El Prado Hotel Palo Alto Exterior photoEl Prado Hotel Palo Alto Exterior photoEl Prado Hotel Palo Alto Exterior photo

El Prado - Your Boutique Escape in Palo Alto

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From$380 /night
Check-in
26Aug
Check-out
27Aug
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, 94301
-
Close to Arizona Garden
Perfect
9.1
9.3
/10
4.8
4.5
/5

4-star luxury boutique hotel in Downtown Palo Alto

Accommodations

El Prado has 62 newly renovated guest rooms and suites, ranging from Deluxe Queen to Grand Deluxe Suite. Each room comes furnished with plush, pillow-top beds and minibars, creating a residential ambiance. Many rooms include private balconies that overlook the central courtyard or downtown Palo Alto.

Dining Options

The hotel offers a variety of in-room dining options, including breakfast specialties and evening meals delivered straight to guest rooms. Guests can enjoy fresh-brewed coffee from Coffeebar for breakfast, enhancing their morning experience. The proximity to downtown Palo Alto's dining scene allows guests to explore various upscale restaurants within walking distance.

Event Spaces

El Prado features 700 m² of event space, ideal for both social and corporate gatherings. The L-shaped Courtyard Ballroom offers an adjacent outdoor patio, allowing for a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor events. The hotel's seasoned event planning team can assist with customizable catering menus and audio-visual support.

Location

Located less than 2 km from Stanford University, El Prado provides convenient access to major tech campuses like Google and Facebook. The hotel is situated within steps of the lively University Avenue, known for its shopping and dining options. Guests can easily explore local attractions such as the Cantor Art Museum and Stanford Shopping Center.

Pet-Friendly Policies

El Prado offers dog-friendly accommodations, making it easy for guests to travel with their pets. Specific rooms designed to welcome pets are available upon request. The hotel provides additional services to ensure a comfortable stay for both guests and their pets.

Highlights

Location: less than 2 km from Stanford University

Rooms: 62 rooms and suites

Dining: fresh-brewed coffee from Coffeebar

Event Spaces: 700 m² of event space

Pet-Friendly: dog-friendly accommodations

“The setting in Palo Alto's heart is undeniably convenient, with spacious, comfortable rooms that feel quite serene. What truly stands out, however, is the genuine attentiveness of the staff, who manage everything from seamless pre-arrival arrangements to the delicious catering for events. It's this blend of elegant surroundings and thoughtful service that leaves a lasting impression.”
Hotel logo
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Wonderfulhotels

Select your room type

El Prado 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 sq. feet
    2 King Size Beds
    Air conditioning
    Balcony
  • Deluxe Queen Room
    2 persons
    28 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Air conditioning
    Balcony
  • Deluxe King Room
    2 persons
    37 sq. feet
    1 King-size bed
    Air conditioning
    Balcony
Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!
August 2026 - August 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

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

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • 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

Room features

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

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At El Prado, delight in a rich tapestry of culinary options that pay homage to authentic flavors and vibrant atmospheres. From Italian classics at Il Fornaio to the creative tapas experience at the second-floor Tapas Bar and Lounge, each dining venue invites guests to savor every moment in an inspiring setting.
  • Il Fornaio

    Italian fine dining
    Ambiance
    Traditional, inviting space that captures the essence of Italian hospitality with warm decor and a welcoming atmosphere.
    Key Offerings
    Signature pasta dishes, freshly baked breads, and delectable desserts, all crafted with time-honored Italian recipes. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner gatherings.
    Reservation
    Recommended
    Breakfast 07:00 - 10:30, Lunch 11:30 - 22:00 (Monday - Thursday), 11:30 - 23:00 (Friday), 08:00 - 11:00 (Saturday & Sunday), Dinner until 22:00 (Sunday) and 23:00 (Saturday).
  • Tapas Bar and Lounge

    Spanish tapas
    Ambiance
    A cozy drawing room on the second floor that radiates warmth and charm, ideal for relaxing drinks or socializing.
    Key Offerings
    A selection of small plates perfect for sharing, complemented by signature cocktails infused with herb syrups and Spanish liquors. An ideal pre-dinner stop or evening retreat.
    Reservation
    Not required
    Open Tuesday-Saturday from 15:00 - 22:00.

