Save
up to 10%
when booking directly with us!
Check rooms and rates
From429US$ /night
Check-in
31Dec2025Select date
Check-out
01Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, California, United States, 94301
-
Close to Farmers' markets
Perfect
9.1
9.3
/10
4.8
4.5
/5

El Prado - A Spanish-style boutique hotel with courtyard views and luxury suites in downtown Palo Alto

Located in the heart of downtown Palo Alto, this 4-star Spanish Colonial-style property features 62 rooms and suites across 7300 square feet. El Prado's accommodations range from 300 to 1000 square feet, offering floor-to-ceiling windows, French doors, and marble bathrooms with rain showers. The property includes Il Fornaio Italian restaurant and a Tapas Bar and Lounge open Tuesday through Saturday. A fully-equipped fitness center provides ellipticals, treadmills, stationary bikes, free weights, and a cable fly machine. Each room features a work desk, satellite TV, and free Wi-Fi, while select suites include fireplaces and private balconies. This Palo Alto hotel stands less than one mile from Stanford University and within walking distance to University Avenue's boutiques. El Prado's central position places guests 2 miles from California Ave Caltrain and 18.5 miles from Mineta San Jose International Airport.

Pros

Open-air interior courtyard with central fountain creates a private sanctuary

Walking distance to Peninsula Creamery and The Rose & Crown English pub

Seasoned event planning team available for business functions with customizable catering

24-hour valet parking service available

Cons

18.5 miles distance from nearest international airport

Daily valet parking fee of $35 USD applies

“El Prado charms with its Spanish Colonial architecture and prime Palo Alto locale near Stanford University, though I did note some comments about inconsistent doorman service. The spacious, clean rooms and the Italian restaurant, Il Fornaio, next door make for a comfortable, convenient stay; the courtyard's tranquility is a definite draw. It's a solid choice for those seeking a boutique experience.”
Hotel logo
Isabella MooreSenior Editorial Director at Petfriendlyhotels
View all

Select your room type

Cozy rooms, spacious suites, and family-friendly homes, all with flexible cancellation policies & special deals
Deluxe Queen Room Two Queen Beds
2 persons
33 m² 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Heating
Deluxe King Room
2 persons
37 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Courtyard King Fireplace
2 persons
37 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
King Suite Balcony
2 persons
51 m² 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Shower
Heating
Click button to see more rooms
Show all rooms
Show all roomsLess

Price and room availability calendar

Check availability and rates for your selected dates!

Facilities

Enjoy premium amenities for a relaxing stay with your pet

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Coffee shop

Sports & Fitness

  • Fitness centre
  • Golf course

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Room service
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Business

  • Business centre
  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Mini-bar
  • Sitting area
  • Dressing area
  • Terrace
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At El Prado, dining options reflect a celebration of culinary authenticity, blending the vibrancy of California with rich Italian traditions. Guests can indulge in delightful meals at Il Fornaio, or unwind with craft cocktails at the Tapas Bar and Lounge, each venue offering a unique atmosphere that invites relaxation and enjoyment.
El Prado Hotel Palo Alto Restaurant photo
El Prado Hotel Palo Alto Restaurant photo
El Prado Hotel Palo Alto Restaurant photo

Il Fornaio

Italian dining
Ambiance
Traditional setting that evokes the charm of an Italian trattoria, complete with warm wooden accents and inviting décor.
Key Offerings
Savor authentic Italian dishes including house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and delectable gelato. The breakfast menu features a selection of pastries and omelets, while the dinner menu showcases regional specialties.
Reservation
Recommended
Breakfast: Daily 7:00 - 10:30 AM, Lunch/Dinner: Daily 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM (Friday until 11:00 PM; Saturday until 11:00 PM)

Tapas Bar and Lounge

Spanish-inspired tapas
Ambiance
A cozy and sophisticated lounge on the second floor, adorned with plush seating and serene lighting, perfect for casual gatherings.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a selection of finely crafted cocktails featuring herb-infused syrups and Spanish liquors, alongside a variety of enticing tapas. The inviting atmosphere is ideal for evening relaxation.
Reservation
Not needed
Tuesday to Saturday 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM

