Things to do in San Mateo

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

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

Discover the most popular places to visit in San Mateo

Golden Gate Bridge illuminated at night with city lights in the background in California, USA

Golden Gate Bridge

4.5/5(7,244 reviews)

Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.

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

Pier 39

4.5/5(6,817 reviews)

This waterfront attraction offers thrilling rides, innovative street performers and colorful souvenir shops, but it’s the sea lions that win the day.

Pier 39
Moscone Convention Center

Moscone Convention Center

4/5(598 reviews)

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

Moscone Convention Center
Golden Gate Park featuring a garden and flowers

Golden Gate Park

4.5/5(5,122 reviews)

This beloved park offers relaxation among trees, flowers and wildlife, right in San Francisco’s backyard.

Golden Gate Park
Oracle Park featuring a bay or harbor and street scenes as well as a small group of people

Oracle Park

4.5/5(1,454 reviews)

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

Oracle Park
Alcatraz Island showing a coastal town and island images

Alcatraz Island

4.5/5(2,752 reviews)

Escape to “The Rock,” home of the infamous and abandoned island prison, and discover how it earned a reputation as a cold and unforgiving place.

Alcatraz Island
Presidio of San Francisco which includes landscape views, a monument and a statue or sculpture

Presidio of San Francisco

4.5/5(818 reviews)

Discover history, culture, open spaces, spectacular views and the Jedi Master Yoda at this former military base.

Presidio of San Francisco
Lombard Street featuring flowers and a garden

Lombard Street

4.5/5(4,615 reviews)

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

Lombard Street
Once you climb the Spanish steps and go past the garden and driveway you get to the front of old campus building called Line Mountain Main.

University of San Francisco

4/5(782 reviews)

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

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in 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

Popular day trips from San Mateo

Belmont

Belmont

Burlingame

Burlingame

Redwood City featuring a city and street scenes

Redwood City

Photo by Mallikarjun Mudagall

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 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.