Big Things Are Coming!
UPDATE ON MUSEUM OPENING
The Palo Alto Museum is postponing its opening due to water intrusion in our historic landmark building that requires further assessment and repair. We are working closely with the City of Palo Alto to finalize next steps. Behind the scenes, exhibits and programming continue moving forward.
After the repair scope and schedule are approved, we look forward to sharing a new opening date. Thank you for your continued involvement and support to bring the Museum to life.
Community Sneak Peek & Open House
Before opening to the public, the Palo Alto Museum opened its doors to the community. More than 500 neighbors, families, and students joined us for a Community Sneak Peek and Open House to explore early exhibit ideas, share feedback, and celebrate Palo Alto stories together. Take a look inside the day that showed the promise of a museum built by, with, and for the community.
Exciting News: Former State Senator Joe Simitian Joins the Palo Alto Museum as Honorary Chair
We’re thrilled to welcome State Senator Joe Simitian (Ret.) as Honorary Chair of the Palo Alto Museum. Over four decades in public service, Joe has served as President of the Palo Alto School Board, Mayor of Palo Alto, Santa Clara County Supervisor, State Assembly member, and State Senator. Learn more about Joe and his role to help the Museum continue to move boldly into the future.
Meet Our President and CEO
We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Marguerite Gong Hancock as the inaugural President & CEO of the Palo Alto Museum — a position made possible through a generous founding leadership gift from the Thoits family. A dynamic civic innovator, proven museum executive, and visionary leader, Marguerite brings decades of experience at the intersection of history, technology, culture and community engagement.
With deep local roots and global expertise, she is the ideal person to lead the Museum into an exciting new era as we prepare to open our doors in 2026 and beyond.
Newsletter
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IN THE NEWS
See what media are saying about the Museum
“Renaissance woman” Juana Briones imbues Palo Alto Museum with history, pride
When Juana Briones built her home in 1844 in the rolling hills above what was to become Palo Alto, she might have known its construction could weather the years…
Good Company
The Palo Alto Museum has added a familiar name, Joe Simitian, to its roster of Honorary Chairs as it gets closer to its opening next spring…
A Historic Addition
The Palo Alto Museum, which is scheduled to open at the historic Roth Building next spring, this week welcomed a new member to its team of civic leaders…
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Get the latest updates about exhibits, milestones, and museum news.
Update on Museum Opening
The Palo Alto Museum is postponing its opening due to water intrusion in our historic building
Community Sneak Peek & Open House
On December 13, 2025, ahead of our official opening in 2026, the Palo Alto Museum welcomed over 500 visitors for a Community Sneak Peek and
Former State Senator Joe Simitian Joins the Palo Alto Museum as Honorary Chair
We’re thrilled to welcome State Senator Joe Simitian (Ret.) as Honorary Chair of the Palo Alto Museum.
WAYS TO GIVE
Make a gift to help open the Palo Alto Museum.
Steve Jobs & Palo Alto
Explore the iconic story of Steve Jobs’ influence and connection to Palo Alto.
Learn more
Exciting New Chapter in Leadership at the Palo Alto Museum
As we prepare to open our doors to the public, we’re reflecting with gratitude and looking ahead with excitement. We honor the incredible service of our outgoing Board members—especially longtime leader Rich Green—and welcome a dynamic group of new officers and directors bringing fresh energy and expertise to our mission.
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