San Mateo Station: Gateway to the Peninsula
Discover San Mateo: Your gateway to the San Francisco Peninsula, offering seamless Caltrain access to vibrant downtown, diverse dining, and cultural attractions.
San Mateo Station is more than just a transit hub; it's a portal connecting travelers to the vibrant heart of San Mateo and the broader San Francisco Peninsula. Serving as a key stop on the Caltrain line, the station provides easy access to downtown San Mateo's diverse culinary scene, cultural attractions, and burgeoning tech industry. The station itself boasts a modern design, a testament to the city's forward-thinking approach while honoring its rich history. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring the Peninsula, or simply passing through, San Mateo Station offers a convenient and welcoming gateway to experience the best of the region. Its location places you steps away from local shops, parks, and historical landmarks, making it an ideal starting point for any San Mateo adventure. The station's accessibility and central location make it a vital part of the community and a must-see for any visitor.
A brief summary to San Mateo Station
- 385 1st Ave, San Mateo, Central San Mateo, California, 94401, US
- +1800-660-4287
- Visit website
Local tips
- Explore downtown San Mateo's diverse culinary scene, just steps from the station, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual eateries.
- Visit Central Park, a short walk from the station, to enjoy the Japanese Garden, rose garden, and various events throughout the year.
- Utilize the station's convenient access to SamTrans buses for exploring other parts of San Mateo County and connecting to BART.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From anywhere in San Mateo or neighboring Peninsula cities, SamTrans buses offer frequent service to the San Mateo Station. Several routes, including the 250, 292, ECR, and others, stop directly at or near the station. A single ride on SamTrans costs $2.25 for adults, with discounts available for youth, seniors, and those with disabilities. Clipper cards offer a slightly reduced fare of $2.05. Alternatively, Caltrain provides regional access. From other Caltrain stations, take any train stopping at San Mateo. Caltrain fares vary depending on the distance traveled.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Mateo. A ride from anywhere in downtown San Mateo to the station will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on demand and distance. These services offer a convenient option for reaching the station from hotels or other locations within the city.
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Walking
San Mateo Station is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from most of downtown San Mateo. From the heart of downtown near Main Street and 2nd Avenue, the station is a short, approximately 5-10 minute walk north along Railroad Avenue. Follow the signs for Caltrain. The walk is flat and straightforward.
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Driving
If driving, approach San Mateo Station via Highway 101. Exit at Poplar Avenue and head west. Turn right onto 1st Avenue and follow it to the station. Limited parking is available at the station itself, with additional parking garages located nearby, including the Main Street Garage and the Transit Center Garage. Parking fees in these garages typically range from $0.75 per hour, with free parking on Sundays and after 6 PM in city-owned garages. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak commute hours.
Discover more about San Mateo Station
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
San Mateo Station
0.0 km
Discover San Mateo: Your gateway to the San Francisco Peninsula, offering seamless Caltrain access to vibrant downtown, diverse dining, and cultural attractions.
Downtown San Mateo Association
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Experience the vibrant community spirit of Downtown San Mateo, where local businesses thrive amidst a backdrop of culture and creativity.
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
0.8 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
2.0 km
Discover the rich history of Not Dead Yet Battlefront, a landmark that embodies courage and resilience in the heart of San Mateo, California.
Historical Marker: Pacific City
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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
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Discover the San Francisco Peninsula, where urban charm meets breathtaking coastal views and endless adventures await for every traveler.
The Last Stagecoach Hold-up in San Mateo County
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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.
Newhall Estate
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Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of Newhall Estate, a serene historical landmark in Hillsborough, California.
Carolands Chateau
4.5 km
Explore the stunning Carolands Chateau, a historical landmark in California that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Gilded Age.
SAN MATEO
4.9 km
Explore San Mateo, California – A vibrant city with beautiful parks, diverse dining, and a unique blend of urban and natural experiences.
Len Turner Memorial Vista Point
6.3 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
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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
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Explore Redwood City with peace of mind while your children enjoy a safe and nurturing environment at Red Wood City Childminder.
Portolà Expedition Camp Historical Landmark
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Explore the Portolà Expedition Camp in Millbrae, a captivating historical landmark that reveals California's early exploration and rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
San Mateo Central Park
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Discover San Mateo Central Park: a historic urban oasis with gardens, recreation, and community events for all ages to enjoy.
De Anza Historical Park
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Explore California's past at De Anza Historical Park, a peaceful retreat commemorating the Juan Bautista de Anza expedition in a serene setting.
Fairy Garden
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Explore the whimsical Fairy Garden in Central Park, San Mateo, where enchanting landscapes and charming fairy houses await your discovery.
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
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Discover bayfront beauty and recreation at Ryder Park in San Mateo, offering trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots for the whole family.
Sunnybrae Park
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Escape to Sunnybrae Park in San Mateo: a charming retreat for families, nature lovers, and those seeking tranquility in a vibrant community.
Harborview Park
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Experience tranquility at Harborview Park, San Mateo's beautiful green space perfect for families, picnics, and outdoor activities amidst stunning views.
