Visit San Mateo

The City of San Mateo is located south of San Francisco in the Silicon Valley tech hub. San Mateo, CA is a thriving community with a charming downtown area and an upscale, state-of-the-art, large shopping center in Hillsdale Shopping Center. The city is also home to the College of San Mateo, the county’s largest community college, as well as several hotels, and major attractions such as the San Mateo County Event Center and CuriOdyssey museum (a fascinating center for environmental education).

About San Mateo

San Mateo is home to the Poplar Creek Golf Course and has a flourishing downtown known for its historical buildings and innovative restaurants. Just west of the city lies Crystal Springs Reservoir with miles of open space and trails, while San Mateo's section of the San Francisco Bay Trail features the Coyote Point Recreation Area, which offers picnic areas, waterfront paths, boat launches, and a playground perfect for families!

Hotels in San Mateo

San Mateo, California, offers a diverse selection of hotels catering to various traveler needs. Business travelers and families can enjoy the modern amenities of the Hilton Garden Inn San Mateo, featuring an outdoor pool and on-site dining. The Residence Inn by Marriott provides spacious suites with full kitchens, ideal for extended stays. For budget-conscious visitors, The Catrina Hotel offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. Pet-friendly options include the Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport, welcoming both dogs and cats. Whether you're seeking luxury or economy, San Mateo's hotel offerings ensure a comfortable stay for every guest

Things to do in San Mateo 

San Mateo, nestled between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, offers a delightful mix of nature, culture, and cuisine. Explore Central Park’s serene Japanese Garden and the historic San Mateo Arboretum. Families will enjoy CuriOdyssey’s interactive science exhibits and native wildlife at Coyote Point Recreation Area. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the scenic Sawyer Camp Trail or bike along the waterfront at Seal Point Park. Downtown San Mateo boasts a vibrant dining scene, featuring Michelin-starred restaurants like Wakuriya and Sushi Yoshizumi, as well as innovative eateries at the revamped Hillsdale Shopping Center. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, San Mateo has something for everyone.

Restaurants in San Mateo

San Mateo's culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of global flavors, offering a diverse array of dining experiences. For an exquisite taste of Japan, Wakuriya presents a Michelin-starred kaiseki menu that changes monthly, highlighting seasonal ingredients. Sushi Yoshizumi offers an intimate omakase experience, showcasing Edomae-style sushi crafted with precision. Italian cuisine enthusiasts can savor handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas at Pausa Bar & Cookery, recognized with a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand for its authentic flavors and in-house cured meats 

For those seeking innovative fusion dishes, All Spice blends Indian and Californian flavors in a fine dining setting. Curry Up Now reimagines Indian street food with a modern twist, offering unique creations like the Tikka Masala Burrito. Dough Zone brings the taste of China to San Mateo with its fresh buns and noodles in a contemporary atmosphere. Whether you're in the mood for traditional dishes or inventive culinary fusions, San Mateo's restaurant offerings cater to every palate.

Local Events & Happenings

San Mateo, California, offers a vibrant calendar of events that celebrate its diverse community and rich cultural heritage. Each spring, Central Park hosts the annual Eggstravaganza and the Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration, bringing families together for festive activities and cultural performances. The summer months feature the popular Central Park Music Series, offering free concerts on Thursday evenings, and the San Mateo County Fair, a ten-day event filled with live entertainment, carnival rides, and agricultural exhibits. Throughout the year, residents and visitors can also enjoy seasonal events like the Holiday Floral Art Show and the San Mateo on Ice skating rink during the winter season. These events, among others, make San Mateo a lively destination for cultural enrichment and community engagement.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Apple Fritter, a locally owned eatery known for its inventive offerings like donut burgers and churro French toast. Alternatively, visit Backhaus, an artisan bakery offering naturally leavened breads and pastries, perfect with a cup of coffee.

🥾 Mid-Morning: Hike Sugarloaf Mountain

After breakfast, head to Sugarloaf Mountain in Laurelwood Park for a refreshing hike. The 2.1-mile loop trail offers panoramic views of the Bay Area and is considered moderately challenging.

🍔 Lunch: Maverick Jack's

Refuel at Maverick Jack's, a local favorite serving a variety of burgers and shakes in a relaxed setting.

🏌️‍♂️ Afternoon: Crystal Springs Driving Range

Spend your afternoon at Crystal Springs Golf Course's practice facility, which includes a 20-stall driving range with premium mats, as well as putting greens and chipping areas.

🌊 Late Afternoon: Walk the Bay Trail

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the San Francisco Bay Trail near Coyote Point, offering scenic waterfront views and a peaceful atmosphere.

🍝 Dinner: Pausa Bar & Cookery

Dine at Pausa Bar & Cookery, a MICHELIN-recognized restaurant offering fresh, authentic Italian fare made from scratch, complemented by an all-Italian wine list and craft cocktails.

🍸 Nightcap: Fogbird Lounge

Conclude your day at Fogbird, a stylish lounge known for its creative cocktails and welcoming atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions About San Mateo

How far is San Mateo from San Francisco and SFO?

San Mateo is conveniently located just 20 miles south of San Francisco and only 7 miles from San Francisco International Airport (SFO). The city is easily accessible by car via U.S. Highway 101 and Interstate 280, as well as by Caltrain, making it a central hub for Bay Area visitors.

Is San Mateo walkable and easy to get around without a car?

Yes, San Mateo is quite walkable, especially in its downtown area, which features pedestrian-friendly streets and a variety of shops and restaurants. The city is well-served by public transportation, including three Caltrain stations—San Mateo, Hayward Park, and Hillsdale—that provide easy access to neighboring cities. Additionally, SamTrans buses and free local shuttles connect various neighborhoods and transit hubs, making it convenient to navigate the city without a car.

What’s the best time of year to visit for mild weather and fewer crowds?

The best time to visit San Mateo for mild weather is from late spring through early fall, particularly May to October. During these months, temperatures typically range from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F, with minimal rain and plenty of sunshine. The city’s coastal influence keeps the climate comfortable and rarely too hot.

Are there family-friendly attractions like parks and museums?

Absolutely! San Mateo offers a variety of family-friendly attractions that combine fun, education, and outdoor enjoyment. At CuriOdyssey, located within Coyote Point Recreation Area, children can engage with interactive science exhibits and observe native wildlife in naturalistic habitats. Nearby, the Japanese Garden in Central Park provides a serene environment with koi ponds and traditional landscaping, perfect for a peaceful stroll. For active play, the Magic Mountain Playground features expansive play areas suitable for various age groups. Additionally, the San Mateo County History Museum in Redwood City offers engaging exhibits that bring local history to life. These attractions make San Mateo an excellent destination for families seeking diverse and enriching experiences.

Where can I find parking and travel tips?

Yes, San Mateo offers convenient parking and accessible public transportation options for visitors. The city provides nine public parking facilities, including garages and lots, with free parking on Sundays, city-designated holidays, and after 6 p.m. daily. Real-time occupancy signs at garage entrances help drivers locate available spaces efficiently.

San Mateo is well-connected for public transit. The San Mateo Caltrain Station, located at 385 First Avenue, offers commuter rail services along the Peninsula Corridor, facilitating travel to various destinations. Additionally, SamTrans provides extensive bus services throughout San Mateo County, connecting to Caltrain and BART stations, and offering routes like the ECR along El Camino Real. For first/last mile connections, Commute.org operates shuttle services linking transit stations to local worksites. Utilizing a Clipper Card can streamline fare payments across these transit systems.

Whether driving or using public transportation, San Mateo provides accessible options to navigate the city and the broader Bay Area.

Book Your Visit to San Mateo, CA