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el PRADO

4.0 star property
Family-friendly stay near Stanford University

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for el PRADO

Lobby sitting area
Front of property
Lounge
View from property
Deluxe Room, 1 Queen Bed | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, down comforters, pillowtop beds

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Bar
  • Breakfast available
  • Parking available

Explore the area

Map
520 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, CA, 94301
  • Stanford Shopping Center
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • Stanford University
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Stanford University Medical Center
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • San Francisco, CA (SFO-San Francisco Intl.)
    ‪26 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 1 Queen Bed

Deluxe Room, 1 Queen Bed | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, down comforters, pillowtop beds

Deluxe Room, 1 Queen Bed

  • City view
  • 300 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Fireplace

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Fireplace | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, down comforters, pillowtop beds

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Fireplace

  • City view
  • 500 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 2 Queen Beds

Deluxe Room, 2 Queen Beds | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, down comforters, pillowtop beds

Deluxe Room, 2 Queen Beds

  • 400 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, down comforters, pillowtop beds

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed

  • City view
  • 400 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Suite, Balcony

Deluxe Suite, Balcony | Egyptian cotton sheets, premium bedding, down comforters, pillowtop beds

Deluxe Suite, Balcony

  • City view
  • 500 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

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About the neighborhood

Palo Alto

Heart of Palo Alto.Within a 15-minute walk of this University South hotel, you'll find Stanford Theatre and Stanford University Arboretum. Stanford Shopping Center and Elizabeth Gamble Garden Center are also within 2 miles (3 km).

What's nearby

  • Stanford Shopping Center - 14 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • Lucile Salter Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford - 4 min drive - 1.6 miles
  • Stanford Stadium - 4 min drive - 1.5 miles
  • Stanford University - 5 min drive - 2.1 miles
  • Stanford University Medical Center - 6 min drive - 2.1 miles

Getting around

  • Palo Alto Station - 10 min walk
  • San Francisco Intl. Airport (SFO) - 26 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪HanaHaus - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Varsity Theatre - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Blue Bottle Coffee - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Café Venetia - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Crepevine - ‬4 min walk

About this property

el PRADO

Family-friendly stay near Stanford University
There's a restaurant on site. You can enjoy a drink at the bar/lounge. A 24-hour business center, meeting rooms, and limo/town car service are available.

WiFi is free in public spaces. Event space at this hotel measures 7000 square feet (650 square meters) and includes conference space. A fitness center, a library, and a terrace are also featured at the family-friendly el PRADO. For a fee, parking is available. The property offers extended parking privileges.

This Palo Alto hotel is smoke free.

  • 1 building
  • 62 guestrooms or units
  • 4 levels
  • Meeting rooms
  • 7000 sq ft of conference space
  • 650 sq m of conference space
  • Built in 1986
  • Business center (24 hours)
  • Conference space
  • Breakfast available (surcharge)
  • Coffee in lobby
  • Dry cleaning
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • Express check-out
  • Staff is multilingual
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Car service
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Concierge
  • Wedding services available
  • Library
  • Terrace
  • Garden
  • Beauty salon
  • Newspapers in lobby (free)
  • Television in lobby
  • Bellhop
  • Elevator
  • No smoking on site
  • Bar or lounge
  • Dining venue
El PRADO offers 62 accommodations with minibars and laptop-compatible safes. Rooms open to balconies. Each accommodation is individually furnished and decorated. Pillowtop beds feature Egyptian cotton sheets, down comforters, and premium bedding. A pillow menu is available. 49-inch flat-screen televisions come with premium digital channels. Bathrooms include showers, bathrobes, slippers, and designer toiletries.

This Palo Alto hotel provides complimentary wireless Internet access, with a speed of 25+ Mbps. Business-friendly amenities include desks, complimentary newspapers, and phones. Additionally, rooms include hair dryers and irons/ironing boards. In-room massages and hypo-allergenic bedding can be requested. A nightly turndown service is provided and housekeeping is offered daily.

Languages

English

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 25+ Mbps
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Limo/town car service
  • Valet parking on site (USD 35 per night; includes in/out privileges)
  • Extended parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Daily full breakfast available 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM for a fee: USD 10 to 100 per person
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Things to do

  • Gym
  • Library
  • Piano
  • TV in common areas

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Braille/raised signage
  • Elevator
  • Hand-held showerhead
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Height-adjustable showerhead
  • Visual alarms in hallways
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible business center
  • Wheelchair-accessible concierge desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchairs on site

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • 49-inch flat-screen TV with premium digital channels

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Down comforter
  • Egyptian cotton sheets
  • Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • Pillow menu
  • Pillowtop mattress

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Designer toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Slippers
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • 24-hour room service
  • Champagne service
  • Electric kettle
  • Minibar

