Welcome to El Prado - Your Luxury Hotel in Palo Alto
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Key details
About the Hotel
520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, 94301,
-
Near the Farmers' markets
Perfect
9.1
9.3
/10
4.7
4.5
/5
Loved by El Prado guests
Comfortable beds
Attentive staff
Quiet rooms
Delicious breakfast
Elegant decor
"Suite-style room was nice. Bathroom/shower situation was excellent."
Dgerrity from United States
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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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"Absolutely wonderful hotel, the room is beautiful, I loved the fireplace."
Lucija from United Kingdom
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"The shower was wonderful (clean, great shampoo/conditioner/body wash provided, nice rainwater shower and second handheld showerhead)."
Mar K from United States
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"Pillows and linen are top notch ! very big room and rain shower with floor to ceiling marble!"
Som282 from Australia
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Accommodations
The hotel offers 62 rooms and suites with private balconies. Each room includes a marble bathroom with rain shower and floor-to-ceiling marble. Spacious floor plans and luxury linens are standard in every unit.
Dining
On-site dining includes the Spanish Tapas Bar with wine flights and the Italian restaurant Il Fornaio. Complimentary breakfast is served directly to guest rooms each morning. A coffee bar on each floor provides fresh coffee and newspapers daily.
Location & Nearby
The hotel is located in downtown Palo Alto, within walking distance of restaurants and shops. Stanford University is a 6-minute drive away, and major tech campuses such as Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn are within 15 minutes. The Stanford Shopping Center is a 7-minute drive from the property.
Services & Amenities
A 24-hour concierge arranges restaurant reservations, private car service, and in-room massage. The hotel provides valet parking, electric vehicle charging stations, and a fully equipped fitness center. Pet-friendly accommodations include outstanding amenities for dogs and cats.
Business & Events
The hotel has meeting and banquet facilities with a dedicated event planning team. A business center with fax and photocopying services is available. El Prado has been recognized by Forbes as a top hotel in Silicon Valley for business travelers.
Highlights
Recognition: One of the seven best boutique hotels in the U.S.
Rooms: 62 rooms and suites with private balconies
Dining: Spanish Tapas Bar and Il Fornaio Italian restaurant
Location: 6-minute drive from Stanford University
Services: 24-hour concierge and in-room massage
Pet Policy: Pet-friendly with outstanding amenities
“Staying here truly felt like a delightful escape, with generously sized rooms and an undeniably comfortable bed. The attentiveness to detail, from the quality linens to the convenient morning coffee service, made a tangible difference. Its prime downtown position is a significant draw, putting so much within easy walking distance and creating a sense of genuine European charm.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Excelsiorhotels
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
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
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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, dining transcends the ordinary, offering a captivating range of culinary experiences that blend local charm with international flair. Guests are invited to savor Italian dishes at Il Fornaio, while the Tapas Bar and Lounge provides a cozy, sophisticated setting to unwind with crafted cocktails and small plates.
Il Fornaio
Italian
Ambiance
Traditional Italian setting, evoking warmth and familiarity with rustic décor and inviting charm.
Key Offerings
Delight in genuine Italian cuisine with artisanal pizzas, homemade pastas, and rich desserts. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this space encourages cherished gatherings over hearty meals.
Reservation
Recommended
Open for breakfast from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM, lunch from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM, and dinner until 10:00 PM on weekdays, extending to 11:00 PM on Fridays and until 10:00 PM on Sundays.
Tapas Bar and Lounge
Spanish Tapas
Ambiance
Located in the drawing room on the second floor, this intimate lounge provides a relaxed atmosphere with a touch of sophistication, ideal for winding down after a day of exploration.
Key Offerings
Indulge in a selection of small plates paired with signature cocktails crafted from herb-infused syrups and Spanish liquors. An excellent choice for casual gatherings.
Reservation
Not needed
Open Tuesday through Saturday from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, providing a warm space to unwind with friends or colleagues.
El Prado Location
520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, 94301,
Explore Palo Alto
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Museum of American Heritage
7 minutes walking
A fascinating collection of historical technology and Americana with interactive exhibits. Great for families and history buffs.
Stanford University
25 minutes walking
Prestigious university known for its stunning campus architecture and public art. Take a stroll through its scenic grounds.
Elizabeth Gamble Garden Center
18 minutes walking
A serene 2.5-acre historic garden offering beautiful plant displays and guided tours. Perfect for relaxation and inspiration.
Cantor Arts Center
30 minutes walking
Free admission to impressive art collections, including works by Rodin and Warhol. Ideal for art enthusiasts.
Discover the local attractions near El Prado
Explore the nearby landmarks near El Prado to enhance your stay with local culture and history.
Essential for technology enthusiasts: Hewlett Packard Garage
Perfect for art lovers and peaceful strolls: Rodin Sculpture Garden
Great for families with children: Junior Museum & Zoo
Ideal for academic exploration and scenic views: Stanford University
Best for outdoor leisure and gardening inspiration: Sunset Magazine Headquarters and Gardens
Suited for a glimpse into historic architecture: Professorville
Well suited for diverse artistic experiences: Cantor Arts Center
Works well for nature appreciation and relaxing walks: Arizona Garden
Biking around Stanford
25 minutes driving
Rent a bike and explore scenic trails around the Stanford campus. Bike rentals available at local shops.
Hiking at Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden
18 minutes walking
Relax in this beautiful garden while enjoying the variety of flora. Perfect for nature walks and picnics.
Palo Alto Golf Course
8 minutes driving
An 18-hole championship golf course open to all skill levels. Reservations recommended for tee times.
Il Fornaio
1 minute walking
Authentic Italian cuisine known for classic dishes and a warm atmosphere. Reservations suggested for dinner.
Umami Burger
2 minutes walking
Casual dining offering gourmet burgers with unique flavors. Great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
Blue Bottle Coffee
2 minutes walking
A cozy coffee shop known for its specialty brews. Perfect for a quick coffee break or a relaxing afternoon.
Discover dining options near El Prado
Seek out the best dining options near El Prado to savor local flavors and unique cuisines.
Ideal for a fusion of flavors in a chic setting: Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery
Perfect for indulgent desserts and ice cream: Cream
Best for unique sushi burritos on the go: Sushirrito
Great for innovative Indian cuisine: Rooh
Suited for self-serve frozen yogurt and toppings: Yogurtland
Works well for coffee enthusiasts seeking quality brews: Peet's Coffee & Tea
Well suited for fresh juices and quick bites: Joe & the Juice
Palo Alto Art Center
25 minutes walking
Offers rotating exhibitions and art classes, making it a cultural hub for all ages. Family-friendly programs available.
Stanford Theatre
10 minutes drive
Historic theater showcasing classic films. Check the schedule for special screenings and events.
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
Excellent room quality
Excellent location
Kind staff
Delicious breakfast
Cons
Non-functional heating
Construction noise
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.
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FAQs
About El Prado
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.
Is parking available at El Prado?
Public parking is available on-site for 35 USD per day without a reservation.
What amenities are available in the rooms at El Prado?
Rooms include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen HD televisions, in-room safes, minibars, and private balconies.
Are pets allowed at El Prado?
Pets are allowed, with possible additional charges.
What dining options are available at El Prado?
The hotel features an on-site Tapas Bar and an Italian restaurant, Il Fornaio, offering indoor and outdoor dining.
How far is El Prado from Stanford University?
El Prado is located 3 km from Stanford University.
What recreational facilities are available at El Prado?
The hotel has a fully equipped fitness center and access to a golf course.
What are some nearby restaurants to El Prado?
Nearby restaurants include Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery, Cream, Sushirrito, Rooh, and Peet's Coffee & Tea, all within 0.5 km.
Is there a business center at El Prado?
El Prado offers a 24-hour business center for guests to use.
What is the distance from El Prado to Mineta San Jose International Airport?
El Prado is 30 km from Mineta San Jose International Airport.
Does El Prado provide in-room breakfast options?
In-room breakfast is available at El Prado.
What languages does the staff at El Prado speak?
The staff speaks multiple languages to accommodate guests.
Can guests arrange for massages through El Prado?
In-room massages can be arranged through the concierge service at El Prado.