Palo Alto

Day Trips

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.

Start your day at the Palo Alto Art Center with a guided tour to learn about the local art scene and participate in a morning workshop. Afterward, explore the center's art galleries, showcasing works by local artists and community exhibitions. Don't forget to grab a coffee at the center's café to fuel your creativity.

For lunch, make your way to the nearby Oren's Hummus, a cozy spot offering delicious Mediterranean fare. After lunch, visit the Museum of American Heritage, where you can discover the history of technology and innovation in the region. Enjoy hands-on exhibits that are engaging for all ages.

Dine at a trendy restaurant like Tamarine, offering a fusion of Vietnamese and Californian cuisine. After dinner, head to a local venue such as the Cubberley Community Center to enjoy a performance by local musicians or theater groups. Spend some time at a nearby gelato shop to satisfy your sweet tooth before heading back.

Fuel up with breakfast at the famous Cafe Borrone, a beloved spot for tech professionals and locals alike. Afterward, embark on a guided tour of Stanford University, learning about its pivotal role in the tech industry and its storied history. Explore the Stanford Research Park to see the campuses of major tech companies.

For lunch, visit the trendy Zareen's for flavorful Indo-Pakistani cuisine. After enjoying your meal, head to the Computer History Museum in nearby Mountain View to dive deep into the evolution of technology. Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about groundbreaking innovations that shaped the modern world.

Return to Palo Alto for dinner at the upscale venue, The French Laundry, known for its exquisite tasting menu. Enjoy the intimate atmosphere while savoring culinary masterpieces crafted by renowned chefs. Cap off the night with a visit to a local speakeasy for creative cocktails and a unique vibe.

Start your day at the Palo Alto Farmers' Market, where you can browse fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts. Enjoy a light breakfast from one of the food stalls while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Engage with local farmers and vendors to learn about their products and sustainable practices.

After the market, head to a local park, such as Mitchell Park, for a relaxing lunch in the sun. Spend the afternoon exploring the park's amenities, including its playgrounds and gardens, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment under a tree. If time allows, visit the nearby Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo for some family-friendly fun.

As evening falls, check out any local festivals or events happening in town, often held at community centers or parks. Enjoy food trucks, live music, and craft booths while mingling with locals. End your day with a casual dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like The Counter, known for its customizable burgers.

Begin your day with breakfast at the popular Hobee's Restaurant, known for its delicious coffee cakes and hearty breakfast dishes. Afterward, drive to the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains, where you can take in breathtaking views and rolling vineyards. Start your wine tasting experience at a renowned vineyard like Ridge Vineyards.

Enjoy a vineyard tour and tasting session, learning about the winemaking process and sampling exquisite wines. For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful surroundings or dine at a winery with on-site dining options. Continue your wine exploration by visiting additional wineries, such as Mount Eden Vineyards or test your skills at a wine blending workshop.

Return to Palo Alto for dinner at a cozy bistro like La Mediterranee that offers a blend of Mediterranean dishes. Share a bottle of wine purchased from your day’s tastings to reminisce about your experiences. Conclude your evening with a relaxing walk through the botanical gardens at Stanford, enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Kick off your adventure with breakfast at The Creamery, a local favorite for hearty meals and fresh coffee. Then, head to Shoreline Park for a morning filled with outdoor activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding on the calm waters of the bay. Alternatively, take a leisurely walk along the scenic shoreline trail, enjoying the views of the water and wildlife.

After a fun morning, enjoy lunch at the Shoreline Lake Boathouse Café with picturesque views of the lake. Post-lunch, rent a bike or rollerblades and explore the extensive trails that wind through the park. Make time for a visit to the nearby Computer History Museum if you haven’t yet taken the opportunity to explore it.

As the sun sets, return to Palo Alto for a casual dinner at a popular spot like Pizzeria Delfina, known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while reminiscing about the day’s adventures. If you have energy left, consider catching a movie at the local Cinépolis luxury cinema.

Start your day with breakfast at the Stanford campus café, enjoying a variety of fresh and healthy options. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Stanford University campus, highlighting its impressive architecture, history, and notable landmarks like the Memorial Church. Explore the exotic flora at the Stanford Arboretum for a tranquil morning surrounded by nature.

For lunch, visit the Stanford Shopping Center, where you can choose from a variety of dining options while enjoying the outdoor ambiance. Post-lunch, visit the Stanford Museum of Art to immerse yourself in its impressive collection of art from around the world. Spend some time in the nearby Anderson Collection, which features modern and contemporary American art.

Enjoy a dinner at a fine dining restaurant like The Sea by Alexander’s Steakhouse, where you can indulge in exquisite seafood dishes. After dinner, attend a cultural event or lecture at one of the Stanford venues, which often host notable speakers and performances. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local wine bar, reflecting on the day's rich cultural experiences.