explore
color and character at every turn
Our history can be seen in the unmistakable architecture that has defined Downtown San Mateo since the 1890s. As you explore on foot, the modern character of Downtown reveals itself in more unexpected places – through vibrant art that comes alive on street poles, in window fronts, and across green spaces.
Take a walking tour of Downtown to discover the latest installations that represent our diverse community.
Downtown Photo Gallery
history
San Mateo was first inhabited by the Ohlone Indians as far back as four thousand years ago. Spanish explorers came to the area in 1776, followed by missionaries who established an outpost at San Mateo in 1793. The abandoned mission later became a stagecoach stop, but it was the arrival of the railroad in 1863 that truly established Downtown San Mateo as a vital commercial center.
Downtown saw major growth after San Mateo incorporated as a town in 1894, and many historic buildings dating from the 1890s to the 1930s can still be seen. You can take an easy Walking Tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the downtown district.
join us at an upcoming event
Events
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Latin Night Dance Party (at Motion Arts Center)
Motion Arts Center 217 South Claremont Street, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Motion Arts Center: Join us for our weekly Latin Night Dance Party filled with Salsa, Bachata, and Cumbia music! Come, bring your friends and get ready for an unforgettable […]
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Live Music: The Wood (at McGovern’s)
McGovern's Bar presents live classic rock with The Wood.
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Karaoke (at Blue Moon Bar)
Blue Moon Bar 215 S B Street, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Blue Moon Bar: Join us every Wednesday and Friday at 9:30 PM with your host @xfallingstarx. Sing your heart out in the heart of Downtown San Mateo.
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HEAD WEST Marketplace
B Street between 1st and 3rd AvesVisit Downtown San Mateo’s B Street for HEAD WEST Marketplace on the third Saturday of every month in 2026! Browse unique gifts or find a treat for yourself from local […]
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Chiropractic Pop-Up @ Beem
Intentional body care with precision adjustments, stretching, and therapeutic cupping by Dr. Drew.
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Salsa Series Workshop (at Motion Arts Center)
Motion Arts Center 217 South Claremont Street, San Mateo, CA, United StatesA progressive Salsa On1 series designed to build confidence, creativity, and musicality on the social dance floor.
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Wedding First Dance Workshop
Motion Arts Center 217 South Claremont Street, San Mateo, CA, United StatesStep into a world of joyful movement and learn the fundamentals for a magical first dance.
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POP UP Yoga Tune Up with Ingolf (at Nandi Yoga)
Nandi Yoga 309 8th Ave, San Mateo, CA, United StatesA yoga-adjacent movement practice focused on building functional strength and healthy range of motion.
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Yin + Sound: Myofascial Release and Nervous System Reset (at Nandi Yoga)
Nandi Yoga 309 8th Ave, San Mateo, CA, United StatesA combination of self-massage, Yin poses, and a live sound bath with Crystal Singing Bowls.