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The Zen Hotel Palo Alto

3.0 star property
Art Deco motel with free breakfast and a fitness center

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for The Zen Hotel Palo Alto

Exterior
Property entrance
Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, in-room safe, desk
Lobby
Exterior

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Laundry

Explore the area

View in a map
4164 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA, 94306
  • Place, San Antonio Shopping Center
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Palo Alto VA Hospital
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, San Andreas Fault Trail
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪16 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking

Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, in-room safe, desk

Room, 1 King Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(15 reviews)
  • 280 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave

Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, in-room safe, desk

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(51 reviews)
  • 286 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Suite, 1 King Bed with Sofa bed, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave

Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, in-room safe, desk

Suite, 1 King Bed with Sofa bed, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 532 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Room, 1 Queen Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking

Room, 1 Queen Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, in-room safe, desk

Room, 1 Queen Bed, Accessible, Non Smoking

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(10 reviews)
  • 306 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave

Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, in-room safe, desk

Deluxe Room, 1 Queen Bed, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(102 reviews)
  • 240 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 2 Double Beds, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave

Deluxe Room, 2 Double Beds, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, in-room safe, desk

Deluxe Room, 2 Double Beds, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(40 reviews)
  • 286 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, in-room safe, desk

Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(54 reviews)
  • 306 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Suite, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave (2 Queen Beds)

Suite, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave (2 Queen Beds) | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, in-room safe, desk

Suite, Non Smoking, Refrigerator & Microwave (2 Queen Beds)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(6 reviews)
  • 693 sq ft
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Suite, Non Smoking, Kitchen (3 Queen Beds)

Suite, Non Smoking, Kitchen (3 Queen Beds) | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, in-room safe, desk

Suite, Non Smoking, Kitchen (3 Queen Beds)

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(5 reviews)
  • 680 sq ft
  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 6
  • 3 Queen Beds

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About the neighborhood

Palo Alto

Located in Green Acres, The Zen Hotel Palo Alto is adjacent to Silicon Valley and within 2 miles (3 km) of San Antonio Shopping Center. This 3-star motel has 37 guestrooms and offers free in-room WiFi, free self parking, and a gym.
View more Motels in Palo AltoOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Mitchell Park Dog Park - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • San Antonio Shopping Center - 3 min drive - 1.1 miles
  • Palo Alto VA Hospital - 4 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Nikola Tesla Statue - 5 min drive - 1.8 miles
  • San Andreas Fault Trail - 5 min drive - 1.8 miles

Getting around

  • San Antonio Station - 3 min drive
  • Whisman Station - 8 min drive
  • Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC) - 18 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪State of Mind Slice House - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Hong Kong Restaurant - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Holy Sushi - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪4290 Bistro - ‬12 min walk

About this property

The Zen Hotel Palo Alto

Art Deco motel with free breakfast and a fitness center
Guests of The Zen Hotel Palo Alto enjoy features like a gym, free WiFi in public areas, and express check-out. You can put free parking to good use if you drive. The front desk has multilingual staff on hand 24/7 to help with dry cleaning/laundry, luggage storage, and securing valuables. Additional amenities include free newspapers, laundry facilities, and a TV in a common area.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 37-inch LCD TVs with satellite channels. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries, and pillowtop beds with premium bedding ensure a restful night. IPod docks, refrigerators, and microwaves are other standard amenities.
Recreational amenities at the motel include a fitness center.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

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  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, 1,661 reviews
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The price is $120
Jan 9 - Jan 10
Total with taxes and fees
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free uncovered self parking on site
  • Limited onsite self parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Food and drink

  • Free buffet breakfast available daily 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM

Things to do

  • Gym
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Laundry facilities
  • Soundproofed rooms

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Picnic area

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Braille/raised signage
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible gym
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

More

  • 2 floors
  • 3 buildings
  • Art Deco architecture
  • Built in 1970
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Pillowtop mattress
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Slippers
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 37-inch LCD TV with satellite channels
  • iPod dock

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Fan
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Laptop workspace
  • Safe
  • Soundproofed rooms

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Early check-in subject to availability
Early check-in is available for a fee
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children 12 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Early check-in is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM—-anytime
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and checking out is easy with express services. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A credit card for incidental charges and a government-issued photo ID may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards and debit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Hotel Zen
Zen Hotel
Zen Hotel Palo Alto
Zen Palo Alto
Townhouse Hotel Palo Alto
The Zen Hotel
The Zen Hotel Palo Alto Motel
The Zen Hotel Palo Alto Palo Alto
The Zen Hotel Palo Alto Motel Palo Alto

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at The Zen Hotel Palo Alto?

