Looking for a quiet, sophisticated Silicon Valley escape with tree-lined streets and artsy charm? Head to Los Altos! Nestled between Palo Alto and Mountain View, Los Altos offers a walkable downtown, lush parks, and close access to tech hubs and hiking trails. Whether you’re into boutique shopping, farmers markets, or peaceful nature walks, Los Altos is a serene and stylish spot to explore.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Los Altos is during spring and fall (March–May and September–November). Pleasant temperatures and sunny skies make it perfect for outdoor strolls, al fresco dining, and nearby hiking adventures.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Los Altos is located near U.S. Route 101 and Interstate 280, about 40 minutes south of San Francisco and 20 minutes north of San Jose.
- By Plane: The nearest airports are Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC, about 20–25 minutes away) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO, about 30–40 minutes away).
- By Train: Caltrain service to nearby Mountain View connects to Los Altos by a short drive, bike ride, or rideshare.
Where to Stay
- Enchanté Boutique Hotel – French-inspired boutique hotel offering luxury rooms and an elegant restaurant right in downtown Los Altos.
- Hotel Strata (Mountain View) – Upscale hotel nearby featuring contemporary amenities and close access to downtown Los Altos.
- Courtyard by Marriott Palo Alto-Los Altos – Comfortable and convenient hotel perfect for both business and leisure stays.
Best Things to Do
⮕ Los Altos History Museum
Explore local heritage and admire engaging sights on an easy trip.
The Los Altos History Museum is situated within one of the last remaining orchards of apricots in the Santa Clara Valley. The museum explores the history of the local area, its people, and how the land has been used over time, transforming from an agricultural paradise into what is now known as the Silicon Valley. Opened in 2001 and measuring 8,200 square feet in size, the history museum houses a gallery for changing exhibits along with the “Crown of the Peninsula” permanent exhibit. This exhibit highlights the history of the town of Los Altos, as well as the surrounding region.
51 S. San Antonio Rd, Los Altos, CA 94022, Phone: 650-948-9427
⮕ Windy Hill Open Space Preserve
Hike rolling hills and savor scenic views on a weekend outing.
The Windy Hill Open Space Preserve is named so for the distinctively breezy and grass-covered hilltop, a site that can be spotted from several areas around the peninsula. The open preserve is spread out across 1,335 acres and consists of forests of oak, fir, and redwood and ridges of open grassland. Windy Hill is a perfect place for anyone who likes to fly kites and leashed dogs are permitted on all of the trails with the exception of the Razorback and Lost Trails. There is also limited equestrian and bike access on trails, and picnic tables available.
Portola Valley, CA 94028, Phone: 650-691-1200
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Los Altos Farmer's Market
Browse fresh produce and enjoy cheap seasonal treats.
The Los Altos Farmer's Market is a certified farmers’ market in downtown Los Altos, California. It is a popular evening event for families out and about in town, featuring gourmet take-out options, food trucks, and a variety of vendors, including bakeries, local farmers, and more. The market is hosted by the City of Los Altos and the Los Altos Village Association on Thursday evenings starting at four in the afternoon until eight at night. The farmers’ market runs from May through September, with regular crafts for children and an annual Kid’s Day. There are over forty-five vendors and farmers at the market.
2nd St, Los Altos, CA 94022, Phone: 925-465-4690
⮕ Los Altos Stage Company
Catch a live show and enjoy an exciting night out.
The Los Altos Stage Company in Los Altos, California is a neighborhood playhouse that celebrates the full canon of theater in America. Every season, the theater company aims to balance works that inspire, provoke, engage, and entertain audiences. The Los Altos Stage strives to bring a diversity of theater supporters, enthusiasts, and practitioners together to celebrate, explore, and create dramas, comedies, and musicals that work together to weave a tapestry of American experience and culture. Since the Los Altos Stage Company was founded, the local community playhouse has produced over one hundred different productions with the help of volunteers and artists.
97 Hillview Ave, Los Altos, CA 94022, Phone: 650-941-0551
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Hidden Villa Farm
Visit barn animals and explore this fun family-friendly retreat.
The Hidden Villa Farm in Los Altos is a non-profit educational organization, using the organic farm, community, and wilderness to educate and offer opportunities for visitors to learn more about social justice and the environment. The property encompasses more than 1,600 open space acres in the Santa Cruz Mountains’ foothills. The mission of the Hidden Villa is to provide inspiration for a sustainable and just future through the facility’s programs, legacy, and land. The Hidden Villa Farm was established by Josephine and Frank Duveneck, who bought the land back in the year 1924 as a place for reflection and discussion.
