Stanford University, Silicon Valley Travel Guide

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Explore Stanford University: A world-renowned center for academic excellence, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Founded in 1885 by Leland and Jane Stanford, Stanford University is a world-renowned research university in the heart of Silicon Valley. Known for its academic excellence and entrepreneurial spirit, the campus features stunning architecture, distinguished faculty, and a vibrant atmosphere that fosters innovation and discovery.

A brief summary to Stanford University

450 Jane Stanford Way, Stanford, California, 94305, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Stanford University.

Visit the Stanford Visitor Center for campus maps, tour information, and insights into the university's history and culture.
Take a bike ride around the mostly flat campus to explore attractions like Hoover Tower, Memorial Church, and the Cantor Arts Center.
Check the schedule for events at Bing Concert Hall, athletic competitions, and public lectures to enrich your visit.
Explore the Rodin Sculpture Garden, which features an extensive collection of Rodin's bronze sculptures.
Utilize the free Marguerite Shuttle to navigate the campus and connect to nearby transit hubs.

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Explore Stanford University on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Stanford University, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From the Palo Alto Transit Center (Caltrain and VTA bus hub), transfer to the free Stanford Marguerite Shuttle. Several lines serve different parts of the campus. Check the Marguerite schedule for routes and real-time tracking. Alternatively, walk or bike to campus. Caltrain GoPass holders can ride Caltrain for free.
Walking

From downtown Palo Alto, walk east on University Avenue towards Palm Drive, the formal entrance to Stanford. Continue onto Palm Drive, which leads to the Oval, Main Quad, and Memorial Church. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and takes about 30 minutes. Note that Serra Mall is closed to traffic.
Driving

From Highway 101, exit onto Embarcadero Road and head west. Turn left onto El Camino Real, then right onto Palm Drive. Follow Palm Drive to the Oval. Visitor parking is available in designated areas throughout campus, managed via ParkMobile. Use the ParkMobile app or website to pay for parking upon arrival. Hourly rates are approximately $1.50. A one-day visitor permit can be purchased for around $16.

Discover more about Stanford University

Stanford University, officially Leland Stanford Junior University, stands as a testament to the vision of its founders, Leland and Jane Stanford, who established it in 1885 in memory of their son. The university's mission is to promote public welfare by influencing humanity and civilization. From its opening on October 1, 1891, with 555 students, Stanford has been non-denominational and co-educational.The campus, often called "The Farm" due to its origins as Leland Stanford's Palo Alto Stock Farm, spans 8,180 acres and is located on the ancestral land of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe. The architecture, designed in collaboration with Frederick Law Olmsted, features local sandstone buildings with red-tiled roofs surrounding a cloistered quadrangle, with the Memorial Church as its focal point.Stanford's contributions to science and technology are immense. It played a pivotal role in the development of Silicon Valley, with figures like Frederick Terman fostering early tech companies. The campus houses significant physics laboratories, including the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. Stanford is also known for its beautiful campus, which includes the Hoover Tower, Cantor Arts Center, and Bing Concert Hall. Visitors can explore the Rodin Sculpture Garden and enjoy various performances and athletic events.Today, Stanford continues to uphold its legacy of innovation, attracting students and scholars from around the globe. Its blend of academic rigor, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to societal impact makes it a must-see destination.