San Mateo Central Park: A Peninsula Oasis
Discover a vibrant mix of recreation and tranquility at San Mateo's historic Central Park, featuring a renowned Japanese Garden and community events.
San Mateo Central Park, the city's first public park established in 1922, offers a blend of recreation and tranquility. Highlights include a Japanese Garden, rose garden, baseball field, tennis courts, and open green spaces, making it a cherished 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 Garden in late winter or early spring to see the cherry blossoms in bloom.
- Check the city's website for updates on events and the status of the miniature train.
- Explore the San Mateo Arboretum and Rose Garden for a peaceful escape.
- Look for the cast-iron dog statue near the Ninth Avenue entrance, a historic and beloved landmark.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown San Mateo, Central Park is easily accessible on foot. Head east on 5th Avenue. The park entrance will be on your left, spanning between 5th and 9th Avenues. The Japanese Tea Garden is located towards the back of the park.
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Public Transport
SamTrans bus routes ECR, 292, 397, CSM, and 250 stop near Central Park. The closest bus stop is El Camino Real & 9th Ave, a 3-minute walk to the park. Caltrain also provides access to San Mateo. From the San Mateo Caltrain station, you can take a SamTrans bus or walk approximately 38 minutes. SamTrans offers a free transit program for commuters and students. A single SamTrans bus fare costs between $1-$5.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at the park's entrance at 50 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401. From downtown San Mateo, a short ride will typically cost around $10-$15.
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Driving
From Highway 101, exit onto CA-92 West and then onto El Camino Real North. Turn east onto 5th Avenue to reach the park. Limited street parking is available. Several parking garages are located near Central Park, including the Tennis Court Parking Garage at Central Park and the Kiku Parking Garage. Hourly rates start at $1. Some parking lots use parking apps.
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
Discover San Mateo: Your gateway to the San Francisco Peninsula, offering seamless Caltrain access to vibrant downtown, diverse dining, and cultural attractions.
Eugene J. De Sabla, Jr., Teahouse and Tea Garden
0.8 km
Discover a serene oasis in San Mateo: the Eugene J. De Sabla, Jr., Teahouse and Tea Garden, a historic Japanese garden designed by Makoto Hagiwara, offering a glimpse into California's past.
Ernest Coxhead House
1.3 km
Explore the Ernest Coxhead House, a stunning historical landmark in San Mateo showcasing late 19th-century architectural beauty and rich local history.
Not Dead Yet Battlefront
1.9 km
Discover the rich history of Not Dead Yet Battlefront, a landmark that embodies courage and resilience in the heart of San Mateo, California.
The Last Stagecoach Hold-up in San Mateo County
3.0 km
Explore the captivating history of the Old West at The Last Stagecoach Hold-up in San Mateo County, a unique historical landmark surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Historical Marker: Pacific City
3.1 km
Explore the Historical Marker of Pacific City, a captivating landmark that reveals the rich heritage and scenic beauty of San Mateo, California.
The San Francisco Peninsula
3.9 km
Discover the San Francisco Peninsula, where urban charm meets breathtaking coastal views and endless adventures await for every traveler.
Newhall Estate
3.9 km
Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of Newhall Estate, a serene historical landmark in Hillsborough, California.
SAN MATEO
4.3 km
Explore San Mateo, California – A vibrant city with beautiful parks, diverse dining, and a unique blend of urban and natural experiences.
Carolands Chateau
4.3 km
Explore the stunning Carolands Chateau, a historical landmark in California that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Gilded Age.
Len Turner Memorial Vista Point
5.6 km
Discover the stunning views of the San Francisco Bay Area at Len Turner Memorial Vista Point, a tranquil and picturesque escape in Belmont, California.
Ralston Hall Mansion
5.9 km
Experience the grandeur of California's Gilded Age at Ralston Hall Mansion, a National Historic Landmark on the campus of Notre Dame de Namur University in Belmont.
红木城
7.2 km
Explore Redwood City with peace of mind while your children enjoy a safe and nurturing environment at Red Wood City Childminder.
