Stanford Shopping Center
An upscale, open-air shopping destination in Palo Alto, featuring luxury boutiques, popular brands, and beautiful garden-lined pathways.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Stanford Shopping Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An upscale, open-air shopping destination in Palo Alto, featuring luxury boutiques, popular brands, and beautiful garden-lined pathways.
"Loved the open-air vibe with all the greenery and fountains—it doesn’t feel like your typical mall."
🛍️ Explore the SKIMS Store
Check out the first Bay Area SKIMS store for their latest collections and a luxe shopping vibe.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
It's an open-air mall, so wear comfy shoes for walking between the many shops and enjoying the ambiance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
SKIMS Boutique
Ground floor
The first SKIMS store in the Bay Area offers a curated selection of Kim Kardashian's popular loungewear and shapewear.
High-End Designer Boutiques
Various locations
Explore luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Hermes, and Tory Burch for a premium shopping experience.
Garden-Lined Pathways
Throughout the center
Enjoy a relaxed, open-air atmosphere with beautiful greenery and fountains, a refreshing change from typical malls.
Diverse Dining Options
Various locations
From quick bites at Tender Greens to upscale dining, satisfy your cravings with a variety of culinary choices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Open-Air Charm
Plan for Popular Openings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ Explore the SKIMS Store
Check out the first Bay Area SKIMS store for their latest collections and a luxe shopping vibe.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
It's an open-air mall, so wear comfy shoes for walking between the many shops and enjoying the ambiance.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking can get hectic, especially during peak times. Allow extra time to find a spot.
💧 Stay Hydrated
With an open-air design, especially on warmer days, remember to drink plenty of water. Some cafes offer refreshing options.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ Explore the SKIMS Store
Check out the first Bay Area SKIMS store for their latest collections and a luxe shopping vibe.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
It's an open-air mall, so wear comfy shoes for walking between the many shops and enjoying the ambiance.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking can get hectic, especially during peak times. Allow extra time to find a spot.
💧 Stay Hydrated
With an open-air design, especially on warmer days, remember to drink plenty of water. Some cafes offer refreshing options.
✨ Discover Hidden Gems
Beyond the big names, explore specialty shops and pop-ups for unique finds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Stanford Shopping Center for its beautiful open-air, garden-like atmosphere and diverse range of stores, from high-end luxury to specialty boutiques. The dining options are also a highlight, offering something for everyone. While generally well-maintained and convenient, some find the store selection less extensive compared to other large malls.
"Stanford Shopping Center: A High-End Shopping Destination
Stanford Shopping Center offers an outdoor shopping experience that can be enjoyed year-round, with some visitors noting summer as a particularly pleasant time to visit. The open-air design provides a relaxed atmosphere, enhancing the shopping experience.
The selection of stores includes a mix of high-end designer boutiques and unique specialty shops, indicating a careful curation aimed at providing a diverse range of luxury goods.
Dining options at the mall are varied, with establishments such as Tender Greens offering healthy meal choices, along with several upscale restaurants and cafes.
Attention to detail is evident throughout the mall, including cleanliness and the professionalism of the staff across various stores. Additional amenities such as valet service, ample parking, and comfortable seating areas contribute to a sense of convenience.
Overall, Stanford Shopping Center serves as more than just a shopping venue; it is situated as a destination in the Bay Area, suitable for various occasions, whether for extensive shopping or a casual outing. It is regarded as a premium outdoor shopping experience."
Kiet Le
"Loved the open-air vibe with all the greenery and fountains—it doesn’t feel like your typical mall. Tons of great stores, from high-end brands to cool local shops. Grabbed a bite at one of the cafes and just enjoyed people-watching. Perfect place to spend a relaxed afternoon shopping and soaking up the Silicon Valley energy."
Marwan
"This is a fun shopping mall here in Palo Alto California. It’s completely outdoor and it’s not a huge problem due to the great climate here. It has your typical big department stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom but also many other familiar franchises. A few restaurants and cafes to choose from as well. A fun filled time for the whole family. 😎👍"
Yodaman Solo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stanford Shopping Center is located at 660 Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto, CA 94304. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options include VTA buses that stop near the center. For those coming from further afield, ride-sharing services are also a convenient choice.
Yes, several VTA (Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority) bus lines serve the Stanford Shopping Center, making it accessible via public transit. Check the VTA website for specific routes and schedules that best suit your starting point.
Stanford Shopping Center offers a large amount of parking, including surface lots and parking structures. Valet parking is also available for a more convenient experience. Be aware that parking can become busy, especially on weekends and during special events.
While it's a significant distance, it is possible to walk or bike from parts of Stanford University to the Stanford Shopping Center. Many students and faculty opt for biking due to the pleasant climate and dedicated bike paths.
Yes, Stanford Shopping Center provides electric vehicle charging stations for shoppers. It's advisable to check the mall's official website or contact them directly for the exact locations and availability of these stations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Stanford Shopping Center is an open-air shopping destination and does not require tickets for general entry. You can freely walk around and browse the stores.
The general operating hours for Stanford Shopping Center are typically Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Sundays from 11 AM to 7 PM. However, individual store hours may vary, and it's always best to check the official website or call specific stores for their exact hours.
