Stanford enjoys a reputation for athletics almost as great as its rep for academics, which makes it a great spot to enjoy some spectator sports. While the high-profile men’s football and basketball teams tend to toil, the so-called lesser sports and women’s teams excel.

The women’s basketball program is legendary, as is the men’s baseball team. The golf team boasts Tiger Woods as an alumnus, and more than a few Olympians have swum in the pools and run on the tracks. For a good match, meet, or game, check the year’s schedule at www.stanford.edu/home/athletics.

After a long day of exploring the Stanford campus, hiking the Dish, and touring SLAC, an hour or two in a gorgeous tiled hot tub followed by a luxurious spa treatment makes the perfect end to the day.

Watercourse Way (165 Channing Ave., 650/462-2000, www.watercourseway.com, Sun.–Thurs. 8 a.m.–11:30 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 8 a.m.–12:30 a.m., tubs $18–28/ person/hour) enjoys the title of the Silicon Valley’s premier day spa. Former 49er (and Raider) Jerry Rice has been seen there on occasion. Even without the celebrity endorsement, this spa stands out in its amazing tiled tub rooms, range of treatments, and array of top-tier products. Each rentable hot tub room boasts unique and serene decor. The spa treatments are reasonably priced (relatively), and the pampering is second to none.