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Check-in
10Jan2026Select date
Check-out
11Jan2026Select 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
4.8
4.5
/5

Accommodations

El Prado offers 62 rooms and suites featuring charming Spanish-style architecture combined with contemporary style. Many accommodations include private balconies providing views of the courtyard or downtown Palo Alto. The Grand Deluxe Suite spans 1,000 sq ft and includes a spacious layout with a cozy fireplace and multiple patios.

Dining Options

The hotel emphasizes convenience with an in-room dining menu, including breakfast and dinner delivered directly to guest rooms. Coffee from Coffeebar is available to guests, starting their day with freshly brewed options. Additionally, guests can explore local dining choices just steps away on University Avenue.

Location

El Prado is situated less than one mile from Stanford University and close to major tech campuses like Google and Facebook. This central location provides easy access to upscale shopping, galleries, and various restaurants in downtown Palo Alto. Guests can enjoy nearby attractions including the Cantor Art Museum and Stanford Dish for outdoor activities.

Event Spaces

The hotel provides 7,300 sq ft of flexible event space suitable for both corporate meetings and social gatherings. The newly redesigned ballroom spaces offer natural light and direct access to outdoor patios, enhancing any event atmosphere. Experienced planners assist in coordinating all details, from catering to audiovisual needs.

Wellness and Fitness

Guests can maintain fitness routines in the onsite fitness room, equipped with a range of exercise machines including treadmills and free weights. For those traveling with pets, the hotel offers dog-friendly rooms to accommodate furry companions. The environment is designed to feel intimate, enhancing the residential experience.

Highlights

Location: Close to Stanford University and major tech campuses

Rooms: Grand Deluxe Suite with spacious layout

Dining: In-room dining menu and breakfast from Coffeebar

Event Spaces: 7,300 sq ft of flexible 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.
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Select your room type

The 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
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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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • 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

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.

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
Thyme
120 m
496 Hamilton Ave
Chantal Guillon
140 m
444 University 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
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  ·  1.6 km
Airports
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)39 min  ·  26.0 km
San Francisco International Airport (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
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.
Does El Prado offer parking services?
Public parking is available nearby, but reservations are not possible.
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.

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