Weekend playbook · family-made
A NOLA-flavored Peninsula playbook for Stanford move-in week
Live the next week like it’s Mardi Gras — just with better weather, earlier brunch, and a Caltrain schedule.
Staying in San Carlos for Stanford move-in? It’s Geaux Time with the Fralicks — a slightly biased local guide to food stops, hikes, downtown strolls, coastside drives, sports bars, family meetups, and easy Peninsula wins while you’re here.
Two easy miles or a proper ridge climb — plus the most beautiful gardens on the Peninsula.
Narrow it down
When
What
Mood & effort
7 ideas
Garden / Easy Local Stop
San Mateo
Why go?
Close, pretty, low-stress, and a great way to see something lovely without committing to a long hike or major drive.
Medium Walk
Stanford / Palo Alto
Why go?
The iconic paved loop in the Stanford hills — exercise plus a great view.
Gardens / Estate
Woodside
Why go?
One of the signature Peninsula outings: a historic estate with spectacular formal gardens.
Easy Hike
San Carlos
Why go?
The closest real open space to San Carlos — a quick nature hit with views.
Easy / Medium Hike
Redwood City / San Carlos
Why go?
Grassland, ridge views, and loops you can make as short or long as you like.
Harder Hike
Portola Valley
Why go?
The real one: a solid climb to ridgeline views over the whole Peninsula.
Beach
San Gregorio
Why go?
A quiet, wide, wind-swept beach two minutes from the general store.