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Things to do in Palo Alto

Not Just Any Hotel – Only the Best Things to do in Palo Alto, Selected for You!

Jun 01, 2026 - Jun 02, 2026
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Good (1883)

Stanford University
Open 24 hours
University
450 Serra Mall
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Stanford University, founded in 1885, is a private research university in California known for its significant contributions to technology and education.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

Good (1478)

Cantor Arts Center
11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
Lomita Dr. and Museum Way Stanford University
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Iris and B Gerald Cantor Center for Visual Arts features 24 galleries and outdoor gardens displaying art spanning 5000 years, including notable Rodin sculptures.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Pacific Art League
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Gallery
668 Ramona St (at Forest)
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Pacific Art League in Palo Alto, founded in 1921, offers a variety of art classes and exhibits to inspire artists and art enthusiasts.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Good (621)

Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo
Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 13:00-16:00
Museum
1451 Middlefield Road
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Palo Alto Junior Museum features diverse, hands-on science and nature exhibits along with a small zoo, ideal for children and families in Palo Alto, California.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Cubberley Community Center & Theatre
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Theater
4000 Middlefield Rd (at Montrose Ave)
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Cubberley Community Center in Palo Alto offers diverse programs, facilities, and welcoming green spaces, fostering community growth and engagement for all ages.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Institute of Transpersonal Psychology
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
University
1069 E Meadow Cir
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Sofia University is a private for-profit university in Palo Alto, California, focusing on psychology, business, and social sciences.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Tuition fees apply. Check university website for detailed cost information.

Good (107)

Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve
6:00 AM–8:00 PM
Nature reserve
East end of Embarcadero Road
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Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve features 1,940 acres of wetlands, grasslands, and lagoons—ideal for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring diverse wildlife.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free. Donation options available for preserve maintenance.

Good (668)

Hoover Tower
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
Stanford University
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Hoover Tower is a 285-ft historic bell tower in Stanford, California, offering views, an observation deck, and housing the Hoover Institution's exhibits.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free access to the observation deck.

Good (598)

Hewlett Packard Garage
N/A
Museum
367 Addison Ave
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Hewlett Packard Garage is the founding site of HP, located in Palo Alto, California. Known as the 'Birthplace of Silicon Valley', it is a key historical landmark.

Duration: 15 minutes.

Free. The property is not open for tours but can be viewed from the street.

Good (43)

Allied Arts Guild
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
75 Arbor Rd (at Cambridge Ave)
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Allied Arts Guild in Palo Alto is a historic artists' guild featuring picturesque gardens and studios, fostering local arts and community events.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have a nominal fee.

Good (230)

Palo Alto Art Center
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
1313 Newell Road
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Palo Alto Art Center is a community-focused art space in Palo Alto, California, offering art activities and programs for all ages, supported by a non-profit organization.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have an entry fee.

Good (436)

Memorial Church
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
450 Serra Mall Bldg 500 (at Campus Loop)
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Memorial Church, located in Stanford, California, features ornate architecture, a pipe organ, and beautiful stained glass windows. It's a key cultural site on Stanford University's campus.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No charge for public tours.

Good (47)

Anderson Collection at Stanford University
We-Mo 11:00-17:00; Th 11:00-20:00
Museum
314 Lomita Dr
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The Anderson Collection at Stanford University features over 120 modern and contemporary American artworks, located in Palo Alto, California.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have associated costs.

Good (787)

Mitchell Park
6:00 AM–8:30 PM
Park
600 East Meadow Drive
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Mitchell Park in Palo Alto offers various recreational activities, including tennis courts, playgrounds, and a splash pad, catering to all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Good (52)

Town & Country Village
10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Mall
855 El Camino Real (at Embarcadero Rd)
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Town & Country Village in Palo Alto offers a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural attractions within a unique open-air setting, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may have a fee.

Good (145)

Stanford Arizona Garden
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Garden
Quarry Rd Stanford University
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Stanford Arizona Garden at Stanford University features a diverse collection of cacti, showcasing unique plants in a historically significant setting.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special guided tours may have a fee.

