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San Mateo County History Museum: A Journey Through Time

Discover San Mateo County's past at the History Museum in Redwood City's landmark 1910 Courthouse. Exhibits, stories, and artifacts await!

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Explore the captivating history of San Mateo County at the San Mateo County History Museum, housed in Redwood City's meticulously restored 1910 County Courthouse. Discover interactive exhibits, artifacts, and stories that bring the region's past to life, from its earliest inhabitants to modern innovators.

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 advantage of the free 1.5-hour parking at the Jefferson and Marshall Street Garages.
  • Check the museum's website for information on current exhibits, events, and school programs.
  • The museum is located two blocks from the Redwood City Caltrain station, making it easily accessible by public transportation.
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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. Caltrain provides regular service from San Francisco and the Peninsula. A one-way ticket from San Francisco to Redwood City costs approximately $7-$9. From the Redwood City Caltrain station, it is about a 5-minute walk to the museum.

  • Driving

    If driving from Highway 101, exit at Whipple Avenue and head west. Continue on Veterans Boulevard, turn right onto Middlefield Road, and then turn right onto Broadway. The museum will be on your right. If coming from Highway 280, exit at Farm Hill Boulevard and continue onto Jefferson Avenue. Turn left onto Broadway. The museum will be on your left. Parking is available in the Jefferson Garage and Marshall Street Garage; the first 1.5 hours are free. Metered street parking is also available surrounding the museum at a cost of $0.50 to $1.00 per hour. The County Garage on Middlefield, just off Veterans Boulevard, offers free parking on weekends and evenings.

  • Walking

    The San Mateo County History Museum is located in downtown Redwood City and is easily accessible by foot from many nearby locations. If you are near the Redwood City Public Library, walk south on Middlefield Road, then turn left onto Broadway. The museum will be on your right. If you are near Courthouse Square, walk east on Hamilton Street, then turn right onto Broadway. The museum will be on your left. Walking will not incur any costs.

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Discover more about San Mateo County History Museum

The San Mateo County History Museum, located in the heart of Redwood City, offers a fascinating exploration of the region's rich and diverse past. Housed in the magnificent 1910 County Courthouse, a landmark in itself, the museum's exhibits and collections bring the stories of San Mateo County to life. Inside, visitors can explore permanent exhibitions such as "Nature's Bounty," which examines the use of natural resources, "Journey to Work," which traces the evolution of transportation, and "Living the California Dream," which explores suburban life. Temporary exhibitions delve into specific aspects of the county's history, including immigration, local entrepreneurs, and the story of Maverick's surf break. The museum also boasts the largest stained-glass dome in a public building on the West Coast. The San Mateo County Historical Association (SMCHA) operates the museum and also manages the Woodside Store and the Sánchez Adobe Park. SMCHA also provides access to its archives through a research library and organizes educational programs for adults and children. The museum's collections include approximately 420,000 two- and three-dimensional items. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about the area, the San Mateo County History Museum provides an engaging and informative experience for all ages.

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