Things to do in Palo Alto and Beyond: A Short List for Visitors (and Locals!)
My mom is landing at SFO in a few days, and as I found myself scouring the internet for fun things to do and places to eat, I realized I might as well document the shortlist I’m building. Whether you’re planning a visit, planning a move here, entertaining guests, or just want to appreciate our incredible corner of the world a little more, here are a few ideas, centered primarily around Palo Alto, to save you some search time and get you inspired.
A Bit About Palo Alto
Before we dive in, a quick history note: Palo Alto sits on land that was once part of the Rancho Rinconada del Arroyo de San Francisquito, a 2,230-acre Mexican land grant awarded in 1841. The city’s modern story begins with Leland and Jane Stanford, who founded Stanford University in memory of their son and incorporated the city in 1894. Named after a towering redwood (“El Palo Alto”), Palo Alto is also considered the birthplace of Silicon Valley — home to early tech pioneers like Hewlett-Packard and many innovators since.
Historic Homes and Architecture
For architecture buffs and history lovers, Palo Alto has some gems:
- Professorville: Stroll through this charming neighborhood, originally settled by Stanford professors in the 1890s. The homes here are full of character and history.
- University Avenue: You’ll find a mix of stunning historic homes and vibrant downtown energy.
- Greenmeadow Subdivision: Designed by the visionary Joseph Eichler, this neighborhood reflects a mid-century modern spirit tailored for California living — open floor plans, lots of light, and a deep connection to outdoor spaces.
Tip: If you love a good self-guided tour, check out the Clio Driving Tour to explore more historic spots at your own pace!
Hidden (and Not-So-Hidden) Gems
- Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hanna House: I had no idea we had a Frank Lloyd Wright creation right here! Known as the “Honeycomb House,” this architectural treasure still has many original interiors intact. (Visiting the house is somewhat restrictive so I am still working on how to get through the front doors!)
- Gamble Garden: I lucked out — the annual Spring Garden Tour will be happening during my mom’s visit. While the historic Gamble House isn’t open for tours (it’s now mainly office space), the beautifully preserved gardens are open to the public year-round. Fun fact: Elizabeth Gamble, the home’s last resident, was the granddaughter of James Gamble of Procter & Gamble.
Art Stops Worth Making
- Anderson Collection: Somehow, despite walking past it countless times on the way to the Cantor Arts Center, I only recently discovered this incredible spot. It’s a small, personal, world-class collection that’s the perfect size for an inspiring hour of art.
- SFMoMA: On my mom’s last visit, we visited the de Young Museum (where we caught a stunning Tamara de Lempicka exhibit). This time, we’re heading to SF MoMA for the Ruth Asawa retrospective — and we’ll be on the lookout for the Lee Krasner piece too.
(Bonus tip: Parking under the de Young made the visit super easy) - The Balloon Museum: A wildcard pick — but how fun does this sound? Giant art installations with a balloon theme? Might just make it if time allows.
Where We’ll Be Eating
- The Ma’lawah Bar: Planning lunch with a friend who keeps Kosher led me to discover this spot — one of only two Kosher restaurants in Palo Alto. I’m excited to try Yemeni-Israeli cuisine for the first time.
- Terun Pizzeria: A personal favorite and frequent haunt of mine. Stellar service, great Italian food — it’s an easy go-to.
- Alice’s Restaurant: A classic destination if you’re up for a beautiful drive through the redwoods. My first attempt to eat here was thwarted by a line 30 people deep! This time, I’ll try to sneak in midweek with a little more strategy.
Whether you’re visiting for a few days, hosting family, or just in need of a mini local adventure, Palo Alto and its neighbors have so much to offer. If you’re thinking about making a move here — or just want to get to know the area better — I’d love to help you make your next smart, bold move.
Smart Moves. Bold Moves. Real Estate Moves.
Opinions and views are my own. The content in this post is for informational purposes only. Do not rely on this information for financial and/ or legal advice or to make any decisions about your financial and/or legal situation. Seek professional counsel for your specific needs.
My mom will be landing at SFO in a few days and as I find myself hitting the internet to find cool stuff to check-out, I decided to document what is going on the short list to consider. Below are descriptors and links to my findings, primarily centered around Palo Alto, and to help you with your own planning.
A bit about Palo Alto.
Rancho Rinconada del Arroyo de San Francisquito was a 2,230-acre Mexican land grant in present-day Santa Clara County, California given in 1841 by Governor Juan Alvarado to María Antonia Mesa. The name means “ranch at the bend in San Francisquito Creek”. The grant was located south of San Francisquito Creek, and encompassed present day Menlo Park and downtown Palo Alto.
The city of Palo Alto was incorporated in 1894 by the American industrialist Leland Stanford and his wife, Jane Stanford, when they founded Stanford University in memory of their only child, Leland Stanford Jr. The city’s name is derived from “El Palo Alto,” a large redwood tree that served as a landmark in the area. Palo Alto was initially developed as a town to support Stanford University. Palo Alto is considered the origin of Silicon Valley, as the city was home to early tech companies like Hewlett-Packard, and other major players have since established headquarters or research facilities there.
Historic Homes
There are some absolutely stunning historic homes on University Avenue and within an area called Professorville, an area settled by Stanford faculty starting in 1890. There is also the historic Greenmeadow Subdivision in Palo Alto designed by Joseph Eichler as part of his efforts to buck the “cookie-cutter” approach to suburban construction. As well, the culture of the 1950s, centered on the nuclear family, inspired many of the design features, as did the California climate.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hanna House – I had absolutely no idea Palo Alto had a Frank Lloyd Wright house. If you haven’t seen FallingWater house in Pennsylvania, it is a must see. It still holds the original interiors which are pieces of design history in and of themselves.
Gamble Garden – Lucked out and they have their annual Spring Garden Tour while my mom is here. It allows one to stomp around some lovely private gardens opened up specifically for this annual event. The Gamble house can’t be toured, most of the house has been converted to offices and outfitted to support large outdoor events, but the gardens are something to see. Elizabeth Francis Gamble, who resided at the property for much of her life, was the grand-daughter of James Gamble of Proctor & Gamble and willed the property to the City of Palo Alto.
Anderson Collective – a recent discovery that I have walked past so many times on my way to the Cantor Arts Center on Stanford’s campus. A personal collection, not overwhelming and makes for a great way to spend an hour!
SF MoMA – on my mom’s last visit we went to the de Young museum to see the Tamara de Lempicka exhibit which was outstanding. It was my first time at the de Young and I have to say, the parking right underneath makes it super simple to visit. This visit I am on a mission to see the Ruth Asawa retrospective, and my mom wanted to find the one Lee Krasner the museum indicated they have!
The Balloon Museum – Not sure we will have the time to visit this, but it looks like it would be fun! And, who knew we needed a balloon museum!
The Ma’lawah Bar – arranging a lunch date with a friend who is Kosher, I learned this is one of a whopping 2 Kosher restaurants in Palo Alto, CA. I am looking forward to checking it out, can’t say I have ever had Yeminite-Israeli cuisine!
Terun Pizzeria – I have to give this place a shout-out. I am a high frequency customer. Great food, run by great people.
Alice’s Restaurant – fairly legendary place in these parts. The drive is so much fun if you like windy roads with stunning views. The first time I tried to dine here the line was 30 deep. For my mom’s visit I will plan and try to outsmart the crowds and go during the week.