San Mateo Central Park: A Peninsula Oasis
Discover San Mateo Central Park: a historic urban oasis with gardens, recreation, and community events for all ages to enjoy.
San Mateo Central Park, the city's first public park, is a 16.5-acre urban oasis offering a blend of recreation and tranquility. Established in 1922, it features gardens, sports facilities, and historical elements, making it a beloved community hub.
A brief summary to San Mateo Central Park
- 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, Central San Mateo, California, 94401, US
- +1650-522-7400
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Japanese Tea Garden in late winter or early spring to see the cherry blossoms in bloom.
- Bring a picnic blanket to enjoy lunch by the koi pond.
- Check the schedule for the Central Park Music Series during the summer for free entertainment.
- Explore the San Mateo Arboretum to see a diverse collection of plant species.
- Be aware that dogs are not allowed in the Japanese Tea Garden.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown San Mateo, Central Park is easily accessible on foot. Head east on 5th Avenue towards El Camino Real. Cross El Camino Real and continue east; the park will be on your right. Alternatively, from the San Mateo Caltrain Station, walk north on El Camino Real, then turn right onto 5th Avenue. The park entrance will be on the right. Walking time is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
SamTrans bus routes ECR, 292, 397, CSM, and 250 stop near Central Park. From the San Mateo Caltrain Station, take any of these bus routes and alight at the El Camino Real & 9th Ave stop, which is a 3-minute walk to the park. Single ride fares for SamTrans are typically around $2.50. Alternatively, the Hillsdale Caltrain Station is a 38-minute walk away.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in San Mateo, use a taxi or ride-sharing service to reach Central Park. Input '50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo' as the destination. A typical ride from the San Mateo Caltrain Station or downtown San Mateo will cost approximately $8-$15, depending on traffic and surge pricing.
Discover more about San Mateo Central Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Downtown San Mateo Association
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit of Downtown San Mateo, where local businesses thrive amidst a backdrop of culture and creativity.
San Mateo Station
0.7 km
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Eugene J. De Sabla, Jr., Teahouse and Tea Garden
0.8 km
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Ernest Coxhead House
1.3 km
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Not Dead Yet Battlefront
1.9 km
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The Last Stagecoach Hold-up in San Mateo County
3.0 km
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Historical Marker: Pacific City
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The San Francisco Peninsula
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Newhall Estate
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SAN MATEO
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Carolands Chateau
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Len Turner Memorial Vista Point
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Ralston Hall Mansion
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红木城
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Skylawn Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory
8.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
San Mateo Japanese Garden
0.2 km
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Fairy Garden
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De Anza Historical Park
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Sunnybrae Park
1.3 km
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Safari Run, San Mateo
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San Mateo's ultimate indoor playground for kids: jungle-themed adventures, fitness programs, and unforgettable birthday parties!
Ryder Park
2.0 km
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Harborview Park
2.3 km
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Seal Point Park
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Parkside Aquatic Park
2.8 km
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Fiesta Meadows Park
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Coyote Point Recreation Area
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Magic Mountain Playground
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Washington Park
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Aardvark Beach
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Paddock Park
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A vibrant community park in San Mateo's Bay Meadows, offering playgrounds, picnic spots, and recreational activities for all ages.
Essential places to dine
Taishoken Ramen
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Dough Zone Dumpling House San Mateo
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Hummus Mediterranean Kitchen
0.3 km
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Sapore Express
0.3 km
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Foreigner Cafe
0.3 km
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Gao Viet Kitchen
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Central Park Bistro
0.3 km
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NI-MO Japanese Cuisine
0.3 km
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Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
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San Mateo Prime
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Vespucci Ristorante Italiano
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Espetus San Mateo
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Pausa Bar & Cookery
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Ravioli House
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Pokeatery
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shops On The Court
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Therapy Stores
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Golden Moon Gallery
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Plato's Closet San Mateo
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GALAXY SAN MATEO
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Come C Interiors
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Los Amigos Imports
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Fanloli
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Thrift Shop St. Matthew's Episcopal Church
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Nouvelle Vogue | Bridal Boutique near San Francisco Bay Area
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Turnstyle Thrift Shop
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Perfect Details
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Neelam Islanders Market
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Borel Square Shopping Center
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Shoreview Shopping Center
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sky Lounge
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McGovern's Bar
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Yuppie Cantina
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Eddie's Sports Bar
0.5 km
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Fogbird
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A2
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Mortar & Pestle Bar
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O'Neills Irish Pub
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Wunderbar
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Bucky's Cocktail Lounge
1.3 km
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Route 92 Sports Bar
2.1 km
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The Swingin' Door
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Steamies Bar
3.7 km
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Antone's Cocktail Lounge
3.9 km
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The Field Club
4.8 km
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