San Mateo Central Park: A Peninsula Jewel
Discover San Mateo Central Park: A historic urban oasis with a Japanese Tea Garden, rose garden, and community events in the heart of downtown.
San Mateo Central Park, a verdant 16.5-acre oasis in the heart of downtown San Mateo, offers a delightful escape for locals and visitors alike. Established in 1922 on the former estate of Charles B. Polhemus and later William Kohl, the park blends history with recreation. Stroll through the meticulously designed Japanese Tea Garden, a serene landscape crafted by Nagao Sakurai of Tokyo's Imperial Palace. Enjoy a picnic amidst the roses in the Rose Garden, or simply relax on the expansive lawns. With tennis courts, a baseball field, and the charming Kohl Pumphouse, Central Park provides a diverse range of activities and attractions, making it a cherished community hub and a must-visit destination in the San Francisco Bay Area. While the playground is currently under construction, several other parks are nearby.
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
Local tips
- Visit the Japanese Tea Garden during late winter or early spring to witness the stunning cherry blossoms in full bloom.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing lunch amidst the roses in the Rose Garden.
- Check the city's event calendar for upcoming concerts, festivals, and community gatherings held in the park.
- Explore the San Mateo Arboretum Society's gardens and learn about the park's diverse plant life.
- Take a stroll along El Camino Real and admire the historic 900-foot stone and iron fence that once surrounded the Kohl estate.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the San Mateo Caltrain station, walk north on S Railroad Ave, then turn left onto E 5th Ave. Continue for approximately two blocks; the park will be on your right. Alternatively, several SamTrans bus lines (e.g., ECR, 292) stop near the park on El Camino Real. From the bus stop, walk east towards the park. A single ride on SamTrans costs $2.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in downtown San Mateo, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to Central Park is readily available. The drop-off point is typically on E 5th Ave near the park entrance. Expect to pay around $8-$12 for a short ride within the downtown area.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to the intersection of E 5th Ave and El Camino Real in San Mateo. Limited street parking is available around the park, with time limits enforced. Several parking garages are also nearby, including the Tennis Court Garage at Central Park (68E E 5th Ave) and the Kiku Parking Garage (400 E Fifth Ave). Metered street parking costs around $3 for 2 hours. Garage parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $0.75 per hour.
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
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Newhall Estate
3.9 km
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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
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Unmissable attractions to see
San Mateo Japanese Garden
0.2 km
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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
Experience the tranquility and history of De Anza Historical Park in San Mateo, CA, where nature and culture seamlessly blend.
Sunnybrae Park
1.3 km
Explore Sunnybrae Park in Central San Mateo, where lush landscapes meet tranquil walking paths, perfect for family outings and nature lovers.
Safari Run, San Mateo
1.8 km
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Ryder Park
2.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and recreational charm of Ryder Park in San Mateo, California - a perfect retreat for families and outdoor lovers alike.
Harborview Park
2.3 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Harborview Park, a perfect blend of nature and recreation in San Mateo, California.
Seal Point Park
2.3 km
Explore Seal Point Park, a serene coastal oasis in San Mateo, California, featuring stunning bay views, art installations, and lush green spaces for relaxation.
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
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Coyote Point Recreation Area
2.9 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and diverse activities at Coyote Point Recreation Area, a must-visit destination in San Mateo for nature enthusiasts.
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 the beauty of Aardvark Beach, a serene beach pavilion in Burlingame, California, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.
Paddock Park
3.1 km
Experience the charm of Paddock Park in San Mateo, where families can enjoy playgrounds, scenic trails, and peaceful picnic spots amidst lush greenery.
Essential places to dine
Taishoken Ramen
0.2 km
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Dough Zone Dumpling House San Mateo
0.2 km
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Hummus Mediterranean Kitchen
0.3 km
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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
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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
0.3 km
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San Mateo Prime
0.3 km
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Vespucci Ristorante Italiano
0.3 km
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Espetus San Mateo
0.4 km
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Pausa Bar & Cookery
0.4 km
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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
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GALAXY SAN MATEO
0.3 km
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Come C Interiors
0.4 km
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Los Amigos Imports
0.5 km
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Fanloli
0.5 km
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Thrift Shop St. Matthew's Episcopal Church
0.6 km
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Nouvelle Vogue | Bridal Boutique near San Francisco Bay Area
0.7 km
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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
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McGovern's Bar
0.3 km
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Yuppie Cantina
0.4 km
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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
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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.
