San Mateo, CA

San Mateo, CA

Peninsula heartland where tech meets suburban charm

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Things to know

Discover San Mateo.

Central Park & Japanese Garden

Central Park & Japanese Garden

Nature

A sprawling urban oasis featuring the serene, traditional Japanese Tea Garden with koi ponds and a pagoda. The larger park offers lawns, playgrounds, and a historic rose garden, making it a perfect spot for a quiet stroll or a family picnic.

Downtown Dining Scene

Downtown Dining Scene

Food

Bursting with culinary diversity along B Street and 3rd/4th Avenues, from authentic ramen at Ramen Dojo and upscale Californian fare at Pausa to classic Italian at Trattoria Mezzaluna. The area buzzes with energy, especially during weekend brunch.

Hillsdale Shopping Center

Hillsdale Shopping Center

Shopping

A premier, open-air shopping destination anchored by Nordstrom and Macy's, featuring a curated mix of high-end retailers, popular brands, and dining options. It's a go-to for Peninsula residents seeking a comprehensive and pleasant shopping experience.

Coyote Point Recreation Area

Coyote Point Recreation Area

Sports

A 670-acre bayside park offering stunning views of the San Francisco skyline. Home to the CuriOdyssey museum and wildlife center, a marina, a protected beach, and miles of trails perfect for walking, windsurfing, or flying kites on the breezy point.

San Mateo County History Museum

San Mateo County History Museum

Culture

Housed in the beautifully restored 1910 Old Courthouse, this museum delves into the Peninsula's past from Ohlone settlements to the rise of Silicon Valley. Its rotating exhibits and historic courtroom offer a deep dive into local heritage and architecture.

Bay Meadows Nightlife

Bay Meadows Nightlife

Nightlife

The modern Bay Meadows development offers a sophisticated after-dark scene. Enjoy craft cocktails at The Office, local brews at Fieldwork Brewing Company, or catch a live performance at the intimate Broadway by the Bay theater venue.

things to do

Things to Do in San Mateo

San Mateo offers a balanced mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and urban exploration, all blessed with more sunny days than its foggy neighbors.

Walk the Sawyer Camp Trail

Nature

This scenic, paved trail runs along the Crystal Springs Reservoir, offering flat, accessible walking, running, and biking with beautiful water and hill views. It's a local favorite for a dose of nature without leaving the city limits.

Visit the Peninsula Museum of Art

Culture

Located in the historic Belmont train station building, this free museum showcases contemporary works by local and regional artists. It's a fantastic spot to discover the vibrant visual arts scene of the Peninsula.

Explore the San Mateo Farmers' Market

Food

Held every Saturday downtown, this bustling market features fresh, local produce, artisan foods, and ready-to-eat treats. It's the community's weekly gathering spot and the best place to taste the region's agricultural bounty.

Play a Round at Poplar Creek Golf Course

Sports

This well-maintained, public 18-hole course is known for its challenging layout and beautiful setting against the foothills. It's a popular and accessible spot for golfers of all skill levels.

Browse Downtown's Independent Shops

Shopping

Stroll along B Street and side avenues to discover unique boutiques, bookstores like M is for Mystery, and specialty shops. It's the antidote to big-box shopping, offering one-of-a-kind finds and personal service.

Spend a Day at CuriOdyssey

Family

Located in Coyote Point Park, this hands-on science museum and wildlife center lets kids interact with exhibits and observe native animals like river otters and bobcats. It's both educational and wildly entertaining for young explorers.

neighborhoods

Neighborhoods to Explore

San Mateo's neighborhoods range from historic, tree-lined streets to modern, master-planned communities, each with its own distinct character and appeal.

Central San Mateo

Historic & Central

The historic heart of the city, featuring classic California bungalows, the grand homes along El Camino Real, and immediate proximity to Central Park and Downtown. It's a walkable, established area with deep roots.

Baywood

Upscale & Leafy

An affluent, serene neighborhood known for its large, elegant homes, quiet, winding streets, and top-rated schools. It offers a secluded, park-like atmosphere just minutes from the downtown core.

Bay Meadows

Modern & Mixed-Use

A new, transit-oriented development built on the site of the old racetrack. It features modern apartments, townhomes, parks, tech offices, and its own retail and dining district, creating a live-work-play environment.

Shoreview

Waterfront & Active

Nestled near the bay and Coyote Point, this area offers more moderate weather, marina views, and easy access to waterfront trails and parks. It's popular with sailors, windsurfers, and those seeking an active, outdoorsy lifestyle.

Fiesta Gardens

Suburban & Family-Friendly

A classic, mid-century suburban neighborhood centered around its namesake park and highly-regarded elementary school. It's characterized by well-kept homes, friendly block parties, and a strong sense of community.

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