Downtown Palo Alto may be known today for its restaurants, cafés, shops, and connection to Silicon Valley, but much of its earlier history is still visible in the buildings that line its streets. This self-guided walking tour begins and ends at the Cardinal Hotel and highlights some of downtown’s most interesting historic architecture—from 1920s movie … Read more
More than a garage: the people, ideas, and culture that shaped Silicon Valley More Than One Famous Garage When people think about the birthplace of Silicon Valley, one image often comes to mind: a modest garage on Addison Avenue where Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard began building electronic equipment in 1939. It’s an iconic landmark, … Read more
Some streets are designed to move people from one place to another. Ramona Street invites them to slow down. Just steps from University Avenue, this relatively small downtown street has developed a personality all its own. Historic architecture. Hidden courtyards. Outdoor tables. Morning coffee. Conversations that last longer than expected. Today, a portion of Ramona … Read more
It’s difficult to tell the story of Palo Alto without telling the story of Stanford University. And it’s equally difficult to imagine Stanford without the city that grew alongside it. For more than a century, the university and downtown Palo Alto have existed side by side—connected by geography, people, ideas, and a street appropriately named … Read more
Some places entertain. Others transport you. The Stanford Theatre has been doing both for generations. Located just a few minutes’ walk from the Cardinal Hotel, this beautifully restored movie palace is more than a theater. It’s an opportunity to experience films much as audiences did decades ago—inside an elegant historic building where the atmosphere is … Read more
Historic downtowns often become the heart of a travel experience. Unlike areas built primarily for transit, these districts tend to develop gradually over time. Shops, restaurants, cafés, and small businesses create an environment that invites exploration. Travelers notice and appreciate the difference. Instead of driving from place to place, they move on foot. Instead of … Read more
Many of you have been asking about our rooms with the shared bath. The affordability, cleanliness and unique, European-style experience is hard to beat – and we’ve heard you loud and clear! The shared-bath guest rooms are available by booking directly on our site. (Rooms with traditional bathrooms can be booked through our site as … Read more
235 Hamilton Ave
Palo Alto CA 94301
United States of America
+1 650-323-5101
Why Book Direct with the Cardinal Hotel? Clear room details • Breakfast included • Direct communication
