Discover Paloalto

Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, Palo Alto pulses with an electric energy where groundbreaking innovation meets California charm. This university town has cultivated a rare ecosystem where intellectual curiosity, entrepreneurial spirit, and natural beauty converge beneath sprawling oak trees and endless blue skies. Here, the future is being written on tree-lined streets where billion-dollar ideas share space with farmers markets and neighborhood cafés.

When to Visit

Palo Alto, California experiences a Mediterranean climate with the most pleasant weather from September through November, when temperatures range from 15-25°C (59-77°F), summer fog has lifted, and Stanford University's academic year brings vibrant energy without the peak tourism of summer. March through May offers similarly mild weather with blooming jacarandas and the Stanford Powwow (typically late April), though morning fog can persist through June in what locals call "June Gloom," making early summer surprisingly cool and gray with temperatures struggling to reach 18°C (65°F). December through February brings the majority of Palo Alto's modest 380mm annual rainfall, with temperatures dropping to 8-15°C (46-59°F) and occasional storms, but this period offers budget advantages with lower hotel rates and access to nearby skiing at Tahoe if you're willing to brave wet conditions. July and August see the warmest, driest weather (18-28°C/64-82°F) but bring intense competition for restaurant reservations, crowded University Avenue, and peak hotel prices, plus many residents vacation elsewhere making some local businesses quieter. For the optimal experience, target late September to early November when you'll enjoy Stanford football games, the Palo Alto Festival of the Arts (typically late August/early September), warm sunny days perfect for hiking in nearby Foothills Park, and comfortable evenings for exploring downtown without the fog or rain.

Getting Around

Transportation options vary by location. Consider using local taxis, ride-sharing apps, public transit, or renting a vehicle depending on your itinerary and comfort level.

Top Attractions

Explore the experiences and tours listed above to discover the most popular activities and must-see attractions. Book in advance to secure your spots, especially during peak travel seasons.

Travel Tips

• Getting Around: Palo Alto is extremely bike-friendly with dedicated lanes throughout the city, so consider renting a bike to navigate between Stanford University, downtown, and nearby attractions—parking can be limited and expensive in the downtown area.
• Dining on a Budget: Restaurant prices in Palo Alto reflect Silicon Valley's high cost of living, so plan to spend $15-25 minimum per person for casual meals; consider exploring the California Avenue dining district for slightly more affordable options than University Avenue.
• Stanford University Access: The Stanford campus is open to visitors and free to explore, including the stunning Cantor Arts Center and Stanford Memorial Church—just be mindful that parking requires payment at meters or structures, with free parking only available on weekends at certain lots.
• Tech Culture Etiquette: Palo Alto is home to many tech professionals and venture capitalists conducting business in cafes, so be respectful of workspace in popular coffee shops and coworking-friendly spots like Coupa Cafe or Philz Coffee during weekday business hours.

Planning Your Trip

Whether you're here for a quick visit or an extended stay, there's always something new to discover. Browse the curated experiences above to start planning your perfect itinerary.