Downtown San Mateo Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Downtown San Mateo
Popular places to visit
Golden Gate Bridge
One of the most iconic bridges in the world, walk the 2.7-kilometre marvel of engineering for the best views over the bay and the ocean beyond, fog permitting.
Pier 39
This waterfront location has a mix of thrilling rides and lively street entertainment, but watching the sea lions hanging out in the bay wins the day!
Golden Gate Park
Enjoy the tranquil beauty of this beloved park in this oasis of calm away from the bustle of the city, yet right in San Francisco’s backyard.
Moscone Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the fascinating museums and notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Lombard Street
Often incorrectly called the world’s crookedest street, this San Francisco roadway is an iconic spot to see, photograph and drive down.
Activities
2hr. SUNSET Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay
Half Moon Bay Family Friendly Guided E-bike Tour
San Francisco to Las Vegas and National Parks 6 Day Tour
San Francisco to Las Vegas Grand Canyon 4 Day Tour
Redwood&Crater Lake National Park&Oregon 3-Day Tour from San Francisco
Our pick of the best Downtown San Mateo Hotel Deals
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Clean room comfortable bed and the breakfast buffet were great. It’s the holiday so it’s very busy and noisy. The walls are so thin that you can hear everything and it distrusted our sleep. And the people upstairs were stumping their feet. Good thing we were only there for 1 night.
Reviewed on 29 Dec 2025
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Pacifico our bellman was amazing! The room was great and all super easy.
Reviewed on 27 Dec 2025
Fairmont San Francisco
Yes
Reviewed on 28 Dec 2025
Hyatt Place San Francisco Downtown
The room was super clean and updated amenities. Love this hotel. Hyatt is always a good choice! 👍
Reviewed on 29 Dec 2025
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Great location. Close to all attractions in downtown. Safe to walk early morning and night. Helpful and great customer services. Thank you.
Reviewed on 30 Dec 2025
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Good ratio of price and quality
Reviewed on 22 Dec 2025
Check Downtown San Mateo hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown San Mateo
Excelsior
Though Excelsior may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Cow Palace and San Bruno Mountain State Park.
Potrero Hill
The live music and architecture are just a few things visitors like about Potrero Hill. San Francisco Bay and Anchor Brewing Company are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at 20th Street Station or 23rd Street Station to get around the larger area.
Noe Valley
Appreciated for its churches and architecture, you might consider exploring Noe Valley. Check out the variety of things to see and do like 22nd St Hill, and jump on the metro at Church St & Clipper St Stop or Church St & 24th St Stop to get around the city.
Mission District
You might enjoy the bars while in Mission District. SOMA Pilipinas is a notable sight, and you can get around town at 16th Street Mission Station or 24th Street Mission Station to see more of the city.
South of Market
Gourmet restaurants great entertainment and top sights from Oracle Park to San Francisco Bay – discover South of Market, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Downtown San Francisco
Known for its fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Francisco. Top attractions like Oracle Park and San Francisco Bay are major draws. Catch the metro at Market St & 5th St Stop or Market St & Taylor St Stop to see more of the city.
