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Top Attractions & Places To Visit
San Mateo, California | Vibrant City that Balances Urban Amenities with Natural Beauty
San Mateo, California, located on the San Francisco Peninsula, is a vibrant city that balances urban amenities with natural beauty. With parks, cultural institutions, shopping areas, and excellent dining options, San Mateo offers something for everyone, whether you’re a local or visiting.
Main Attractions
Coyote Point Recreation Area
Coyote Point is a famous recreational destination known for its picturesque views of the San Francisco Bay. It also has trails, picnic spaces, a marina, and the Magic Mountain Playground. The CuriOdyssey Museum within the park has interactive science and wildlife displays for children, making it an ideal family excursion.
Central Park and Japanese Garden
Central Park is a tranquil sanctuary in the city center, complete with strolling routes, a playground, and tennis courts. The Japanese Garden in the park is a highlight, with koi ponds, a traditional pagoda, and a teahouse. It’s a peaceful location for relaxing or shooting photos.
San Mateo County History Museum
This museum, housed in the historic Old Courthouse in nearby Redwood City, delves into the history of San Mateo County with engaging exhibits on early settlers, natural history, and more. It’s a must-see for history buffs.
Hillsdale Shopping Center
This upscale shopping complex houses a variety of retail businesses, including Nordstrom, Sephora, and Lululemon. Hillsdale, a popular retail location, also offers dining options, leisure facilities, and a sophisticated food court.
Places to Visit
Filoli Historic House and Garden
Filoli, a lovely estate in adjacent Woodside, provides a glimpse into early California’s affluent lifestyle through stunning gardens and historic home tours.
Seal Point Park
Seal Point Park, a hidden gem along the bay, is perfect for dog walking, running, and picnics, and it boasts stunning waterfront vistas and art installations.
Burlingame Avenue
Burlingame Avenue, near San Mateo, offers boutique shopping, charming cafes, and a variety of restaurants. It’s a pedestrian, tree-lined street full of activity.
Activities to Do
Outdoor Activities at Sawyer Camp Trail
This lovely trail along the Crystal Springs Reservoir is ideal for strolling, running, and biking. Its scenic environment makes it one of the area’s most popular outdoor recreation destinations.
Attend Events at the San Mateo Event Center
The Event Center is a lively location for entertainment and community meetings, hosting a variety of events throughout the year, including house shows and the annual San Mateo County Fair.
Explore Bay Meadows
Bay Meadows, a new development with parks, cafes, and stores, provides a balance of relaxation and activity, such as community yoga sessions and farmers’ markets.
Restaurants & Cafés
Backhaus Bakery
A German-inspired bakery noted for its freshly baked pastries, bread, and sandwiches. It’s a cozy place to get a cappuccino and a slice of sourdough.
Pausa Bar & Cookery
Pausa serves Italian-inspired food with an emphasis on locally produced ingredients. This restaurant is known for its pasta and charcuterie, and it offers a great eating experience in a calm atmosphere.
Vault 164
Vault 164, located in a historic bank building, is a one-of-a-kind restaurant that serves American cuisine with a modern twist. Its extensive menu of appetizers, steaks, and cocktails makes it a popular choice for a night out.
3 Bees Coffee House
3 Bees Coffee House, a local favorite for coffee and pastries, is well-known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent coffee.
Jack’s Prime Burgers & Shakes
Jack’s Prime provides a typical American diner experience with amazing burgers, shakes, and a selection of craft beers in a nostalgic environment.
Bars & Pubs
Grape & Grain
Grape & Grain, a laid-back restaurant with an extensive beer and wine list, is excellent for casual parties. Their beer garden is particularly popular throughout the summer.
Burlingame’s Barrelhouse
This speakeasy-style club, located a short drive from San Mateo, serves specialty cocktails, live music, and has an intimate setting.
Fieldwork Brewing Company
Fieldwork Brewing, located in San Mateo’s Hillsdale Shopping Center, serves a rotating menu of artisan beers on tap. Its pleasant ambiance and outdoor chairs make it an ideal place to unwind.
Savannah Jazz
A bustling establishment that holds jazz nights and serves Southern-inspired cuisine. It’s ideal for live music fans looking for an enjoyable, relaxed evening with beverages.
San Mateo combines a suburban feel with plenty of cultural and recreational offerings, making it a dynamic place to visit. With attractions like Central Park’s Japanese Garden, Bay views from Coyote Point, and unique shops at Hillsdale, the city appeals to a range of interests. Whether you’re dining in chic restaurants or enjoying a hike along the bay, San Mateo has endless ways to make a memorable day.
