El Palo Alto Park: A Living Landmark
Visit the iconic redwood that gave Palo Alto its name, a living landmark with over a thousand years of California history.
El Palo Alto Park is a small, historically significant park in Palo Alto, California, home to the ancient redwood tree, El Palo Alto, for which the city is named. The park offers a glimpse into California's past, with the towering tree serving as a reminder of the area's natural beauty and historical connections.
A brief summary to El Palo Alto Park
- 117 Palo Alto Ave, Palo Alto, Downtown North, California, 94301, US
- +1650-329-2697
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 12 am-3 am
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience before the park gets crowded.
- Take your time to read the interpretive plaques to learn about the history and significance of the tree and the surrounding area.
- Combine your visit with a walk or bike ride along the San Francisquito Creek trail.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Palo Alto (e.g., City Hall), head north on El Camino Real. Turn right onto Palo Alto Avenue. Walk east for a few blocks until you reach El Palo Alto Park, located on the left, just before the railroad tracks and San Francisquito Creek. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No cost involved.
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Public Transport
Take the Caltrain to the Palo Alto station. Exit the station and walk north on Alma Street for about 0.9 miles. Turn right onto Palo Alto Avenue and walk a short distance to the park. The park will be on your right. Caltrain fares vary depending on the distance traveled, but a short trip within Palo Alto typically costs around $3-5.
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Driving
From U.S. Highway 101, exit onto Embarcadero Road West. Drive for approximately 2 miles and turn right onto Alma Street. Continue north for 0.9 miles, then turn right onto Palo Alto Avenue. Limited street parking is available near the park. Parking is free but can be difficult to find during peak hours.
Discover more about El Palo Alto Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
El Palo Alto Tree - Namesake Tree of City of Palo Alto
0.0 km
Discover the historic El Palo Alto tree, a centuries-old redwood symbolizing Palo Alto's rich heritage and natural beauty, nestled in a serene park setting.
California Historical Landmark No. 2
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Landmark's Aquarius Theatre
0.6 km
Discover unique films and the charm of cinema at Landmark's Aquarius Theatre in the heart of Palo Alto.
Hostess House
0.6 km
Explore Hostess House, a historical landmark in Palo Alto, California, where history and community spirit come alive in a charming setting.
Middle Plaza
0.8 km
Explore Middle Plaza, a captivating historical landmark in Menlo Park, California, showcasing rich heritage and stunning architecture amidst serene surroundings.
Bell's Books
0.8 km
Explore Bell's Books in Palo Alto, a literary haven featuring an extensive collection of new and used books that delights bibliophiles and tourists alike.
Telephone Co. Building (Built 1928)
0.8 km
Discover the Telephone Co. Building in Palo Alto, a 1928 historical landmark that beautifully showcases the city's architectural heritage.
The Cardinal Hotel
0.8 km
Experience the charm and elegance of The Cardinal Hotel, your perfect sanctuary in the heart of Palo Alto, California.
Downtown Palo Alto Farmers' Market
1.0 km
Explore the Downtown Palo Alto Farmers' Market for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a vibrant community atmosphere every Saturday morning in California.
Angel of Grief
1.1 km
Discover the poignant beauty of the Angel of Grief in Palo Alto, a touching monument that encapsulates themes of love and remembrance amidst serene landscapes.
Menlo Park Historical Association
1.2 km
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Jack W. Lyle Park
1.2 km
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Menlo Park Station
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Menlo Park Design District
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Stone River by Andy Goldsworthy
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Unmissable attractions to see
El Camino Park
0.3 km
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Cogswell Plaza
0.6 km
A peaceful downtown Palo Alto park with shaded benches, flower beds, and a rich history.
Facebook’s First Office Plaque
0.7 km
See where it all began! Visit the site of Facebook's first office in Palo Alto, a landmark in the history of social media and tech innovation.
Lytton Plaza
0.7 km
Experience Palo Alto's vibrant heart at Lytton Plaza: a dynamic blend of community, culture, and art in a welcoming downtown setting.
