Palo Alto CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Palo Alto, California.
1. Stanford University
PRESTIGIOUS ACADEMIC INSTITUTION
Stanford University is a breeding ground for Silicon Valley businesses where founders of companies like Hewlett Packard, Yahoo!, and Sun Microsystems all passed through its doors. The university offers beautiful campus grounds with notable architecture and numerous cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the campus through guided tours or at their own pace to experience this world-class institution.
2. Stanford Shopping Center
PREMIER OPEN-AIR SHOPPING DESTINATION
Stanford Shopping Center is Northern California's premier open-air shopping and dining destination featuring luxury retailers like Bloomingdale's, Macy's, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and Hermès. With more than 140 world-class stores and restaurants, visitors can enjoy a sophisticated shopping experience in an elegant outdoor setting. The center's beautiful landscaping, outdoor spaces, and variety of dining options make it more than just a mall but a complete leisure destination.
3. Cantor Arts Center
DIVERSE ART COLLECTIONS
The Cantor Arts Center presents a wide selection of art across 24 galleries, plus outdoor gardens, courtyards, and terraces. The Center's collection spans 5,000 years and ranges from ancient China to contemporary 21st century works. Visitors can immerse themselves in diverse artistic traditions while enjoying the museum's beautiful Stanford campus setting.
4. The Foster Museum
FREE SPECIALTY MUSEUM
The Foster Museum is a specialty museum in Palo Alto offering free admission that can be scheduled through their website or by phone call. The museum features rotating exhibitions in an intimate setting with walk-ins accommodated when possible. Visitors appreciate its unique collections and the thoughtful curation of its displays.
5. The Stanford Theatre
CLASSIC FILM VENUE
The Stanford Theatre is a historic movie palace where visitors can enjoy classic films for only seven dollars. This beloved Palo Alto landmark celebrates the Golden Age of Hollywood with its vintage atmosphere and carefully curated film selections. The theatre provides a nostalgic cinema experience complete with a beautiful interior that transports visitors to another era.
6. Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden
HISTORIC GARDEN OASIS
Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden is a serene horticultural retreat featuring diverse plant collections and beautifully maintained grounds. The garden surrounds a historic home and offers visitors a peaceful escape with seasonal blooms and themed garden areas. Nature enthusiasts and photographers alike appreciate this green space for its beauty and tranquility in the heart of Palo Alto.
7. Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo
EDUCATIONAL FAMILY DESTINATION
The Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo is a family-friendly attraction designed specifically with children in mind. The facility combines interactive educational exhibits with a small zoo featuring various animals and wildlife. Visitors can engage in hands-on learning experiences that make science and nature accessible to young explorers.
8. The Stanford Dish
ICONIC HIKING TRAIL
The Stanford Dish is a popular hiking area named after the prominent radio telescope visible from its trails. The loop trail offers spectacular views of the Bay Area and Stanford campus while providing an excellent outdoor exercise opportunity. Visitors enjoy the well-maintained paths and the chance to spot local wildlife while getting a workout with elevation changes.
9. Hoover Tower
HISTORIC LANDMARK OBSERVATORY
Hoover Tower is a breathtaking 280-foot high tower that houses the Hoover Institution library and archives, once the hideaway of exiled Russian novelist Alexander Solzhenitsyn. Founded by Herbert Hoover prior to his presidency, the tower's architecture was inspired by the Spanish New Cathedral of Salamanca and features a 46-bell carillon and an observation deck offering sprawling views of the Stanford campus. Visitors can explore the galleries for free between 10 AM and 4 PM on weekdays, though online reservations are required.
10. Museum of American Heritage
LOCAL HISTORICAL EXHIBITS
The Museum of American Heritage showcases rotating exhibits exploring daily life from the late 19th century through the 1950s, including a fully kitted out General Store. The museum preserves various inventions and technological artifacts that highlight Silicon Valley's storied history. Throughout the year, visitors can participate in lectures, workshops, and special programs aimed at both adults and children.
11. Stanford Memorial Church
SPIRITUAL CAMPUS CENTERPIECE
Stanford Memorial Church stands as the spiritual centerpiece of Stanford University's campus with its stunning Romanesque-revival architecture. The church features breathtaking mosaics, stained glass windows, and intricate stonework that attract visitors from around the world. Whether attending a service or simply appreciating the artistry, visitors are welcomed to experience this peaceful sanctuary.
12. Baylands Nature Preserve
COASTAL WILDLIFE HAVEN
Baylands Nature Preserve is one of the largest tracts of undisturbed marshland remaining in the San Francisco Bay, offering visitors a chance to experience diverse ecosystems and wildlife. The preserve features miles of multi-use trails perfect for hiking, biking, and birdwatching, with boardwalks extending into the wetlands. Nature enthusiasts can spot numerous bird species and other wildlife while enjoying spectacular bay views and the peaceful atmosphere of this urban oasis.
13. University Avenue
DOWNTOWN DINING HUB
University Avenue serves as Palo Alto's vibrant main street connecting downtown to the Stanford campus. The avenue is lined with local restaurants, cafes, and shops offering diverse cuisine and shopping experiences. Visitors and locals alike enjoy the lively atmosphere and the opportunity to experience Silicon Valley culture through its food and retail scene.
14. Palo Alto Farmers Market
WEEKLY FRESH PRODUCE GATHERING
The Palo Alto Farmers Market is a weekly Saturday morning community gathering that operates throughout the year. Visitors can browse stalls filled with fresh, locally-grown produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted items from regional vendors. The market provides a glimpse into local culture while offering the opportunity to taste seasonal specialties and interact with the farmers who grow the food.
15. Santa Cruz Mountains
NEARBY NATURAL ESCAPE
The Santa Cruz Mountains offer Palo Alto residents and visitors a nearby natural escape with redwood forests and extensive hiking trails. The mountain range provides outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing just a short drive from the city. Visitors can experience the majesty of ancient redwoods and enjoy panoramic views of the Bay Area from various lookout points.