Palo Alto Tourist Attractions

Santa Clara County
Location and origin
The town of Palo Alto lies 29mi/47km south of San Francisco on the U.S. 101. The Spanish name means "tall tree" and can be traced back to a centuries-old redwood tree (the Spaniards named it "palo colorade"), under which the Spanish governor camped with his expedition when they were searching for San Francisco Bay.

Stanford University

Stanford University began in 1891 with less than 600 students and today is attended by some 15,000.

Barbie Hall of Fame (closed)

ATTRACTION HAS CLOSED. MATTEL HAS PURCHASED THE COLLECTION.
The Barbie Hall of Fame in Palo Alto is a wonderland of the female dolls. Fans of her buddy Ken will not be disappointed.

Junior Museum and Zoo

One of the oldest children's museums in California, founded in 1934, the Junior Museum and Zoo in Palo Alto features children's exhibits, science classes and a zoo with animal demonstrations.

Hanna House

Hanna House, also known as Honeycomb House, is a hexagonal residence in Palo Alto, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Lucie Stern Theater

The Lucie Stern Theatre in Palo Alto is the home of the West Bay Opera, with performances from October through June.

Museum of American Heritage

The Museum of American Heritage in Palo Alto has displays of antique technological devices such as crystal radios and old turntables.

Palo Alto Cultural Center

The Palo Alto Cultural Center was originally a town hall. The galleries and art studio are open daily, along with the auditorium and sculpture garden.