El Prado Location

520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, 94301
Explore Palo Alto
Local Insights
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Museum of American Heritage
7 minutes' walk
A captivating museum showcasing innovation and technology in American history, often featuring hands-on exhibits.
Hewlett Packard Garage
11 minutes' walk
The birthplace of Silicon Valley, where HP was founded; a historical site that commemorates entrepreneurship and creativity.
Arizona Garden
7 minutes' walk
A serene garden featuring diverse plants from the southwestern U.S., perfect for a quiet stroll or relaxation.
Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo
20 minutes' walk
A family-friendly museum and zoo offering interactive exhibits and a variety of small animals to engage children.
Discover the local attractions near El Prado
Wander through a selection of notable landmarks near El Prado that showcase the rich culture and history of Palo Alto
Ideal for art enthusiasts and cultural exploration: Cantor Arts Center
Great for leisurely strolls through historic architecture: Professorville
Perfect for technology history buffs looking for significance: Hewlett Packard Garage
Well suited for garden lovers and creative inspiration: Sunset Magazine Headquarters and Gardens
Ideal for nature walks and horticultural appreciation: Elizabeth Gamble Garden Center
Great for quiet reflection amidst renowned sculptures: Rodin Sculpture Garden
Suited for shoppers seeking a premium retail experience: Stanford Shopping Center
Best for families with children interested in learning: Junior Museum & Zoo
Cycling at Stanford Campus
25 minutes' walk
Cycling through Stanford's picturesque campus offers scenic views and various trails for both leisurely and more adventurous rides.
Yoga at the Garden
12 minutes' walk
Outdoor yoga classes at the nearby gardens provide relaxation and a unique connection with nature; suitable for all levels.
Farmers' Market
6 minutes' walk
Weekly market offering fresh local produce, handmade goods, and artisanal foods, ideal for food lovers and families alike.
Il Fornaio
1 minute' walk
An authentic Italian restaurant known for its rich pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas. Reservations recommended.
Umami Burger
2 minutes' walk
Casual dining spot specializing in gourmet burgers with unique flavors and craft beer options; perfect for quick eats.
Thyme
2 minutes' walk
Cozy eatery offering farm-to-table dishes with fresh, local ingredients and vegetarian-friendly options.
Discover dining options near El Prado
Check out a variety of restaurants near El Prado offering diverse culinary experiences
Perfect for refined Asian fusion dining: Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery
Ideal for dessert lovers seeking sweet treats: Cream
Great for quick and innovative sushi rolls: Sushirrito
Well suited for those craving modern Indian cuisine: Rooh
Best for a casual frozen yogurt experience: Yogurtland
Suited for coffee aficionados in need of a caffeine fix: Peet's Coffee & Tea
Ideal for health-conscious diners wanting fresh juices: Joe & the Juice
Stanford Theatre
25 minutes' walk
Classic movie theater featuring a schedule of vintage films in a beautifully restored 1920s venue; family-friendly shows available.
The Edge
8 minutes' drive
Live music venue with a relaxed atmosphere, hosting local bands and events; perfect for a night out with friends.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Palo Alto 20 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 Caltrain 32 min  ·  1.6 mi
    Train 2 min  ·  400 ft
  • Bus
    Bus stop 4 min  ·  1000 ft
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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 true.
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 from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 163 verified reviews
9.2 /10
Perfect
92 %
Recommend
Breakfast
2.5/10
Cleanliness
9.4/10
Comfort
9.5/10
Facilities
8.9/10
Free WiFi
9.4/10
Location
9.6/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Staff
9.2/10
Value for money
8.2/10
Pros
Helpful staff
Central location
Cleanliness
Cons
Heating issues
Room layout
Guest reviews
based on 258 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
What is the distance from El Prado to Stanford University?
El Prado is located 3 km from Stanford University.
Is parking available at El Prado?
Public parking is available on-site for 35 USD per day without the need for a reservation.
Which restaurants are located near El Prado?
Nearby restaurants include Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery, Cream, Sushirrito, Rooh, and Yogurtland, all within 0.5 km.
What dining options are available at El Prado?
The hotel features an on-site Italian restaurant, Il Fornaio, and a Spanish Tapas Bar open Tuesday to Saturday.
What amenities can guests expect in their rooms at El Prado?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and fully stocked minibars.
What are the check-in and check-out times at El Prado?
Check-in at El Prado is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Does El Prado offer fitness facilities?
The hotel features a fully equipped fitness center including ellipticals, treadmills, and free weights.
What is the closest airport to El Prado?
El Prado is approximately 24 km from San Francisco International Airport.
Is there a business center available at El Prado?
El Prado provides a 24/7 business center for guest use.
Does El Prado provide concierge services?
Concierge services are available, including arrangements for in-room massage and restaurant reservations.
What special features does El Prado have?
The hotel features an open-air courtyard, a private balcony in every room, and a sculpture collection in the garden.
How far is El Prado from the Stanford Shopping Center?
El Prado is located 5 km from the Stanford Shopping Center.
What type of guests does El Prado cater to?
El Prado is geared towards business travelers and couples seeking romantic getaways.
What specific types of services are offered for events at El Prado?
El Prado has an experienced event planning team that can coordinate catering and audio-visual support for events.

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