Cowper Inn

The Cowper Inn is a historic turn-of-the-century Victorian home in the city of Palo Alto. Built by a local coal merchant and over time became the property of Dr. Effie York. She owned the house from 1911 until 1937, and was Palo Alto’s first osteopath (advanced chiropractor). She conducted her practice from her home until her retirement in 1937. During the 1920’s and 1930’s, she used the house as a club for Filipino students attending Stanford University.

The next owner, Mrs. Elise Bailey Stone, changed the house to include apartments. She first lived in one of the apartments and later in the main house until she moved to a nursing home in 1957. There were several owners of the property from 1958 until 1986 when they were purchased by Peggy and John Woodworth. At that time, Peggy who had just retired as a teacher, found this beautiful property and fulfilled her passion of owning a beautiful home over hundred years old. Thus, this property began its new life as Cowper Inn, a unique Palo Alto hotel. Throughout the past 25 years, Peggy and John put their hearts and souls into running it as a bed and breakfast. It has been serving and accommodating travelers from all over the world.

After Peggy and John decided to retire in May 2007, we Cowperwell, LLC, are fortunate to have this opportunity to continue their legacy in serving the guests of the Cowper Inn. Since late 2020, as a result of the Covid 19 pandemic, the Cowper Inn has since become a boutique hotel, no longer offering the daily breakfast. Looking into the future, Cowper Inn is committed to bring continued improvements and renovations. Dedicated to excellence, we strive to offer you not only the Inn’s historic cultural heritage but also a comfortable and enjoyable traveling experience.

We invite you to come learn more about us and stay with us to experience a time of refinement and elegance.