San Mateo · Best Attractions · Curated · Updated 2026

Best Attractions in San Mateo

Discover the best attractions in San Mateo. Find inspiration for your trip with our curated list of top-rated spots, local favorites, and hidden gems.

The 10 best attractions in San Mateo

california/san-mateo/attraction/golden-gate-national-recreation-area

Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area—an iconic California destination for all nature lovers.

California
4.7 Excellent 16,799 reviews
california/san-mateo/attraction/pier-39

PIER 39

Experience the lively atmosphere of Pier 39 in San Francisco, with sea lions, shopping, dining, and stunning views of the bay and Golden Gate Bridge.

The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133
4.6 Excellent 126,615 reviews
california/san-mateo/attraction/alcatraz-island

Alcatraz Island

Discover the haunting history and stunning views of Alcatraz Island, San Francisco's iconic former prison and military fort.

San Francisco, CA 94133
4.7 Excellent 40,818 reviews
california/san-mateo/attraction/golden-gate-park

Golden Gate Park

Explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Golden Gate Park, a must-see urban oasis in the heart of San Francisco.

San Francisco, CA
4.7 Excellent 42,715 reviews
california/san-mateo/attraction/muir-woods-national-monument

Muir Woods National Monument

Explore the enchanting Muir Woods National Monument, a breathtaking sanctuary of towering redwoods and serene natural beauty near San Francisco.

Mill Valley, CA 94941
4.8 Excellent 18,308 reviews
california/san-mateo/attraction/oracle-park

Oracle Park

Experience baseball at its finest with breathtaking bay views at Oracle Park, home of the San Francisco Giants.

24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94107
4.7 Excellent 28,884 reviews
california/san-mateo/attraction/marin-headlands

Marin Headlands

Discover Marin Headlands: A breathtaking coastal park in California, offering stunning views, historic sites, and diverse hiking trails.

California
4.8 Excellent 8,887 reviews
california/san-mateo/attraction/twin-peaks

Twin Peaks

Experience San Francisco's best 360-degree views from Twin Peaks, a natural landmark offering iconic vistas and hiking trails.

501 Twin Peaks Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94114
4.7 Excellent 13,025 reviews
california/san-mateo/attraction/san-francisco-zoo

San Francisco Zoo

Discover the diverse wildlife and lush gardens at San Francisco Zoo, a must-visit destination for families and nature lovers.

Sloat Blvd &, Upper Great Hwy, San Francisco, CA 94132
4.4 Very Good 13,002 reviews
california/san-mateo/attraction/san-francisco-museum-of-modern-art

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Discover a world of contemporary art and creativity at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, an iconic destination for art lovers and tourists.

151 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94103
4.6 Excellent 15,012 reviews

More to explore in San Mateo

Jump into the most useful discovery pages nearby, from experiences and heritage highlights to food, stays, shopping, and evening ideas.

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More about San Mateo

Discover San Mateo, a serene gem in California's Bay Area, offering a mix of historic charm, modern amenities, and abundant natural beauty.

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