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
540 m
601-699 Gilman St
Farmers' markets
460 m
south side of the mausoleum off of Quarry Road between Campus Drive and Arboretum Road
Arizona Garden
510 m
Restaurants
Il Fornaio
10 m
520 Cowper Street
Blue Bottle Coffee
150 m
456 University Avenue
Umami Burger
120 m
452 University Ave
Chantal Guillon
140 m
444 University Ave
Thyme
120 m
496 Hamilton Ave
Vino Locale
220 m
431 Kipling St
Yayoi
220 m
403 University Ave
Paris Baguette
230 m
383 University Ave
Starbucks
240 m
376 University Ave
Joya
310 m
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 celebration of America's technological history with fascinating exhibits. Great for families and history enthusiasts.
Hewlett Packard Garage
Hewlett Packard Garage
11 minutes' walk
Birthplace of Silicon Valley, showcasing innovation history. Iconic site for tech lovers and history buffs.
Stanford University
Stanford University
25 minutes' walk
A prestigious university with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Perfect for leisurely walks and photo ops.
Sunset Magazine Headquarters and Gardens
Sunset Magazine Headquarters and Gardens
12 minutes' walk
Beautiful gardens featuring local flora. Ideal for relaxation and family picnics with occasional workshops.
Palo Alto Farmers' Markets
6 minutes' walk
Local produce and handcrafted goods. Perfect for families and couples seeking fresh food and local culture.
Biking along the Baylands Nature Preserve
15-minute drive
Thrill-seekers can bike the scenic trails of this expansive preserve, featuring diverse wildlife and stunning views.
Yoga at a nearby studio
10 minutes' walk
Relaxation through yoga practices. Ideal for solo travelers and couples seeking wellness options.
Il Fornaio
Il Fornaio
1 minute' walk
Authentic Italian cuisine with a warm atmosphere. Known for house-made pastas and an extensive wine list.
Umami Burger
Umami Burger
2 minutes' walk
Casual eatery specializing in gourmet burgers with unique flavor profiles. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Blue Bottle Coffee
Blue Bottle Coffee
2 minutes' walk
Locally renowned coffee shop with artisanal brews and a cozy atmosphere. Great for coffee lovers and casual meetups.
The Stanford Theatre
8 minutes' drive
Historic venue featuring classic films. Known for its charming décor and an experience for film enthusiasts.
Palo Alto Art Center
Palo Alto Art Center
5 minutes' drive
Community art hub with rotating exhibits. Family-friendly space offering workshops and engaging activities.
Getting around
City Centre
Palo Alto20 min  ·  1.6 km
Airports
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)39 min  ·  26.0 km
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)48 min  ·  31.8 km
Train
California Ave Caltrain32 min  ·  2.6 km
Train2 min  ·  100 m
Bus
Bus stop4 min  ·  300 m
Looking for exclusive early booking discounts?
Unlock special rates for your next adventure with your pet today!
Check Rates
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
FAQs
About El Prado
What is the distance from El Prado to Stanford University?
El Prado is approximately 3 km from Stanford University.
How far is El Prado from Mineta San Jose International Airport?
El Prado is 30 km from Mineta San Jose International Airport.
Which nearby dining options are available at El Prado?
Dining options within 0.5 km include Peet's Coffee & Tea, Cream, and Tamarine Restaurant.
What amenities does El Prado offer for fitness enthusiasts?
El Prado features a fully equipped fitness center with ellipticals, treadmills, free weights, and more.
Does El Prado have an on-site restaurant?
Yes, El Prado has an on-site Tapas Bar and Italian restaurant, Il Fornaio.
What are the check-in and check-out times at El Prado?
Check-in at El Prado is at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
Is parking available at El Prado?
Public parking is available nearby at no additional charge.
What technology amenities are included in rooms at El Prado?
Rooms at El Prado include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and GLink iPhone/Android docking stations.
How far is El Prado from the nearest shopping center?
Stanford Shopping Center is approximately 7 minutes' drive from El Prado.
What facilities does El Prado offer for business travelers?
El Prado provides a 24-hour business center and meeting rooms.
Can guests arrange in-room massages at El Prado?
Yes, in-room massage services can be arranged through the concierge at El Prado.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.
Check-in
31Dec2025Select date
Check-out
01Jan2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Need more options?
Check Top hotels near El Prado
Graduate By Hilton Palo Alto Hotel Restaurant photo
Mobile-only price

Graduate By Hilton Palo Alto Hotel

8.4
Great145 reviews
48m from property
USD 345USD 310
per night
Hotel Keen Palo Alto Exterior photo
Mobile-only price

Hotel Keen Palo Alto

8.4
Great203 reviews
607m from property
USD 149USD 134
per night
Sheraton Palo Alto Hotel Exterior photo
Mobile-only price

Sheraton Palo Alto Hotel

8.5
Great377 reviews
875m from property
USD 139USD 125
per night