Things To Do
in Palo Alto
Palo Alto sits at the northern edge of Silicon Valley, anchored by Stanford University and framed by leafy neighborhoods. The city blends academic energy with a refined café culture, upscale shopping, and pristine outdoor spaces. It serves as a gateway to the Bay Area, offering easy access to hiking trails, marshes, and art scenes while remaining distinctly pedestrian-friendly.
With its Mediterranean climate and mile-long streets of boutiques, Palo Alto feels polished yet approachable for visitors and locals alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at the iconic Coupa Cafe, nestled in the heart of Stanford University. After your meal, take a stroll around the Stanford campus to admire its stunning architecture and lush gardens. Visit the Cantor Arts Center to view its impressive collection of art and sculpture.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at the nearby Caffe Riace, known for its authentic Italian cuisine. Afterward, take a walk through the historic downtown Palo Alto, exploring local boutiques and shops. Spend some time at the Palo Alto City Library, where you can delve into local history or find a cozy spot to read.
As the sun sets, head to the Stanford Shopping Center for a diverse dining experience, from sushi to Italian fare. After dinner, catch a live performance at the Stanford Theatre, where classic films are screened in an elegant, historic setting. Wrap up your evening with a stroll through the beautifully illuminated streets of downtown Palo Alto.
Begin your day with a healthy breakfast at the local favorite, The Pancake House. Then, make your way to the Baylands Nature Preserve, where you can hike along the scenic trails with views of the bay and wildlife. Bring your binoculars to spot various bird species that inhabit the area.
For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots within the preserve, surrounded by nature. Afterward, explore more trails or rent a bike to cover more ground in the expansive nature area. The fresh air and tranquil atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation.
As evening approaches, return to downtown Palo Alto and indulge in a farm-to-table dinner at a local restaurant like The Sea by Alexander's Steakhouse. Enjoy the ambiance of the outdoor patio while savoring seasonal dishes made from local ingredients. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a nearby bar or café, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment rent (city center) | $3,000-4,500 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries | $60-120 |
| 🚆Public transit monthly pass | $70-120 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Safe, well-maintained neighborhoods and clean streets
- Proximity to Stanford and Bay Area attractions
- Excellent dining options and easy access to nature
- Strong public transit connectivity to SF Bay Area
- High cost of living and dining
- Parking can be challenging in downtown areas
- Limited late-night nightlife compared to major cities
Places to Visit in Palo Alto
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic campus architecture with palm-lined walkways and a striking bell-tower silhouette—great for classic campus photography.
Desert flora and sculptural cacti set against campus backdrops; spectacular in golden hour light.
Museum courtyards and outdoor sculptures with a campus atmosphere and artful contrasts.
Long boardwalks over marshes with birds and wide horizons—dramatic sunset and water reflections.
Colorful storefronts, palm trees, and bustling street scenes ideal for urban and candid photography.
Food in Palo Alto
Palo Alto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ripe avocado on rustic sourdough with olive oil, chili flakes, and sea salt; a common choice at cafés around University Ave and near Stanford.
Must-Try!
Salads featuring local greens, berries, nuts, and cheeses—a staple at Palo Alto’s bistros and farmers-market eateries.
Local bakery breads and pastries from Palo Alto’s bakeries, available at cafés and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market at Mitchell Park offering fresh produce, local prepared foods, and ready-to-eat bites from nearby farms.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Yield to pedestrians, ride in designated bike lanes, use bells when passing, and follow local traffic signals.
Punctuality is valued in business and campus settings; respect residential quiet hours especially in evening.
If visiting Stanford, follow posted visitor policies, keep to approved paths, and be mindful of campus security.
Safety
Tipping in Palo Alto
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard for good service; some places may add a service charge for larger groups.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always an option. Mobile wallets are common, and most venues expect tipping via card or app where available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, flowers in bloom, and longer days—great for outdoor markets and campus strolls.
Warm and dry with abundant sunshine; plan outdoor activities in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
Comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds; ideal for Bay Area hiking and al fresco dining.
Mild with occasional rain; pack a light rain jacket and umbrella, especially for Bayfront and Baylands visits.
Palo Alto at Night
Hiking in Palo Alto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rolling hills and woodland trails with scenic overlooks; suitable for all levels.
Steeper trails with expansive valley views and connecting routes to other preserves.
Challenging climbs with panoramic Bay Area views, ideal for experienced hikers.
Long ridgeline hikes with sweeping views over the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Airports
How to reach Palo Alto by plane.
Approximately 20 miles away, quick access via highways or BART/Caltrain connections to the South Bay.
About 30 miles away; good for international flights and wide flight options.
Approximately 30 miles away; smaller airport with convenient domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Stanford-affiliated population drives a large portion of the campus and research culture.
A mix of tech workers, professionals, and residents attracted by quality of life and education access.
Diverse visitors drawn to Stanford, local universities, and Bay Area attractions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
College-level sports (football, basketball, tennis, swimming) with events on campus and in the area.
Popular outdoor activities supported by many parks and campus paths.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Palo Alto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Palo Alto offers abundant vegetarian options—from market stalls to cafés and restaurants. Look for vegetable-forward dishes, grain bowls, salads, and dairy-free choices; most menus can accommodate dietary needs with advance notice.