Life in the Bay Area
With easy access to San Francisco and a host of outdoor attractions, Stanford is a great place to train. The diversity of things to see and do in the Bay Area fosters an innovative, entrepreneurial, and creative environment that encourages students to think big and pursue original ideas. Thanks to our beautiful weather, it is a mix that we experience every day.
Stanford regularly draws world-class speakers and performers. Meanwhile, downtown Palo Alto provides a host of restaurants, coffee shops, and retail within walking distance. Outdoor events—including a weekly farmers market on the edge of campus—flourish in our mild climate.
San Francisco
San Francisco is a drive (or train ride) away and a cultural destination for festivals, clubs, concerts, ballet, theater, opera, museums, sporting events, restaurants, water sports, wildlife spotting, and sight-seeing. If you don't mind the cooler, windier weather and longer commute, you may be rewarded with a vibrant, urban living experience.
Bay Area Cities
The adjacent city of Palo Alto has a beautiful downtown with diverse shops, restaurants and events like farmers markets to keep you busy. Many fellows live in the nearby cities of Mountain View, Redwood City, or slightly further out. Learn more about the pros and cons of where fellows live.
Stanford Community
As a member of the Stanford community, you have access to all University events and "the farm's" park-like campus with orchards, gardens, fountains, hiking trails over rolling hills that offer glimpses of horses, hawks and cows grazing, as well as a lively culture of performing arts and committment to diversity.
Childcare Resources
Searching for childcare options, emergency care, or other helpful websites/apps? Need child-friendly suggestions for camps, weekend activities, etc.? Here is a collection of childcare resources!
Transportation
Whether you’re coming from near or far, Stanford Parking & Transportation Services got you covered. Bike, carpool, or transit – we can help you find the best way to get to, from, and around campus.
More Activities
Art enthusiasts will enjoy touring the galleries at the Cantor Arts Center, the Anderson Collection, the Stanford Art Gallery. Consider having a picnic in the Oval, visiting the Arizona Cactus Garden, or walking at The Dish.