Hotels near Winter Lodge
3009 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Hotels near Winter Lodge
Swipe to find hotels on the map.
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The Nest Hotel Palo Alto
- 2
Comfort Inn Palo Alto
- 3
Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto
- 4
Americas Best Value Inn Sky Ranch Palo Alto
- 5
Crowne Plaza Cabana Palo Alto by IHG
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Homewood Suites by Hilton Palo Alto
- 7
Courtyard Palo Alto Los Altos
- 8
Residence Inn Marriott Palo Alto Los Altos
- 9
Hyatt Centric Mountain View
- 10
Hotel Citrine Palo Alto, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
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SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Mountain View
- 12
The Westin Palo Alto
- 13
Sheraton Palo Alto Hotel
- 14
Nobu Hotel Palo Alto
- 15
Residence Inn by Marriott Palo Alto Mountain View
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15 Hotels near Winter Lodge
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The Nest Hotel Palo Alto
Independent hotels deliver expedition support no corporate formula could ever replicate successfully.
- Receive personalized route suggestions from staff familiar with area terrain
- Discover rotating breakfast menus featuring regional ingredients and farm-fresh produce
- Recover fully in thoughtfully curated spaces balancing style with restorative function
Comfort Inn Palo Alto
Supports nature groups with straightforward comfort that lets everyone reset and recharge.
- Select your ideal pillow from soft and firm options
- Keep hydration drinks cold in your private mini-refrigerator
- Maintain fresh gear throughout multi-day nature excursions with laundry access
Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto
Heritage hospitality refined to support guests facing consecutive days in the elements.
- Share stories around crackling fire pits in open air settings
- Access convenient poolside service for food and beverages throughout visits
- Wrap up in plush terry cotton bathrobes between nature excursions
Americas Best Value Inn Sky Ranch Palo Alto
This category leader delivers straightforward stays when the trail calls before sunrise.
- Access dedicated truck and bus parking at convenient highway properties
- Recharge with complimentary continental breakfast spread before exploring nature
- Relax on poolside lounge seating between outdoor adventure sessions
Crowne Plaza Cabana Palo Alto by IHG
Built for the agenda that starts early and rewards the first ones out.
- Wrap up in plush oversized cotton towels after morning exploration
- Hold luggage after checkout for extended bird watching at dawn
- Keep nature exploration wardrobe pristine with expert garment care support available
Homewood Suites by Hilton Palo Alto
The suite-style refuge designed for guests who live outside all day.
- Recline on lounge chairs steps from the sparkling pool
- Refresh completely with Crabtree & Evelyn bath products post-adventure
- Wash dishes effortlessly with the built-in dishwasher after day trips
Booking 9+ rooms? Get group rates.
Courtyard Palo Alto Los Altos
Courtyard operates on outdoor rhythm — early lobby buzz and real workspace.
- Discover multiple outdoor zones designed for relaxed social connection
- Cool off in the refreshing pool after mountain or forest excursions
- Find your perfect sleep position with dual pillow firmness choices
Residence Inn Marriott Palo Alto Los Altos
Full-apartment functionality supports teams who treat the lodge like a temporary home base.
- Luxuriate with Paul Mitchell brand products in generously sized bathrooms
- Store local farmers market finds in spacious refrigerator and freezer
- Arrange clothing in dresser drawers perfect for weeklong park explorations
Hyatt Centric Mountain View
Efficiency-minded travelers find purpose-built support for managing equipment and early mornings.
- Keep outdoor adventurers fed with round-the-clock dining access
- Soothe sore outdoor muscles under the luxurious rainfall shower
- Start every outdoor excursion with locally inspired morning dining
Hotel Citrine Palo Alto, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Built for guests who spend daylight hours outside and collapse grateful.
- Press wrinkled garments quickly before heading to park events
- Coordinate waterfall tour shuttles via concierge transportation arrangement services provided
- Dine at the independent on-site breakfast restaurant before hitting trails
SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Mountain View
Known for straightforward stays that simplify outdoor trip logistics every time.
- Store locally sourced produce in the refrigerator during extended stays
- Clean hiking apparel easily with guest laundry facilities at select locations
- Access trailheads quickly with convenient complimentary parking available daily
The Westin Palo Alto
Known for energizing guests who prioritize movement over sleeping in late.
