Shopping & dining
Stanford Shopping Center
An open-air shopping center at El Camino Real and Sand Hill Road, built in 1955 and 1956 on land that Stanford University owns. Despite the name, it lies inside Palo Alto’s city limits.
Welcome to
Palo Alto
Epicenter of the high-tech industry
Palo Alto
About Palo Alto
Palo Alto is the epicenter of the high-tech industry. World-famous companies such as Google, Yahoo, Apple, and many others are within a short drive. Internationally acclaimed Stanford University and thousands of acres of open space are at the very center.
Palo Alto is also well known for its vintage neighborhoods of tree-lined streets and stately homes. Located in the middle of the San Francisco Peninsula and bordering San Francisco Bay, Palo Alto enjoys an exceptionally mild climate where outdoor activities can be enjoyed year-round.
The history of Palo Alto
Palo Alto, California, has a rich history dating back to the late 18th century when it was originally inhabited by the Ohlone Native American people. The area’s name, “Palo Alto,” which means “tall tree” in Spanish, likely stems from its distinctive towering trees. In the mid-19th century, European settlers began to establish themselves in the region, drawn by the fertile land and proximity to San Francisco Bay. The town’s development gained momentum with the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1870s, making it a vital transportation link between San Francisco and San Jose.
One pivotal moment in Palo Alto’s history occurred in 1887 when Leland Stanford, a former California governor and one of the “Big Four” who built the Central Pacific Railroad, founded Stanford University in memory of his son, Leland Stanford Jr. This prestigious institution has since played a central role in the city’s identity, contributing to its reputation as a hub for education and innovation. Over the years, Palo Alto evolved from an agricultural area to a significant part of Silicon Valley, becoming home to numerous tech companies and startups, earning its reputation as the epicenter of the high-tech industry. Today, it continues to thrive as a vibrant and influential center for technology and innovation.
Places to know
Shopping and dining, places to stay and schools in Palo Alto
Stay
Sheraton Palo Alto Hotel
A hotel on El Camino Real, a short walk from the Palo Alto Caltrain station, Stanford Shopping Center and the Stanford campus.
School
Castilleja School
An independent school for girls in grades 6 through 12, founded in Palo Alto in 1907 by Mary Lockey, a Stanford graduate.
7 photosNearby
Stanford University
Stanford University, located in Stanford, California, is one of the world’s leading research institutions, renowned for its academic excellence, innovative research, and beautiful campus. Founded in 1885, it has played a pivotal role in shaping Silicon Valley and advancing global education.
Founded by Leland and Jane Stanford, it is a prestigious private research university situated in the heart of California’s Silicon Valley. Known for its rigorous academic programs, cutting-edge research, and entrepreneurial spirit, Stanford has consistently ranked among the top universities globally. The expansive campus, marked by iconic landmarks such as the Hoover Tower and the Main Quad, spans over 8,000 acres and includes state-of-the-art facilities that support a wide range of disciplines. Stanford’s influence extends beyond academia, as it has been instrumental in the development of Silicon Valley, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. With its commitment to excellence and global impact, Stanford University continues to shape the future through education, research, and innovation.
Nearby
Stanford Golf Course
Stanford University’s golf course, opened on January 1, 1930. George C. Thomas Jr. and William P. Bell laid it out among the campus oaks and worked San Francisquito Creek into the design.
2 photosNearby
Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley
A ten-story hotel at University Circle in East Palo Alto, where University Avenue meets Highway 101. It opened in 2006.
Nearby
Rosewood Sand Hill
A hotel and spa on 16 acres of Stanford-owned land on Sand Hill Road in Menlo Park, opened in 2009 among the venture capital firms the road is known for.
Gallery
Photos of Palo Alto
Track record
Homes sold in Palo Alto
- Homes sold
- 3
- Sales volume
- $5.37M
- Sellers represented
- 2
Recent sales
| Address | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 Crescent Drive4 bd · Sold Sep 2007 · Represented buyer | $3,525,000 |
| 2032 Poplar2 bd · 1 ba · Sold Mar 2005 · Represented seller | $525,000 |
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