Stanford University Golf Course
7:00 AM–7:00 PM
Golf Course
198 Junipero Serra Blvd
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Stanford University Golf Course, in Palo Alto, features 18 holes designed by Alister MacKenzie. Known for its lush greenery and challenging layout, it hosts the Stanford golf teams.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Daily play: $35 for adults, $20 for students. Reservations required for non-students.

Good (567)

Windy Hill Open Space Preserve
Open 24 hours
Park
Portola Valley
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Windy Hill Open Space Preserve offers 12 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails in Portola Valley, California, amidst open grasslands and forested areas.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free.

Good (100)

Dumbarton Bridge
Open 24 hours
Bridge
Highway 84 (btwn Menlo Park & Fremont)
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Dumbarton Bridge, located in Menlo Park, CA, spans San Francisco Bay, facilitating over 70,000 vehicles and 118 bike/pedestrian crossings daily.

Duration: 30 minutes to access and enjoy views.

Free. No charges apply for pedestrian and bicycle access.

Congregation Beth Am
9:00 AM–3:00 PM
Temple
26790 Arastradero Rd
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Congregation Beth Am is a reform Jewish synagogue located in Palo Alto, California, fostering community engagement and spiritual growth.

Duration: About 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for specific events and programs.

Palo Alto Church of Christ
6:30 PM–8:30 PM
Church
3373 Middlefield Rd (at Ames Ave)
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Palo Alto Church of Christ offers a serene worship space in Palo Alto, California, emphasizing community, education, and outreach programs.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Contributions for special events and activities may be requested.

Our Lady of the Rosary School
8:00 AM–4:00 PM
School
3233 Cowper St
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Our Lady of the Rosary School in Palo Alto, United States, is a Catholic institution emphasizing spiritual development and academic excellence from preschool through eighth grade.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free for school visits and public events.

Peninsula Bible Church
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
3505 Middlefield Rd (at Ashton)
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Peninsula Bible Church in Palo Alto, CA, emphasizes community and spiritual growth through engaging services and programs, fostering a welcoming environment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require registration or fees.

Lord's Grace Christian Church
5:00 PM–7:00 PM
Church
2672 Bayshore Pkwy
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Lord's Grace Christian Church in Palo Alto offers a warm community space for worship, learning, and fellowship supporting diverse spiritual needs.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for special events and outreach programs.

The Gates of Hell
Open 24 hours
Monument
328 Lomita Dr (at Museum Way)
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The Gates of Hell in Palo Alto is a notable sculpture created by Auguste Rodin, depicting scenes from Dante's Inferno. It's an essential visit for art enthusiasts and history buffs.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. No entry fee required.

Edgewood Shopping Center
10:00 AM–9:00 PM
Mall
2050 Channing Ave
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Edgewood Shopping Center features over 50 shops and restaurants in Palo Alto, California, offering a mix of high-end retail and casual dining experiences.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Shopping and dining costs vary by establishment.

Palo Alto Children's Theater
4:00 PM–9:00 PM
Theater
1305 Middlefield Rd
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Palo Alto Children's Theater offers engaging performances and educational programs for families and children, fostering creativity in the heart of Palo Alto.

Duration: 2 hours.

Admission prices vary, typically around $10-$15 for adults, discounts for children and seniors.

First Presbyterian Church of Palo Alto
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
1140 Cowper St (at Lincoln Ave)
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First Presbyterian Church of Palo Alto was established in 1893, exhibiting impressive Romanesque architecture and a commitment to community service.

Duration: Around 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special events.

East Palo Alto Seventh Day Adventist Church
6:00 PM–8:00 PM
Church
994 Beech St
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East Palo Alto Seventh Day Adventist Church serves the community with spiritual guidance, worship services, and educational programs in Palo Alto, United States.

Duration: 1-2 hours for services.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community events.

Saint Albert the Great Roman Catholic Church
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
1095 Channing Ave
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Saint Albert the Great Roman Catholic Church in Palo Alto features striking Gothic architecture and serves as a vibrant community hub with regular Mass services and events.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations welcome for church upkeep and community programs.

