Palo Alto Hotels

Top reasons to visit Palo Alto

• Cultural Experiences: Palo Alto boasts a vibrant mix of cultural attractions, including educational museums and local art galleries.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The city offers numerous parks and nature preserves, perfect for family outings and outdoor adventures.
• Dynamic Neighbourhoods: Explore charming local areas, including East Palo Alto, known for their friendly atmosphere and scenic spots.
• Shopping and Dining: Enjoy a variety of shopping centres and culinary delights, catering to diverse tastes.
• Convenient Accommodation: A range of lodging options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly motels, caters to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Palo Alto

Discover a range of hotel accommodation options in Palo Alto, California, catering to both business travellers and leisure seekers. From luxurious stays to budget-friendly motels, the area offers pet-friendly and LGBTQIA welcoming environments. Explore top-rated hotels and read reviews to find the ideal lodging that suits your needs for a memorable Californian getaway.

• Grand Bay Hotel San Francisco: This 4-star hotel, located 14.5km from Palo Alto, offers a family-friendly atmosphere complemented by a range of amenities tailored for children. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, it is ideal for those seeking a blend of family fun, shopping, and business travel. The hotel features a variety of child-focused amenities, including a secure pool area, first aid kits, and breakfast options with special fees for children. Its prime location in the shopping district makes it a convenient choice for guests looking to explore local retail offerings while enjoying a comfortable stay.
• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sunnyvale: Situated 11.3km from Palo Alto, this budget-friendly hotel is an excellent option for business travellers. Offering essential amenities and comfortable accommodations, it provides a straightforward and efficient stay for those in the area for work. Guests have noted the hotel's convenient location and value for money, making it a sensible choice for visitors who prioritise functionality and ease during their business trips.
• Extended Stay America Premier Suites - Union City - Dyer St.: Located 19.3km from Palo Alto, this budget-friendly accommodation is perfect for business travellers who may wish to bring their pets along. The hotel’s pet-friendly policy allows dogs and cats, with specific restrictions regarding size and breed. Guests appreciate the extended stay options and home-like amenities, ensuring a comfortable and accommodating environment for those needing longer-term lodging. Its focus on both business needs and pet-friendly options makes it a unique choice for specific traveller requirements.

Where to stay in and around Palo Alto

Palo Alto, California, offers an enriching travel experience with its vibrant downtown, family-friendly atmosphere, and convenient access to neighbouring cities. Explore the unique character of East Palo Alto and the charming local neighbourhoods, where friendly faces and scenic spots abound. This dynamic city caters to culture enthusiasts and business travellers alike, making it an ideal destination for every type of visitor seeking to immerse themselves in Californian charm.

• College Terrace: Nestled around the vibrant area of Palo Alto, College Terrace is a quaint neighbourhood that attracts visitors year-round, with peak arrivals during the warm months from July to September. This locale is particularly favoured for its cultural, business, and family-oriented experiences. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including education-related pursuits and shopping at local centres. Notable attractions nearby include a historic college university and a sports facility stadium, making it an enriching destination for both leisure and learning.
• Southgate: Located in close proximity to Palo Alto, Southgate is a charming neighbourhood that garners consistent visitor interest throughout the year, peaking in the summer months. Travellers are drawn to Southgate for its cultural significance, sports facilities, and business opportunities. The area offers a range of educational venues, catering to those looking to expand their knowledge or engage in academic pursuits. With landmarks such as a historic college university and a local sports stadium, Southgate promises a blend of excitement and enrichment.
• Atherton: Situated just 4.8km from Palo Alto, Atherton is an affluent city that attracts visitors for its cultural, outdoor, and family-friendly experiences. Although visitor numbers remain steady throughout the year, peaks occur in February, July, and September. Atherton offers a variety of activities, including theatre and recreational areas, perfect for family outings. Local landmarks include a historic college university, beautiful beaches, and sports facilities, providing a diverse range of attractions to explore while enjoying the serene surroundings.

Things to do in Palo Alto

Shopping

Palo Alto offers charming shopping experiences at Stanford Shopping Center, featuring luxury brands and boutiques. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Redwood City’s downtown, where you can explore unique shops and local artisan markets for distinctive gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil surroundings of the Stanford Inn by the Sea, where you can engage in yoga classes and enjoy organic meals. For outdoor relaxation, visit the nearby Baylands Nature Preserve, offering scenic trails and opportunities for birdwatching amid stunning natural beauty.

Adventure

Palo Alto offers a range of adventurous activities. Explore the scenic trails of the Baylands Nature Preserve, where you can hike or cycle amidst stunning wetlands. Alternatively, enjoy kayaking on the serene waters of the nearby lagoons, taking in California’s beautiful landscapes and wildlife up close.

Nightlife

Visit the Avery on University Avenue for a vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails. For a laid-back evening, check out the Palo Alto Brewing Company, where you can enjoy locally crafted beers and a selection of tasty bites amidst a friendly crowd.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Palo Alto

Palo Alto provides numerous opportunities to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Menlo College, Baylands Nature Preserve, and Stanford Memorial Church. For affordable transport, consider biking or using buses. Plan your trip during the cheaper months of February or November to December, and aim for a Friday stay to maximise savings, as Tuesdays tend to be the priciest. Utilise Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodation by filtering prices from low to high and consider package deals that include flights and activities for further discounts.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Palo Alto are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Palo Alto is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Palo Alto is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Palo Alto with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Palo Alto

Palo Alto is an ideal destination for culture, family, and business-themed holidays. Visitors can explore an array of attractions such as urban parks, nature preserves, and history museums, catering to those seeking outdoor activities and enriching cultural experiences. This vibrant city offers something for every traveller, ensuring a memorable stay.

• Hoover Tower: This iconic structure offers a glimpse into the rich history of Stanford University and the local area. Standing tall at 285 feet, visitors can ascend to the observation deck for stunning panoramic views of Palo Alto and the surrounding landscape, all while soaking in the cultural essence of the institution.
• Lake Elizabeth: Located approximately 19.3km from Palo Alto, this picturesque lake is surrounded by lush greenery and scenic walking paths. Ideal for a leisurely stroll or a romantic picnic, Lake Elizabeth’s tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty provide a perfect escape from the urban hustle.
• Palo Alto Art Center: Situated in the heart of Palo Alto, this vibrant arts centre showcases diverse exhibitions and offers engaging community programmes. Visitors can explore various art forms and immerse themselves in the local creative scene, making it a delightful stop for art enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Palo Alto

The best time to visit Palo Alto is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Palo Alto

Flying into Palo Alto, California, is convenient with three major airports nearby. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is situated 148.1km away, with excellent hotel options like the DoubleTree by Hilton and Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, both 11 and 14.5km from the airport, respectively. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is only 29.0km from Palo Alto, featuring luxurious hotels such as The Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons, both located 19.3km from the airport. Lastly, Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is just 20.9km away, offering hotels like Hotel Valencia Santana Row, 6.4km from the airport. Each airport provides accessible transport options to nearby accommodations.