The Cardinal Hotel

The Perfect Way to Save Money & Experience a Bit of European Culture

Our shared bath guest rooms are a great option for travelers on a budget or for those looking for a unique & authentic experience.

Shared bathrooms are common in many European hotels. They can be a great way to meet other travelers & make new friends.

Ask about our European Shared Bath Guest Rooms on your next visit to Palo Alto!

Celebrating 100 years of hospitality and charm!

The Cardinal Hotel in Downtown Palo Alto has been a beloved landmark since 1924.

Join us in celebrating our centennial anniversary all year long.

Stay connected with bedside USB ports, high-speed wireless Internet access & a well-lit work desk while you immerse yourself in the historic ambiance of The Cardinal Hotel.

Established in 1924: A Look Back at The Cardinal Hotel’s Rich History

📸 Palo Alto Historical Association (PAHA)

After a long day of exploring Palo Alto, there’s no better place to relax and recharge than in a Cardinal Hotel Standard Room. With a comfortable bed, modern amenities & thoughtful touches, you’ll feel right at home.

The Cardinal Hotel staff had a spectacular weekend celebrating the Stanford Graduating Class of 2024!

We were honored to welcome you and your families to our hotel. We hope your stay with us made your celebration even more memorable. ✨

From comfortable accommodations to historic charm, we love being part of your special occasions & celebrating Stanford student achievements.

We wish the graduates all the best in your future endeavors… Here’s to a bright future ahead!

When The Cardinal Hotel opened its doors in 1924, it was one of the most luxurious hotels in the Bay Area.

Today, the Cardinal’s elegant architecture & rich history as a beloved landmark continues to attract guests from all over the world.

🎓✨ Congratulations Joanna Pelaez Arias! ✨🎓

We are thrilled to celebrate an outstanding milestone achieved by one of our very own at Cardinal Hotel, Joanna Pelaez Arias. Joanna has graduated from the Construction Management program at Cal State East Bay, marking a significant achievement not only for her but for women in the construction field.

Joanna was one of just five women who graduated this past Friday, May 10, from a class comprising hundreds of students. Her dedication and hard work have truly paid off, and we are incredibly proud of her accomplishments.

Please join us in congratulating Joanna on this remarkable achievement. We look forward to seeing all the great things she will continue to accomplish in her career!

Cardinal Hotel Lobby, 1926

Our lobby has been a witness to countless special moments over the past century by providing the perfect setting for people to come together & celebrate life’s milestones.

This historical snapshot shows a large group of businessmen gathered in the hotel lobby circa 1926 in downtown Palo Alto to celebrate the completion of a project on Bryant Street.

📸 Palo Alto Historical Association (PAHA)

Indulge in our Tarocco Orange Bath Products & relax in our Luxury Microtec Robes and Slippers.

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Planning to attend the 2024 Stanford Graduation?

We’re accepting bookings for graduation weekend in June.

Book Now!

From the grand opening in 1924 to present-day status as a beloved landmark, The Cardinal Hotel has hosted generations of travelers for 100 years. We are committed to providing our guests with an unforgettable experience.

Cardinal Hotel Construction, 1924

📸 Palo Alto Historical Association (PAHA)

Sink into a world of comfort with our 300 TC Stripe Weave Sheets, White Goose Down Comforter and Down & Feather Pillows.

Book your stay today to experience 100 Years of Elegance & Memories at The Cardinal Hotel!

Good morning, Palo Alto

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The Cardinal Hotel has you covered when it comes to parking with street parking, free public parking & a parking garage nearby.

The public parking garage at City Hall (across the street) is free on weekends.

During the week, you can purchase parking passes at the front desk & bill them to your room.

Street parking is also free during certain hours.

Contact the front desk for help anytime.

📸 Palo Alto Historical Association (PAHA)

Unwind in our classic King Standard or King Deluxe Rooms featuring a California King bed, private bathroom & modern conveniences.

Book direct on our website and enjoy The Cardinal Breakfast on us!

Elegant furnishings and vintage pieces fill our lobby while the high ceilings and picturesque windows create a sense of spaciousness.

The lobby is also home to our luxurious fireplace – a popular spot for guests to relax and unwind.

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A Century of Elegance & Memories: Celebrating 100 Years at The Cardinal Hotel

1924-2024

#1924

Planning a visit to

Come stay with us in the heart of downtown Palo Alto for affordable convenience in the perfect location.

Book Soon - our charming rooms fill up fast during Stanford events & celebrations!

Stay Merry in

Check in for Christmas cheer! The Cardinal Hotel is adorned with twinkling lights, wintery pines & enough holiday spirit to warm even the Grinch’s heart.

We’ve decked the halls for the most wonderful time of the year at the Cardinal Hotel 🏨🎄

Guests Choose Us for Service

Discover Palo Alto’s Best Kept Secrets at The Cardinal just like this Reviewer:

‘’Staff provided me with the best local spots to visit. The hotel was very clean & housekeeping actually does clean your room daily, fresh towels & amenities provided.

More than a hotel it’s eclectic and a great historical experience. Minutes from Stanford and all the Palo Alto tourist spots. My experience was great, thanks for being true to your webpage, thats’s a plus!

There.s also a great Italian restaurant right next door, another plus!”

- Creole, Sept 2023

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Value
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Service
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Location