Discover the Charm of Los Altos and Los Altos Hills: My Top Local Favorites
As a resident of Los Altos Hills and a luxury realtor serving the vibrant communities of Los Altos and Los Altos Hills, I’m lucky to be immersed in two of Silicon Valley’s most scenic and welcoming areas. From nature trails to culinary gems, here’s a peek into my favorite things to do around town, perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to experience the best of what these neighborhoods have to offer.
1. Explore the Scenic Trails of Los Altos Hills
Los Altos Hills is known for its natural beauty, and the local trails are perfect for immersing yourself in it. Some of my favorites include:
Rancho San Antonio Preserve: Rancho San Antonio Park & Open Space Preserve is a gem right here in Los Altos Hills, offering over 25 miles of trails across 2,473 acres of diverse landscapes. (Download the Trail Map) This space offers something for everyone: hiking, biking on designated trails, and equestrian access on Coyote Trail. A true escape into nature and history—perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. If you would love to live just a few 100 feet from the park with private access. Check out my beautiful listing in Los Altos Hills with stunning city and hillside views!
Westwind Community Barn: This equestrian center has a charming rustic vibe, with nearby trails perfect for a peaceful walk. It’s also a favorite spot for horseback riding and family picnics. Also the trails are dog friendly!
Whether you’re an avid hiker or just want a quiet place to unwind, Los Altos Hills offers peaceful natural spaces that make you feel miles away from the hustle and bustle.
2. Savor Local Dining in Downtown Los Altos
Satura
Los Altos Grill
State Street Market
Los Altos offers an array of delightful restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries, many of which are locally owned. As a foodie and frequent diner in Los Altos here are a few culinary gems I always recommend:
Breakfast
Manresa Bread: This bakery has some of the best artisanal bread and pastries in the area. It’s the perfect stop for a morning coffee and pastry or for picking up fresh-baked treats. Our family visits every Sunday Morning to pick up fresh sandwhich bread and their famous monkey bread.
The Post The Post in Los Altos is a local favorite known for its inviting atmosphere and standout weekend brunch menu. With a delicious mix of classic and creative dishes, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely brunch with friends or family. From savory bites to sweet indulgences, every dish is crafted with fresh ingredients and exceptional flavor.
Satura Satura Patisserie in Los Altos is my go-to spot for incredible desserts, especially their irresistible strawberry shortcake—light, fresh, and beautifully made. I love picking up an assortment of their cakes whenever I’m headed to a friend’s home; they’re always a hit and make any gathering sweeter. It is my top recommendation for custom cakes and cappuccinos.
Lunch / Dinner
Los Altos Grill: Known for its cozy atmosphere and classic American fare, the Grill is perfect for a date night or a family dinner. Their rotisserie chicken is a local favorite!
State Street Market: State Street Market in Downtown Los Altos is a vibrant community space perfect for connecting with friends, family, and great food. With 8 diverse restaurants and a calendar full of community events, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy happy hour, work remotely, or simply relax. Come experience the heart of Los Altos!
Chef Chus: A Peninsula favorite since 1970, Chef Chu’s in Los Altos is celebrated for its innovative cuisine and the warm, lively presence of its owner, Lawrence C.C. Chu. Known worldwide, Chef Chu’s combines a creative menu with a vibrant atmosphere where you’ll often find Chef Chu himself greeting guests or working in the kitchen.
Pho Cabin: A go-to spot for comforting Vietnamese flavors. My top picks are the shrimp spring rolls, brisket pho, and the Vietnamese coffee—a perfect caffeine kick to keep you energized. A must-try for pho lovers!
Fiesta Vallarta: is dedicated to serving the finest Mexican cuisine, crafted with fresh, lean ingredients. Enjoy authentic flavors that are both delicious and wholesome. My favorites are the cadillac margaritas, enchiladads, fajitas and you can never have enough of their home made salsa.
3. Shop Local in Downtown Los Altos
Sethi
Linden Tree Children’s Books
Downtown Los Altos is also home to wonderful boutiques and artisan shops that make for a great afternoon of shopping. Some must-visit spots include:
• Linden Tree Books: This independent bookstore is fantastic for finding new reads, especially for children and young adults. It’s a community staple that feels like a throwback to the joys of small-town shopping.
• Sethi: A go-to shop for jewelry enthusiasts, Known for exquisite, fine jewelry pieces that effortlessly blend vintage charm with modern elegance, Sethi Couture is a must for anyone looking to elevate their style. Their selection of diamond stacking rings, necklaces, and more make perfect additions to any jewelry collection and are wonderful for gifting.
• Gallery 9: Located right downtown, this artist cooperative showcases stunning pieces from local artists and is a lovely place to find unique decor or gifts.
4. Seasonal Events and Community Gatherings
Throughout the year, Los Altos and Los Altos Hills host community events that make these towns so special. In November, look out for the Holiday Stroll in Downtown Los Altos, a festive evening filled with twinkling lights, carolers, and holiday shopping. During the warmer months, Farmers’ Markets in Los Altos are a treat for fresh, local produce and artisanal foods.
The community spirit in Los Altos and Los Altos Hills makes these events truly memorable and offers a great way to connect with neighbors.
5. Unwind with Family-Friendly Fun
Frankie Ruccolo at Shoup Park
Los Altos Hills has a quiet, residential feel, but families will find plenty of things to do. Shoup Park and Redwood Grove Nature Preserve in Los Altos offer family-friendly spaces for picnics, playgrounds, and scenic spots to explore together. Plus, they’re great locations for nature-inspired family photos!
Living and working in these two beautiful towns, I’ve come to appreciate the lifestyle, the people, and the hidden gems that make Los Altos and Los Altos Hills so unique. Whether you’re considering making a move here or just looking to explore more of the area, I’d love to help you experience the best of both communities!