- Experience custom plush pillow-top mattress designed for deep recovery
- Enjoy minimalist surface spaces for displaying nature photography and mementos
- Enjoy refreshed boots each morning through overnight shoe shine treatments
Sheraton Palo Alto Hotel
Proven consistency serves adventurers who know exactly what recharge looks like.
- Protect trail cameras and equipment in the in-room electronic safe
- Tackle trail-day laundry fast with same-day express service options
- Park conveniently in onsite facilities designed for easy access daily
Nobu Hotel Palo Alto
Refined hospitality serves explorers who demand both wilderness and world-class comfort.
- Fuel morning hikes with Japanese-inspired breakfast dishes and bento boxes
- Relax by outdoor fire pits while recounting the day's discoveries
- Experience infinity-edge pools blending effortlessly with breathtaking horizon views
Residence Inn by Marriott Palo Alto Mountain View
Built for guests who need space to spread out and actually recover.
- Choose down or down-alternative pillows for personalized sleeping comfort
- Store fresh groceries in a full-size refrigerator and freezer unit
- Organize picnic supplies in kitchen pantry cabinets for daily excursions
Winter Lodge Travel Guide
We built this guide so your team doesn't have to figure it all out from a Google search. Neighborhoods, restaurants, game day logistics, local tips — it's all here.
Welcome to Winter Lodge, a beloved ice-skating venue nestled in Palo Alto, California. This guide is designed for skaters, families, and groups looking to make the most of their visit, whether you're here for a public skate session, a private event, or to catch a local hockey game. We’ll help you navigate your arrival, find nearby amenities, and understand the rhythm of a day at Winter Lodge and its surrounding community. Get ready to glide into a fantastic experience with our insider tips on everything from parking to post-skate dining.
Neighborhood Overview
Winter Lodge is situated in the heart of Palo Alto, a vibrant city on the San Francisco Peninsula known for its tech innovation and educational institutions, particularly Stanford University. Located at 3009 Middlefield Road, it benefits from a central position within the city, offering good accessibility. Major thoroughfares like Highway 101 and I-280 are a short drive away, providing access to the wider Bay Area. Parking can be found on-site and in adjacent neighborhood streets, though it can become competitive during peak hours. The closest major airport is San Francisco International Airport (SFO), approximately a 20-30 minute drive north without significant traffic, followed by Oakland International Airport (OAK) and San Jose International Airport (SJC) at similar distances south. Public transit options are available via Caltrain stations in Palo Alto, offering a connection to the greater Bay Area, and local bus routes that serve the immediate vicinity of Middlefield Road. For those driving, aiming to arrive 30-45 minutes before your scheduled skate time is advisable to secure parking and navigate any entry lines, especially on weekends or during special events.
Where to Stay
Palo Alto offers a range of accommodations, with hotel clusters located both downtown and closer to the Stanford University campus, both approximately a 5-10 minute drive from Winter Lodge. While there are no hotels immediately adjacent to the lodge itself, the surrounding neighborhoods provide convenient options. Many visitors opt for hotels near the downtown Palo Alto area, which offers a vibrant atmosphere with shops and restaurants within walking distance, making it a popular choice for families and groups seeking amenities. For those attending events or looking for a campus-adjacent feel, hotels near Stanford are also a strong consideration. Demand for lodging can spike significantly during major community events or popular skating seasons. To secure the best rates and availability, booking accommodation several weeks to months in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend visits. Utilizing map filters that show proximity to Middlefield Road or Palo Alto’s downtown core can help you pinpoint suitable options.
Quick-Plan Overview
Getting There
SFO is the closest major airport, about a 20-30 minute drive away.
Arrival & Parking
Arrive 30-45 minutes early for parking and entry, especially on busy days.
Food & Dining
Downtown Palo Alto offers dining and browsing steps from many hotels.
Culture & History
Explore the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo for indoor family fun.
Food & Dining
The lodge’s lobby or nearby cafes serve as convenient regrouping spots.
- SFO is the closest major airport, about a 20-30 minute drive away.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early for parking and entry, especially on busy days.
- Downtown Palo Alto offers dining and browsing steps from many hotels.
- Explore the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo for indoor family fun.
- The lodge’s lobby or nearby cafes serve as convenient regrouping spots.
Trip Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
As you approach Winter Lodge, anticipate potential congestion on Middlefield Road, particularly during weekend afternoons and evenings. Allow ample travel time to account for local traffic patterns. Once you arrive, head directly to the designated parking areas. If parking is full on-site, you’ll find residential street parking a few blocks away; be mindful of any posted restrictions. Completing the check-in process or picking up any pre-purchased tickets upon arrival will streamline your entry into the facility. This allows you to get your skates on and be ready for your session without feeling rushed.
