Atherton, the wealthiest town in America, is renowned as a beautiful and affluent residential community in the San Francisco Bay Area. Adorned with tree-lined streets, Atherton is home to stately mansions and tranquil living. Much of Atherton’s affluence stems from its strict zoning codes that prohibit commercial buildings and sidewalks while also permitting only one single-family home per acre. While that is obviously not the recipe for tourist attractions or a bustling nightlife, here are a couple of things you can do in Atherton and the surroundings that are sure to be a good time!
Meander through Holbrook-Palmer Park
The local gathering spot of choice for Atherton residents, Holbrook-Palmer Park is a lovely 22-acre public park in Atherton that offers walking paths, gardens, and picnic areas. It's a great spot for a peaceful stroll or a family outing. Formerly known as the Holbrook-Palmer Estate, the Estate was gifted to the town of Atherton in 1958. Today both the water tower (c.1883) and the carriage house (c.1897) are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Have a friend at the Menlo Circus Club?
The home of many of the nation's most elite and wealthy, Atherton, California is also the home of the private Menlo Circus Club. What started as a place where young girls met to ride ponies has evolved into an elegant gathering place for the local community residents. The Menlo Circus Club offers equestrian facilities, tennis courts, swimming pools, and a clubhouse — a prime event space in Silicon Valley. The Menlo Circus Club is a Private Club reserved for members only, but if you're lucky enough to have a friend who is a member, this is the perfect place to spend a day in Atherton.
Take a Walk or Bike Ride on Atherton's Tree-Lined Streets
Atherton is known for its beautiful, tree-filled neighborhoods. Exploring the streets by foot or bike can be a pleasant way to admire the architecture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Visit the Pacific Plush Teddy Bear Museum
This unique museum is located in Atherton and showcases a large collection of teddy bears from different eras. It's a fun place for teddy bear enthusiasts and collectors.
Attend Community Events
Atherton often hosts various community events such as holiday parades, concerts in the park, and local festivals. Check the town's website or local listings for upcoming events.
Experience Fine Dining at Selby's
Exquisite Michelin Star dining at Selby’s located at 3001 El Camino Real in Atherton. Experience classic American Continental cuisine and Selby’s relationship with SMIP Ranch.
Discover Historic Woodside & Portola Valley
Whereas Atherton portrays a stately and luxurious way of life, its neighbors, Woodside and Portola Valley, both present a more bucolic residential character. Much of this stems from the number of historic sites that can be found in Woodside and Portola Valley. Alpine Inn in Portola Valley was built in 1851 and is currently the second-oldest operating saloon in the state of California. The historic Woodside Store was built in 1854 by two early pioneers and today acts as a museum displaying artifacts from a bygone era.
Shop the Day Away at Stanford Shopping Center
Looking to live the luxe life? Look no further than Stanford Shopping Center in nearby Palo Alto. This premier open-air shopping and dining mall includes four major department stores (Bloomingdale's, Macy's, Neiman Marcus, and Nordstrom) as well as luxury retail outlets such as Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Hermes, Cartier, and more. Dining options also abound! Enjoy a fine steak dinner at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar or stop by True Food Kitchen if something simple, satisfying, and organic is what you are looking for.
Explore Beautiful Baylands
It’s called the “Bay Area” for a reason! Atherton is fortunate enough to be in very close proximity to several natural preserves and parks right on the bay. The Baylands Nature Preserve in Palo Alto, the Ravenswood Open Space Preserve in East Palo Alto, Bedwell Bayfront Park in Menlo Park, and Bair Island State Marine Park in Redwood City are all incredibly scenic local spots to enjoy to natural beauty of the baylands.
Enjoy Live Entertainment at Fox Theatre
Are you tired of sitting on the couch watching Netflix? Want something live and in-person? Look no further than Fox Theatre in nearby Redwood City. A Bay Area destination for almost 100 years, the Fox Theatre offers a seating capacity of 1,100 for its diverse calendar of live guests. Today, the Fox Theatre is used for a wide range of events, including live performances, concerts, film screenings, and community gatherings. It serves as a cultural and entertainment hub in Redwood City, hosting both local and touring acts.
Residents of Atherton love its peaceful and upscale atmosphere, which given its zoning restrictions will probably never make Atherton a tourist destination. Still, Atherton’s idyllic location in Silicon Valley means that whenever you are in Atherton, you are always in close proximity to a good time! If you’re interested in learning more about Atherton, check out our Atherton Neighborhood Guide.
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