El Prado Hotel Palo Alto Exterior photoEl Prado Hotel Palo Alto Exterior photoEl Prado Hotel Palo Alto Exterior photo
Book on our site
Up to 10% cheaper
than Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From524US$ /night
Check-in
19Apr2026Select date
Check-out
20Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, California, United States, 94301
-
Close to Arizona Garden
Perfect
9.1
9.3
/10
4.7
4.5
/5

Accommodations

El Prado offers 62 rooms and suites, each with high-end furnishings and finishes. Guests can enjoy private balconies in many rooms, providing outdoor space to relax. Included amenities range from plush pillowtop beds to minibars, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Location

The hotel is situated less than one mile from Stanford University and within walking distance of major tech campuses like Google and Facebook. Guests will find upscale shopping and dining options just steps away along University Avenue. This convenient location makes it easy to explore the vibrant downtown area.

Dining

Breakfast options include freshly brewed coffee and a selection of dishes served directly to guest rooms. In the evening, guests can choose from an in-room dining menu that offers a variety of dinner selections. The hotel also collaborates with local dining establishments to broaden the culinary experiences available.

Event Spaces

El Prado boasts 7,300 square feet of event space suited for both corporate gatherings and celebrations. The hotel's ballroom features expansive glass windows, benefiting from natural light and outdoor access. Professional event planners assist in coordinating all aspects, including catering and audiovisual support.

Pet-Friendly Policies

The hotel offers dog-friendly rooms, accommodating travelers who wish to bring their pets. Every guest room is designed to provide comfort and convenience for both humans and their animal companions. Inquire about specific pet amenities available during a stay.

Highlights

Location: less than one mile from Stanford University

Rooms: 62 rooms and suites with private balconies

Distant Dining: in-room dining menu available

Event Spaces: 7,300 square feet of event space

Must-do experiences

  • Visit the Stanford Dish for stunning views and a lovely hike.
  • Try the famous grilled cheese at The Cheese Board Collective.
  • Explore the Cantor Arts Center for diverse art collections.
  • Stroll through the Stanford Shopping Center for upscale boutiques.
  • Don't miss the Palo Alto Farmers' Market for local produce and treats.
View all

Select your room type

El Prado Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Deluxe Queen Room Two Queen Beds
2 persons
360 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Heating
Deluxe Queen Room
2 persons
305 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Deluxe King Room
2 persons
400 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Courtyard King Fireplace
2 persons
400 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

El Prado Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.9/10Review score

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • On-site car park
  • Handicap parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Coffee shop
  • Electric vehicle charging station

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Golf course

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Valet parking
  • Room service
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning

Dining

  • In-room breakfast

Business

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

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Jacuzzi

Room features

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

Bathroom

  • Bathtub
  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • Direct dial telephone
  • CD player
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At El Prado, culinary delights await in two distinct venues that beautifully capture the essence of local dining. Guests can indulge in the authentic flavors of Italy at Il Fornaio or relax with handcrafted cocktails at the Tapas Bar and Lounge, each setting designed for comfort and enjoyment.
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 Italian decor with warm colors and inviting seating, ideal for casual meals or festive gatherings.
Key Offerings
Signature Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with an extensive wine selection. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner at your leisure.
Reservation
Recommended
Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM - 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM (Friday until 11:00 PM). Saturday from 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM. Sunday from 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM.

Tapas Bar and Lounge

Spanish Tapas
Ambiance
Located in the drawing room on the second floor, featuring a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing and relaxing.
Key Offerings
Craft cocktails celebrating herb-infused syrups and Spanish liquors, alongside a lively selection of tantalizing tapas. Explore flavors from Tuesday to Saturday.
Reservation
Not needed
Tuesday to Saturday from 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM.