During the Event
Once on the ice, familiarize yourself with the rink layout and any posted rules for public skating sessions. Skaters of all skill levels share the ice, so maintaining awareness of your surroundings is key. Take advantage of the on-site amenities, including skate rentals and any available concessions for a quick snack or warm beverage. If you're accompanying skaters, the lodge often provides viewing areas where you can relax. Pace yourself during your skate time, taking brief breaks on the benches at the rink's edge if needed, to stay comfortable and enjoy the experience.
Post-Event & Departure
As your skating session concludes, return your rental skates promptly to avoid any late fees. Gather your belongings from the designated areas, ensuring you haven’t left anything behind. Exiting Winter Lodge can involve some waiting time, especially if many sessions end concurrently. Plan your departure to allow for this, particularly if you need to get back on the road. Consider a brief stop at a nearby cafe or restaurant in Palo Alto to discuss your skating adventures or simply relax before heading to your next destination or hotel.
Arrival & Pre-Event
As you approach Winter Lodge, anticipate potential congestion on Middlefield Road, particularly during weekend afternoons and evenings. Allow ample travel time to account for local traffic patterns. Once you arrive, head directly to the designated parking areas. If parking is full on-site, you’ll find residential street parking a few blocks away; be mindful of any posted restrictions. Completing the check-in process or picking up any pre-purchased tickets upon arrival will streamline your entry into the facility. This allows you to get your skates on and be ready for your session without feeling rushed.
During the Event
Once on the ice, familiarize yourself with the rink layout and any posted rules for public skating sessions. Skaters of all skill levels share the ice, so maintaining awareness of your surroundings is key. Take advantage of the on-site amenities, including skate rentals and any available concessions for a quick snack or warm beverage. If you're accompanying skaters, the lodge often provides viewing areas where you can relax. Pace yourself during your skate time, taking brief breaks on the benches at the rink's edge if needed, to stay comfortable and enjoy the experience.
Post-Event & Departure
As your skating session concludes, return your rental skates promptly to avoid any late fees. Gather your belongings from the designated areas, ensuring you haven’t left anything behind. Exiting Winter Lodge can involve some waiting time, especially if many sessions end concurrently. Plan your departure to allow for this, particularly if you need to get back on the road. Consider a brief stop at a nearby cafe or restaurant in Palo Alto to discuss your skating adventures or simply relax before heading to your next destination or hotel.
Things to Do
Walkable
Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo
0.2 miJust a short stroll from Winter Lodge, the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo offers a delightful escape for families with younger children. This charming spot combines an interactive museum with a small, engaging zoo featuring a variety of animals. It’s an ideal place to bring kids for an hour or two of educational fun, with exhibits designed to spark curiosity and imagination. The museum often hosts special activities, making it a dynamic destination for a change of pace. It’s a perfect low-key attraction to pair with a skating session.
El Camino Park
0.5 miEl Camino Park offers a pleasant green space for a leisurely walk or a moment of relaxation near Winter Lodge. This local park features open fields, walking paths, and some play areas, providing a safe and accessible spot to enjoy the California weather. It’s a great place for families to let kids run around after being indoors or for individuals to take a refreshing break. Pack a small picnic or simply enjoy the natural surroundings. It’s a quiet, community-focused amenity that provides a peaceful contrast to the energy of the ice rink.
5–15 Minutes Away
Stanford University Campus
2.5 miA short drive from Winter Lodge, Stanford University's beautiful campus beckons exploration. Wander through the stunning architecture of the Main Quad, visit the Cantor Arts Center for its diverse collections, or enjoy the serene atmosphere of the Hoover Tower. The campus offers numerous walking paths and green spaces perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visitors can also check the university’s event calendar for potential lectures, performances, or sporting events that might be open to the public. It’s a hub of culture, history, and impressive design.
Downtown Palo Alto
1.5 miDowntown Palo Alto, centered around University Avenue, is a bustling area filled with a wide array of shops, boutiques, and galleries. It’s an excellent destination for a stroll, some window shopping, or finding unique souvenirs. The district also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, offering numerous dining options. Whether you're looking for a quick coffee, a casual lunch, or a more upscale dinner, downtown Palo Alto has something to satisfy every craving. Exploring its charming streets provides a classic Bay Area urban experience.
