From its palm-lined entrances to its iconic red-tile roofs, Stanford University is one of the most picturesque campuses in the country. Whether you’re interested in its world-class academics, Silicon Valley connections, or stunning architecture, there’s no better way to get a feel for “The Farm” than to visit in person. Here’s how to make the most of your trip.

Campus Tour Options

Stanford offers several ways to see campus:

• Campus Walking Tours (Admissions) – Led by a Stanford student guide, these 70-minute tours cover university history, student life, and academics while visiting key landmarks like the Main Quad, Hoover Tower, and Memorial Church. Learn more about the Admissions Tours here.
• Self-Guided Tours – Download Stanford’s self-guided tour map or app to explore at your own pace. This is a great option if you want flexibility or are visiting outside of regular tour times.
• Specialized Tours – Certain schools and departments (such as Engineering or the d.school) offer their own sessions and facility tours for prospective students interested in specific programs.
• Virtual Tours – Can’t get to Palo Alto? Stanford offers online guided video tours and interactive campus maps.

Day-Of Tips

• Where to Arrive: Most tours start at the Stanford Visitor Center, located on Galvez Street near the Alumni Center. Arrive 20–30 minutes early for parking and check-in.
• Parking: Visitor parking is available at Galvez Lot and the Visitor Center Lot. Make sure to use the ParkMobile app to pay.
• What to Wear: Comfortable shoes — Stanford’s campus is expansive, and you’ll likely be walking a few miles. Sunscreen and water are recommended year-round.
• Timing: Weekday tours during the academic year offer the most authentic view of campus life.

Things to See & Do On Campus

• Main Quad & Memorial Church – Stanford’s historic academic heart, known for its arches, mosaics, and palm trees.
• Hoover Tower – Climb to the observation deck for sweeping views of campus and Silicon Valley.
• Cantor Arts Center & Rodin Sculpture Garden – Free museum and outdoor art space featuring world-class works.
• The Oval – The signature grassy entrance framed by Palm Drive.
• Green Library – A hub of academic activity and one of the most beautiful library complexes in the country.

Things to See & Do in Palo Alto

• Downtown Palo Alto – Just minutes from campus, offering cafes, restaurants, and boutique shopping.
• Stanford Shopping Center – An open-air luxury mall with both high-end and casual dining options.
• Hike the Dish – A popular trail with views of the campus, bay, and surrounding hills.
• California Avenue Farmers Market – Held Sundays, perfect for local produce and artisanal snacks.

Where to Stay

• Stanford Guest House – Located on campus and convenient for visitors with university business.
• The Westin Palo Alto – Steps from campus and downtown dining.
• Local Options – Numerous hotels and boutique inns are available in Palo Alto and nearby Menlo Park.

Bonus: Tour with a Current Student Through SchoolScoops

While the official tour offers a great overview, nothing compares to seeing Stanford through the eyes of a current student.

With SchoolScoops, you can book a private campus tour with a Stanford student guide of your choice. See the spots that matter most to you, hear insider stories, and get honest answers about student life. Can’t make it in person? Schedule a live video chat and explore virtually.

Your Stanford journey starts here — and experiencing it through a student’s perspective can make all the difference.

SchoolScoops connects college applicants with current college students for private campus tours, personalized for you. Choose a tour guide you can relate to and trust, and get the inside scoop to find the school that fits you best.