Lytton Plaza: Palo Alto's Downtown Gathering Place
Experience Palo Alto's vibrant heart at Lytton Plaza: a dynamic blend of community, culture, and art in a welcoming downtown setting.
Lytton Plaza is a small, vibrant plaza in the heart of downtown Palo Alto, California, serving as a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. Known for its public art, community events, and central location on University Avenue, it offers a welcoming space to relax and experience the city's culture.
A brief summary to Lytton Plaza
- 200 University Ave, Palo Alto, University South, California, 94301, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Check the local events calendar for upcoming music performances, art installations, or community gatherings at the plaza.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch on the plaza's lawn or grab a coffee from a nearby café to enjoy while people-watching.
- Explore the shops and restaurants along University Avenue, which are just steps away from the plaza.
- Take a moment to appreciate the public art installations that rotate through the plaza, adding a unique cultural element to the space.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Palo Alto Caltrain Station, exit the station and head northwest on University Avenue. Continue for about 0.5 miles, passing shops and restaurants. Lytton Plaza will be on your left at 200 University Ave. From the Palo Alto Public Library (Main Library), head east on Newell Road, turn left on University Avenue and continue walking for about 0.3 miles. Lytton Plaza will be on your right.
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Public Transport
Lytton Plaza is accessible via multiple bus lines that stop near the Palo Alto Transit Center. From the transit center, walk northwest on University Avenue for a few blocks to reach the plaza. Bus lines include 281, 280, 296O, M1, 21, Rapid 522 and ECR. Caltrain also serves the nearby Palo Alto station. Single ride fares for VTA buses are typically around $2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in downtown Palo Alto, a taxi or ride-share to Lytton Plaza is a quick and convenient option. Direct your driver to 200 University Avenue, Palo Alto. A short trip from the Palo Alto Caltrain Station typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on the time of day and demand.
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Parking
Several parking options are available near Lytton Plaza. Street parking can be found on University Avenue and the surrounding streets, but availability may be limited. Parking garages nearby include the 530 Lytton Avenue Garage (enter at 433 Tasso St) with hourly rates of $3.00 per hour and a daily maximum of $18.00. The Florence/Lytton Lot (F) offers all-day parking permits for $15.00.
Discover more about Lytton Plaza
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bell's Books
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The Cardinal Hotel
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Landmark's Aquarius Theatre
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Telephone Co. Building (Built 1928)
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Hostess House
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Downtown Palo Alto Farmers' Market
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El Palo Alto Tree - Namesake Tree of City of Palo Alto
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California Historical Landmark No. 2
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Angel of Grief
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Norris House
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Stone River by Andy Goldsworthy
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Middle Plaza
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Tootsie's at the Cantor Arts Center
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Lucie Stern Community Center
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Menlo Park Historical Association
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Unmissable attractions to see
Facebook’s First Office Plaque
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The Wine Room
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The Rose & Crown
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Masterworks Fine Art Gallery
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Cogswell Plaza
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A peaceful downtown Palo Alto park with shaded benches, flower beds, and a rich history.
The Museum of American Heritage
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El Camino Park
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Heritage Park
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El Palo Alto Park
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Birthplace of Silicon Valley
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Main Quad
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Stanford Mausoleum
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Arizona Garden
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Theophilus Allen House
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Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden
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Essential places to dine
Cafe 220
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Steam
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Rangoon Ruby Burmese Cuisine
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Sweet Maple
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Nola
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Oren's Hummus
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Osteria Toscana
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Evvia Estiatorio
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Ettan
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BIRD DOG
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Local Union 271
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Nobu Restaurant Palo Alto
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Reposado
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The Redwood by Chef Julien
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Son & Garden
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Good Vibrations Palo Alto
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Una Gift Shop
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United Nations Association Gift Shop
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Blue Bin Vintage Palo Alto
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Romi Boutique
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Dolma Tibetan Handicraft
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Five Ten Gifts
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The RealReal
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Cassis
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G V Palo Alto
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Cielo
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Bloomingdale's
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Jenni Kayne Palo Alto
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Anthropologie
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Ruti | Palo Alto
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Scotty's Bar & Grill
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The Patio @ Rudy's
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Hidden Tap And Barrel Palo Alto
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SliderBar Restaurant
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MacArthur Park Restaurant and Bar
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Vino Locale
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President's Terrace
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Moods. Wine Bar
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Freewheel Brewing Company
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Atherton Club San Luis
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Cocktailbar Santana
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kicks Sports and Grill
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The Library & Bar
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Pool Garden Terrace at Rosewood Sand Hill
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Madera
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