Los Altos

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Los Altos's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Nature Retreat at Foothills Park
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in downtown Los Altos, fueling up for a day filled with creativity. Visit the Los Altos Art Museum, where you can explore contemporary art exhibits and participate in any ongoing workshops. Spend some time in the museum's outdoor sculpture garden, where art blends beautifully with nature.

afternoon
:

For lunch, choose a nearby bistro with a vibrant atmosphere and an artistic menu. Afterward, attend a local art class or workshop where you can unleash your creativity, whether it’s painting, pottery, or photography. Engage with other artists and locals, making new friends while honing your skills.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant known for its innovative cuisine and artistic presentation. After your meal, take a short walk to a local theater to catch a live performance, showcasing the talents of local artists. End the night with dessert at a nearby café, treating yourself to a sweet finish.

day 4
Family Fun at Los Altos Parks
morning
:

Kick off your family-friendly day with breakfast at a local diner, offering hearty options that will please everyone. After breakfast, head to the Los Altos Community Park, where the kids can enjoy the playground while adults take a leisurely walk around the park's picturesque paths. Engage in a friendly game of frisbee or soccer with your family to get everyone moving.

afternoon
:

For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy at the park or visit a nearby family-friendly restaurant that offers a kids' menu. Spend your afternoon at the Los Altos Memorial Park, where you can relax by the pond, take a scenic walk, or explore the various recreational facilities. Don't forget to check out any scheduled events or activities tailored for families.

evening
:

As evening approaches, treat the family to dinner at a popular pizzeria that is a favorite among locals. After dinner, visit a local ice cream shop and let everyone pick their favorite flavors for a sweet treat. Cap off the day with a movie night back at your accommodation, enjoying family classics together.

day 5
Wine Tasting Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a light breakfast at a local café before heading out to the scenic vineyards surrounding Los Altos. Join a guided tour of one of the nearby wineries, where you can learn about the winemaking process and the region's history. Enjoy tastings of exquisite local wines while soaking in the breathtaking vineyard views.

afternoon
:

After your morning wine experience, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a winery restaurant that pairs meals with their wines for a complete culinary experience. Spend your afternoon visiting additional wineries in the area, enjoying tastings and perhaps purchasing a few bottles to take home. Don't forget to stroll through the vineyard grounds and take in the beautiful scenery.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to Los Altos for dinner at a fine dining restaurant that complements your wine tasting experience. After dinner, consider visiting a local wine bar to sample more varietals and engage with fellow wine enthusiasts. End your evening with a nightcap while sharing stories about your favorite wines of the day.

day 6
Exploring the Tech History
morning
:

Begin your journey into the tech history of Silicon Valley with breakfast at a local café, where you can enjoy a hearty meal. Afterward, visit the Computer History Museum in nearby Mountain View, exploring fascinating exhibits that showcase the evolution of technology. Engage with interactive displays and learn about the pivotal moments that shaped the tech world.

afternoon
:

For lunch, stop at a tech-themed restaurant or café that reflects the innovation of the area. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby Googleplex, taking photos and enjoying the unique architecture, while learning about the impact of tech companies on the local culture. If time permits, visit the nearby NASA Ames Research Center to learn about space exploration.

evening
:

As night falls, return to Los Altos for dinner at a trendy eatery that draws inspiration from the local tech scene. After dinner, attend a tech talk or seminar at a local venue to connect with innovators and entrepreneurs. Wrap up your evening with a stroll through the downtown area, reflecting on the technological marvels you've discovered.

day 7
Outdoor Adventure at Rancho San Antonio
morning
:

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast at a local café, then prepare for a day of outdoor adventure at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve. Hit the trails early to enjoy a peaceful morning hike surrounded by stunning views and diverse wildlife. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes along your journey.

afternoon
:

After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the park's picnic areas, soaking in the serene surroundings. Spend your afternoon exploring more trails or visiting the deer enclosure where you can observe these gentle creatures up close. Depending on your energy levels, consider a short nature walk to unwind after your hike.

evening
:

As the day winds down, head back to Los Altos for a well-deserved dinner at a local grill or family-friendly restaurant. After dining, take a leisurely evening walk through the nearby parks to reflect on the day's adventures. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, sharing stories of your outdoor experiences.

day 8
Culinary Exploration Day
morning
:

Start your culinary journey with breakfast at a beloved local diner, where you can experience classic American fare. Afterward, embark on a food tour of Los Altos, visiting various eateries and sampling their signature dishes. Engage with local chefs and learn about their culinary inspirations along the way.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a meal at a trendy spot known for its unique fusion cuisine, blending flavors from around the world. Spend your afternoon attending a cooking class offered by a local chef, where you can learn to prepare a dish using fresh, seasonal ingredients. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper appreciation for the art of cooking.

evening
:

As evening falls, gather with new friends from your cooking class for dinner at a nearby restaurant that features a menu inspired by local flavors. After dinner, enjoy dessert at a gourmet bakery, sampling artisanal pastries and sweets. Conclude your culinary exploration with a coffee at a local café, reminiscing about the delicious dishes you've enjoyed.

day 9
Relaxation and Wellness Retreat
morning
:

Begin your day with a healthy breakfast at a wellness-focused café that emphasizes organic and wholesome ingredients. After breakfast, indulge in a morning yoga session at a local studio, allowing your body and mind to find balance and tranquility. Embrace the peaceful atmosphere and connect with your breath as you flow through the poses.

afternoon
:

For lunch, visit a nearby juice bar or health food restaurant that offers nourishing options to refuel your body. Spend your afternoon at a local spa, enjoying a massage or a rejuvenating facial to unwind and relax. Take advantage of any wellness workshops or classes that may be available, focusing on mindfulness or meditation.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, enjoy a light dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that continues the theme of health and wellness. Afterward, take a calming evening walk through one of Los Altos' parks, enjoying the tranquility of nature. End your day with a cup of herbal tea at a cozy café, reflecting on the relaxation you've experienced.

Discover Los Altos

Read more in our Los Altos 2025 Travel Guide.

Los Altos Travel Guide