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
Facet Barcelona Holiday Pop-Up (at Christensen & Rafferty Fine Jewelry)
Christensen & Rafferty Fine Jewelry 100 S. Ellsworth Suite 607, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Christensen & Rafferty: Facet Barcelona Holiday Pop-Up Monday, December 2nd – Tuesday, December 10th Here's to nothing less than a sparkling holiday season! Diamond necklaces and stretchable diamond bracelets. […]
14th Annual Support the Kid Founder’s Event with a performance by Neon Velvet (at McGoverns)
McGoverns 215 E 4th Ave, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Support the Kid: It is time for our 14th Annual Support the Kid Founder’s Event! Our best event yet! Private venue, Live music, door prizes, delicious drinks, and an […]
Winter Wonderland (at Central Park)
San Mateo Central Park 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, United StatesFrom San Mateo's Parks & Recreation Department: Enjoy this indoor winter-themed event for the whole family! Winter Wonderland features holiday music, crafts, photo opportunities, cookie decorating and hot chocolate! Aspects […]
Las Posadas on North B Street
North B Street North B Street & Tilton Avenue, San Mateo, CA, United StatesCelebrate Las Posadas with the merchants of North B Street! Your favorite businesses on North B (between Tilton Ave and 1st Ave) will have holiday treats and live music to […]
Caltrain’s Holiday Train – San Mateo Stop
Downtown San Mateo Caltrain Station 385 1st Avenue, San Mateo, CA, United StatesA family favorite! Caltrain's Holiday Train will stop in San Mateo at 5:30pm on Saturday, December 7th. Santa and friends start their journey in San Francisco before heading south, stopping […]
HEAD WEST Marketplace
South B Street South B Street (Between Baldwin Ave. & 2nd Ave.), San Mateo, CA, United StatesThe Holiday season is HERE! Visit Downtown San Mateo's B Street for HEAD WEST Marketplace on Sunday, December 8 and Sunday, December 22! Browse unique holiday gifts or find a […]
Sounds of the Season, featuring Business Casual
Downtown San Mateo🎶 Sounds of the Season in Downtown San Mateo! 🎄 Get into the holiday spirit with live music this December 8th! Join us for two festive pop up performances: ✨ […]
In Person Pranayama and Meditation Workshop with Birgit Reimer (at Nandi Yoga)
Nandi Yoga 309 8th Ave, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Nandi Yoga's website: * Please note that there are no refunds for workshops and special events. This pranayama class will give the student a solid foundation of the variant […]
In Person Pranayama and Meditation Workshop with Birgit Reimer (at Nandi Yoga)
Nandi Yoga 309 8th Ave, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Nandi Yoga's website: * Please note that there are no refunds for workshops and special events. This pranayama class will give the student a solid foundation of the variant […]