Things to do in San Mateo

Activities, attractions and tours

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

Popular places to visit

Golden Gate Bridge featuring night scenes, a suspension bridge or treetop walkway and a bay or harbor

Golden Gate Bridge

This iconic bridge, with its distinctive burnished red colour, is probably one of the world’s most instantly recognisable landmarks.

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

Pier 39

This waterfront attraction offers all the fun of a traditional pier with rides, street performances and entertainment courtesy of a colony of resident sea lions!

Pier 39
Golden Gate Park featuring flowers and a garden

Golden Gate Park

This wonderful park is a haven away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. Come here to relax, enjoy the scenery, breathe in the air and watch the wildlife.

Golden Gate Park
yerba buena gardens complex

Moscone Convention Center

During your trip, find out what's happening at Moscone Convention Center, a top convention center in San Francisco. Discover the acclaimed art scene 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
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 of San Francisco featuring landscape views, a monument and a garden

Presidio of San Francisco

This former military base is packed with panoramic views, history and culture and is surrounded by attractive open spaces.

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

Alcatraz Island

Home to the world’s most notorious prison, tour this famous landmark to understand why it gained its reputation as such a cold and unforgiving place.

Alcatraz Island
University of San Francisco

University of San Francisco

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at University of San Francisco during your visit to 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 there might not be top attractions in Highlands-Baywood Park, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Sawyer Camp Trail and Hillsdale Shopping Center.

Highlands-Baywood Park
Redwood City showing 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 travelers 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 neighborhoods, East San Mateo is 3 kilometers away from downtown, while Shoreview is 2 kilometers away from the center 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 vacationing 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 neighborhoods 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.