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.
DSMA 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
Downtown Live! City of San Mateo Presents Games on B Street
B Street between 1st and 2nd avenues B Street between 1st and 2nd avenues, San mateo, CA, United StatesCome Downtown and join the fun! Bring your friends and family for a good time in the heart of the city. Games include cornhole, jenga, and more!
Sip & Shop (at Byrd’s Filling Station)
Byrd's Filling Station 219 S San Mateo Dr, San Mateo, United StatesByrd's Filling Station will unfortunately close on August 11th. Come support them in their last few weeks by attending a sip & shop! July 18th from 5-7pm July 28th from […]
Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead: DIY Ice Cream (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: Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead: DIY Ice Cream Summer is the perfect time to learn about the science behind making ice cream: molecules, emulsions, and melting […]
Central Park Music Series: Land of Confusion/TAKE 2 (Phil Collins Tribute & Genesis/Party Mix)
San Mateo Central Park 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, United StatesFrom San Mateo Parks & Rec: Get ready to rock, San Mateo! Our 2024 Central Park Music Series kicks off in just a few weeks with FREE music in the […]
FREE Historical San Mateo Walking Tour (from the San Mateo County History Museum)
From the San Mateo County History Museum: REGISTRATION REQUIRED FREE San Mateo Walking Tour – Sunday, August 4 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Explore the fascinating architecture of San […]
NATIONAL SPAM® MUSUBI DAY (at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue)
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue 94 East 3rd Ave, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom L&L Hawaiian Barbecue: Celebrate Hawaii's favorite snack on National SPAM® Musubi Day, 08.08.24! 1: Download the official L&L app (or if you already have it, mahalo to you!) OR […]
Central Park Music Series: Bud E. Luv Orchestra (Swing/Big Band/Party Mix)
San Mateo Central Park 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, United StatesFrom San Mateo Parks & Rec: Get ready to rock, San Mateo! Our 2024 Central Park Music Series kicks off in just a few weeks with FREE music in the […]
B Street Train
B Street between 1st and 2nd avenues B Street between 1st and 2nd avenues, San mateo, CA, United StatesDowntown San Mateo Association & Florian Orthodontics present: B Street Train Date: August 11th Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Location: B Street Pedestrian Mall (between 1st and 2nd Avenues) […]
San Mateo Firefighters’ Association’s Chili Cook Off
San Mateo Central Park 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, United StatesFrom the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department: Mark your calendars! It’s almost that time again for the annual San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department's annual Chili Off, benefiting MDA Northern California, […]
North B Street Fiesta
North B Street North B Street & Tilton Avenue, San Mateo, CA, United StatesThe North B Street Fiesta is an opportunity for merchants on the North B Street block of Downtown San Mateo to show appreciation to the community and their loyal customers. […]
September Nights on B Street: Sept 12 featuring Pure Ecstasy
B Street between 1st and 2nd avenues B Street between 1st and 2nd avenues, San mateo, CA, United StatesJoin us for the return of our popular September Nights on B Street event series with free music and entertainment for the whole family! Grab take-out from a local restaurant […]
Bark in the Park (at Central Park)
San Mateo Central Park 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, United StatesFrom the City of San Mateo: Join us for the first ever Bark in the Park event, on Sunday, September 15, 2024, from 12pm to 3pm at Central Park in […]
September Nights on B Street: Sept 19 featuring Mercy and The Heartbeats
B Street between 1st and 2nd avenues B Street between 1st and 2nd avenues, San mateo, CA, United StatesJoin us for the return of our popular September Nights on B Street event series with free music and entertainment for the whole family! Grab take-out from a local restaurant […]
Save the Date! September Arts & Culture Fest
South B Street South B Street (Between Baldwin Ave. & 2nd Ave.), San Mateo, CA, United StatesThis day-long event features local musicians, entertainment and cultural performances, artists and craft-makers, cuisine from around the world, wine and beer, and family-friendly activities in the heart of Downtown San […]