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
Nandi Yoga Teacher Training 2025 with Wendy Klein (4 month program) (at Nandi Yoga)
Nandi Yoga 309 8th Ave, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Nandi Yoga's website: Nandi Yoga Teacher Training 2025 with Wendy Klein 5/2/2025 - 8/17/2025 From: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm This 200 hour program is designed to develop knowledgeable […]
First Friday Dinner Dance (at the Peninsula Italian American Social Club)
Peninsula Italian American Social Club 100 North B Street, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFirst Friday of each month. Please visit peninsulaitalianclub.org/club-events for more details.
Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration (at Central Park)
San Mateo Central Park 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, United StatesFrom San Mateo's Parks & Recreation Department: Join us as we launch a vibrant new celebration honoring Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month! This event will showcase the […]
Cinema & Chill (at Chill Spot Rendezvous)
Chill Spot Rendezvous 271 Baldwin Ave., San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Chill Spot Rendezvous: CINEMA & CHILL EVERY SATURDAY 12pm-4pm Hangout and enjoy family friendly movies- free every Saturday. Bring yourself and/or your family for movies through the day. Join […]
Wedding Workshop (at Motion Arts Center)
Motion Arts Center 217 South Claremont Street, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Motion Arts Center: At Motion Arts Center, we believe every couple deserves to experience the pure delight of a magical first dance. That’s why we’re thrilled to invite you […]
Mariah Parker Quartet (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
San Mateo Public Library (Main) 55 West 3rd Avenue, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom the San Mateo Public Library: Mariah Parker Quartet Saturday, May 3, 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Main Library, Oak Room Join us for a Musical Conversation with the Mariah […]
K Pop Workshop (at Motion Arts Center)
Motion Arts Center 217 South Claremont Street, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Motion Arts Center: Are you ready to unleash your inner K-Pop star? Join us for our K-Pop Dance Workshop with Chloe at the Motion Arts Center! Whether you’re a […]
Mother’s Day in Downtown San Mateo
Treat your the moms in your life this Mother's Day! As an added incentive to celebrate Mother's Day in Downtown San Mateo, DSMA and Lion's Den Shaveparlor are hosting the […]
DSMA 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 […]