Skylawn Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory
8.1 km
Discover tranquility at Skylawn Funeral Home, Memorial Park & Crematory, a serene space for reflection and remembrance in San Mateo, California.
Unmissable attractions to see
San Mateo Japanese Garden
0.2 km
Experience tranquility in the heart of San Mateo at the Japanese Garden, a serene oasis of traditional design and cultural harmony.
Fairy Garden
0.2 km
Explore the whimsical Fairy Garden in Central Park, San Mateo, where enchanting landscapes and charming fairy houses await your discovery.
De Anza Historical Park
0.5 km
Explore California's past at De Anza Historical Park, a peaceful retreat commemorating the Juan Bautista de Anza expedition in a serene setting.
Sunnybrae Park
1.3 km
Escape to Sunnybrae Park in San Mateo: a charming retreat for families, nature lovers, and those seeking tranquility in a vibrant community.
Safari Run, San Mateo
1.8 km
San Mateo's ultimate indoor playground for kids: jungle-themed adventures, fitness programs, and unforgettable birthday parties!
Ryder Park
2.0 km
Discover bayfront beauty and recreation at Ryder Park in San Mateo, offering trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots for the whole family.
Harborview Park
2.3 km
Experience tranquility at Harborview Park, San Mateo's beautiful green space perfect for families, picnics, and outdoor activities amidst stunning views.
Seal Point Park
2.3 km
Discover scenic trails, art installations, and a vibrant dog park at San Mateo's Seal Point Park, a restored shoreline treasure on the San Francisco Bay.
Parkside Aquatic Park
2.8 km
Discover the joy of water play and outdoor fun at Parkside Aquatic Park, a perfect retreat for families in San Mateo, California.
Fiesta Meadows Park
2.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Fiesta Meadows Park in San Mateo, a perfect destination for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor activities.
Coyote Point Recreation Area
2.9 km
Discover bayside fun at Coyote Point Recreation Area: hiking, beaches, museums, and stunning views await in San Mateo!
Magic Mountain Playground
2.9 km
Experience the joy of play at Magic Mountain Playground, a family-friendly haven in San Mateo's beautiful Coyote Point Recreation Area.
Washington Park
2.9 km
Experience the beauty of Washington Park in Burlingame, a perfect destination for families and nature lovers alike with playgrounds, picnic spots, and scenic trails.
Aardvark Beach
3.1 km
Discover Aardvark Beach in Burlingame: A peaceful bayside escape with scenic views and recreational activities near Coyote Point.
Paddock Park
3.1 km
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
0.2 km
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Dough Zone Dumpling House San Mateo
0.2 km
Experience authentic Chinese dumplings at Dough Zone Dumpling House in San Mateo - where every bite tells a story.
Hummus Mediterranean Kitchen
0.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean dining at Hummus Mediterranean Kitchen, featuring halal and Turkish specialties in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Sapore Express
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Sapore Express in San Mateo - where every meal is a celebration of Italy's rich culinary heritage.
Foreigner Cafe
0.3 km
Experience unique breakfast and brunch at Foreigner Cafe in San Mateo - where every dish is thoughtfully prepared with fresh ingredients.
Gao Viet Kitchen
0.3 km
Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Gao Viet Kitchen in San Mateo—home of delicious pho and vibrant culinary traditions.
Central Park Bistro
0.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Central Park Bistro - where local flavors meet bistro charm in San Mateo.
NI-MO Japanese Cuisine
0.3 km
Experience the rich flavors of Japan at NI-MO Japanese Cuisine - your go-to spot for fresh sushi and authentic Asian dishes.
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
0.3 km
Discover the joy of grilling your own meats at Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in San Mateo - a culinary journey into authentic Japanese flavors.
San Mateo Prime
0.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at San Mateo Prime, where premium steaks meet vibrant nightlife in Central San Mateo.
Vespucci Ristorante Italiano
0.3 km
Experience authentic Southern Italian cuisine at Vespucci Ristorante Italiano in San Mateo—where every dish tells a story.
