Welcome to El Prado – Palo Alto

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From524US$ /night
Check-in
10Dec2025Select date
Check-out
11Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, California, United States, 94301
-
Close to the city center
Perfect
9.0
9.3
/10
4.8
4.5
/5

Amenities

El Prado offers 7,300 square feet of distinctive event space equipped with modern audio-visual technology, with natural light streaming in from floor-to-ceiling windows. The onsite fitness room includes ellipticals, treadmills, and free weights, catering to fitness enthusiasts. Valet parking services are available for guests, accommodating both daily and overnight needs.

Rooms

El Prado comprises 62 newly renovated rooms and suites, with options ranging from Deluxe Queen rooms to a Grand Deluxe Suite spanning 1,000 square feet. Many accommodations include private balconies with views of the central courtyard or downtown Palo Alto, enhancing the spacious living experience. All rooms offer plush, pillow-top beds, minibars, and flat-screen televisions with satellite channels.

Location

El Prado is located less than one mile from Stanford University and within walking distance of boutique shops and restaurants along University Avenue. The hotel offers convenient access to major tech campuses like Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn, making it suitable for business travelers. Downtown Palo Alto's dining scene is just steps away, showcasing diverse culinary options.

Dining

Breakfast options and freshly brewed coffee are available from Coffeebar, served directly to guest rooms. In-room dining options allow guests to enjoy intimate meals in the comfort of their accommodations. For a greater variety, numerous upscale restaurants populate the surrounding downtown area.

Pet-Friendly Policies

El Prado accommodates pets, offering designated dog-friendly rooms for travelers with furry companions. Pet owners can inquire about policies while booking their stay to ensure a welcoming environment. The hotel provides amenities designed to make stays enjoyable for both pets and their owners.

Highlights

Location: Less than one mile from Stanford University

Rooms: 62 newly renovated rooms and suites

Dining: In-room dining options and breakfast from Coffeebar

Amenities: 7,300 square feet of distinctive event space

Pet-Friendly: Designated dog-friendly rooms available

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through Stanford University's lush campus and gardens.
  • Try the famous tri-tip sandwich at the original Banh Mi Ba Le.
  • Visit the Cantor Arts Center for top-notch exhibits and sculptures.
  • Explore the Stanford Shopping Center for unique boutiques and eateries.
  • Check local events at the Palo Alto Art Center for community art.
View all

Select your room type

Choose from doubles, suites, or family rooms, many with breakfast, flexible cancellation, and promotional rates
Deluxe Queen Room Two Queen Beds
2 persons
33 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Heating
Deluxe King Room
2 persons
37 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Courtyard King Fireplace
2 persons
37 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
King Suite Balcony
2 persons
51 m² 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Heating
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Facilities

Boutique hotels design their amenities with your relaxation and unique travel experiences in mind

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Coffee shop

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Golf course

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Room service
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Sitting area
  • Dressing area
  • Terrace
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

El Prado offers a delightful array of dining experiences ranging from authentic Italian delicacies to lively tapas in a chic lounge setting. Both venues exude warmth and charm, inviting guests to relish vibrant flavors and crafted cocktails in an inspired ambiance.
El Prado Hotel Palo Alto Restaurant photo
El Prado Hotel Palo Alto Restaurant photo
El Prado Hotel Palo Alto Restaurant photo

Il Fornaio

Italian
Ambiance
Traditional dining with a cozy atmosphere
Key Offerings
Savor authentic Italian dishes, including handmade pasta and seasonal specialties. Breakfast features delightful pastries and coffee, while dinner presents an array of classic Italian entrees.
Reservation
Recommended
07:00 - 10:30 and 11:30 - 22:00 Monday to Thursday; 07:00 - 10:30 and 11:30 - 23:00 Friday; 08:00 - 11:00 and 11:30 - 23:00 Saturday; 08:00 - 11:00 and 11:30 - 22:00 Sunday

Tapas Bar and Lounge

Spanish Tapas
Ambiance
Chic and vibrant drawing room setting on the second floor
Key Offerings
Enjoy a unique selection of handcrafted cocktails featuring herb-infused syrups and an array of delectable tapas, perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or a pre-dinner appetizer.
Reservation
Not needed
Tuesday - Saturday from 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Location

