El Palo Alto Palo Alto
A majestic, ancient redwood tree symbolizing Palo Alto's rich history and natural heritage. A peaceful landmark for reflection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
El Palo Alto Palo Alto
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic, ancient redwood tree symbolizing Palo Alto's rich history and natural heritage. A peaceful landmark for reflection.
"Very tall and healthy sequoia with info plaques around. The best view of the whole tree is from the bike bridge."
📸 Best Photo Spot
Get the best view of the entire tree from the bike bridge nearby.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Exploration
Visit on a weekday for a quieter, more reflective experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic El Palo Alto Tree
Near San Francisquito Creek
A towering, ancient redwood, a living monument to Palo Alto's rich history and natural beauty.
Informative Plaques
Base of the tree
Learn about the tree's historical significance and its role in the development of Palo Alto.
Scenic Creek Views
San Francisquito Creek
Enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the creek, offering a peaceful backdrop to the historic tree.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to El Palo Alto
Understanding El Palo Alto's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Spot
Get the best view of the entire tree from the bike bridge nearby.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Exploration
Visit on a weekday for a quieter, more reflective experience.
📚 Learn its History
Read the info plaques to understand its historical importance.
🌳 Appreciate its Size
While historic, some find it smaller than expected. Manage expectations!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Spot
Get the best view of the entire tree from the bike bridge nearby.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Exploration
Visit on a weekday for a quieter, more reflective experience.
📚 Learn its History
Read the info plaques to understand its historical importance.
🌳 Appreciate its Size
While historic, some find it smaller than expected. Manage expectations!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find El Palo Alto to be a historically significant and beautiful old redwood tree, offering a peaceful experience and good photo opportunities from the nearby bike bridge. While some mention it's smaller than expected, its historical context and natural setting are widely appreciated.
"Very tall and healthy sequoia with info plaques around. The best view of the whole tree is from the bike bridge."
Andrei Calinescu
"Cute spot"
Yael Hod
"Historical place to visit."
Albert Nessia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
El Palo Alto is located near the San Francisquito Creek. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options might require a walk from the nearest bus stops. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient routes.
Yes, there are parking areas available close to the El Palo Alto site. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and any associated fees.
Absolutely! Biking is a great way to explore Palo Alto. There are bike paths that can lead you to the vicinity of El Palo Alto, and the bike bridge offers a unique vantage point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, El Palo Alto is a public landmark and does not require tickets for entry. You can visit and admire the tree and its surroundings freely.
As an outdoor natural landmark, El Palo Alto is accessible during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times, but it's best to visit when it's safe and well-lit.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
At El Palo Alto, you can admire the historic redwood tree, read the informative plaques about its history, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the nearby San Francisquito Creek. It's a great spot for a quiet walk or reflection.
Yes, El Palo Alto offers great photo opportunities, especially the entire tree from the bike bridge. The natural setting and the grandeur of the tree make for beautiful shots.
El Palo Alto is a nice spot for families looking for a brief, educational stop. Children can learn about nature and history, but it's more of a quiet, reflective visit than an activity-filled outing.
The best view of the entire El Palo Alto tree is often cited as being from the nearby bike bridge, offering a perspective that captures its full height and grandeur.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Palo Alto offers a wide array of dining options. You can find everything from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, many located along El Camino Real.
Palo Alto boasts diverse culinary scenes, including American brunch spots, hot pot restaurants, sushi, and international cuisine.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pair your visit with a meal at one of Palo Alto's family-friendly restaurants. Many offer diverse menus that can satisfy picky eaters, and some have a lively atmosphere that kids will enjoy. Consider a picnic by the creek if the weather is pleasant.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & History Buffs
Combine your visit with exploring the charming streets of Palo Alto, perhaps visiting the Stanford University campus nearby, which also offers historical insights. The city's walkable nature and accessible public transport make it easy to explore at your own pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Legacy of El Palo Alto
Visitors often remark on its impressive stature, though some note it might be smaller than anticipated. The surrounding area, particularly the San Francisquito Creek, adds to the natural charm. Informative plaques provide context, making it an educational stop for those interested in local history and ecology.
For the best appreciation, consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for photography or on a quiet weekday morning to fully absorb its serene presence. The nearby bike bridge offers a unique vantage point to capture the tree's full height.
Exploring Palo Alto's Culinary Scene
Many restaurants are located along El Camino Real, a major thoroughfare that makes exploring the food scene convenient. Whether you're craving international flavors or classic American comfort food, Palo Alto's eateries provide a delightful complement to your visit to the historic tree.
Don't miss out on unique culinary experiences like matcha butter with chicken and waffles or traditional criolla cuisine. The city's dining options cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets, making it easy to find a satisfying meal after your historical exploration.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit