“Felton Gables is a exceptionally remarkable neighborhood and truly one of Menlo Park’s finest.”
The tiny neighborhood of Felton Gables is almost completely surrounded by Atherton and yet, was somehow overlooked when the town incorporated in 1923. Thus, Menlo Park is lucky to claim it among its singular boroughs.
Once the site of Senator Charles Norton Felton’s estate, Felton Gables spans the width of Holbrook-Palmer Park and includes only four residential streets. Characterized by tall trees, picket fences and its annual neighborhood Halloween party, Felton Gables includes 115 homes, a timeless mix of Craftsman’s, Midwestern, English cottages, some California ranchers, and a few pre-1930s houses, thought to be guest or caretaker cottages from the Felton estate. New construction is rare here, thanks in large part to rigorous zoning restrictions.
Encinal Avenue is the single entry and exit point for Felton Gables and Holbrook-Palmer Park is considered by most to be an extension of their backyards. Encinal Elementary is just outside the neighborhood boundaries and downtown is a 20-minute stroll or a 10-minute bicycle ride away. With its large, 10,000 square foot lots, bountiful mature trees and quiet quality of life, this leafy, sophisticated borough is an elegant feather in Menlo Park’s cap.
Neighborhood Price Point
$1,400,000 – $3,600,000
Favorable Attributes
- A tiny yet sophisicated borough with a timeless blend of architectural styles
- Holbrook-Palmer Park is an extension of residents’ backyards
- Large 10,000 square foot lots boasting bountiful mature trees and picket fences
- Downtown shopping district is easily accessible
- Access to the award-winning Encinal Elementary
History of Felton Gables, Menlo Park
One of two Menlo Park districts named after a grand estate, Felton Gables was shaped from the land once owned by U.S. Representative and Senator Charles Norton Felton. Felton became the Treasurer of the U.S. Mint in San Francisco in 1870, which is also when he built his impressive estate in this unincorporated area of Menlo Park. Although his career often took him far from home, Felton maintained his Menlo Park estate until his death in 1913.
Felton’s mansion was known for its lavish and intricate landscaping as well as its high-level of entertaining. At least three Presidents along with the Prince of Wales (who later became King Edward VII) were among those who visited Felton Gables.
Felton’s estate was the precursor of today’s timeless borough of Felton Gables, which offers a extraordinarily eclectic blend of dwellings set among spacious, wooded lots.