Things to Do in Atherton

Located along the San Fransisco Peninsula, Atherton is one of the most affluent towns in America. It’s filled with palatial mansions and single-family homes that are carefully tucked away behind towering fences and shrubbery, making them feel like private developments. Atherton is the perfect neighborhood if you’re looking for privacy, seclusion, and exclusivity, along with some of the most luxurious properties in the world. Homes here are expansive, with amazing space both indoors and outdoors to enjoy the glorious California sunshine.

Atherton is a favorite among those that work in the technology industry in the San Fransisco area. It’s less than a 30-minute drive from San Fransisco and Palo Alto and is close to the headquarters of Google, Facebook, and Tesla. The short commute makes this suburb the perfect oasis for those that need to work in the Bay area.

Atherton isn’t just expansive, gated homes, however. There are many exciting things to do in the area, from fine dining to shopping to outdoor recreation. Our guide will walk you through the amazing activities to enjoy around Atherton and showcase the best reasons to live in this beautiful suburb.

The Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University is filled with an impressive collection of both modern and historical art spanning over 5,000 years. With more than 38,000 pieces of art, endless options exist to inspire you at the Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University. The crown jewel of the collection is the outdoor sculpture garden by Rodin. The museum features a variety of rotating and permanent exhibitions that showcase both international and local artists. It also hosts educational programs, as well as special events.

Atherton is known for its gorgeous California weather, and there’s no better way to spend the day than at the country club. Menlo Country Club offers not only world-class golf but also impressive facilities, including a newly renovated clubhouse with unobstructed views of the beautiful natural scenery, a relaxing outdoor pool complex, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

The Bedwell Bayfront Park is filled with 160 acres of nature preserve. Surrounded on all three sides by the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, the park is a haven for wildlife and nature. It’s the perfect spot for trail running, hiking, or simply walking and wildlife spotting. Residents can enjoy an early morning hike to the sound of songbirds or enjoy a late afternoon jog to soak up the sunshine.

One of the most scenic views in the Atherton area, Edgewood Park & Nature Preserve offers expansive grassy fields and woodlands. The fields become rich with colorful wildflowers in the spring, and it's one of the best places to witness the incredible blooms that come to California at this time of year. There are 467 acres that make the perfect spot for hiking, trail running, walking, and bird watching.

Venice Beach is one of four beaches comprising Half Moon Bay State Park. Located only a short, 30-minute drive from Atherton, Venice Beach is a perfect spot to enjoy a day along the coast. Whether you want to picnic with a front-row ocean view or you prefer to enjoy fishing or camping, the state park has everything you need to enjoy the beautiful beaches of California.

If you’re an aviation buff, then you’ll enjoy the Hiller Aviation Museum. This museum features many permanent exhibits on the history of aviation, as well as full-size aircraft and a flight simulator. The museum also has exhibits showcasing the possibilities for the future of flight in America, as well as educational programs for students of all ages.

One of the most beautiful hiking areas in Atherton, Teague Hill Open Space Preserve has 626 acres of preserved land. The preserve features the Bay Area Ridge Trail and plenty of space for wildlife spotting and enjoying the amazing scenery. It’s a relatively isolated location with only the Bay Area Ridge Trail, as access keeps the area quiet and secluded.

If your idea of a delightful afternoon includes shopping at luxury brands and dining at quaint cafes, the Standford Shopping Center will be a great fit for your needs. The shopping center features high-end luxury brands like North Face, Apple, Peloton, Bloomingdale’s, Pottery Barn, and more. There are also many locally owned and boutique shops with carefully curated selections of gifts, jewelry, home goods, and everything else you might need.

Tucked into the eastern foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, the Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve is managed by Standford and preserves 1,193 acres of natural land. The area preserves an incredible array of biological diversity, as well as geological and topographic landforms. It provides a research tank for ecologists, as well as a learning center for the public. Tours are led by docents and scientists that help share the beauty of this nature preserve accessible to everyone.

Another lovely option for golf in the Atherton area is the Palo Alto Hills Golf & Country Club. This exclusive club features an 18-hole golf course, a driving range, a stunning pool complex, and a fitness center. The five-star dining options allow members to relax after enjoying the sunny weather and enjoy a glass of the finest wine.

If you’re thinking of searching for houses for sale in Atherton, you’re going to want to work with a great real estate agent. One of the top Atherton real estate agents is Stephanie Von Thaden. Stephanie has extensive experience in the Atherton luxury market and is ready to help you get to know the neighborhood and pick out the perfect property. Contact her today to get started.