Walkable
- Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo — Just a short stroll from Winter Lodge, the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo offers a delightful escape for families with younger children. This charming spot combines an interactive museum with a small, engaging zoo featuring a variety of animals. It’s an ideal place to bring kids for an hour or two of educational fun, with exhibits designed to spark curiosity and imagination. The museum often hosts special activities, making it a dynamic destination for a change of pace. It’s a perfect low-key attraction to pair with a skating session. 0.2 mi
- El Camino Park — El Camino Park offers a pleasant green space for a leisurely walk or a moment of relaxation near Winter Lodge. This local park features open fields, walking paths, and some play areas, providing a safe and accessible spot to enjoy the California weather. It’s a great place for families to let kids run around after being indoors or for individuals to take a refreshing break. Pack a small picnic or simply enjoy the natural surroundings. It’s a quiet, community-focused amenity that provides a peaceful contrast to the energy of the ice rink. 0.5 mi
5–15 Minutes Away
- Stanford University Campus — A short drive from Winter Lodge, Stanford University's beautiful campus beckons exploration. Wander through the stunning architecture of the Main Quad, visit the Cantor Arts Center for its diverse collections, or enjoy the serene atmosphere of the Hoover Tower. The campus offers numerous walking paths and green spaces perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visitors can also check the university’s event calendar for potential lectures, performances, or sporting events that might be open to the public. It’s a hub of culture, history, and impressive design. 2.5 mi
- Downtown Palo Alto — Downtown Palo Alto, centered around University Avenue, is a bustling area filled with a wide array of shops, boutiques, and galleries. It’s an excellent destination for a stroll, some window shopping, or finding unique souvenirs. The district also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, offering numerous dining options. Whether you're looking for a quick coffee, a casual lunch, or a more upscale dinner, downtown Palo Alto has something to satisfy every craving. Exploring its charming streets provides a classic Bay Area urban experience. 1.5 mi
Food & Drink
Inside & Adjacent
Winter Lodge Cafe
On siteConveniently located within Winter Lodge itself, the on-site cafe is perfect for a quick refreshment before, during, or after your skate. They typically offer a selection of hot and cold beverages, snacks, and light meals suitable for skaters and their companions. It’s the easiest option for grabbing a coffee, hot chocolate, or a simple bite without leaving the facility. This spot is ideal for those moments when you need a little energy boost or a warm drink to take the chill off. [/h4t_card_attraction] [h4t_card_restaurant title="Palo Alto Creamery" link="https://www.paloaltocreamery.com/" note="University Avenue · 1.5 mi"] A beloved local institution, Palo Alto Creamery, is a classic diner and ice cream parlor serving up comfort food favorites and delicious homemade ice cream. Known for its retro ambiance, it’s a family-friendly spot that’s perfect for a casual meal. Enjoy burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes in a lively atmosphere. It’s an ideal location to celebrate a successful skate session or to refuel with hearty fare. Be prepared for potential waits during peak times, as it’s a popular local haunt.
Nearby Gathering Spots
Nola's Cuisine
0.3 miNola's Cuisine offers a taste of authentic New Orleans cooking in a cozy setting, located a short distance from Winter Lodge. This restaurant serves up flavorful dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and po'boys, providing a departure from typical casual fare. It’s a great spot for groups looking for a satisfying and distinctive meal. The warm atmosphere makes it suitable for both families and friends wanting to gather for a flavorful dining experience after a day of activities.
Country Ledge Cafe
0.4 miCountry Ledge Cafe is a neighborhood diner offering a relaxed atmosphere and a menu of American comfort food classics. This spot is known for its approachable dishes, breakfast served all day, and friendly service. It’s a reliable choice for a casual meal, whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, or an early dinner. The setting is unpretentious and welcoming, making it a comfortable place for skaters and their families to unwind and enjoy a straightforward, satisfying meal.
Local & Elevated Picks
Evvia Estiatorio
1.7 miEvvia Estiatorio transports diners to the Greek islands with its vibrant ambiance and authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Specializing in fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes, it offers an upscale yet welcoming dining experience. It’s an excellent choice for a more refined meal, perhaps for a celebration or a dinner with colleagues. The lively atmosphere and well-crafted dishes make it a standout option for those seeking a memorable culinary outing in Palo Alto.
