9 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Palo Alto - Atlas Obscura

Unusual Attractions in Palo Alto

Palo Alto, California

Gates of Hell Sculpture

Rodin's famous depiction of Dante's 'Inferno', amidst a sculpture garden of many of his other works.

Palo Alto, California

Arizona Cactus Garden

A hidden world of exotic succulents and cacti.

Palo Alto, California

The Frenchman's Tower

This odd California folly seems like it was almost designed to accumulate urban legends.

Palo Alto, California

Birthplace of Silicon Valley

A humble garage, world-famous for being the epicenter of a technology revolution.

Palo Alto, California

The Donkeys of Barron Park

The world's most famous donkey lives in this pen.

Palo Alto, California

Stanford Mausoleum

Guarded by the Angel of Grief, the Stanford family tomb attracts an odd mix of halloween revelry and somber contemplation.

Palo Alto, California

Nikola Tesla Statue

This small monument to the great inventor contains a time capsule and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Palo Alto, California

Pneumatic Tube System at Stanford University Hospital

Four miles of pipelines form the model of still-functioning retro-tech efficiency.

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Atlas Obscura Trips

Art of Joshua Tree and the Mojave

Join us as we venture deep into the High Desert, glimpsing massive sculptures, fluorescent painted mountains, and revitalizing domes along the way.

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jillianalexanderhollis wants to go to Gates of Hell Sculpture

jfcianci wants to go to Birthplace of Silicon Valley

conradvalone wants to go to Arizona Cactus Garden

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fridaswenson wants to go to The Frenchman's Tower