Things To Do
in Los Altos
Los Altos is a small, affluent suburban city in the heart of Silicon Valley known for tree-lined streets, well-preserved downtown charm, and a calm residential atmosphere. The city blends upscale boutiques, farm-to-table eateries, and quiet neighborhoods with easy access to high-tech campuses and Stanford. Visitors appreciate the strong community vibe, farmers' markets, and nearby open spaces for hiking and picnics.
Los Altos is an excellent base for exploring northern Santa Clara County while enjoying a relaxed, family-friendly environment.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of the charming cafés in downtown Los Altos, where you can savor fresh pastries and locally brewed coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic downtown area, admiring the unique architecture and quaint storefronts. Don't forget to visit the Los Altos History Museum to learn about the rich heritage of the area.
In the afternoon, enjoy a delightful lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights the best of California's fresh produce. After your meal, take a leisurely walk in the nearby Shoup Park, where you can explore scenic trails and beautiful gardens. Consider visiting the Los Altos Art Museum to appreciate local art and cultural exhibits.
As the sun sets, head back downtown for dinner at a cozy restaurant offering a mix of American and international cuisine. Post-dinner, catch a live music performance at a local venue or take a relaxing walk through the beautifully lit streets. Finish your day with a dessert from one of the local ice cream shops, savoring the sweet tastes of Los Altos.
Begin your day with an energizing breakfast at a local café before heading to Foothills Park for a morning immersed in nature. Spend some time hiking the park's picturesque trails, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of chirping birds. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed picnic lunch at one of the park's designated areas, where you can relax and recharge. Spend your afternoon exploring the park's serene lakes, perhaps renting a kayak or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the park is home to various birds and other animals.
As evening approaches, head back to Los Altos for dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that prides itself on using local ingredients. After dinner, take a scenic drive through the surrounding hills to enjoy the sunset views over the valley. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local wine bar, sampling some exquisite Californian wines.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-6 |
| 🚕Local taxi / short ride-hail | $10-25 |
| 🚌Public transit day pass (VTA/Caltrain nearby varies) | $5-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $150-300 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Safe, clean, and family-friendly community with a relaxed atmosphere.
- Close access to excellent hiking and open space preserves.
- High-quality dining options and nearby world-class restaurants.
- Convenient base for exploring Silicon Valley, Palo Alto, and Stanford.
- Expensive accommodations and dining compared with many other destinations.
- Limited late-night entertainment or nightlife within the town itself.
- Public transit options are less comprehensive; a car is useful for full access.
- Can feel quiet or residential for travelers seeking more urban energy.
Places to Visit in Los Altos
Visit one of these nice places.
Charming tree-lined street scenes, boutique storefronts, seasonal decorations, and soft golden light in the morning and late afternoon.
Scenic trails, pastureland, spring wildflowers, and mountain backdrops ideal for landscape and nature photography.
Historic buildings and mature trees provide classic small-town architectural and nature shots.
Rolling hills, ponds, and trails with dramatic sky views at sunrise and sunset—great for wide-angle landscape shots.
Food in Los Altos
Los Altos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rotating salad highlighting produce from local farms; look for this style at many downtown bistros and cafes that source from the Los Altos Farmers' Market.
Must-Try!
Restaurants and bakeries serve inventive open-faced toasts and sandwiches using local sourdough, cheeses, and cured meats—perfect for a casual lunch.
Fresh, simply prepared West Coast fish and seafood dishes with citrus and herb accents, commonly found at higher-end restaurants nearby.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held weekly (usually Thursdays) near the downtown area; excellent for seasonal fruits, prepared foods, artisanal cheeses, and local flowers—try seasonal fruit, olive oils, and fresh-baked goods.
A larger market with more vendors, international prepared foods, and specialty stands—great for street-food style bites and multicultural snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People value polite, low-key interactions and personal space; a friendly hello and small talk are common but avoid intrusive questions about income or job status.
Punctuality is appreciated for appointments and social plans—arrive on time or give notice if delayed.
Residents take recycling and composting seriously; follow local waste sorting rules and be mindful of single-use plastics.
Safety
Tipping in Los Altos
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard tipping in restaurants is 15–20% of the pre-tax bill for good service; tip bar staff $1–2 per drink, $2–5 for taxi drivers, and 10–15% for delivery depending on distance. Service charges are sometimes added for large groups—check the bill.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Carry small cash for occasional farmers’ market vendors or tips, but most places accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make spring ideal for hiking and farmers’ markets; occasional light showers are possible—bring layers and a light rain jacket.
Warm to hot and mostly dry, with plenty of sunshine; mornings and evenings are pleasant but midday can be hot—carry sun protection and water for outdoor activities.
Comfortable temperatures and clearer skies, with crisp mornings; fall colors are subtle but enjoyable—an excellent time for outdoor exploration and dining al fresco.
Cooler and wetter months, with occasional rainstorms but rare freezing temperatures; trails can be muddy—bring waterproof footwear and a warm layer.
Los Altos at Night
Hiking in Los Altos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular preserve with a variety of trails from easy to moderate, scenic views, the Deer Hollow Farm, and abundant wildlife.
Offers panoramic views of the Bay Area from hilltops, rolling grasslands, and trails suitable for hiking and trail running.
Quiet network of trails with ponds, meadows, and ridge walks—great for birdwatching and gentle hikes.
Trail system with creek-side paths and connections to other preserves; less crowded and good for peaceful nature walks.
Airports
How to reach Los Altos by plane.
Approximately 15–25 minutes by car depending on traffic; closest major airport for domestic flights with convenient access to Silicon Valley.
About 30–45 minutes by car under ideal traffic; large international hub with many flight options and public transit connections via BART and shuttle services.
Roughly 35–60 minutes by car depending on traffic; useful for some domestic flights and low-cost carriers, with car rental options and shuttle services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
High proportion of residents work in technology and related industries, often commuting to nearby campuses or working locally for startups.
Many neighborhoods are family-oriented with strong schools, parks, and community programs.
Quiet residential areas and community services attract retirees seeking a peaceful environment near urban amenities.
Significant Asian and other international communities contribute to cultural diversity, dining options, and local events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at youth and amateur levels with many community leagues and recreational fields.
Common activities for residents who use local parks, trails, and bike-friendly roads for fitness and commuting.
Local high school sports draw community support and are a focal point for family and neighborhood events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Los Altos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many cafes and restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, with vegetable-forward menus and meat-free substitutions readily available.
Gluten-free choices are common; mention your restriction and most kitchens will accommodate with GF bread, pasta alternatives, and careful prep.
Halal and kosher dining options are more limited within Los Altos proper; larger nearby cities like Palo Alto and Cupertino have more certified options—plan ahead if strict observance is required.