Introduction to Atherton, California
Atherton, California, in San Mateo county, is 2 miles SE of Redwood City, California (center to center) and 18 miles NW of San Jose, California. The city is situated along a peninsula between San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. It's regarded as one of the wealthiest cities in the nation and is included in the San Francisco metropolitan area.
The scenic, rural residential community is filled with attractive oak trees, pines, redwoods and cedars and includes a lot of open space. There are no industries or business establishments located within the city limits. Holbrook-Palmer Park is a picturesque location and hosts numerous events.
Atherton History
In the early days, the entire region was part of the Rancho de las Pulgas. Years later, it was part of Menlo Park. The community was originally known as Fair Oaks but was incorporated as Atherton in 1923. The city was named in tribute to Faxon Dean Atherton, one of the region's initial property owners. With the arrival of the railroad, a large number of San Francisco residents constructed summer homes in Atherton. The community originally consisted of large estates but during the 1940's and 1950's smaller lots consisting of one acre or more were created.
Nearby Attractions
The Filoli Center, Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo, Carolands Mansion, the Museum of American Heritage and the Hiller Aviation Museum are located in the area. The Sanchez Adobe, Crocker Mansion, Cantor Center and the Palo Alto Cultural Center of Visual Arts are noteworthy destinations.
Atherton Activities
The region features numerous scenic hiking trails. The San Francisco Bay Wildlife Refuge, San Bruno Mountain, the forest acreage on the Montara Mountain block, Fitzgerald Marine Reserve and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area are popular with wildlife enthusiasts. Residents have opportunities for a variety of activities and entertainment in San Francisco and San Jose.
Atherton Higher Education
Stanford University and Menlo College are close by.
Atherton Transportation
Air travel is offered at the San Francisco International Airport.