Spruce
1.7 miSpruce provides a sophisticated dining experience with its seasonally inspired, farm-to-table American cuisine and an extensive wine list. The restaurant features elegant decor and a refined setting, making it ideal for special occasions or impressive business dinners. Focusing on high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation, Spruce offers a memorable culinary journey. Its location in downtown Palo Alto places it within easy reach for an evening out after activities.
Inside & Adjacent
- Winter Lodge Cafe — Conveniently located within Winter Lodge itself, the on-site cafe is perfect for a quick refreshment before, during, or after your skate. They typically offer a selection of hot and cold beverages, snacks, and light meals suitable for skaters and their companions. It’s the easiest option for grabbing a coffee, hot chocolate, or a simple bite without leaving the facility. This spot is ideal for those moments when you need a little energy boost or a warm drink to take the chill off. [/h4t_card_attraction] [h4t_card_restaurant title="Palo Alto Creamery" link="https://www.paloaltocreamery.com/" note="University Avenue · 1.5 mi"] A beloved local institution, Palo Alto Creamery, is a classic diner and ice cream parlor serving up comfort food favorites and delicious homemade ice cream. Known for its retro ambiance, it’s a family-friendly spot that’s perfect for a casual meal. Enjoy burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes in a lively atmosphere. It’s an ideal location to celebrate a successful skate session or to refuel with hearty fare. Be prepared for potential waits during peak times, as it’s a popular local haunt. On site
Nearby Gathering Spots
- Nola's Cuisine — Nola's Cuisine offers a taste of authentic New Orleans cooking in a cozy setting, located a short distance from Winter Lodge. This restaurant serves up flavorful dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and po'boys, providing a departure from typical casual fare. It’s a great spot for groups looking for a satisfying and distinctive meal. The warm atmosphere makes it suitable for both families and friends wanting to gather for a flavorful dining experience after a day of activities. 0.3 mi
- Country Ledge Cafe — Country Ledge Cafe is a neighborhood diner offering a relaxed atmosphere and a menu of American comfort food classics. This spot is known for its approachable dishes, breakfast served all day, and friendly service. It’s a reliable choice for a casual meal, whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, or an early dinner. The setting is unpretentious and welcoming, making it a comfortable place for skaters and their families to unwind and enjoy a straightforward, satisfying meal. 0.4 mi
Local & Elevated Picks
- Evvia Estiatorio — Evvia Estiatorio transports diners to the Greek islands with its vibrant ambiance and authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Specializing in fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes, it offers an upscale yet welcoming dining experience. It’s an excellent choice for a more refined meal, perhaps for a celebration or a dinner with colleagues. The lively atmosphere and well-crafted dishes make it a standout option for those seeking a memorable culinary outing in Palo Alto. 1.7 mi
- Spruce — Spruce provides a sophisticated dining experience with its seasonally inspired, farm-to-table American cuisine and an extensive wine list. The restaurant features elegant decor and a refined setting, making it ideal for special occasions or impressive business dinners. Focusing on high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation, Spruce offers a memorable culinary journey. Its location in downtown Palo Alto places it within easy reach for an evening out after activities. 1.7 mi
Local Tips
Traffic on Middlefield Road and El Camino Real can be heavy during weekday commute hours: plan accordingly.
Many residential streets near the lodge have parking restrictions: always check posted signs carefully.
Palo Alto has a strong bike culture: consider cycling if you are staying nearby and weather permits.
Seasonal note: Winter Lodge offers a consistent appeal year-round, but the surrounding Palo Alto climate offers distinct seasonal experiences. Spring and fall bring pleasant, mild weather perfect for exploring the city on foot or enjoying outdoor dining. Summers can be warm, making ice skating a welcome cool-down activity, though indoor options like the museum become more attractive during peak heat. Winters are generally cool and can be rainy, so indoor activities and prioritizing warm clothing for skating are key. Event crowds are typically highest during school breaks and holidays.
- Traffic on Middlefield Road and El Camino Real can be heavy during weekday commute hours plan accordingly.
- Weekend afternoons and evenings are the busiest times at Winter Lodge, especially for public skate sessions.
- Many residential streets near the lodge have parking restrictions always check posted signs carefully.
- Palo Alto has a strong bike culture consider cycling if you are staying nearby and weather permits.
- Public transit via Caltrain is a good option for avoiding traffic, with stations in downtown Palo Alto.