More

  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Desk
  • Free daily newspapers
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Laptop-compatible safe
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in is available for a fee
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • Pets: USD 75 per pet, per stay
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 2 (weight limit: 70 lbs per pet)
  • Pets cannot be left unattended
  • Food and water bowls are available
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Kids stay free! Children 17 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 25.0 per night.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Fee for full breakfast: approximately USD 10 to 100 per person
  • Valet parking fee: USD 35 per night (in/out privileges)
  • Pet fee: USD 75 per pet, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Early check-in is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 25.0 per night

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, and a smoke detector
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A credit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Eurocard, and debit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
    For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, and a smoke detector in each accommodation. Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

We should mention

  • Children 17 years old and younger stay free in the same room as the parent or guardian when using existing bedding.
  • To make arrangements to bring your pet, contact the property directly at the number on your booking confirmation (please see the Fees section for related charges).

Property is also known as

Court Garden Hotel
Garden Court
Garden Court Hotel
Garden Court Hotel Palo Alto
Garden Court Palo Alto
el PRADO Hotel
el PRADO Palo Alto
Garden Court Hotel
el PRADO Hotel Palo Alto

Frequently asked questions

How close is el PRADO to the airport?

El PRADO is 9 mi (13-min drive) away from the San Carlos, CA (SQL) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at el PRADO?

As of Apr 29, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at el PRADO on May 9, 2025 start from $399.0, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Does el PRADO have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at el PRADO.

How close is el PRADO to the beach?

This hotel is 12.4 mi (23-min drive) from Lakeshore Park Beach.

Does el PRADO offer free breakfast?

Free breakfast isn’t provided at el PRADO, but full breakfast is offered for a fee of between USD 10 and 100 per person. It's available every day from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

Is there a casino at el PRADO?

No, there is no casino at this hotel.

What time is check-in at el PRADO?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime. A fee applies for early check-in.

Is there free parking at el PRADO?

Free parking is not available at this hotel. Valet parking is available for USD 35 per night.

Does el PRADO have a pool?

El PRADO does not have a pool.

Does el PRADO have a restaurant?

El PRADO is home to Il Fornaio, which features Italian cuisine.

Does el PRADO have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is el PRADO to downtown Palo Alto?

El PRADO is 1 mi away from Palo Alto.

el PRADO Reviews

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 442 out of 568 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 84 out of 568 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 24 out of 568 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 8 out of 568 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 10 out of 568 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.2/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Meagan

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mehmet Cenk

Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gordon

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Christmas visit to Palo Alto

Perfect location in beautiful downtown Palo Alto Very comfortable room and great car vallet service.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cameron

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Exceptional staff, luxury amenities

The hotel and staff were exceptionally friendly and accommodating during our stay as I had recently undergone surgery at Stanford. They went out of their way to make me comfortable. It is a lovely hotel with luxury amenities.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Wendy

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

James

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very helpful staff! Appreciated our upgrade!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

H

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good site and well managed team.
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Ian

Business traveler, Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Staff & service
While the daytime front desk manager provided 5 star service, when the night time manager started it was amateur hour. The doorman also never opened the door for me. Surprising for a hotel of this caliber. Otherwise the property itseld was a gem. The room felt so comfortable, as if we were at home in our apartment. The bathroom was especially nice with marble tile. Also, not related to my review but there is a coffee machine in a common area that is for employees only. It seems a little odd.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Susan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My most recent stay at El Prado was fantastic! The rooms are a very decent size, the bed super comfortable and the staff is super accommodating and friendly. Highly recommend!
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Fernando

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nikka

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The best hotel near Stanford!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

todd

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bradley, Venice

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Beds were plush. Room very comfortable and spacious. Coffee bar was very convenient. Great location and service.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great atay

Pre-check in was extremely efficient and helpful. Rooms clean and well appointed. Bed and pillows very comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alissa, Fresno

Business traveler, Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We enjoyed our brief stay! I would stay here again in a second. Lovely- highly recommend!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Weekend in Palo Alto

Lovely room to crash for weekend after long haul flight from Asia. Bed comfy and linens/ towels good quality. Room quiet and perfectly dark. Nice extra to have free coffee in mornings!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brett

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Richard, Serapinišk?

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Perfect overnight

Fantastic. I was with my fur child (🐶) and we were both treated so kindly. The room was beautiful and the bed was like a cloud. We’ll definitely stay here again!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

6/10 Okay

Thomas

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
The room that was given was a weird L shape room on the inside corner of the property. The layout feels claustrophobic and inconvenient for a supposedly upscale hotel. I booked this room for my parents while they were visiting, and even though they had no complaints, I still felt embarrassed setting them up in this room.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christy

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024