There are no entrance fees to access Stanford Shopping Center. It is a public shopping area, and you only pay for the items you choose to purchase from the various retailers.
Generally, pets are not allowed inside the shopping center's common areas or stores, with the exception of service animals. It's always a good idea to confirm the specific pet policy with the mall management if you plan to visit with a service animal.
Yes, Stanford Shopping Center is designed to be accessible for individuals with disabilities. This includes accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms throughout the center.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Stores
Stanford Shopping Center features a mix of high-end department stores like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's, alongside popular brands such as Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Tory Burch, SKIMS, and many specialty boutiques. You can find a wide range of fashion, accessories, and lifestyle stores.
Absolutely! Stanford Mall is known for its selection of luxury brands, including Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Tory Burch, Neiman Marcus, and Tiffany & Co., offering a premium shopping experience for discerning shoppers.
The first SKIMS store in the Bay Area is located at Stanford Shopping Center. It's a popular destination, so expect it to be busy.
Stanford Shopping Center has several jewelry stores, including high-end options like Tiffany & Co. and local boutiques. You can find a variety of fine jewelry, watches, and accessories.
Yes, you can find popular stores like Brandy Melville, American Eagle, and Victoria's Secret at Stanford Mall, catering to a younger demographic looking for trendy apparel and accessories.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Stanford Shopping Center offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual cafes like Tender Greens and Zero Ann to more upscale restaurants. You can find everything from healthy meals to sweet treats and international cuisine.
For coffee and quick bites, you can visit cafes like Tender Greens or Zero Ann, which offer refreshing drinks and light meals. There are also various other eateries throughout the mall for a convenient snack.
Yes, many of the restaurants at Stanford Shopping Center are family-friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere and diverse menus that can appeal to all ages. Consider places with varied options like cafes or casual dining spots.
Absolutely! Places like Tender Greens are well-known for their fresh, healthy salads and bowls. You'll find other eateries offering nutritious choices as well.
You can find various dessert options, from ice cream and pastries to specialty cakes. Keep an eye out for seasonal treats or unique offerings from the cafes and bakeries within the center.
📸 📸 Photography
The garden-lined pathways, fountains, and architecturally interesting storefronts offer great photo opportunities. The open-air design provides natural light, perfect for capturing stylish shots.
Generally, you can take photos inside stores for personal use, especially for social media sharing. However, it's always polite to ask for permission from store staff, particularly if you're taking extensive photos or using professional equipment.
While personal photography is usually fine, commercial photography or filming without prior authorization may be restricted. It's best to check with mall management if you plan on any professional shoots.
The aesthetic is upscale and modern, with a touch of nature due to the gardens and open spaces. It's perfect for fashion, lifestyle, and even candid shots.
While primarily a modern shopping destination, there are elements that evoke a sense of place and history, especially in the architecture and landscaping. Instagram Reels sometimes feature nostalgic views of the mall from past decades.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Dining options include casual eateries and cafes that are generally accommodating to families. While there aren't dedicated play areas, the relaxed atmosphere and the ability to stroll between shops make it a manageable outing. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone and perhaps a stroller for younger children.
🛍️ Fashion Enthusiasts
The mall's curated selection means you can find the latest trends and luxury items. Keep an eye out for pop-up shops, which often bring unique or limited-edition collections to the center. The open-air setting also provides a stylish backdrop for outfit photos.
💰 Budget-Conscious Shoppers
Look out for sales events and private sales, as highlighted by shoppers finding deals on designer items. Visiting during off-peak hours can also lead to a more relaxed shopping experience without the pressure of large crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The SKIMS Phenomenon at Stanford
Visitors can expect a luxe shopping experience, similar to the brand's flagship locations. The store features key collections, including the 'Fits Everybody' line and soft cotton sets. The positive buzz suggests it's a must-visit for fans of the brand, offering a tangible way to experience Kim Kardashian's popular fashion empire.
Given the popularity, it's advisable to plan your visit accordingly, perhaps during off-peak hours, to fully enjoy the SKIMS boutique without the overwhelming crowds. The presence of SKIMS further solidifies Stanford Shopping Center's status as a destination for contemporary fashion trends.
Navigating Stanford Shopping Center: A Shopper's Guide
When planning your visit, comfortable footwear is essential, as you'll likely be doing a fair amount of walking between the diverse array of stores. The center houses a mix of high-end luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Hermes, alongside popular retailers such as Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, and newer additions like SKIMS. This variety caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets.
Parking can be a consideration, particularly during busy periods. While there are ample parking lots and structures, allowing extra time to find a spot is recommended. The mall also offers amenities like valet service, enhancing the convenience for shoppers looking for a premium experience.
A Taste of Stanford: Dining Delights
Newer additions, such as Zero Ann, bring handcrafted drinks and unique flavors to the center, adding to the diverse culinary landscape. For those seeking a more leisurely meal, several upscale restaurants and eateries are available, providing a perfect spot to refuel or enjoy a meal with friends and family.
The dining scene at Stanford Shopping Center complements the overall upscale ambiance, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a complete experience, whether they're looking for a quick snack or a full-course meal. Exploring the various food establishments is part of the overall enjoyment of a day spent at the mall.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit