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
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Shop Small to Win Big in San Mateo
Downtown San MateoBrought to you by the Downtown San Mateo Association and the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce: It's time to celebrate San Mateo and support local businesses! Small Business Saturday is a day dedicated to supporting small businesses and communities across the country and is part of the larger Shop Small Movement. Founded by American […]
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Golden Oldies Music Bingo (at Chill Spot Rendezvous)
Chill Spot Rendezvous 271 Baldwin Ave., San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Chill Spot Rendezvous: 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month 2-4pm Golden Oldies Senior Discount Day Last Thursday of the month 5:30-7:30pm Variety Song List for Everyone!
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Questionable Behavior trivia night (at McGoverns)
McGoverns 215 E 4th Ave, San Mateo, CA, United StatesHosted by Misha every Tuesday at 8pm Prizes for winners (and losers!)
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POSTNATAL MOMMY & ME CLASSES (at Peninsula Dance Academy)
Peninsula Dance Academy 717 South B Street, San Mateo, CA, United StatesGentle Postpartum Recovery for Mom Safe, Fun Bonding for Baby (0-12 mo.) Pelvic Floor & Core Rebuilding Mindful Movement + Relaxation Led by Professional Dancer, Fitness Specialist Heba Wednesdays 10:00 AM-10:45 AM Cost: $18 Drop-In | $120 for 8-Class Pack First Class FREE for New Moms! RSVP or Questions: 650-7877948 Pdacademy@yahoo.com www.peninsuladanceAcademy.com Items Needed Yoga […]
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Gala D’Oro (at San Mateo On Ice)
San Mateo on Ice 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Silicon Valley Ice Skating Association: Benvenuti to Gala D’Oro, the 4th Annual Gala hosted by the Silicon Valley Ice Skating Association, celebrating nine years of supporting the Peninsula’s skating community and championing the future of local rinks. This year’s gala draws inspiration from the elegance and culture of Italy — a nod to the […]
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Latin Night Dance Party (at Motion Arts Center)
Motion Arts Center 217 South Claremont Street, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom Motion Arts Center: Join us for our weekly Latin Night Dance Party filled with Salsa, Bachata, and Cumbia music! Come, bring your friends and get ready for an unforgettable night of dancing and fun on the dance floor. We will provide snacks and light drinks. The dance studio has air conditioning, a beautiful hardwood […]
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Breakfast with Santa (at the Ellsworth Ave Fire Station)
Downtown San Mateo Fire Dept #21 120 S Ellsworth Ave, San Mateo, CA, United StatesFrom San Mateo Fire Station 21: SANTA IS COMING BACK TO THE FIREHOUSE FOR BREAKFAST!! PLEASE JOIN US IN THIS FESTIVE & FUN CELEBRATION WHEN: December 13th, 2024 WHERE: DOWNTOWN SAN MATEO FIRE DEPT STATION 21 120 S. ELLSWORTH AVE, SAN MATEO CA. 94401 TIME: 9am - 11:30am Santa Arrives: 9:30am DONATION: $10 OR A […]
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Caltrain’s Holiday Train – Downtown San Mateo “Station Celebration”
Downtown San Mateo Caltrain Station 385 1st Avenue, San Mateo, CA, United StatesSince 2002, Caltrain’s Holiday Train has been a cherished Bay Area tradition, bringing festive cheer and community spirit to the corridor each year. With the exciting arrival of Caltrain’s new electric fleet, this beloved event is evolving to reflect a new era of cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable travel. While the previous show train format […]
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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 Baldwin Ave) will have holiday treats and live Spanish-language Christmas music from St. Anthony's of Padua Choir to help bring in the season. (Giveaways are first come, first served, while supplies last)