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.


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
Calendar of Events
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Storytime In The Park At Central Park
Storytime In The Park At Central Park
Brought to you by the San Mateo Public Library. For kids and families. Join us in beautiful Cental Park for stories, songs, and lots of dancing! This Storytime is located […]
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Lions Club 9th Annual Downtown San Mateo Restaurant Walk
Lions Club 9th Annual Downtown San Mateo Restaurant Walk
Hosted by San Mateo Lions Club and Peninsula Special Interest Lions Club Enjoy tasty treats from participating Downtown San Mateo eateries $35.00 Ticket Restaurant Walk Only $55.00 VIP Ticket includes […]
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Golden Moon Studios Student Art Show
Golden Moon Studios Student Art Show
Join Golden Moon Studios as they celebrate the art of their students from this year's summer camps! Families and friends of campers are welcome to attend. RSVP through Golden Moon […]
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September Nights on B Street: Sept 7 with the Maya Latin Band
September Nights on B Street: Sept 7 with the Maya Latin Band
Join us for the return of our popular September Nights on B Street event series with free music and entertainment for the whole family! Sponsored by the City of San […]
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DSMA September 2023 Board Meeting (Open to the Public)
DSMA September 2023 Board Meeting (Open to the Public)
The Downtown San Mateo Association Board and staff, representatives from the City of San Mateo, DSMA members, and other community members gather each month to discuss DSMA business. If you […]
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September Nights on B Street: Sept 14 with Dueling PianosĀ
September Nights on B Street: Sept 14 with Dueling PianosĀ
Join us for the return of our popular September Nights on B Street event series with free music and entertainment for the whole family! Sponsored by the City of San […]
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Prunotto Wine Dinner (at Pausa)
Prunotto Wine Dinner (at Pausa)
Chef Andrea and his culinary team prepare a four-course dinner to complement the incredible line up of Prunotto wines. Limited Seats Available! Monday, September 18th Welcome Reception: 6:15pm Seated for […]
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Bespoken Whiskey Tasting at Fogbird
Bespoken Whiskey Tasting at Fogbird
Event includes: 3/4 oz. taste of 4 different premium Whiskey bottles: Twice Toasted American Whiskey Twice Toasted Bourbon Whiskey Twice Toasted Rye Whiskey Pinstripe Straight Bourbon Education and Q/A with […]
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Everything COVID from a Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective
Everything COVID from a Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective
At the San Mateo Public Library (Main) Although we're coming out of the COVID pandemic, many of our lives have been forever changed by the event. Join us for a […]
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All Aboard, Peninsula!
All Aboard, Peninsula!
Join 350 Silicon Valley on Saturday, September 23rd for All Aboard, Peninsula! and experience how riding climate-friendly transit can be sustainable and fun. Weāll start in Menlo Park on the […]
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San Mateo Library Meet the Authors: Dana Dargos and Said Al Bizri authors of Einstein in the Attic
San Mateo Library Meet the Authors: Dana Dargos and Said Al Bizri authors of Einstein in the Attic
At the Main San Mateo Library: Co-authors Dana Dargos and Said Al Bizri will talk about their bookĀ EinsteinĀ in the Attic, which is a science fiction novel that transports readers into […]
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Movies in the Park @ Central Park
Movies in the Park @ Central Park
Grab a blanket, chair, family and friends ā because we are ready for our 2023 Movies in the Park Series! Concession sales and activities start at 6:00pm and the movie […]
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San Mateo Fall Fest
San Mateo Fall Fest
Enjoy a wide variety of music, entertainment, local arts, gastronomical delights, and family-friendly activities all day as you stroll down B Street. Craft beer and cider as well as a […]