Transportation in Palo Alto and Stanford

Palo Alto and Stanford are served by a comprehensive transportation network that includes the regional Caltrain system, the free Stanford Marguerite shuttle bus service, Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority buses, local taxis, and an extensive network of pedestrian and bike paths.

While most visitors arrive by car, it is feasible to land at either San Francisco or San Jose airports, connect to nearby Caltrain stations in Millbrae and Santa Clara (via BART at SFO and VTA's free Route 10 shuttle bus at San Jose), and arrive at the downtown Palo Alto train station. From there, the Marguerite Shuttle provides service to various locations on the Stanford campus and selected other stops in Palo Alto. The Sheraton and Westin hotels are both located next to the train station. Airport van shuttle services regularly operate from both airports to Palo Alto and Stanford.

Parking on the Stanford campus is very restricted and costs $1.50 per hour (purchase tickets at kiosks in public lots). A better way to get to campus from hotels is to hop on the Marguerite, which operates several loops connecting to downtown Palo Alto, Stanford Shopping Center, the Medical Center, the California Avenue and San Antonio shopping districts, and the El Camino corridor. Some shuttles operate only on weekdays and only during the academic year, so check the Marguerite Shuttle schedule for details.

Parking in most downtown Palo Alto lots is free for two hours (and parking garages for three hours) during weekdays and Saturdays. After the time limit, a car cannot re-park in the same "color zone" for the rest of the day. It can be very difficult to find parking in the evening, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. A number of the better restaurants offer valet parking. Visit the city's parking page for more detailed information.

The Stanford Marguerite Shuttle offers free transportation throughout the Stanford campus and nearby areas. Check the Marguerite Route Map for specific routes and schedules. Use the Real-Time Marguerite Map to see the current location of shuttles.

A busy 24-hour general aviation airport (PAO) is located in the Palo Alto Baylands. The Palo Alto Airport Association website provides useful information and links.