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San Mateo County History Museum: A Window to the Peninsula's Past

Discover the captivating history of the San Francisco Peninsula at the San Mateo County History Museum in Redwood City.

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Located in Redwood City's historic 1910 courthouse, the San Mateo County History Museum brings the region's vibrant past to life. Explore exhibits detailing everything from the Ohlone Indians to the rise of Silicon Valley, all within a stunning building boasting the largest stained-glass dome on the West Coast.

A brief summary to San Mateo County History Museum

  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on the first Friday of the month for free admission, and enjoy special programs and activities.
  • Take some time to admire the stunning stained-glass dome, the largest of its kind on the West Coast.
  • The museum is located just a couple of blocks from the Redwood City Caltrain station, making it easily accessible by public transport.
  • Check the museum's website for information on current exhibits, events, and school programs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The San Mateo County History Museum is conveniently located two blocks from the Redwood City Caltrain station. From the station, walk north on Winslow Street, then turn left onto Broadway. The museum will be on your left. A Caltrain ride from Sunnyvale to Redwood City costs $5-$6.

  • Walking

    From downtown Redwood City, the museum is easily accessible on foot. From Courthouse Square, walk north on Hamilton Street, then turn right onto Broadway. The museum will be on your right. Allow approximately 5-10 minutes for the walk.

  • Parking

    Several parking options are available near the museum. The Jefferson Garage and Marshall Street Garage offer free parking for the first 1.5 hours. Metered street parking is also available, costing $0.50 to $1.00 per hour. The County Garage on Middlefield, just off Veterans Boulevard, is free on weekends and evenings. Be aware that parking in the downtown core is typically $1.00 per hour, Monday through Saturday, from 8 am to 8 pm.

Unlock the Best of San Mateo County History Museum

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Discover more about San Mateo County History Museum

Housed in the meticulously restored 1910 County Courthouse in Redwood City, the San Mateo County History Museum offers a captivating journey through the rich and diverse history of the San Francisco Peninsula. The museum's exhibits explore the region's story from its earliest inhabitants to the present day, highlighting key events, industries, and the people who shaped the area. Visitors can delve into the lives of the Ohlone Indians, the impact of Spanish explorers, and the development of early industries like logging, agriculture, and whaling. Exhibits also showcase the Victorian era and the rise of great estates, offering a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy and influential. More recent exhibits explore the immigrant experience in San Mateo County, the history of African Americans in the region, and the stories of local entrepreneurs who changed the world. The museum itself is a significant historical artifact. The former courthouse, a product of the City Beautiful Movement, features stunning architecture, including the largest stained-glass dome in a public building on the West Coast. The building served as the county courthouse until the 1990s and was carefully renovated to house the museum, which opened in 1998. Today, the museum provides public access to its extensive archives through its research library and hosts a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year. Don't miss the monthly Courthouse Docket, featuring presentations and lectures on local history.

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