Parks
45 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Casanova Park2.2 mi from downtown
- Trinta Park0.3 mi from downtown
- Sunnybrae Park0.4 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in San Mateo
5 kinds of free outings in and around San Mateo.
Good days out in San Mateo don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- San Mateo Public Library55 West Third Ave.
- Marina Branch Library1530 Susan Court
- Hillsdale Branch Library205 W. Hillsdale Blvd.
Historic places
6 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- Eugene J. de Sabla, Jr., Teahouse and Tea Garden
- National Bank of San Mateo
- US Post Main Office-San Mateo
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Aquatic Park Cove, Black Point Overnight Anchoring, Sailing Vessels only (auxiliary engine OK)19 mi north
- Rob Hill Group Campground19 mi northwest
- Kirby Cove Campground22 mi northwest
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge13 mi east
- Aquatic Park Cove, Black Point Overnight Anchoring, Sailing Vessels only (auxiliary engine OK)19 mi north
- Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary19 mi northwest
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Walking In San Mateo California.
A local activity Short shared by Out N About With Tony.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Sunday hike up Sugarloaf hill in San Mateo, CA.
A local activity Short shared by Wynner3 (iDugit).
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in San Mateo?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in San Mateo this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.