Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto

2.5 star property
Hotel with free parking, near Stanford University

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto

Property grounds
Free daily continental breakfast
Reception
Free daily continental breakfast
Room, 1 King Bed | Desk, soundproofing, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Breakfast included
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • 24/7 front desk

Explore the area

View in a map
3305 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA, 94306
  • Place, Stanford University
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Palo Alto VA Hospital
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Stanford Stadium
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, San Jose, CA (SJC-Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl.)
    ‪27 min drive‬

Room options

Room, 1 King Bed

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(46 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Double Room

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(22 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Standard Twin Room, 2 Twin Beds

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(8 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

Suite

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 6
  • 3 Queen Beds

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About the neighborhood

Palo Alto

Located in Ventura within a mile (2 km) of Stanford University, Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto is within a few miles (5 km) of other popular sights such as Stanford University Medical Center. This 37-room hotel welcomes guests with free breakfast and conveniences like free in-room WiFi and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Peers Park Dog Park - 3 min drive - 1.1 miles
  • Stanford University - 3 min drive - 1.4 miles
  • Elizabeth Gamble Garden Center - 5 min drive - 1.8 miles
  • Palo Alto VA Hospital - 5 min drive - 1.4 miles
  • Stanford Stadium - 6 min drive - 2.0 miles

Getting around

  • Whisman Station - 10 min drive
  • California Ave Station - 18 min walk
  • Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Chipotle Mexican Grill - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Zareen's - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Starbird - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Hong Kong Restaurant - ‬6 min walk

About this property

Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto

Hotel with free parking, near Stanford University
Guests of Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto enjoy free WiFi in public areas, coffee in a common area, and free newspapers. A stay here includes free parking. The 24-hour front desk has staff standing by to help with luggage storage, and answer any questions about the accommodations. Additional amenities include a vending machine and a picnic area.
Guests can expect free WiFi and LCD TVs with cable channels and DVD players. Bathrooms have hair dryers and free toiletries. Refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers are also standard. Housekeeping is available on request.

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Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free continental breakfast available daily 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Family friendly

  • DVD player
  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator
  • Soundproofed rooms

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Luggage storage
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Outdoors

  • 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.
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

More

  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • -32-inch LCD TV with premium cable channels
  • DVD player

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone
  • Soundproofed rooms

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless 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

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 40.00 per accommodation, per stay, plus a deposit of USD 40.00 per stay
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total pets
  • Pets may not be left unsupervised
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

  • Pet deposit: USD 40.00 per stay
  • Pet fee: USD 40.00 per accommodation, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

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, debit card, or cash deposit 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
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM—-anytime
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. 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 cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as 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, debit cards, and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto
Stanford Motor Inn
Stanford Motor Palo Alto
Stanford Motor Hotel Palo Alto
Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto Hotel
Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto Palo Alto
Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto Hotel Palo Alto

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto?

Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto provides free cancellation on certain room rates. For additional details, take a look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto?

As of Feb 11, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto on Feb 15, 2026 start from $175.5, 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's there to see close to Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto?

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

Is there parking available at Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto?

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

Does Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto feature a casino?

No, Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto?

Amenities at this hotel that appeal to couples include free breakfast and a 24-hour front desk.

Are there hot tubs at Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto offers free continental breakfast each morning though there is no restaurant.

Does Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, dogs are welcome at Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto for a fee of USD 40.00 per accommodation, per stay. A deposit of USD 40.00 per stay is collected.

Are there connecting rooms at Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

What is the closest airport to Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto?

The closest major airport to Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto is San Carlos, CA (SQL), which is 12.1 mi away (16 minutes by car). Another top airport is Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC), which is located 16.3 mi away (27-minute drive).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto.

Stanford Motor Inn Palo Alto Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 262 out of 513 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 152 out of 513 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 60 out of 513 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 28 out of 513 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 11 out of 513 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

7.8/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Claudia

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The woman at the front desk was very kind but very efficient!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Christine

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thomas, Stockton

Liked: Cleanliness
Old school Palo Alto. This motel's probably been here for 60 years. But the lady was nice at the front desk and the room smells clean
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Vishaal

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Clean rooms Great hosts at check in
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Astrid

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Terri

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Randall

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The staff is SO nice! The older rooms are clean and everything works fine, which makes for a comfortable stay. We will always stay at the Stanford Motor Inn when get medical care from Stanford!
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Michael

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

DEBORAH, Honolulu

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Old but clean and comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Lindell

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Wayne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Everyone was so nice and ready for anything we needed help with. Would return anytime we are in the area.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Haven’t had breakfast yet, but staff were super nice and very helpful
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Tusi, Gilroy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
The staff was excellent. Check-in and check-out were handled politely and professionally. However, the motel itself was very outdated. The carpet was new, and the room smelled clean, but everything else was so outdated. It was hard to plug in my phone charger because every outlet had an old power strip full of things already plugged into it. The TV only worked when you signed in to the apps with your own passwords. Otherwise, you can't watch TV. The bed was very lumpy and uncomfortable. I woke up with a backache. It felt kinda like spending the night at your grandma's house, and she lives in a house that was built in the 50's that had never been renovated. It's mostly clean, but not comfortable to sleep in.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Darcie, Sparks

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

4/10 Poor

andrew

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Someone’s tv was on all night I had trouble sleeping tried to call office but phone didn’t work had trouble sleeping
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thomas Wilhelm

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Perfect parking. Extremely unhealthy breakfast. Kind of goes with the territory as a retro experience. I like it.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Frank

Business traveler, Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service, amenities
The room was small but cozy. The gentleman at the front desk was a very nice person.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alecxander

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janet

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean rooms, quiet area, friendly staff and plenty of parking
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Heather

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Michele

Liked: Cleanliness
The bed was not comfortable, the bottom sheet didn’t reach the end of the bed. The toilet wobbled. The fan in the bathroom didn’t work. We had to ask for more clean glasses and washclothes. But, it was quiet.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

SUSAN, Mi Wuk Village

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
very friendly office staff, efficient cleaning staff and very close to Stanford Hospital, which is why we are here.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Carolyn

Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chrisanne

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Excellent friendly staff. Great location for Stanford medical facilities. Clean and safe. Pet friendly.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Susan

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025