Palo Alto Weekend with Kids

Palo Alto, 40 minutes south of San Francisco, is a family-friendly locale. As a native of the area, with a family of my own, I have discovered many activities to enjoy with my children.

1
Creekside Inn
Finding a hotel for a family of four is tricky, but the Creekside Inn, in South Palo Alto, has just the setup. The Junior Suites have kitchenettes and pull out sofas, while the 2 queen rooms offer patios or balconies. Look online for discounts.
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Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo
A favorite of locals with young kids, the Jr Museum & Zoo is a fixture at Rinconada Park. On rainy days, hang out inside with the hands on exhibits; when the weather is nice, check out the approachable zoo outside, with a classic collection of reptiles.
With play structures, and grass, there is enough space for everyone.
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Peninsula Creamery
Trendy, upscale diner with tasty daily specials, reliable standards and great milkshakes. Breakfast, lunch or dinner, anytime is right for ice cream! Two locations - downtown Palo Alto and Stanford Shopping Center.
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Hoover Tower
Stanford University on the weekends is a giant kids playground. Visit Hoover Tower and take the elevator to the top for outstanding views of the surrounding community. Skate, rollerblade or bike around campus. Or find hidden geocaches.
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Peers Park
This small neighborhood park, within walking distance of California Avenue, is a great place to take a picnic and spend the afternoon. With play structures, and grass, there is enough space for everyone.
Skate, rollerblade or bike around campus.
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California Pizza Kitchen
Yes, CPK is a chain, but my kids love it. And with kids menu options and gluten-free alternatives, it is not a bad place every once in a while. Two locations in Palo Alto - downtown on University Avenue, and Stanford Shopping Center.
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Palo Alto Sport & Toy World
Palo Alto Sport & Toy is two-stories of toy and sport excellence. A great place to find a birthday present, you can also find soccer cleats, swim goggle and a new skateboard.
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About the Author

Gudrun Enger
Gudrun Enger
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