- Seasonal note: Winter Lodge offers a consistent appeal year-round, but the surrounding Palo Alto climate offers distinct seasonal experiences. Spring and fall bring pleasant, mild weather perfect for exploring the city on foot or enjoying outdoor dining. Summers can be warm, making ice skating a welcome cool-down activity, though indoor options like the museum become more attractive during peak heat. Winters are generally cool and can be rainy, so indoor activities and prioritizing warm clothing for skating are key. Event crowds are typically highest during school breaks and holidays.
Weather & Seasons
Winter
Expect cool to chilly temperatures in Palo Alto during winter, with average highs in the low 60s°F and lows in the high 40s°F. Layers are essential for skating, including a long-sleeved shirt, sweater, and a wind-resistant jacket. You’ll want warm socks for your skates and potentially gloves. Rain is common, so be prepared for damp conditions when traveling to and from the lodge.
Spring & early summer
Spring weather offers mild and pleasant conditions, with temperatures gradually warming into the 70s°F. Early summer remains comfortable before the peak heat. Light jackets or sweaters are useful for cooler mornings and evenings, while daytime attire can be lighter. Outdoor activities are enjoyable, and the weather is generally conducive to getting to and from the lodge without much disruption.
Mid-summer
Mid-summer in Palo Alto can bring warmer temperatures, often reaching into the 80s°F and sometimes higher. While the ice rink remains a cool oasis, outdoor excursions require heat-appropriate clothing and hydration. Sun protection is important for any time spent outside before or after skating. The warmth makes indoor, climate-controlled venues like Winter Lodge particularly appealing.
Fall season
Fall brings a comfortable transition with crisp air and temperatures settling back into the 60s and 70s°F. It's an ideal time for outdoor exploration and comfortable travel to the lodge. Layers remain a good strategy, with a light jacket or sweater often sufficient for warmth. The changing foliage can add a scenic element to your journey through Palo Alto.
Rain & snow
Snow is extremely rare in Palo Alto. Rain, however, is a common feature of the winter months and can occur at other times. During rainy periods, expect cooler, damp conditions. Waterproof outerwear, umbrellas, and appropriate footwear for wet surfaces are advisable. Traffic can be slower during heavy rain, so factor this into your travel time to Winter Lodge.
Winter
Expect cool to chilly temperatures in Palo Alto during winter, with average highs in the low 60s°F and lows in the high 40s°F. Layers are essential for skating, including a long-sleeved shirt, sweater, and a wind-resistant jacket. You’ll want warm socks for your skates and potentially gloves. Rain is common, so be prepared for damp conditions when traveling to and from the lodge.
Spring & early summer
Spring weather offers mild and pleasant conditions, with temperatures gradually warming into the 70s°F. Early summer remains comfortable before the peak heat. Light jackets or sweaters are useful for cooler mornings and evenings, while daytime attire can be lighter. Outdoor activities are enjoyable, and the weather is generally conducive to getting to and from the lodge without much disruption.
Mid-summer
Mid-summer in Palo Alto can bring warmer temperatures, often reaching into the 80s°F and sometimes higher. While the ice rink remains a cool oasis, outdoor excursions require heat-appropriate clothing and hydration. Sun protection is important for any time spent outside before or after skating. The warmth makes indoor, climate-controlled venues like Winter Lodge particularly appealing.
Fall season
Fall brings a comfortable transition with crisp air and temperatures settling back into the 60s and 70s°F. It's an ideal time for outdoor exploration and comfortable travel to the lodge. Layers remain a good strategy, with a light jacket or sweater often sufficient for warmth. The changing foliage can add a scenic element to your journey through Palo Alto.
Rain & snow
Snow is extremely rare in Palo Alto. Rain, however, is a common feature of the winter months and can occur at other times. During rainy periods, expect cooler, damp conditions. Waterproof outerwear, umbrellas, and appropriate footwear for wet surfaces are advisable. Traffic can be slower during heavy rain, so factor this into your travel time to Winter Lodge.
