Welcome to Los Altos
A beautiful Silicon Valley suburb with a small village atmosphere.
Los Altos is a scenic, quiet, conveniently located residential community in the heart of Silicon Valley. It features a charming old-style village with over 150 fine restaurants and shops in a six-block area, including farmers' markets, special events, and frequent movie nights. As a community, Los Altos residents enjoy its tree-lined streets and small-village atmosphere; the conspicuous lack of sidewalks and street lamps imbues the neighborhood with a rural feel.
We pick up the history of Los Altos in 1906 when a group of landowners formed the Altos Land Co. and bought 140 acres between Palo Alto and Mountain View (that original parcel was about 1/30 of the size of Los Altos today) from the Winchesters of rifle fame. Los Altos translates to “the heights” and refers to the town’s elevation. The Altos Land Co. continued to acquire land, and in 1952 — amid a postwar population boom — Los Altos became the 11th city in Santa Clara County.
Commercial areas are restricted to downtown Los Altos, where small shopping and office parks line Foothill Expressway and El Camino Real. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find Los Altos perfect due to its many recreational opportunities, from sports fields and courts to several recurring events and festivals.
What to Love
- Friendly neighborhoods
- Numerous exciting parks and attractions
- Walkable community
- An upscale and quaint downtown
- Tree-lined streets with a small-village atmosphere
Local Lifestyle
Los Altos offers a perfect mix of rural-urban living. Most properties were built in the 1950s and ‘60s with traditional ranch-style designs, many have been rebuilt or received various remodels and additions to create the perfect home. In addition, Los Altos offers a community-oriented atmosphere and heavily shaded streets that give the neighborhood a peaceful, homey feel like a small town.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
Los Altos offers a unique selection of the best places to eat, shop, and have fun.
Los Altos Grill is one of the top dining destinations, offering dishes like rotisserie chicken and baby back ribs served in a classy American diner with a fireplace. You will enjoy the restaurant's warm, inviting atmosphere, outdoor patio, and live music.
Check out
State Street Market to experience a perfect mix of food and beverage concepts, each uniquely curated by award-winning local chefs.
The Post is one of the most popular spots to meet family, friends, coworkers, and anyone who enjoys great food and cocktails in a convivial atmosphere. True to its name,
State of Mind Public House and Pizzeria makes excellent pizza served in a family-friendly setting. And
Chef Chu’s is a step above your garden-variety Chinese restaurant. Operational since 1970, Chef Chu’s professes to treat each day like its Grand Opening.
For an exceptional shopping experience in Los Altos, visit
DeMartinis Orchard. Since 1932, the Orchard has provided customers and guests with a warm and enchanting shopping experience steeped in old-fashioned charm.
The acclaimed Los Altos Farmers’ Market runs from May through September. Visit the market in downtown Los Altos to join the community socializing and shopping farm-fresh local produce, gift baskets, and gourmet items. Sweet Shop along Los Altos Avenue is another great shopping area offering a range of confections, baked goods, coffee drinks, gifts, sandwiches, and more.
Things to Do
Los Altos is home to various adventures and attractions, from beautiful, comfy parks to exciting recurring festivals and events.
Shoup Park is a must-visit spot, comprising a four-acre community gathering place with a playground, picnic area, and playable creek.
Toward Los Altos Hills, the six-acre
Redwood Grove Nature Preserve is another welcome green space. Visitors of the forest enjoy strolling the boardwalk, eating lunch at picnic tables, and hiking the Hillside Trail, which follows Adobe Creek. You can also explore
Los Altos History Museum next to the Community Center and Library. The Museum occupies a 1930s farmhouse with permanent and temporary exhibits on local history.
If you are in Los Altos to explore various events and festivals, join residents in celebrating the annual
Los Altos Arts & Wine Festival, an acclaimed event offering memorable rides, activities, and entertainment all weekend long.
Fine Art in the Park is another enjoyable event celebrating captivating artwork from talented artists. Or, spend your evening enjoying the
Thursday Night Farmers Market with live music, incredible fruits and veggies, and favorite places to enjoy dinner, from French crepes to barbeque ribs.
Schools
Students may attend:
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