We lived in Palo Alto, CA from August 2007 to July 2009. This week we were back in town to catch up with some friends and stayed at the Cowper Inn (705, Cowper St). If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Silicon Valley, there are worse places to be at than the Cowper Inn. We deliberately did not want to stay at one of the chain hotels (the Westin’s Heavenly Bed is good but not that good) and the Cowper Inn seemed like it would meet our needs as it’s located very close to University Avenue and so offers easy access to restaurants, etc. (and even the Apple Store so we could see the queues assembling for the iPad last Saturday).

Joji, the owner/manager, makes staying at the Inn very easy. She’s a friendly person who makes every attempt to make you feel at home. The rooms are all individual and while the plumbing makes interesting noises at times, everything works as it should.

All in all, somewhere that’s recommended.