As one of my favorite spots in Palo Alto, Stanford Shopping Center is a one stop shop for your fitness, food and of course shopping needs. It’s also pretty photogenic if you ask me. It was actually featured my Most Instagrammable Spots in Palo Alto Guide! But for today, I teamed up with Stanford Shop to create the perfect day trip itinerary! Keep reading for my Day trip to Palo Alto, CA: Stanford Shopping Center guide.
Day trip to Palo Alto, CA: Stanford Shopping Center
Stop 1: Take a fitness class at Barry’s Bootcamp
I was really excited to try Barry’s Boot Camp since I’d heard that it was an amazing workout. Unfortunately, I sprained my back right the week before the class and couldn’t try it. But don’t worry, I’ll be back!
About the class: The class is an hour and includes cardio on treadmills and strength training on mats with weights. You can learn more about the workout here.
About the studio: The studio offers all sorts of perks that come with your class. State of the art showers with everything you need (towels, shampoo, etc.), as well as a shopping corner to pick out new work out clothes, and my favorite aspect – the Fuel Bar. (We’ll get into that in the next section).
Stop 2: Re-energize with a protein shake at the Fuel Bar
Now – this was something I did get to try. I felt a little bad skipping straight to the best part, the protein shakes. The Fuel Bar is open to the general public, even if you’re not planning to take a class. It’s super aesthetic and make for a great breakfast on the go.
For those taking the class: I was excited to learn that you can PRE-ORDER your drink so it’s ready for you right after class. Talk about awesome service!
What we ordered: I ordered the Barry’s & Brunch, and my friend ordered the Skinny B****- two of the more popular drinks. They also have a few drinks that rotate seasonally.
Stop 3: Book a styling session with one of Anthropologie’s stylists
After filling up on protein shakes we headed over to Anthropologie. Low-key this has always been one of my favorite stores at Stanford Shopping Center. It’s my go to for amazing aesthetic, picking up gifts, and I love the Terraine store inside. We had a styling session with one of the stylists, Lauren who was the sweetest, let me tell you! She picked out quite a few pieces I loved, but I was most obsessed with that dress above which you can find here.
About their styling sessions: They take walk-ins and appointments. This is ideal if you’re like me and you get easily overwhelmed by the options when you walk in the door. It’s better to make an appointment and provide the stylist with some ideas of your style, sizes, etc. Note: you can learn more about the sessions here, and they’re completely complimentary.
Stop 4: Get a blow out at Hair International
Hair International not only offers blowouts, but cut & color as well! Nothing says “I feel glam and am ready for lunch” like a good hair styling. I opted for a simple beach wave with some volume.
Stop 5: Grab lunch at Terraine Cafe
Remember what I said about being obsessed with Anthropologie? I wasn’t joking! We went back for lunch at the Terraine Cafe. Very few locations also have this cafe, so I always feel spoiled coming to Stanford Shopping Center.
About Terraine Cafe: They call themselves a “greenhouse cafe” as on the inside you feel like you’re in one big garden. The menu is always revolving based on what is available seasonally.
What we ordered: For appetizers we went for a variety of their toasts including the salmon, burrata, and avocado. For main courses we opted for fresh salads. I especially loved my “Little Gem” salad with chicken.
Stop 6: Afternoon pick-me-up at Nespresso
Am I even Italian if I don’t have my afternoon espresso? After lunch we headed to the Nespresso Boutique for a tasting. We tested some of their new capsules and learned about the latest products. I’ve had my eye on a machine for a while (mom I’ve been eyeing yours) so who knows what my Christmas wish list might include!
Stop 7: Shop til you drop!
Of course I spent the rest of the day shopping. Imagine leaving the mall empty handed. I started my official shopping afternoon with trips to Free People & Lush to see the latest items they had in. You know I had to get a bath bomb (or 3).
There you have it! My guide for how to spend your day at the mall.
Disclaimer: this post was sponsored by Stanford Shopping Center & Simon Malls, but all opinions are my own.
