Stanford Mausoleum
A historic, Egyptian-inspired mausoleum on the Stanford campus, surrounded by beautiful gardens and sculptures. A place of remembrance and architectur...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour lighting
Stanford Mausoleum
Best Time
Golden hour lighting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, Egyptian-inspired mausoleum on the Stanford campus, surrounded by beautiful gardens and sculptures. A place of remembrance and architectural wonder.
"Fascinating how a place can be calm, beautiful and creepy at the same time."
🚶♀️ Wander the Grounds
Explore the entire mausoleum; the front and rear facades differ. Enjoy the surrounding gardens and sculptures.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit just before sunset for stunning, slightly eerie lighting perfect for photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stanford Family Mausoleum
Stanford University Campus
An impressive, Egyptian-inspired burial site for Leland Stanford and his family. A unique blend of history and architecture.
Arizona Cactus Garden
Adjacent to the Mausoleum
A serene garden featuring a diverse collection of succulents and cacti, often in bloom. A peaceful contrast to the mausoleum.
Angel of Grief Sculpture
Near the Mausoleum
A poignant and beautiful sculpture symbolizing mourning, offering a moment of reflection.
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Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander the Grounds
Explore the entire mausoleum; the front and rear facades differ. Enjoy the surrounding gardens and sculptures.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit just before sunset for stunning, slightly eerie lighting perfect for photos.
🐶 Leashed Pets Welcome
Bring your leashed dog to enjoy the shade and explore the well-maintained grounds.
🏛️ Combine with Museum
It's a short walk to the free Cantor Arts Center and Bing Concert Hall.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander the Grounds
Explore the entire mausoleum; the front and rear facades differ. Enjoy the surrounding gardens and sculptures.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit just before sunset for stunning, slightly eerie lighting perfect for photos.
🐶 Leashed Pets Welcome
Bring your leashed dog to enjoy the shade and explore the well-maintained grounds.
🏛️ Combine with Museum
It's a short walk to the free Cantor Arts Center and Bing Concert Hall.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Stanford Mausoleum to be a beautiful and historically significant site, offering a unique blend of architectural grandeur and serene garden landscapes. While the mausoleum itself is closed to entry, its exterior and the surrounding gardens, including the impressive cactus collection and poignant sculptures, are highly praised. The atmosphere is often described as a captivating mix of calm, beauty, and a touch of eeriness, especially during the golden hour.
"The mausoleum is so beautiful. Of course it’s closed and you can’t enter but it’s still worth it to walk all the way over there.
It’s located in the middle of a forest/garden. I think is fascinating how a place can be calm, beautiful and creepy at the same time."
Anna Kachris
"What bittersweet beauty. Governor Stanford and family are buried in the family mausoleum. Take a moment next time your are passing through Palo Alto to explore the hidden gems on the expansive Stanford University Campus. The Egyptian inspired sculptures on the mausoleum are worth the stop. Just a few feet away is a bronze sculpture of the family, a weeping angel sculpture, and the cactus garden. Stop in the golden hour just before sunset for awesome and slightly eerie lighting."
Jillian Jordan (Ghost Valley Farm)
"A soothing environment next to an extensive succulent and cactus garden that has a beautiful variety of often blooming unusual plants. Outside this AZ garden are many native oaks
A great place for children and adults to run, scooter and bike
Leashed dogs enjoy the shade and smells
Close walk to free Cantor Art Museum and Bing Performing Art Center"
Laurel Shimer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Stanford Mausoleum is located on the Stanford University campus in Palo Alto, California. You can drive and park in designated areas, or take public transport like Caltrain to the Palo Alto station and then a bus or rideshare to campus. Many visitors enjoy walking around the beautiful campus to reach it.
Parking is available in various lots around the Stanford University campus. Check Stanford's visitor parking information for the most up-to-date details on locations and fees. Some areas may have time limits.
Yes, biking and scootering are popular ways to get around the expansive Stanford campus. There are bike paths and racks available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Stanford Mausoleum and its surrounding gardens are free to visit and do not require a ticket. It's an open area on the Stanford University campus.
The mausoleum itself is generally closed to entry, but the grounds and gardens are accessible during daylight hours, typically from dawn until dusk. Always check Stanford's campus access guidelines for any specific restrictions.
No, the Stanford Mausoleum is a historical burial site and is closed to the public for entry. Visitors can admire its exterior architecture and the surrounding grounds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the impressive Egyptian-inspired architecture of the mausoleum, explore the adjacent Arizona Cactus Garden with its diverse plant life, and see sculptures like the Angel of Grief.
Many visitors describe the atmosphere as a unique blend of calm, beauty, and a touch of eeriness, especially during the late afternoon.
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome to explore the grounds and gardens around the mausoleum.
The grounds around the mausoleum and the cactus garden are generally accessible, though some paths may be uneven. The mausoleum itself is not accessible for entry.
📸 📸 Photography
The mausoleum's unique architecture, the diverse plants in the cactus garden, and the Angel of Grief sculpture offer great photo opportunities. The golden hour before sunset provides particularly atmospheric lighting.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, it's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially if there are events or ceremonies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Pet Owners
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History of the Stanford Mausoleum
The mausoleum was built as a testament to their grief and dedication to their son, who tragically died at a young age. Its construction reflects the wealth and architectural tastes of the era, incorporating Egyptian-inspired motifs. The mausoleum's design is notable for its detailed Pharros (lighthouses), which differ in design between the front and rear sections, encouraging visitors to circumnavigate the structure.
Stanford University itself was founded by Leland and Jane Stanford in memory of their only child, Leland Stanford Jr., who died of typhoid fever just before his 16th birthday.
The university's establishment and the creation of the mausoleum are deeply intertwined with the family's personal tragedy and their desire to leave a lasting legacy. The site continues to be a point of interest for those interested in the history of Silicon Valley and the Stanford family. Exploring the Surrounding Gardens and Sculptures
Beyond the gardens, the area around the mausoleum is dotted with significant sculptures. The Angel of Grief, a moving depiction of mourning, is a particularly notable piece that invites reflection.
Many visitors recommend exploring these surrounding areas to fully appreciate the historical and aesthetic value of the Stanford Mausoleum complex. The combination of architecture, horticulture, and art creates a unique and memorable experience for those who visit.
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