Things to do in San Mateo

Activities, attractions and tours

Pigeon Point Light House San Mateo, California
Pigeon Point Light House San Mateo, California
A Sunny Day on the Crystal Springs Reservoir, San Mateo, California
San Mateo is a city in San Mateo County, California, United States, in the San Francisco Bay Area. It is one of the larger suburbs on the San Francisco Peninsula incorporated in 1894.
Coyote Point Recreation Area showing cycling as well as a small group of people
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What to do in San Mateo

Popular places to visit

Golden Gate Bridge which includes a suspension bridge or treetop walkway, night scenes and a bay or harbour

Golden Gate Bridge

Walk across one of the most photogenic bridges in the world for unrivalled views from both sides.

Golden Gate Bridge
Golden Gate Park showing flowers and a garden

Golden Gate Park

This peaceful oasis in the heart of the city has been a favourite leisure haunt for locals and visitors alike since 1871.

Golden Gate Park
Pier 39 showing street scenes, signage and a city

Pier 39

Sea lions are the star attraction at one of the liveliest piers on San Francisco’s historic waterfront.

Pier 39
yerba buena gardens complex

Moscone Convention Center

During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and notable monuments in this vibrant area.

Moscone Convention Center
Oracle Park featuring a bay or harbor and street scenes as well as a small group of people

Oracle Park

Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.

Oracle Park
Chase Center San Francisco Skyline Aerial Photography

Chase Center

Catch an event at Chase Center during your trip to San Francisco. Amble around this vibrant area's Chinatown or experience its acclaimed theatre scene.

Chase Center
Lombard Street featuring flowers and a garden

Lombard Street

Often incorrectly called the world’s crookedest street, this San Francisco roadway is an iconic spot to see, photograph and drive down.

Lombard Street
Presidio Military Reservation which includes a statue or sculpture, a park and landscape views

Presidio of San Francisco

This former military base is given over to pleasure pursuits, with a golf course, cycle tracks, hiking trails and some great picnic spots.

Presidio of San Francisco
Alcatraz Island showing a coastal town and island views

Alcatraz Island

For three decades, desperate inmates dreamed of escaping this notorious prison; today’s fortunate visitors can come and go as they please!

Alcatraz Island

Areas of San Mateo

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Highlands-Baywood Park

While Highlands-Baywood Park isn't home to many top sights, Sawyer Camp Trail and Hillsdale Shopping Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

Highlands-Baywood Park
Condominium homes in Belmont, California; Shutterstock ID 6211372; Purchase Order: -

Belmont

Burlingame Caltrain Station, California

Burlingame

Redwood City featuring street scenes and a city

Redwood City

The Dance Group on the stage,Ryan J Leo Park

Foster City

San Francisco featuring a bay or harbor and a bridge

San Francisco

Frequently asked questions

Is San Mateo worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in San Mateo is visit Coyote Point Park. Check this major sight off your agenda, then experience more of the area's history and culture.
How do I spend a day in San Mateo?
Start your day with a visit to Coyote Point Park and Hiller Aviation Museum. Then, explore different areas of San Mateo for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in San Mateo?
Coyote Point Park is one of the top tourist attractions in San Mateo and should feature high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in San Mateo?
Three days in San Mateo is more than enough to enjoy the city's main attractions. Many travellers book for three days on average. Coyote Point Park, Hiller Aviation Museum and Peninsula Museum of Art are among the top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots like San Francisco.
Is San Mateo a walkable city?
It depends on what you plan to see and do in San Mateo. Several top attractions, like Coyote Point Park and Lakeshore Park Beach, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of San Mateo's neighbourhoods, East San Mateo is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Shoreview is 2 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in San Mateo with kids?
Deciding what to do in San Mateo with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or toddlers, there are many family-friendly tours and activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in San Mateo for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in San Mateo, with activities for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Burlingame Museum of PEZ Memorabilia or Oceanic Foot Spa.
Are there free things to do in San Mateo?
In San Mateo, Coyote Point Park is a popular spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in San Mateo.

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