"The suite we stayed in was spacious and comfortable with a couch to unwind when you're not quite ready for bed."
igilbert2024 from United States
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"It the best located hotel in Palo Alto, with a very good restaurant, great rooms and, above all, the best beds in the world."
Federico Valdes from United States
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"This hotel is at a great location, although this is rated 4 star but the services and room itself is 5 star!"
Som282 from Australia
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"Love the location and the hotel itself was very quaint, reminding us of a European boutique Hotel."
Stacey from United States
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"The hotel is beautiful! The room was both beautiful and comfortable. It was super clean. The location is great!"
Catherine from United States
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Rooms & Suites
The hotel offers 62 rooms and suites, each with a private balcony. Guest rooms include HDTVs, a fully stocked minibar, and 24-hour ice service. GLink iPhone and Android docking stations are provided in every room.
Dining
Breakfast is served directly to rooms with freshly brewed coffee and quality offerings. The Spanish Tapas Bar serves tapas-style sharing plates, Spanish wine flights, and signature cocktails. Il Fornaio, an Italian restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, is located on site for lunch and dinner.
Location
The hotel is in downtown Palo Alto, a short walk from restaurants and retail. Stanford University is a 6-minute drive away, and Stanford Shopping Center is 7 minutes away. Major tech campuses including Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn are within a 15-minute drive.
Business & Events
El Prado has been named one of the seven best boutique hotels in the United States and recognized by Forbes as a top hotel in Silicon Valley. Meeting and banquet facilities, a business centre, and fax/photocopying services are available. An experienced coordination team assists with event planning for corporate functions and social gatherings.
Services & Amenities
The hotel is pet-friendly, with outstanding amenities for dogs. A 24-hour concierge service can arrange in-room massage, restaurant reservations, and private car service. On-site parking includes valet parking and an electric vehicle charging station, and a fully equipped fitness centre is available.
Highlights
Recognition: One of the seven best boutique hotels in the U.S. and Forbes top hotel in Silicon Valley
Rooms: 62 suites with private balconies and luxury amenities
Dining: Spanish Tapas Bar and Il Fornaio Italian restaurant
Location: Walking distance to downtown Palo Alto, 6 min from Stanford
Business: Dedicated event planning for corporate functions and meetings
Services: Pet-friendly, EV charging, 24-hour concierge, fitness centre
“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.”
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
room details
Deluxe Queen Room
2 persons
28 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Deluxe King Room
2 persons
37 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
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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
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
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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.
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 202 verified reviews
9.2 /10
Perfect
91 %
Recommend
Breakfast
2.5/10
Cleanliness
9.4/10
Comfort
9.5/10
Facilities
8.9/10
Free WiFi
9.3/10
Location
9.6/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Staff
9.3/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Helpful staff
Central location
Cleanliness
Cons
Heating issues
Room layout
Guest reviews
based on 270 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.
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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.