520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, California, United States, 94301
Map view
520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, California, United States, 94301
Nearby
351 Homer Ave
Museum of American Heritage
540 m
601-699 Gilman St
Farmers' markets
460 m
south side of the mausoleum off of Quarry Road between Campus Drive and Arboretum Road
Arizona Garden
510 m
Restaurants
Il Fornaio
10 m
520 Cowper Street
Blue Bottle Coffee
150 m
456 University Avenue
Umami Burger
120 m
452 University Ave
Chantal Guillon
140 m
444 University Ave
Thyme
120 m
496 Hamilton Ave
Vino Locale
220 m
431 Kipling St
Yayoi
220 m
403 University Ave
Paris Baguette
230 m
383 University Ave
Starbucks
240 m
376 University Ave
Joya
310 m
339 University Ave
Explore Palo Alto
Explore Palo Alto
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Museum of American Heritage
Museum of American Heritage
7 minutes walking
A hands-on museum emphasizing technology from the 19th century to the present, perfect for curious minds and families.
Stanford University
Stanford University
25 minutes walking
Stunning campus known for its architecture, vast gardens, and the Hoover Tower offering panoramic views of the valley.
Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden
18 minutes walking
A historic home and botanical garden with seasonal blooms, ideal for leisurely strolls and family picnics.
Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo
Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo
20 minutes walking
Interactive exhibits and a small zoo cater to younger audiences, making it a fun outing for families with kids.
Hiking at Arastradero Preserve
20 minutes driving
Mountain biking and hiking trails among natural beauty. Challenging routes for thrill-seekers, with scenic vistas.
Yoga at A Yoga Studio
10 minutes driving
Peaceful studio offering a variety of classes focused on relaxation and rejuvenation, accessible via rideshare.
Visit Farmers' Markets
6 minutes walking
Local farmers offer fresh produce and artisan goods, perfect for a vibrant community experience on weekends.
Il Fornaio
Il Fornaio
1 minute walking
Italian cuisine in a warm ambiance featuring wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta. Reservations recommended on weekends.
Umami Burger
Umami Burger
2 minutes walking
Casual eatery known for gourmet burgers and unique toppings, perfect for a quick bite or laid-back dinner.
Thyme
Thyme
2 minutes walking
Contemporary restaurant serving seasonal fare with farm-to-table ingredients. Great for dietary restrictions.
Palo Alto Art Center
Palo Alto Art Center
25 minutes walking
Contemporary art exhibits and engaging workshops for all ages. Family-friendly environment promoting creativity.
Blue Bottle Coffee
Blue Bottle Coffee
2 minutes walking
Trendy cafe with artisanal coffee and light bites. Perfect spot for casual meetings or relaxing after a day of activities.
Stanford Theatre
8 minutes driving
Historic movie theater showing classic films. Offers a nostalgic atmosphere for a fun night out.
Getting around
City Centre
Palo Alto20 min  ·  1.6 km
Airports
Mineta San Jose International (SJC)39 min  ·  26.0 km
San Francisco International (SFO)48 min  ·  31.8 km
Train
California Ave Caltrain32 min  ·  2.6 km
Train2 min  ·  100 m
Bus
Bus stop4 min  ·  300 m
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site at USD 28 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Year renovated:
2011
Number of floors:
4
Number of rooms:
45
Former name
Garden Court Hotel
FAQs
About El Prado
What are the check-in and check-out times at El Prado?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is El Prado from Mineta San Jose International Airport?
El Prado is 30 km from Mineta San Jose International Airport.
What dining options are available on-site at El Prado?
On-site dining options include a Spanish Tapas Bar and the Italian restaurant Il Fornaio.
Is parking available at El Prado?
Public parking is available nearby at no charge, but reservation is not possible.
What room amenities does El Prado offer?
Rooms feature air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a safe, a minibar, and free Wi-Fi.
What attractions are near El Prado?
Nearby attractions include Stanford University (3 km) and the Stanford Shopping Center (7 minutes by car).
Does El Prado provide business services?
The hotel offers a 24/7 business center and meeting rooms for business travelers.
What fitness facilities are available at El Prado?
El Prado has a fully equipped fitness centre including ellipticals, treadmills, and weight machines.
Is breakfast available at El Prado?
Fresh-brewed coffee and breakfast specialties are served in the Breakfast Coffee Bar.
What languages are spoken by the staff at El Prado?
The staff at El Prado speaks multiple languages to cater to diverse guests.
Does El Prado have a spa?
In-room massages can be arranged through the concierge service.
Are there any notable features of the rooms at El Prado?
Rooms include features such as French doors that open to views of downtown Palo Alto.

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