Playgrounds
29 parks with a playground, closest to downtown first.
- Trinta Park0.3 mi from downtown
- Sunnybrae Park0.4 mi from downtown
- Concar Park0.5 mi from downtown
Family
Things to do in San Mateo with kids
6 kinds of family outings, with the closest picks for each.
Family-friendly ideas around San Mateo, built from the city’s parks, libraries, local businesses and nearby public lands. Pick a section for the full list, a map and directions, and check the events calendar for this week’s story times, festivals and shows.
Indoor fun
Places to go when it’s too hot, cold or wet outside.
- Golden Moon Galleryart gallery
- Pierson 20th Century Designart gallery
- Visible Vibrationsart gallery
Libraries
Story times, homework help and summer reading, free with a library card.
- San Mateo Public Library55 West Third Ave.
- Marina Branch Library1530 Susan Court
- Hillsdale Branch Library205 W. Hillsdale Blvd.
Bookstores
3 local bookstores in San Mateo.
- Asian American Curriculum ProjectSan Mateo
- Reach and Teach Books, Toys, and GiftsSan Mateo
- B Street BooksSan Mateo
Picnic spots
Day-use areas for a family picnic.
- Kirby Cove Campground22 mi northwest
- S F Bay Model Regional Visitor Center22 mi northwest
- Golden Gate National Recreation Area26 mi northwest
Wildlife and nature
Refuges and lakes to spot birds and animals.
- 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 is there to do in San Mateo with kids?
Playgrounds (29), Indoor fun (8), Libraries (3), Bookstores (3), Picnic spots (11), Wildlife and nature (23). Each section links to the full list with maps and directions.
What can kids do in San Mateo for free?
Parks and playgrounds, library story times and many community events are free. See the free things to do and kids events pages for this week’s options.
What can families do in San Mateo when it rains or it’s hot?
Try the indoor ideas and the library, or check the kids and family events calendar.