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.
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
Calendar of Events
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Super Smash Bros. Tournament (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
Super Smash Bros. Tournament (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
From the San Mateo Public Library: Come join us for an evening gaming party and compete with other players in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate for the Nintendo Switch. Enjoy some […]
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San Mateo Celebrates!
From SanMateoCelebrates.com: San Mateo Celebrates! is a dynamic annual April celebration — strategically timed with National Library Week — that showcases and supports the richness of our Library's activities. Following […]
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DSMA April Board Meeting (Open to the Public)
DSMA April 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 […]
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In Person Partner Prenatal Yoga Workshop with Larissa Kenny (at Nandi Yoga)
In Person Partner Prenatal Yoga Workshop with Larissa Kenny (at Nandi Yoga)
From Nandi Yoga's website: * Please note that there are no refunds for workshops and special events. In this workshop, we will focus on strategies that can help you physically, […]
P4G San Mateo Opening Event
P4G San Mateo Opening Event
From Perform for Golf: Perform for Golf is extending a warm invitation to our members, neighbors, and friends to come together and connect with our vibrant and growing community! Let's […]
Night At the Library Benefit (part of San Mateo Celebrates!)
Night At the Library Benefit (part of San Mateo Celebrates!)
From the San Mateo Public Library Foundation: Join us for a scintillating evening of food, fun, and philanthropy to benefit the San Mateo Public Library! We're transforming the lobby into […]
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San Mateo Earth Day: Project Super Plants (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
San Mateo Earth Day: Project Super Plants (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
From the San Mateo Public Library: Attend this workshop presented by youth led Project Super Plants to learn about the threats of CO2 emissions on our local biodiversity and become […]
San Mateo Earth Day: Sustainability for All Tabling Event (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
San Mateo Earth Day: Sustainability for All Tabling Event (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
From the San Mateo Public Library: Join local sustainability partners who will share tips and resources to help you reduce waste, and save money. Tabling with us: San Mateo Arboretum […]
San Mateo Earth Day: Game & Puzzle Swap (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
San Mateo Earth Day: Game & Puzzle Swap (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
From the San Mateo Public Library: Swap out your gently used games or puzzles for a new to you puzzle or game.
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San Mateo Earth Day: A New Climate Vision (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
San Mateo Earth Day: A New Climate Vision (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
From the organizers: The impacts of climate change are increasingly felt every day, but there is hope in the solutions being implemented both globally and locally. You are invited to […]
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Pause, Sip, and Explore…Bubbles & Rosé! (at Pausa)
Pause, Sip, and Explore…Bubbles & Rosé! (at Pausa)
From Pausa's website: Join us for a fun, informative, and social wine tasting event showcasing rosé and sparkling wines from Italy. All wines featured will be available to purchase at […]
Floral Artists of the Bay Area (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
Floral Artists of the Bay Area (at the Main San Mateo Public Library)
From the San Mateo Public Library: Join us for a weekend of beautiful floral displays at the San Mateo Main Library! We are excited to present beautiful floral arrangements from […]
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Downtown San Mateo Boba Day
Downtown San Mateo Boba Day
Enjoy samples, deals, and special treats at your favorite Downtown San Mateo boba shops and other retailers! Have fun on B Street with family activity booths from: San Mateo Parks […]