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From316US$ /night
Check-in
13Mar2026Select date
Check-out
14Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, California, United States, 94301
-
Near parks and museums
Perfect
9.1
9.3
/10
4.8
4.5
/5

El Prado Hotel Palo Alto gives quick access to Stanford Theatre, situated just a 7-minute walk away.

Location

Located 0.3 miles from Farmers' markets, the 4-star El Prado is Burgess Park. The nearby sports attractions are Taube South Tennis Courts Sports Complex (1.4 miles), and Stanford Stadium (1.3 miles).

The Palo Alto hotel is situated at a medium distance from Silicon Valley, while Palo Alto Transit Center bus station lies merely a 10-minute stroll away.

For those traveling from afar, Mineta San Jose International airport is 24 minutes' drive away.

Rooms

Looking onto the street, some rooms at El Prado Hotel offer a stone fireplace furnished with a couch set. Such in-room comforts as a central heating and ironing facilities, along with an electric kettle and a coffeemaker, are also provided. Bathrooms come with a separate toilet and a shower, along with a hairdryer and bath sheets.

Eat & Drink

While staying at the hotel, guests can choose from dining options nearby, such as Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery, located approximately 500 feet away, or Cream at a 5-minute walking distance.

Leisure & Business

There are a business centre with a laptop safe and a xerox available on site.

“In Palo Alto, this hotel stands out with its blend of Spanish Colonial architecture and modern luxury. Its location near Stanford University and downtown dining makes it ideal for business and leisure. I especially appreciate the attentive event planning and the comfortable, well-appointed suites.”
Hotel logo
Emily RoseEditor-in-Chief at Luxuryhotels
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Select your room type

El Prado Hotel 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
360 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Heating
Deluxe Queen Room
2 persons
305 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Deluxe King Room
2 persons
400 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Courtyard King Fireplace
2 persons
400 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
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Facilities

El Prado Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.0/10Review 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, guests can indulge in a delightful dining experience highlighting authentic Italian flavors and handcrafted cocktails. With a focus on quality and a warm atmosphere, the onsite options ensure that each meal is savored in a comfortable and inviting setting.
El Prado Hotel Palo Alto Restaurant photo
El Prado Hotel Palo Alto Restaurant photo
El Prado Hotel Palo Alto Restaurant photo

Il Fornaio

Italian fine dining
Ambiance
A traditional Italian restaurant exuding warmth and charm, Il Fornaio features a cozy setting with elegant decor, perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners.
Key Offerings
Signature Italian dishes include homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, alongside fresh salads and delectable desserts. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, a true taste of Italy awaits with every bite.
Reservation
recommended
Breakfast: 07:00 - 10:30; Lunch: 11:30 - 22:00 (Monday - Thursday), 11:30 - 23:00 (Friday), 11:30 - 22:00 (Sunday); Saturday Breakfast: 08:00 - 11:00; Saturday Dinner: 11:30 - 23:00; Sunday Breakfast: 08:00 - 11:00; Sunday Dinner: 11:30 - 22:00

Tapas Bar and Lounge

Spanish tapas
Ambiance
Nestled in the drawing room on the second floor, this vibrant lounge offers an intimate setting with a relaxing atmosphere, adorned with inviting furnishings and warm lighting.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a delectable selection of handcrafted tapas, ideal for sharing, alongside signature cocktails infused with herb syrups and Spanish liquors. A perfect spot to unwind after a busy day in Palo Alto, open from Tuesday to Saturday.
Reservation
not needed
Tuesday-Saturday, 15:00 - 22:00

