Seasonal Experiences

The Palo Alto Festival of the Arts (August 27 and 28) attracts more than 150,000 attendees, as University Avenue transforms with 300 fine art and contemporary craft displays, street painters, specialty areas, gourmet food, fine wines and microbrews. For more events in the area, ask us how to find an ongoing calendar of festivals and fairs in the San Francisco Peninsula.

Trails abound for hiking, biking and running, and range from flat, paved roads to less-travelled mountain routes. The Dish, just a 15-minute drive from our Hotel, is a 150-foot-wide radio telescope in Stanford’s foothills still in use today. Enjoy a 3.5-mile hike that leads you to the UFO-like structure. The Baylands Nature Preserve, located just 10 minutes by car from our Hotel, has 15 miles of multi-use trails that traverse over a unique mixture of tidal and freshwater habitats known for their substantial resident bird populations.

Only a five-minute drive from our Hotel is Palo Alto’s downtown, with University Avenue as the center of dining and shops. Saturday mornings from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon are especially lively with the Palo Alto Farmers’ Market serving up local vendors, producers and more on Gillman Street.

Allow our Concierge to plan your transportation and visit of Filoli Historic House and Gardens. A unique experience of one of the finest remaining country estates of the 20th century, featuring a 54,000 square-foot (5,017 square-metre) Georgian revival-style mansion, 16 acres (6 hectares) of exquisite English Renaissance gardens and a 6.8-acre (2.8-hectare) Gentleman’s Orchard.

Take in an outdoor concert under the California sunshine at the Mountain Winery, or discover larger events at Shoreline Amphitheater. Whatever you’re in the mood for, let us help you find a memorable music event during your stay.