Venue Facts
Primary facility
Winter Lodge
Neighborhood
Midtown / South Palo Alto
Nearest airport
SFO (San Francisco International)
Parking
On-site lot and street parking
Walkable district
Limited adjacent; Downtown Palo Alto is a short drive
Groceries & supplies
Safeway or Trader Joe's nearby
Pharmacy
CVS or Walgreens within a mile
Urgent care
Palo Alto Medical Foundation Urgent Care
Downtime
El Camino Park or local cafes
Pro tip
Book public skate sessions online in advance, especially on weekends or holidays.
| Primary facility | Winter Lodge |
| Neighborhood | Midtown / South Palo Alto |
| Nearest airport | SFO (San Francisco International) |
| Parking | On-site lot and street parking |
| Walkable district | Limited adjacent; Downtown Palo Alto is a short drive |
| Groceries & supplies | Safeway or Trader Joe's nearby |
| Pharmacy | CVS or Walgreens within a mile |
| Urgent care | Palo Alto Medical Foundation Urgent Care |
| Downtime | El Camino Park or local cafes |
| Pro tip | Book public skate sessions online in advance, especially on weekends or holidays. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Real questions travelers ask before booking near Winter Lodge — answered with the specifics you actually need.
Questions Travelers Ask What people want to know before booking near Winter Lodge
What are the closest hotels to Winter Lodge?
The closest hotel to Winter Lodge is The Nest Hotel Palo Alto (0.19 mi, from $431/night) — a 2-minute drive. Other nearby options include Comfort Inn Palo Alto (0.32 mi, from $138/night) and Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto (1.23 mi, from $451/night). Comfort Inn Palo Alto offers free breakfast, a pool, and a fitness center. Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto offers free breakfast, a pool, and a fitness center.
Are there extended-stay hotels near Winter Lodge?
Yes — Homewood Suites by Hilton Palo Alto (1.77 mi, from $514/night), Residence Inn Marriott Palo Alto Los Altos (2.16 mi, from $537/night), and Residence Inn by Marriott Palo Alto Mountain View (4.28 mi, from $589/night) are all extended-stay properties near Winter Lodge, with full kitchens and on-site laundry.
Are there budget-friendly hotels near Winter Lodge?
Yes — Americas Best Value Inn Sky Ranch Palo Alto (1.4 mi, from $136/night) is a budget-friendly option near Winter Lodge, with free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking.
Are there any walkable hotels near Winter Lodge?
Yes — 2 hotels are within walking distance: The Nest Hotel Palo Alto (0.19 mi, from $431/night) and Comfort Inn Palo Alto (0.32 mi, from $138/night). The closest is about a 4-minute walk.
Which hotels near Winter Lodge are good for families?
Several hotels near Winter Lodge are well-suited for families. Comfort Inn Palo Alto (0.32 mi, from $138/night), Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto (1.23 mi, from $451/night), and Americas Best Value Inn Sky Ranch Palo Alto (1.4 mi, from $136/night) all offer connecting rooms, a pool, complimentary breakfast, and on-site laundry. Comfort Inn Palo Alto also has suites. Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto also has suites.
Hotel Amenities & Features Pools, breakfast, pet policies, and more
Which hotels near Winter Lodge are pet-friendly?
Comfort Inn Palo Alto (0.32 mi, from $138/night), Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto (1.23 mi, from $451/night), and Americas Best Value Inn Sky Ranch Palo Alto (1.4 mi, from $136/night) accept pets. Fee policies vary by property.
Which hotels near Winter Lodge offer free parking?
Comfort Inn Palo Alto (0.32 mi, from $138/night), Americas Best Value Inn Sky Ranch Palo Alto (1.4 mi, from $136/night), and Homewood Suites by Hilton Palo Alto (1.77 mi, from $514/night) offer complimentary parking.
Which hotels near Winter Lodge offer free breakfast?
Comfort Inn Palo Alto (0.32 mi, from $138/night), Americas Best Value Inn Sky Ranch Palo Alto (1.4 mi, from $136/night), and Homewood Suites by Hilton Palo Alto (1.77 mi, from $514/night) include complimentary breakfast.
Which hotels near Winter Lodge have a full in-room kitchen?
Homewood Suites by Hilton Palo Alto (1.77 mi, from $514/night), Residence Inn Marriott Palo Alto Los Altos (2.16 mi, from $537/night), and Residence Inn by Marriott Palo Alto Mountain View (4.28 mi, from $589/night) offer rooms with a full kitchen — stove, full-size fridge, and dishwasher.
Which hotels near Winter Lodge have laundry facilities?
Comfort Inn Palo Alto (0.32 mi, from $138/night), Hilton Garden Inn Palo Alto (1.23 mi, from $451/night), and Americas Best Value Inn Sky Ranch Palo Alto (1.4 mi, from $136/night) have guest laundry facilities on-site.
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