Espetus San Mateo
0.4 km
Discover authentic Brazilian cuisine at Espetus San Mateo – where tradition meets flavor in every delicious bite.
Pausa Bar & Cookery
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pausa Bar & Cookery in San Mateo – where every dish is crafted with passion and fresh ingredients.
Ravioli House
0.4 km
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Pokeatery
0.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shops On The Court
0.2 km
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Therapy Stores
0.2 km
Explore Therapy Stores in San Mateo for unique gifts and stylish clothing, a perfect stop for tourists seeking special souvenirs.
Golden Moon Gallery
0.3 km
Explore Golden Moon Gallery in San Mateo for a delightful selection of local and international art, perfect for collectors and casual visitors alike.
Plato's Closet San Mateo
0.3 km
Explore Plato's Closet in San Mateo for trendy, gently used clothing and accessories at unbeatable prices in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
GALAXY SAN MATEO
0.3 km
Discover Galaxy San Mateo - Your destination for high-quality smoking products and accessories in the heart of California.
Come C Interiors
0.4 km
Explore the charm of antique shopping at Come C Interiors in San Mateo, where every piece tells a story and showcases timeless craftsmanship.
Los Amigos Imports
0.5 km
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Fanloli
0.5 km
Explore Fanloli in San Mateo for unique gifts and quality beauty supplies that capture the essence of California's vibrant culture.
Thrift Shop St. Matthew's Episcopal Church
0.6 km
Explore St. Matthew's Episcopal Church Thrift Shop in San Mateo for unique finds and a chance to support local charity with every purchase.
Nouvelle Vogue | Bridal Boutique near San Francisco Bay Area
0.7 km
Discover the elegance of Nouvelle Vogue Bridal Boutique, where every bride finds her dream gown in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Turnstyle Thrift Shop
0.8 km
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Perfect Details
0.8 km
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Neelam Islanders Market
0.9 km
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Borel Square Shopping Center
1.5 km
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Shoreview Shopping Center
1.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sky Lounge
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning skyline views at Sky Lounge, San Mateo's premier rooftop bar for cocktails and relaxation.
McGovern's Bar
0.3 km
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Yuppie Cantina
0.4 km
Discover Yuppie Cantina in San Mateo, a lively bar offering a fantastic drink selection and vibrant atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Eddie's Sports Bar
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and extensive drink selection at Eddie's Sports Bar, a top choice for nightlife in San Mateo.
Fogbird
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Fogbird, a chic lounge in San Mateo, offering exquisite cocktails and delectable bar bites in a stylish setting.
A2
0.6 km
Explore A2 in San Mateo, a chic bar featuring an exceptional wine selection and a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Mortar & Pestle Bar
0.6 km
Discover a unique bar experience at Mortar & Pestle Bar with Indian-inspired cocktails and a lively atmosphere in Central San Mateo.
O'Neills Irish Pub
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of O'Neills Irish Pub in San Mateo, where delicious food, live music, and friendly faces await.
Wunderbar
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails at Wunderbar, a must-visit bar in Central San Mateo for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Bucky's Cocktail Lounge
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance and extensive cocktail menu at Bucky's Cocktail Lounge, the perfect spot for relaxation and fun in San Mateo.
Route 92 Sports Bar
2.1 km
Route 92 Sports Bar: Your go-to destination for sports, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere in San Mateo, California.
The Swingin' Door
2.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of The Swingin' Door in San Mateo, where delicious fish & chips, karaoke, and live music await every night.
Steamies Bar
3.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Mateo at Steamies Bar, where craft drinks and a lively atmosphere await.
Antone's Cocktail Lounge
3.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and sports excitement at Antone's Cocktail Lounge in San Mateo, where every night is a celebration.
The Field Club
4.8 km
Discover The Field Club, a charming bar and American restaurant in San Mateo offering delicious food, a vibrant atmosphere, and a great selection of drinks.
