Looking for the best and fun things to do in San Mateo? Many believe that the suburbs are a boring area for activities. However, a small community on the outskirts of San Francisco invites you to San Mateo, where you will discover thousands of unexpected attractions and activities. En route from San Francisco to San Jose, the picturesque city of San Mateo will be seen. Visitors quickly fall in love with the world-class city with a small-town feel due to its moderate climate, stunning views, and convenient access to neighboring cities.
This city in southern California, 20 miles south of San Francisco, offers a Mediterranean climate that is both active and suitable. San Mateo is home to a variety of historical sites, natural attractions, urban parks, entertainment venues, and delectable cuisine. The city exemplifies how magnificent nature is by being endowed with numerous natural attractions. San Mateo should be your next vacation if you’re a nature enthusiast, as there are several options to engage in exciting outdoor activities. San Mateo features a variety of attractions, including recreational areas, restaurants, and museums, among others.
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What Are The Best Things to Do in San Mateo?
There are many nice activities to do in San Mateo, ranging from visiting parks to touring historical sites and beyond:
1. Spend a Day at The Coyote Point Recreation Area
Coyote Point Recreation Area, one of the nicest parks in San Francisco, guarantees family pleasure. The 700-acre park is brimming with thrilling opportunities. This San Mateo destination offers seaside swimming, windsurfing, and kayaking, among other fun activities. But if you’d rather remain on the shore, check out the wonderful running trails and camping spots. The children will be busy playing on the playground with a medieval theme.
2. Browse the shops in Hillsdale Shopping Center
Hillsdale Shopping Center is one of the top malls in the Bay Area, with over 100 retailers, restaurants, as well as entertainment venues. The city had to place a train stop in front of the mall so that visitors from neighboring areas could easily access the shopping center, which first opened in 1954 and has been gaining in popularity by the day. Hillsdale has everything you need to indulge yourself, buy gifts, or spend time with friends.
3. Unwind In The Japanese Garden
The Japanese Garden in San Mateo is without a doubt one of the most stunning gardens in California. This beauty was constructed in the early 1920s by a Japanese landscape architect who worked at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. The attraction in San Mateo is a 16-acre natural space within the city’s Central Park that provides peace and calm. Walk along the bonsai trees, koi ponds, waterfalls, and granite pagoda, and imagine wandering beneath the blooming sakura in Japan.
4. Discover Science and Nature on CuriOdyssey
Your little children will adore CuriOdyssey. This family-friendly attraction in California gives children the opportunity to explore the surrounding environment and perform experiments. And the enjoyment at this interactive playground is not confined to a single day; throughout the year, the non-profit science museum hosts camps and activities. So, while you’re in Coyote Point Recreation Area, be sure to partake in one of San Mateo’s most enjoyable activities.
5. Hike Along the Sawyer Camp Trail
To really appreciate San Mateo and the Bay Area’s beauty, trek the Sawyer Camp Trail. The six-mile out-and-back trail is completely paved and suitable for children. You will stroll alongside Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir and up to San Andreas Lake as you begin the journey. On a hiking trail, the vistas surrounding San Andreas are the most spectacular you will ever see. Utilize your time in the city to go on one of the best hikes in the Bay Area.
6. Explore San Mateo’s Historic Downtown
The historic downtown of San Mateo will keep you engaged and intrigued throughout your whole stay. In recent years, the neighborhood has seen significant change, becoming one of the hippest areas of the city without losing its historic character. Downtown restaurants range from upscale to casual, and buildings range from tech startups to historic monuments. An excellent activity and one of the best things to do in San Mateo is strolling through the old city.
7. Indulge in Japanese Cuisine at Wakuriya
Wakuriya is possibly the hippest eatery in San Mateo. Everyone is captivated with the kaiseki dishes served at the fancy, tiny eatery. The surprises are what guests appreciate most about this Japanese eatery. Each of the nine meals on the monthly-rotating menu is prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients. The Michelin-starred restaurant is only open from Wednesday to Sunday between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. and is usually always completely booked, so make your appointments as soon as possible.
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