El Prado Hotel 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
1800 ft
601-699 Gilman St
Farmers' markets
1600 ft
south side of the mausoleum off of Quarry Road between Campus Drive and Arboretum Road
Arizona Garden
1700 ft
Restaurants
Il Fornaio
100 ft
520 Cowper Street
Blue Bottle Coffee
500 ft
456 University Avenue
Umami Burger
400 ft
452 University Ave
Thyme
400 ft
496 Hamilton Ave
Chantal Guillon
500 ft
444 University Ave
Vino Locale
800 ft
431 Kipling St
Yayoi
800 ft
403 University Ave
Paris Baguette
800 ft
383 University Ave
Starbucks
800 ft
376 University Ave
Joya
1100 ft
339 University Ave
Explore Palo Alto
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Museum of American Heritage
Museum of American Heritage
7 minutes walking
A showcase of American history through technology and innovation, featuring unique exhibits and seasonal events.
Hewlett Packard Garage
Hewlett Packard Garage
11 minutes walking
The birthplace of Silicon Valley, this historic site offers insight into the early tech era. A simple photo opportunity.
Stanford University
Stanford University
25 minutes walking
This iconic campus showcases stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls and photo sessions.
Cantor Arts Center
Cantor Arts Center
30 minutes walking
Home to an impressive collection of artworks, including pieces by Rodin. Offers free admission and special guided tours.
Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo
Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo
20 minutes walking
A family-friendly museum featuring hands-on science exhibits and a small zoo with local animals. Great for children.
Arizona Garden
Arizona Garden
7 minutes walking
A tranquil garden showcasing desert plants, perfect for quiet reflection or a peaceful stroll amidst nature's beauty.
Biking on Baylands Nature Preserve
15 minutes driving
Thrilling biking trails on the expansive preserve, featuring diverse wildlife and scenic views of the Bay.
Il Fornaio
Il Fornaio
1 minute walking
Italian dining with a warm ambiance, famous for homemade pasta and delicious pizzas. Reservations recommended.
Umami Burger
Umami Burger
2 minutes walking
Casual burger joint offering gourmet burgers and inventive sides. Great for a quick, delicious meal.
Blue Bottle Coffee
Blue Bottle Coffee
2 minutes walking
Specialty coffee shop known for its fresh brews and minimalist vibe, perfect for a quick caffeine fix.
Palo Alto Art Center
Palo Alto Art Center
25 minutes walking
A vibrant venue for art exhibits and family-friendly events, featuring both local and national artists.
Stanford Theatre
25 minutes driving
Historic movie theater showing classic films. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic night out or family outing.
Getting around
City Centre
Palo Alto20 min  ·  1.0 mi
Airports
Mineta San Jose International (SJC)40 min  ·  16.2 mi
San Francisco International (SFO)48 min  ·  19.9 mi
Train
California Ave Caltrain32 min  ·  1.6 mi
Train2 min  ·  400 ft
Bus
Bus stop4 min  ·  1000 ft
Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?
Get exlusive rates right now!
Check Rates
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

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about El Prado Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 153 verified reviews
9.3/10
Perfect
93%
Recommend
Breakfast
2.5/10
Cleanliness
9.4/10
Comfort
9.5/10
Facilities
8.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.2/10
Location
9.7/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Staff
9.3/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Guest reviews
based on 273 reviews
9.1/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
FAQs
About El Prado
How far is El Prado from Mineta San Jose International Airport?
El Prado is 30 km from Mineta San Jose International Airport.
What is the check-in and check-out policy at El Prado?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
Are there any dining options available at El Prado?
El Prado features an on-site Italian restaurant, Il Fornaio, and a Spanish Tapas Bar.
Is there a fitness center at El Prado?
El Prado has a fully equipped fitness center for guest use.
What kind of amenities can guests expect in the rooms at El Prado?
Rooms at El Prado include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen HD TVs, in-room safes, and minibars.
What nearby attractions are within walking distance from El Prado?
El Prado is within 1 km of the Stanford University campus and the downtown Palo Alto dining scene.
Which restaurants are close to El Prado?
Nearby restaurants include Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery, Peet's Coffee & Tea, and Joe & the Juice, all within 0.5 km.
Is El Prado suitable for business travelers?
El Prado offers a 24/7 business center and meeting rooms for business travelers.
What cultural experiences does El Prado offer its guests?
Guests at El Prado can enjoy a collection of Rodin sculptures in the garden.
Are there any outdoor areas at El Prado?
El Prado has beautifully maintained courtyard areas with outdoor seating.
Does El Prado provide in-room massage services?
In-room massage services can be arranged through the concierge service.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
Check-in
19Apr2026Select date
Check-out
20Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room