The Zen Hotel Palo Alto provides free cancellation on some room rates. For additional details, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at The Zen Hotel Palo Alto?

As of Jan 4, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Zen Hotel Palo Alto on Jan 14, 2026 start from $259.66, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What is there to do within easy reach of The Zen Hotel Palo Alto?

This motel is situated in Green Acres, just steps from Silicon Valley. You'll also find Shoreline Amphitheatre and Stanford Stadium within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at The Zen Hotel Palo Alto?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the motel. Accessible parking is also available for guests.

Does The Zen Hotel Palo Alto feature a casino?

No, The Zen Hotel Palo Alto doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at The Zen Hotel Palo Alto?

No, there is no indoor pool at this motel.

Is The Zen Hotel Palo Alto good for couples?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this motel include a pillowtop mattress, bathrobes, and slippers.

Are there hot tubs at The Zen Hotel Palo Alto?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this motel.

Does The Zen Hotel Palo Alto have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

The Zen Hotel Palo Alto offers free buffet breakfast each morning though there is no restaurant.

Will The Zen Hotel Palo Alto allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at The Zen Hotel Palo Alto though service animals are welcome.

Are there connecting rooms at The Zen Hotel Palo Alto?

No, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

What is the closest airport to The Zen Hotel Palo Alto?

The closest major airport to The Zen Hotel Palo Alto is San Carlos, CA (SQL), which is 12.9 mi away (18 minutes by car). Another top airport is Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC), which is located 13.3 mi away (18-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at The Zen Hotel Palo Alto?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at The Zen Hotel Palo Alto.

The Zen Hotel Palo Alto Reviews

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 879 out of 1303 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 280 out of 1303 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 88 out of 1303 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 28 out of 1303 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 28 out of 1303 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jessica

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Michael

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Madhu

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Very friendly staff. Big spacious rooms. Only negative- Noisy bathroom fan.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Raini

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
n/a
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

JAMES

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Pina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Overall, the property and hotel was nice. The front desk clerk was very pleasant and nice. Great customer service. The rooms can use some updating and our room had a musty odor to it.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anaisa

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My family stays here often with no issues
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Elizabeth

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Vivian

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service, amenities
I have stayed in this two bedroom unit before. There is a small sofa missing that was up against the wall under the picture. This room also had a coffee table in front of the two couches. The carpet needs a shampoo as my feet were dirty every night from walking on the carpet. The furniture need to have the cleaned especially the chairs.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Heather

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
It was greatoo lol
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

Muhammad

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Zhen

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Suzanne

Business traveler, Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice, quiet.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sharon

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Puneeta

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Staff went above and beyond to accommodate my schedule changes. Room was clean and quiet.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Jennifer

Traveled with group, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The first room we stayed in was room 116, the bed was very comfortable and the bathtub was high the front desk accommodated and got us another room which was 202. Everything was better in that room, but the bed was not as comfortable. we were extremely happy. Raul, one of the front desk people, was extremely helpful.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bryan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was wonderful and the gym was fantastic. My only drawback was the laundry setup: the dryer required coins, while the washer had to be paid for with cash at the office. Since I hadn’t brought cash, my plan to do laundry was derailed unless I wanted to go find an ATM. Which I did not. Tip for future guests: bring cash if you plan to use the laundry facilities. 3.50 each.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Beverlee

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marjorie

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely, clean and comfortable room, ample free parking, and a hearty and delicious free hot breakfast with a good variety of options! Also loved the balcony overlooking a pretty, peaceful little garden. Would definitely stay here again next time I’m in the area!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Mary

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very kind fron office. Convenient water refill station, thank you.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Robin

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

All around a horrible experience

First of all I was given keys to the wrong room. I checked in around 5:45 pm but did not go to the room at that time because I had dinner reservations and did not return until around 10 pm. When I went to my room at 10:00pm, through a very dark alley, I tried to use my key and it wouldn’t work. I kept trying to get in and then a man started banging on the window from inside the room and yelling at me. I went back to the front lobby and the man at the desk couldn’t believe he had made this mistake and tried to blame it on his boss when he was the one who checked me in four hours prior. After about ten minutes I was finally given a new room which was on the 2nd floor when I had specifically asked for a ground floor room when I walked into the new room there was a strong odor snd the room appeared dirty. I ended up leaving and finding somewhere else to stay. I was a woman by myself and did not feel safe staying there.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kelly

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

This is where is stay when I visit Palo Alto

The workout room is really nice. WiFi is strong.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

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