Welcome to Atherton
Beginning in the flatlands, then moving westward to the hills by Highway 280, Atherton is noted for its heritage trees and park like setting. With its picturesque streets and average lot size of one acre, Atherton residents cherish their small, quiet community. This serene atmosphere has consistently made Atherton one of the most sought after and most expensive addresses in the country.
In the mid-1800’s, the town of Atherton originated as a place for summer homes of wealthy pioneering San Francisco families. Some of the most notable streets are named after the original distinguished residents, such as Faxon Dean Atherton and Thomas Selby. The spirit of innovation, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy still define the town’s residents of today as it has done for over 200 years.
Atherton is conveniently situated minutes from the downtown Menlo Park shopping district and just a short drive from the bustling downtowns of Palo Alto and Redwood City. Several private schools call Atherton home and the private Menlo Circus Club provides a swim, tennis, and equestrian venue for local residents. Despite its small size, the town has abundant open space and has its own library and community facilities, including the beautiful Holbrook-Palmer Park.
Over the years, the prestigious Town of Atherton has managed to preserve its charming character as a world apart, in the heart of Silicon Valley.
Neighborhoods
Lindenwood
Linden Towers originally stood at the center of Lindenwood. An opulent mansion completed by silver tycoon James C. Flood in 1880, the estate boasted gorgeous gardens, arbors, orchards and majestic heritage trees, many of which still stand today. Some other artifacts remain huge urns, fountains, statues, quaint streetlights and dramatic columns.
Middlefield to El Camino
Within walking distance of the Town of Atherton’s civic core and Holbrook-Palmer Park, the Middlefield to El Camino area provides easy access to tennis courts, play-structures and open fields where Fourth of July parades, Easter egg hunts, summer music, plays, and other community activities are held.
West Atherton
There is no shortage of space and peacefulness in West Atherton. Large lots and lanes without sidewalks contribute to the rural feel. The landscape is evolving, with many of the grand estates and former one-level ranch homes replaced by newer homes of 10,000 square feet or more, often with basements and guest houses.
West of Alameda
The area between Alameda de Las Pulgas and Highway 280 is characterized by low hills and abundant trees, interspersed with generously sized, well-spaced homes. The neighborhood boasts the privacy of a more rural community, and the views to go with it, while benefitting from the convenience of living in Atherton.
