Welcome to Los Altos
Quaint downtown charm, vibrant local events, and luxurious Silicon Valley living at its most inviting
Los Altos merges the charm of a small-town village with the energy and elegance of Silicon Valley. This tree-lined town is beloved for its boutique-filled downtown, curated dining options, and a strong sense of community togetherness. With walkable streets, lush parks, and weekend farmers markets, Los Altos makes everyday life feel like a curated experience.
Originally a hub for apricot orchards and quiet country living, Los Altos evolved in the early 20th century as a commuter town thanks to the arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad. Today, its rural roots are reflected in beautifully maintained parks and historic buildings, even as the town thrives with tech professionals, young entrepreneurs, and long-time locals. Whether you’re exploring the trails at Rancho San Antonio County Park and Open Space Preserve or sipping sparkling wine during the Downtown Bubbly Stroll, Los Altos welcomes you with a laid-back elegance that’s hard to resist.
What to Love
- A lively downtown filled with boutiques, brunch spots, and art
- Seasonal festivals, markets, and community parades
- Proximity to Stanford, Palo Alto, and major tech campuses
- Pet-friendly neighborhoods with scenic parks and outdoor space
- A warm, well-kept community atmosphere with a luxe, local feel
Local Lifestyle
Life in Los Altos is all about casual sophistication. Mornings often start with a walk to downtown for espresso and a stroll through the market, followed by a hike or a stop at the park with your pup. Afternoons might include a browse through the shops or a bite to eat before returning home to enjoy quiet comforts. Evenings are perfect for patio dining with friends or catching up with neighbors at a local event. With a social calendar full of community festivals and a dining scene that rivals much larger cities, residents enjoy a lifestyle that’s both polished and humble.
Dining and Shopping
Los Altos Grill is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, known for its warm, upscale setting and classic American dishes with a California twist. Whether you're enjoying the wood-fire rotisserie chicken or sipping a martini at the bar, it’s a go-to for easy elegance. ASA offers a modern take on American fine dining, blending local ingredients with global inspiration in a chic, relaxed atmosphere perfect for celebrations or spontaneous date nights.
Rustic House Oyster Bar & Grill is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering fresh oysters, seasonal dishes, and a breezy vibe that feels coastal and cozy all at once. Amber India adds rich, aromatic spice to the town’s culinary landscape, serving beautifully presented North Indian cuisine in a modern setting with intriguing culinary art.
Rancho Shopping Center provides a low-key but luxe shopping experience with a mix of services, retail, and everyday essentials—all with great views of the surrounding foothills. Downtown Los Altos is lined with one-of-a-kind shops like Olivia Boutique, Alys Grace, and Cranberry Scoop, where personalized service and thoughtfully chosen items create a refreshingly personal retail experience. Whether you’re shopping for artisanal gifts or timeless wardrobe pieces, the town’s boutiques reflect its polished yet approachable spirit.
Entertainment and Things to Do
The beautiful 2,180-acre Rancho San Antonio County Park & Open Space Preserve is a local favorite for hiking and nature walks, offering over 25 miles of scenic trails that wind through woodlands and open meadows with breathtaking views of the valley below. It’s a weekend ritual for many locals looking to recharge under the redwoods.
Purissima Park and Shoup Park serve as green hubs for outdoor recreational pursuits and community gatherings, with sports courts, open lawns, picnic spaces, playgrounds, and shaded paths perfect for leisurely afternoons.
In its 46th year, the lively Los Altos Art & Wine Festival transforms downtown into a celebration of creativity each summer, drawing in artists, musicians, and food vendors from all over the region. The Festival of Lights Parade is a beloved holiday tradition, with whimsical floats, twinkling lights, fun costumes, candy canes, and a welcoming crowd that fills the streets with holiday cheer.
A longstanding community tradition, the Los Altos Kiwanis Pet Parade brings fun and flair to downtown, showcasing pets of all kinds (from dogs and cats to turtles and birds) decked out in themed costumes and cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd.
The Downtown Los Altos Farmers Market is a vibrant weekly gathering that brings fresh produce, handmade goods, and local vendors to the heart of town. It’s a favorite spot to pick up seasonal fruit, fresh flowers, and baked treats while enjoying live music and community conversation under the summer sun.
For a touch of sparkle, the Downtown Bubbly Stroll invites residents to sip sparkling wine while browsing boutiques and galleries, making for a truly local take on luxury leisure.
Schools
- Los Altos Elementary School
- Pinewood
- Los Altos High School
- St. Simon’s
- Montecito Preschool
- Montclair Elementary School
- Covington Elementary School
- Oak Avenue Elementary School
- Santa Rita Elementary School
- Almond Elementary School
- Loyola Elementary School
- Springer Elementary School
- Egan Middle School
- Blach Middle School