26870 Moody Rd, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022, Phone: 650-949-8650
⮕ San Andreas Fault Trail
Walk along shifting earth and discover unusual geological sights.
Visitors can access the San Andreas Fault Trail from the parking lot found along the Page Mill Road. From here, they can follow the Franciscan Loop Trail until they reach the Fault Trail. It can also be accessed from a small pull-off located by the nearby Page Mill Trail. There a number of stations along the Franciscan Loop Trail offering information to visitors related to the San Andreas Fault, as well as general information about earthquakes, before hikers reach the San Andreas Fault Trail. Once visitors reach Station #4, they will see a path that is clearly labeled as the Fault Trail.
330 Distel Circle, Los Altos, CA 94022
⮕ Los Altos Grill
Savor wood-fired dishes and enjoy a romantic dinner date.
The Los Altos Grill has become a local institution for the Silicon Valley area since it first opened in 1996. The restaurant provides guests with a gracious and warm environment that features an earthy color palette of woods, along with unique works of art. The menu at Los Altos Grill includes salmon smoked in-house, and roasted chicken that is cooked slowly over a wood-fired rotisserie that guests can see as they walk into the eatery. The restaurant also boasts an extensive list of wines, focusing on vintages from California wineries, and signature margaritas. Next to the exhibition kitchen is an island bar.
233 3rd St, Los Altos, CA 94022, Phone: 650-948-3524
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Explore Downtown Los Altos – Stroll through boutique shops, art galleries, coffee houses, and farmers markets along peaceful, tree-lined streets.
- Hike at Rancho San Antonio Preserve – Enjoy beautiful trails, scenic viewpoints, and visit the popular Deer Hollow Farm nearby.
- Relax in Shoup Park – Bring a picnic, relax by Adobe Creek, or attend community concerts and outdoor events in this beautiful green space.
Where to Eat
- Rustic House Oyster Bar & Grill – Lively spot for fresh oysters, seafood, steaks, and craft cocktails in a stylish downtown setting.
- ASA Los Altos – Upscale New American dining featuring creative farm-to-table dishes in a chic atmosphere.
- Voyageur du Temps – Elegant café offering artisanal pastries, sandwiches, and specialty coffee inside a beautiful historic train station building.
If you are interested in local events:
- Los Altos Arts & Wine Festival (July) – Two-day summer festival featuring art booths, local wineries, live music, and food vendors downtown.
- Festival of Lights Parade (November) – Magical evening parade featuring illuminated floats, marching bands, and a festive start to the holiday season.
- First Fridays Downtown (Monthly) – Enjoy live music, art shows, and local shopping promotions on select Friday evenings throughout the year.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Los Altos, California:
- Stanford University (Palo Alto) (15–20 min) – Tour the stunning campus, visit the Cantor Arts Center, or climb Hoover Tower for great views.
- Filoli Historic House and Garden (25–30 min) – Explore a stunning country estate with gorgeous gardens and a grand historic mansion.
- Shoreline Lake Park (Mountain View) (15 min) – Rent pedal boats, kayak, or bike along scenic trails by the lake and baylands.
- Computer History Museum (Mountain View) (10–15 min) – Dive into the history of Silicon Valley innovations at this fascinating and interactive museum.
- Arastradero Preserve (20 min) – Hike quiet trails through rolling hills, oak woodlands, and open meadows just west of Palo Alto.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What makes Los Altos, California a great destination?
- Los Altos offers a wide variety of activities for both visitors and local residents.
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Where can wine lovers go in Los Altos?
- They can visit the Los Altos Tasting Room to sample local wines.
- The Los Altos Grill also offers a great selection of wines.
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What outdoor attractions are available?
- Visitors who enjoy nature can explore the Windy Hill Open Space Preserve.
- They can also hike the San Andreas Fault Trail for unique geological views.
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What family-friendly activities are available?
- Families can have fun at the Area 151 Arcade, which offers family-oriented games.
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Where can history enthusiasts learn about Los Altos?
- History fans can visit the Los Altos History Museum to discover the town’s local history.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Ideal for hiking and exploring outdoor spaces.
Enchante Boutique Hotel – A charming French-style stay in the heart of Los Altos.
Visit the Los Altos History Museum – Learn about the region’s rich history.
Summer (June-August) – Best for farmers' markets and community events.
Dinah’s Garden Hotel – A tranquil stay with lush gardens.
Explore Rancho San Antonio Preserve – Enjoy scenic hikes and wildlife viewing.
Fall (September-November) – Great for wine tasting and outdoor festivals.
The Clement Hotel – A luxurious all-inclusive boutique hotel nearby.
Attend the Los Altos Arts & Wine Festival – A vibrant event featuring local artisans and wineries.
Plan Your Trip
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