Best Things To Do And See In Palo Alto

Founded in 1885 by Leland Stanford, Stanford University is one of the nation’s top universities with an emphasis on research and technology. The large campus features many sights for tourists such as the Memorial Church, Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve, Hoover Tower and the Stanford Dish.

Located on the prestigious grounds of Stanford University, the Cantor Arts Center stands as a testament to the visionary founder Leland Stanford’s dedication to education and culture. This exceptional museum was established alongside the university, enriching the Stanford community and visitors from around the world with its diverse and extensive collections spanning 5000 years of art history.

As you step inside the Cantor Arts Center, you’ll embark on a remarkable journey through time and creativity, exploring captivating works of art that traverse continents and epochs. The museum’s carefully curated collections boast an impressive array of masterpieces, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary creations, showcasing the evolution of human artistic expression.

The Stanford Shopping Center is an exclusive shopping arena with stores like Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s and Nordstrom. The open-air shopping and dining destination also features restaurants like P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, The Melt and California Pizza Kitchen. The mall is open seven days a week from 10 AM-9 PM on weekdays, 10 AM-7 PM on Saturdays and 11 AM-6 PM on Sundays.

Stepping into The Stanford Theatre is like taking a nostalgic journey back in time to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Since its grand opening in 1925, this iconic movie house has remained a beloved cultural landmark in Palo Alto, enchanting audiences with its timeless charm and commitment to preserving cinematic history.

As one of the few remaining theaters in the country dedicated to showcasing classic films, The Stanford Theatre is a true gem for cinephiles and history buffs alike. With its stunning interior adorned in vintage decor, including plush red velvet seats and elegant chandeliers, the theater exudes an old-world elegance that transports visitors to a bygone era of cinematic splendor.

The Baylands Nature Preserve is a 1,940-acre natural marshland in the San Francisco Bay Area. Visitors enjoy walking, running or biking on the 15-mile trail stretching across the park. The preserve also features a substantial amount of birds. The preserve’s carefully maintained habitats, including tidal marshes and saltwater ponds, create an ideal environment for birds to forage, rest, and nest. Keep an eye out for graceful herons, majestic egrets, and charismatic shorebirds wading through the shallows, as well as songbirds flitting among the reeds.

The Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden was previously the residence of the Gamble family. Upon Elizabeth’s death, the last Gamble family member, the estate was leased out by the city of Palo Alto. The 2.5-acre property includes gardens, a historic house, carriage house and tea house.