El Prado Hotel Location

520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, California, United States, 94301
Map view
520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, California, United States, 94301
Nearby
351 Homer Ave
Museum of American Heritage
1800 ft
601-699 Gilman St
Farmers' markets
1600 ft
south side of the mausoleum off of Quarry Road between Campus Drive and Arboretum Road
Arizona Garden
1700 ft
Restaurants
Il Fornaio
100 ft
520 Cowper Street
Blue Bottle Coffee
500 ft
456 University Avenue
Umami Burger
400 ft
452 University Ave
Thyme
400 ft
496 Hamilton Ave
Chantal Guillon
500 ft
444 University Ave
Vino Locale
800 ft
431 Kipling St
Yayoi
800 ft
403 University Ave
Paris Baguette
800 ft
383 University Ave
Starbucks
800 ft
376 University Ave
Joya
1100 ft
339 University Ave
Explore Palo Alto
Explore Palo Alto
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Museum of American Heritage
Museum of American Heritage
7 minutes' walk
A fascinating museum showcasing American inventions and innovations, with insightful exhibits and free admission on select days.
Hewlett Packard Garage
Hewlett Packard Garage
11 minutes' walk
The birthplace of Silicon Valley, this historical site marks where HP was founded, offering a glimpse into tech history.
Sunset Magazine Headquarters and Gardens
Sunset Magazine Headquarters and Gardens
12 minutes' walk
A beautiful garden featuring design ideas and sustainable practices; perfect for a relaxing stroll amidst scenic landscapes.
Stanford University
Stanford University
25 minutes' walk
An iconic campus known for its stunning architecture, expansive gardens, and cultural sites, including the Cantor Arts Center.
Discover the local attractions near El Prado Hotel
Experience the notable landmarks near El Prado that showcase the history and culture of Palo Alto
Great for learning about local history through interactive exhibits: Museum of American Heritage
Ideal for peaceful walks in beautifully curated gardens: Sunset Magazine Headquarters and Gardens
Perfect for family outings with engaging activities for children: Junior Museum & Zoo
Well suited for leisurely strolls amidst diverse plant species: Elizabeth Gamble Garden Center
Suited for exploring campus architecture and green spaces: Stanford University
Best for art enthusiasts interested in an extensive collection: Cantor Arts Center
Works well for appreciating outdoor art installations: Rodin Sculpture Garden
Great for shopping and beachfront dining experiences at various outlets: Stanford Shopping Center
Parks and Gardens
15 minutes' walk
Elizabeth Gamble Garden offers serene trails and beautiful flower displays, ideal for relaxation or a leisurely family outing.
Biking along the Baylands
15 minutes' drive
Thrill-seekers can bike through scenic Baylands Nature Preserve, featuring diverse landscapes, trails, and stunning bay views.
Il Fornaio
Il Fornaio
1 minute' walk
Italian cuisine in an elegant setting, known for fresh pasta and classic dishes; reservations recommended for dinner.
Umami Burger
Umami Burger
2 minutes' walk
Casual spot for gourmet burgers with unique flavors; perfect for a quick and satisfying meal any time of day.
Blue Bottle Coffee
Blue Bottle Coffee
2 minutes' walk
Specialty coffee shop offering artisanal brews; ideal for a morning pick-me-up or afternoon treat with pastries.
Discover dining options near El Prado Hotel
Explore the best dining options near El Prado that cater to various tastes and preferences
Ideal for fine dining with an upscale Asian fusion menu: Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery
Perfect for quick and creative rolls that combine sushi and burrito elements: Sushirrito
Well suited for modern Indian cuisine with a unique twist: Rooh
Great for coffee lovers seeking quality brews in a casual setting: Peet's Coffee & Tea
Best for fresh juices and quick bites in a lively atmosphere: Joe & the Juice
Suited for dessert lovers wanting customizable frozen yogurt options: Yogurtland
Works well for sweet indulgences with delicious ice cream sandwiches: Cream
Great for experiencing authentic Vietnamese flavors in a relaxed environment: Tamarine Restaurant
TheatreWorks
10 minutes' drive
This regional theater offers an array of performances, including musicals and plays, with a focus on local talent and stories.
Palo Alto Art Center
Palo Alto Art Center
25 minutes' walk
Artistic venue featuring exhibitions and community programs; a perfect stop for families and art enthusiasts.
Getting around
City Centre
Palo Alto20 min  ·  1.0 mi
Airports
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)40 min  ·  16.2 mi
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)48 min  ·  19.9 mi
Train
California Ave Caltrain32 min  ·  1.6 mi
Train2 min  ·  400 ft
Bus
Bus stop4 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 USD 28 per day.
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
Property is also known as
el prado

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about El Prado Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 138 verified reviews
9.3/10
Perfect
93%
Recommend
Breakfast
2.5/10
Cleanliness
9.5/10
Comfort
9.6/10
Facilities
9.0/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.1/10
Location
9.7/10
Paid Wi-Fi
7.4/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.1/10
Pros
Spacious room
Fantastic breakfasts
Walkable location
Cozy bar
Cons
Confusing amenities
Quiet hotel
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.
Open reviews
FAQs
About El Prado
What popular attractions are located near El Prado?
Nearby attractions include Stanford University (approximately 3 km), Stanford Shopping Center (approximately 3 km), and Cantor Arts Center (approximately 2 km).
How far is El Prado from Mineta San Jose International Airport?
El Prado is 30 km from Mineta San Jose International Airport.
What are the check-in and check-out times 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 nearby for a fee.
What dining options are available on-site at El Prado?
The hotel features a Spanish Tapas Bar and an Italian restaurant, Il Fornaio.
What fitness facilities does El Prado offer?
Guests have access to a fully equipped fitness center with modern workout equipment.
What amenities are included in the rooms at El Prado?
All rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and in-room safes.
Which nearby restaurants can guests visit from El Prado?
Nearby dining options include Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery, Peet's Coffee & Tea, and Sushirrito, all within 0.5 km.
Does El Prado provide any business facilities?
The hotel offers a 24/7 business center and meeting room for guests.
What services does El Prado provide for guests?
The hotel provides concierge services, including restaurant reservations and in-room massage arrangements.
Are there any unique features of El Prado?
El Prado boasts a beautiful open-air courtyard and features a Rodin sculpture collection in the garden.

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13Mar2026Select date
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room