Things to do in San Mateo

Activities, attractions and tours

Coyote Point Park which includes a park
Coyote Point Park which includes cycling as well as a small group of people
Coyote Point Park featuring general coastal views and sailing
Coyote Point Park which includes sailing and a bay or harbour
Coyote Point Park featuring a garden
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What to do in San Mateo

Popular places to visit

Golden Gate Bridge which includes a bay or harbour, night scenes and a marina

Golden Gate Bridge

Don’t drive it, walk it. Walking this 2.7 kilometre iconic bridge is a real experience, best appreciated on two legs.

Golden Gate Bridge
Pier 39 featuring signage, street scenes and a city

Pier 39

Head to the waterfront for thrilling rides, captivating street performers and plenty of souvenir shops. But the main draw has to be the resident sea lions.

Pier 39
Golden Gate Park which includes flowers and a garden

Golden Gate Park

Sit for a while and relax among the trees, flowers and wildlife in this popular park, right on San Francisco's doorstep.

Golden Gate Park
Moscone Convention Center

Moscone Convention Center

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

Moscone Convention Center
Oracle Park

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
Lombard Street

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
Alcatraz Island which includes island images and a coastal town

Alcatraz Island

Now a National Park, this rocky island was once home to one of the most feared prisons in the United States.

Alcatraz Island
Presidio Military Reservation which includes landscape views, a monument and a garden

Presidio of San Francisco

This former military base makes a great day out with plenty of history and culture as well as open spaces that offer spectacular views.

Presidio of San Francisco
University of San Francisco

University of San Francisco

Walk around the campus at University of San Francisco during your stay in San Francisco. Discover the beautiful sunsets and shops in this vibrant area.

University of San Francisco

Areas of San Mateo

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Highlands-Baywood Park

While Highlands-Baywood Park isn't home to many top sights, Hillsdale Shopping Center and Crystal Springs Golf Course are some notable places to visit nearby.

Highlands-Baywood Park

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Burlingame

Burlingame

Redwood City which includes street scenes and a city

Redwood City

San Francisco

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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