Discover the city of Millbrae, CA on The San Francisco Peninsula. Located between San Bruno and Burlingame, Millbrae offers visitors beautiful views of the bay, great restaurants, year-round events and easy access to San Francisco, SFO and Silicon Valley. Plan your trip today!

Discover Millbrae, CA - Your Bayside Getaway On The San Francisco Peninsula

Nestled between San Bruno and Burlingame on the bayside of The San Francisco Peninsula, sits the city of Millbrae, CA. With long summers and short winters, 

Millbrae is a great destination to visit year-round. And with close proximity to the San Francisco International Airport (SFO), San Francisco and Silicon Valley, this hidden gem is the perfect spot whether you’re traveling for work or looking for a fun getaway.

About Millbrae

The city of Millbrae has an interesting history. The area was originally home to the Ohlone people, who lived along The San Francisco Peninsula for thousands of years before European settlement. In the 19th century, the land became part of a Mexican land grant known as Rancho Buri Buri, which was given to a Spanish soldier named José Antonio Sánchez, Jr. as a reward for his years of loyal service. In the 1860s, a gold rush entrepreneur named Darius Ogden Mills bought the land to build a grand estate. He called the estate Millbrae, a combination of his last name (Mills) and the Scottish word for rolling hills (brae). Over the years, the town grew steadily thanks to the arrival of the railroad and its proximity to San Francisco and was officially incorporated into a city in 1948. 

Today, Millbrae is known for its charming downtown, locally-loved dining options, great shopping and excellent schools. It’s also home to the largest Intermodal center west of the Mississippi, linking BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), Caltrain and SamTrans all in one location. If you’re visiting the area, be sure to check out some of the city’s most popular attractions, including Bayfront Park,  Millbrae History Museum and the Millbrae Farmers’ Market.

Hotels in Millbrae, CA

Millbrae’s economy is mainly driven by its long strips of hotels, so you’ll find plenty of options when you visit. From popular hotel chains like The Westin and Grand Hyatt at SFO to boutique hotels like The Millwood, there’s something for every traveler and budget. Traveling with your furry friends? The La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Francisco Airport West and Aloft San Francisco Airport are just a couple of many pet-friendly hotels in the area. The city also offers budget-friendly and extended-stay options for guests who are looking to stay awhile. 

One of the best parts about staying in Millbrae is its location. Many hotels offer free shuttle service to and from the San Francisco International Airport (SFO) — located just minutes away. Millbrae also offers easy access to public transportation. Hop on BART or Caltrain for quick trips to San Francisco, Silicon Valley or the coastside of The San Francisco Peninsula. Some Millbrae hotels are even within walking distance to popular restaurants, the San Francisco Bay and other top attractions. So whether you’re here for a quick trip or are looking to make Millbrae your hub to explore The San Francisco Peninsula, this city is the perfect destination for your next adventure. 

All Millbrae Hotels

Things to Do in Millbrae

Bayfront Park

Content Direction: If you’re in Millbrae, you’ll want to check out Bayfront Park. The park offers stunning views of San Francisco Bay along with walking trails, picnic areas and green spaces. Only a few miles away from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Bayfront Park is also a popular spot for watching planes land. 

Explore Bayfront Park

Millbrae Train Museum

Content Direction: Head to the Millbrae Train Museum to see vintage trains, learn about railroad history and get a tour from a friendly volunteer. Housed in the historic Southern Pacific Depot built in 1907, it’s a fun spot for both kids and adults alike. Admission is free but the museum is only open on Saturdays from 10am to 2pm.  

Spur Trail  

Content Direction: This paved 2.5-mile out-and-back trail is popular for walkers, runners and bike riders. The Spur Trail is split into two sections: one that begins at the intersection of Magnolia Avenue and Millbrae Avenue and the other that starts on Hillcrest and goes to Richmond Drive. Dogs are also welcome on the trail, but must be on a leash.  

Trails on The SFP

Local Events & Happenings

There’s no shortage of things to do in Millbrae. One of the city’s most popular events is the Millbrae Art & Wine Festival, which happens every year on Labor Day weekend. Immerse yourself in the traditions of the Millbrae Japanese Culture Festival, held annually in October at the Civic Center Plaza. The city also prides itself on hosting events focused on promoting sustainability with its Bike to Wherever Day. 

CTA: View Upcoming Events

Where is Millbrae, CA located? 

Millbrae, California, is located in San Mateo County on the bayside of The San Francisco Peninsula. It’s only minutes away from SFO and nestled between the cities of San Bruno and Burlingame. 

Getting Around The SFP

Is Millbrae, CA a good place to visit?

Millbrae is a safe and friendly community. It’s known for its walkable downtown, great dining and easy access to San Francisco and Silicon Valley.

What are the top things to do in Millbrae? 

Whether you’re looking to take in the scenic views at Bayfront Park, explore San Andreas Lake, take a tour at the Millbrae Train Museum or play a round of golf at Green Hills Country Club, there’s always something fun to do in and around Millbrae. 

Where are the best places to eat in Millbrae? 

The city is full of locally-loved restaurants and eateries. Whether you’re looking for Asian cuisine, a hearty breakfast or an upscale steakhouse, you’ll find it all in Millbrae. A few favorites include Royal Feast, Sixteen Mile House, Millbrae Pancake House and Fiddler’s Green.