views along the way. This popular segment features a steady incline through wooded areas with minimal traffic.
9. Kings Mountain Road
TWISTING SCENIC DRIVE
Kings Mountain Road offers a narrow and very twisty route through the hills near Atherton, popular with both drivers and cyclists. The road descends for over four miles through beautiful forested landscapes with occasional glimpses of the surrounding countryside. This scenic drive provides a refreshing escape from urban areas and connects to several recreational spots in the region.
10. Tafoni Sandstone Formation
NATURAL GEOLOGICAL WONDER
The Tafoni sandstone formations showcase fascinating geological features created when water dissolved the calcite in ancient dune sandstone. These unusual honeycomb-like structures create intricate patterns that draw photographers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can observe this natural wonder while hiking through the preserve not far from Atherton.
11. Junipero Serra Boulevard Bike Path
PROTECTED CYCLING CORRIDOR
Junipero Serra Boulevard features a generous, paved bike lane in both directions for the entire length of the route near Atherton. This well-maintained path provides cyclists with a safe corridor through scenic areas while being separated from vehicle traffic. The route connects several communities and recreational areas, making it popular for both commuters and leisure riders.
12. Stanford Shopping Center
UPSCALE OUTDOOR MALL
Stanford Shopping Center is an elegant open-air shopping destination featuring upscale retailers, dining options, and beautiful garden areas just minutes from Atherton. The center houses over 140 world-class stores and restaurants in a meticulously landscaped setting with fountains and sculptures. Visitors enjoy the sophisticated atmosphere and diverse shopping options ranging from luxury brands to local boutiques.
13. Allied Arts Guild
HISTORIC ARTS COMPLEX
Allied Arts Guild is a charming Spanish Colonial-style complex featuring artists' studios, shops, and gardens near Atherton. The historic property showcases beautiful architecture, courtyards with fountains, and meticulously maintained gardens inspired by the gardens of Spain and Morocco. Visitors can explore the studios, shop for handcrafted items, and enjoy lunch at the on-site restaurant while supporting the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital.
14. Filoli Historic House & Garden
ESTATE AND FORMAL GARDENS
Filoli is a magnificent country estate featuring a Georgian revival mansion and 16 acres of formal gardens located a short drive from Atherton. The historic property, built in 1917, offers visitors the chance to tour the elegant 54,000 square foot house with its period furnishings and artwork. The spectacular gardens showcase seasonal blooms throughout the year, with especially stunning displays of tulips in spring and dahlias in summer.
15. The Village Bakery
ARTISANAL BREADS AND DINING
The Village Bakery is a popular dining destination near Atherton known for its freshly baked artisanal breads, pastries, and California-inspired cuisine. The restaurant features a warm, rustic-chic atmosphere with both indoor seating and a lovely patio for outdoor dining. Visitors appreciate the seasonal menu that emphasizes local ingredients and the bakery's commitment to quality.