On December 13, 2025, ahead of our official opening in Spring 2026, the Palo Alto Museum welcomed over 500 visitors for a Community Sneak Peek and Open House. Neighbors, families, students, and people from across Palo Alto and the Bay Area explored our plans and shared their ideas. Thank you to everyone who joined us and brought your energy and enthusiasm—you helped show the exciting promise of a new museum built by, with, and for the community.
Exploring 7 Little Big Ideas
Visitors took a first look at plans for the Museum’s 7 Little Big Ideas–engaging prototype exhibitions, experiences, and events planned to debut when the Museum opens in Spring 2026 and beyond. Thanks to everyone who shared input, filling boards with hundreds of ideas and comments–and even photos and drawings– throughout the galleries.
Celebrating Palo Alto Stories with Wyn Wachhorst
Award-winning Stanford historian Wyn Wachhorst joined us to sign copies of A Town Like No Other: Palo Alto Stories, the Museum’s first book publication. Attendees met Wyn, picked up books, and celebrated the stories that make Palo Alto unique.
Cookies, Courtyard Conversations, and a Little Fun
Our courtyard buzzed with conversation, cookies, and community connection. As part of the celebration, the Museum held a drawing with these prize winners:
- Masaya Hayashi, May-ling Gonzales, and David Hanzel won “Museum in Your Pocket” posters
- Peter Cross and Rhonda Lee won signed copies of A Town Like No Other
- Stirling Watson won a commemorative, personalized engraved brick to be placed in the Museum front courtyard
Board members, including CEO Marguerite Gong Hancock, were on hand all day, welcoming visitors and sharing what’s ahead.
Looking Ahead Together
Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the Community Open House so fun and memorable. We’re excited to continue building the Palo Alto Museum together and opening our doors this Spring!
Four Ways to Get Involved
- Stay Connected: Sign up here for updates to be part of what’s coming next.
- Buy a Book: Purchase A Town Like No Other: Palo Alto Stories through our online store. All proceeds support the Museum: https://paloaltomuseum.org/museum-shop/
- Join the Team: See opportunities for dynamic careers here or email info@paloaltomuseum.org to learn about volunteering.
- Support the Museum’s Opening: Help bring to life dynamic inaugural exhibits, events and experiences: https://paloaltomuseum.org/donate-exhibits-and-experiences/