Parks
34 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Peers Park0.5 mi from downtown
- Hoover Park0.5 mi from downtown
- Mitchell Park1.4 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Palo Alto
5 kinds of free outings in and around Palo Alto.
Good days out in Palo Alto don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- College Terrace Library2300 Wellesley St.
- Rinconada Library1213 Newell Rd.
- Palo Alto Children`S Library1276 Harriet St.
Historic places
19 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- HP GarageBuilt 1939
- Palo Alto Transit Center
- Professorville
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Aquatic Park Cove, Black Point Overnight Anchoring, Sailing Vessels only (auxiliary engine OK)31 mi northwest
- Rob Hill Group Campground31 mi northwest
- Kirby Cove Campground34 mi northwest
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge8 mi northeast
- Aquatic Park Cove, Black Point Overnight Anchoring, Sailing Vessels only (auxiliary engine OK)31 mi northwest
- Rob Hill Group Campground31 mi northwest
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Things to do Palo Alto, California
A local activity Short shared by ThingssToDo.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Top 3 Best Things to Do in Palo Alto, CA! 🌴🚶♂️
A local activity Short shared by Sudarshan Senthilvel.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Palo Alto?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Palo Alto this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.