The Wine Room
0.7 km
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The Rose & Crown
0.8 km
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Burgess Park
0.8 km
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Masterworks Fine Art Gallery
0.8 km
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Nealon Park
1.0 km
Discover a vibrant community hub in Menlo Park, offering inclusive play areas, sports facilities, and tranquil green spaces for relaxation and recreation for the whole family.
Allied Arts Guild
1.0 km
Discover a historic Spanish Colonial oasis in Menlo Park, where art, gardens, unique shops, and a charming cafe blend seamlessly to support Lucile Packard Children's Hospital.
The Museum of American Heritage
1.1 km
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Menlo Park Gates
1.2 km
Discover the historical Menlo Park Gates, a symbol of the city's Irish heritage, located near the Menlo Park Library, offering a glimpse into the past and a connection to the community's roots.
Heritage Park
1.2 km
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Stanford Mausoleum
1.2 km
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Arizona Garden
1.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Menlo Tavern
0.2 km
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Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
0.3 km
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True Food Kitchen
0.4 km
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The Melt
0.5 km
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Pacific Catch
0.6 km
Experience fresh and sustainable seafood at Pacific Catch in Palo Alto's Stanford Shopping Center - where flavor meets environmental responsibility.
Evvia Estiatorio
0.6 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Evvia Estiatorio in Palo Alto, where every dish tells a story steeped in Mediterranean tradition.
BIRD DOG
0.6 km
Discover Bird Dog in Palo Alto: A premier destination for innovative American cuisine blending seasonal ingredients and culinary artistry.
Rangoon Ruby Burmese Cuisine
0.6 km
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The Redwood by Chef Julien
0.7 km
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Steam
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Discover authentic dim sum at Steam in Palo Alto - a culinary gem offering a delightful array of Asian flavors.
Local Union 271
0.7 km
Experience vibrant New American cuisine with organic flair at Local Union 271 in Palo Alto – a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Oren's Hummus
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Israeli cuisine at Oren's Hummus in Palo Alto—where tradition meets taste in every delicious dish.
Cafe 220
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Sweet Maple
0.7 km
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JOYA Restaurant and Lounge
0.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Urban Outfitters
0.4 km
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Bloomingdale's
0.4 km
Explore luxury shopping at Bloomingdale's in Palo Alto, where fashion meets elegance and an exceptional shopping experience awaits.
Jenni Kayne Palo Alto
0.4 km
Explore Jenni Kayne Palo Alto for chic women's fashion, stylish home goods, and a unique shopping experience in the heart of California.
Anthropologie
0.4 km
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Stanford Shopping Center
0.4 km
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Brighton
0.5 km
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Nespresso Boutique Palo Alto
0.5 km
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Free People
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Cuyana
0.5 km
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Zegna Boutique
0.6 km
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Louis Vuitton Palo Alto
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Macy's
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Stanford Center Palo Alto
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Hermès
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Neiman Marcus
0.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Patio @ Rudy's
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MacArthur Park Restaurant and Bar
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Hidden Tap And Barrel Palo Alto
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Scotty's Bar & Grill
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SliderBar Restaurant
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Vino Locale
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President's Terrace
0.9 km
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Moods. Wine Bar
3.2 km
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Freewheel Brewing Company
3.8 km
Experience the best of craft beer and American cuisine at Freewheel Brewing Company in Redwood City, where great taste meets vibrant entertainment.
Atherton Club San Luis
3.9 km
Atherton Club San Luis: A vibrant bar experience in Menlo Park, California, blending relaxation and socialization for an unforgettable night out.
kicks Sports and Grill
4.3 km
Experience the thrill of sports and the taste of great food at Kicks Sports and Grill in Redwood City, where every game is a celebration.
Cocktailbar Santana
4.6 km
Discover Cocktailbar Santana in Menlo Park: Where eclectic cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Mazzocco's Club
4.8 km
Discover Mazzocco's Club, where exquisite cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Redwood City - a cocktail lover's paradise.
The Library & Bar
4.9 km
Experience the charm of The Library & Bar in Menlo Park, where exquisite drinks meet a cozy atmosphere perfect for socializing or unwinding.
Pool Garden Terrace at Rosewood Sand Hill
4.9 km
Experience the elegance of outdoor dining at the Pool Garden Terrace, where exquisite grilled cuisine meets serene surroundings in Menlo Park.