First Baptist Church of Palo Alto
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
305 N California Ave (at Bryant St)
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First Baptist Church of Palo Alto, established in 1890, features beautiful architecture and hosts various community events, providing a rich cultural backdrop.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

West Bay Model Railroad Association
1:00 PM–5:00 PM
Museum
1090 Merrill St (at Ravenswood Ave)
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The West Bay Model Railroad Association in Palo Alto showcases intricate model train displays in a historic Southern Pacific baggage building, enriching local rail history.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and events.

Corpus Christi Monastery
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
Menlo Park
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Corpus Christi Monastery in Palo Alto, founded in 1927, offers a serene environment and striking architecture ideal for contemplation and reflection.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free.

Menlo Park Presbyterian Church
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
950 Santa Cruz Ave (at Johnson St)
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Menlo Park Presbyterian Church, located in Palo Alto, CA, offers a vibrant community focused on worship, spirituality, and service.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Good (9)

Rinconada Park
7:00 AM–10:00 PM
Park
777 Embarcadero Road
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Rinconada Park in Palo Alto, CA, features sports facilities, playgrounds, and scenic paths. A community hub perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Access to facilities may incur costs based on usage.

Good (1)

Robles Park
Sunrise–Sunset
Park
4116 Park Blvd
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Robles Park in Palo Alto features wide-open green spaces, picnic areas, and a playground, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No fees required for general access.

Royal Hodge Masonic Center
5:00 PM–10:00 PM
Event hall
Menlo Park
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Royal Hodge Masonic Center in Palo Alto is a historic Masonic lodge featuring unique architecture and cultural events, fostering community engagement and tradition.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free admission for public events; donations encouraged for special programs.

SMW - SAP: Silicon Valley location
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Event hall
3410 Hillview Ave
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SMW - SAP in Palo Alto, CA, offers innovative technology showcases, workspace tours, and collaborative environments fostering creativity in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require registration.

1st Church of Christ
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
Menlo Park
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1st Church of Christ in Palo Alto offers a tranquil space for worship and community activities, rooted in its long history of service since 1898.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have associated costs.

Community Church of East Palo Allto
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
Palo Alto
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Community Church of East Palo Alto serves as a spiritual and communal hub, established in the 1960s to foster inclusivity and social justice within the community.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community programs.

Laurel Ave Church Of Christ
9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Church
1215 Laurel Ave
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Laurel Ave Church Of Christ in Palo Alto is a community-focused place of worship emphasizing Christian teachings and local engagement.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

First Baptist Church of Menlo Park
9:00 AM–1:00 PM
Church
1100 Middle Ave (at Arbor Rd)
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First Baptist Church of Menlo Park in Palo Alto features a historic foundation, significant architecture, and a rich community presence dating back to 1895.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and community programs.

Light and Sound with ZERO1 Biennial @ Palo Alto Art Center
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Gallery
1313 Newell Rd
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Light and Sound with ZERO1 Biennial at Palo Alto Art Center features contemporary digital art and interactive installations, fostering dialogue at the intersection of technology and humanity.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Some special installations may have a ticket fee.

Stanford Dish Water Fountain
All Day
Fountain
Palo Alto
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The Stanford Dish Water Fountain in Palo Alto offers a scenic spot for relaxation, featuring a unique water feature surrounded by nature, ideal for visitors and locals alike.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free.

First Christian Church of Palo Alto
10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Church
2890 Middlefield Rd
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First Christian Church of Palo Alto offers a unique architectural design and community services, serving as a spiritual center in Palo Alto since 1902.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for special events.

Giac Minh Buddhist Temple
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Pagoda
East Palo Alto
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Giac Minh Buddhist Temple in Palo Alto offers a tranquil environment for meditation, featuring traditional architecture and beautiful gardens. All are welcome to explore its serene atmosphere.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community events and maintenance.

Atherton Fine Art
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Gallery
700 El Camino Real #165
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Atherton Fine Art in Palo Alto showcases contemporary pieces from emerging artists, fostering a strong local art community while being an essential cultural venue.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket.