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
2024 San Mateo Autumn Moon Festival (at Central Park)
San Mateo Central Park 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, United StatesFrom Self Help for the Elderly's website: Saturday, September 14, 2024 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM San Mateo Central Park 50 E 5th Ave., San Mateo, CA 94401 Kaiser Permanente […]
Meet Author Alice Han (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: Join us Saturday, September 14 from 1-2PM in the Book Bubble. Come and meet local author Alice Han as she tells us about her […]
Live Music: Bad Lemon and Rolling Blackout (at McGoverns)
McGoverns 215 E 4th Ave, San Mateo, CA, United StatesSaturday 🤘🏽 June 22nd 🤘🏽 9pm 🤘🏽$10 cover Live music • Two bands • Bad Lemon 🍋 Rolling Blackout
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 […]
In Person Yin & Sound Healing Experience with Tara Danli (at Nandi Yoga)
Nandi Yoga 309 8th Ave, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Nandi Yoga's website: *Please note that there are no refunds or exchanges for workshops and special events. This special workshop is an opportunity to surrender and release. Yin Yoga […]
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 […]
Historical San Mateo Walking Tour (from the San Mateo Heritage Alliance)
From the San Mateo Heritage Alliance: San Mateo Downtown Historic District Walking Tour Sunday, September 22, 2024 10 am – 12 noon Explore the fascinating architecture and history of San […]
Electric Service Launch Party (at San Mateo Caltrain Station)
Downtown San Mateo Caltrain Station 385 1st Avenue, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Caltrain: RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/electric-service-launch-party-san-mateo-tickets-1001507876017 Caltrain is excited to launch our new schedule for electrified service, which will provide faster, cleaner, quieter, and more frequent service! Celebrate by riding Caltrain’s […]
Mom’s Night Out (at Fogbird)
Fogbird 144 S B St, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom San Mateo Parents Club: Get to know other local moms over some expertly crafted cocktails and appetizers! Beer, wine and non-alcoholic options are available too. Appetizers are on the […]