Seal Point Park
2.0 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.
Coyote Point Recreation Area
2.2 km
Discover bayside fun at Coyote Point Recreation Area: hiking, beaches, museums, and stunning views await in San Mateo!
Magic Mountain Playground
2.2 km
Experience the joy of play at Magic Mountain Playground, a family-friendly haven in San Mateo's beautiful Coyote Point Recreation Area.
Aardvark Beach
2.4 km
Discover Aardvark Beach in Burlingame: A peaceful bayside escape with scenic views and recreational activities near Coyote Point.
Washington Park
2.4 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.
CuriOdyssey
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Inspiring kids' love for science and nature with hands-on exhibits and native California wildlife in a unique museum and zoo experience.
Coyote Point Beach
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Discover the scenic beauty of Coyote Point Beach in San Mateo, California, where relaxation meets adventure along the stunning coastline.
Parkside Aquatic Park
2.9 km
Discover the joy of water play and outdoor fun at Parkside Aquatic Park, a perfect retreat for families in San Mateo, California.
Essential places to dine
Rise Woodfire San Mateo
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Discover Rise Woodfire in San Mateo: A premier New American restaurant offering wood-fired pizzas and innovative dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Wursthall
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Discover Wursthall in San Mateo: where New American cuisine meets German tradition in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Swing Shift San Mateo
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Discover delicious American cuisine at Swing Shift San Mateo—where comfort food meets cozy ambiance in the heart of California.
Porterhouse
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Indulge in prime steaks and exquisite American cuisine at Porterhouse in San Mateo - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Kokko
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Experience the rich flavors of Japan at Kokko in San Mateo - a must-visit destination for yakitori lovers.
Daeho kalbijjim & beef soup
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Experience authentic Korean cuisine at Daeho Kalbijjim & Beef Soup – home of delicious kalbijjim and flavorful beef soups.
Bay Watch San Mateo
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Experience delicious American breakfast and brunch at Bay Watch San Mateo – where every meal feels like home.
Dash Japanese Tapas and Sushi
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Experience authentic Japanese flavors blended with modern flair at Dash Japanese Tapas and Sushi in San Mateo.
Pacific Catch
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Discover delicious seafood with a Hawaiian twist at Pacific Catch in San Mateo – where freshness meets flavor in every bite.
The Barrel Bistro and Wine Bar
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Experience gourmet dining at The Barrel Bistro and Wine Bar in San Mateo - where exquisite flavors meet an extensive wine selection.
Urban Momo
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Happy Lamb Hot Pot, San Mateo 快乐小羊
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Discover an authentic hot pot dining experience at Happy Lamb Hot Pot in San Mateo, where flavor meets tradition in every bubbling bowl.
Avenida Restaurant
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Experience authentic Filipino cuisine at Avenida Restaurant in San Mateo - where tradition meets flavor.
B Street & Vine
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San Mateo Prime
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Turnstyle Thrift Shop
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Fanloli
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Explore Fanloli in San Mateo for unique gifts and quality beauty supplies that capture the essence of California's vibrant culture.
Los Amigos Imports
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Explore Los Amigos Imports in San Mateo for unique gifts and candles while enjoying exceptional money transfer services.
Neelam Islanders Market
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Explore the treasures of Neelam Islanders Market, where island culture meets unique gifts and souvenirs in the heart of San Mateo.
Nouvelle Vogue | Bridal Boutique near San Francisco Bay Area
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Thrift Shop St. Matthew's Episcopal Church
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Explore St. Matthew's Episcopal Church Thrift Shop in San Mateo for unique finds and a chance to support local charity with every purchase.
GALAXY SAN MATEO
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Discover Galaxy San Mateo - Your destination for high-quality smoking products and accessories in the heart of California.
Plato's Closet San Mateo
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Explore Plato's Closet in San Mateo for trendy, gently used clothing and accessories at unbeatable prices in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Therapy Stores
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Explore Therapy Stores in San Mateo for unique gifts and stylish clothing, a perfect stop for tourists seeking special souvenirs.
Golden Moon Gallery
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Explore Golden Moon Gallery in San Mateo for a delightful selection of local and international art, perfect for collectors and casual visitors alike.
Shops On The Court
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Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Shops On The Court in San Mateo, where variety meets vibrant atmosphere for a perfect day out.
Come C Interiors
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Shoreview Shopping Center
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Perfect Details
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Explore Perfect Details, a jewelry boutique offering unique fine and costume jewelry, perfect for memorable souvenirs and gifts.
Borel Square Shopping Center
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Explore Borel Square Shopping Center in San Mateo for a delightful mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment in a vibrant setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wunderbar
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails at Wunderbar, a must-visit bar in Central San Mateo for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
O'Neills Irish Pub
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of O'Neills Irish Pub in San Mateo, where delicious food, live music, and friendly faces await.
A2
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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
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Discover a unique bar experience at Mortar & Pestle Bar with Indian-inspired cocktails and a lively atmosphere in Central San Mateo.
Fogbird
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Fogbird, a chic lounge in San Mateo, offering exquisite cocktails and delectable bar bites in a stylish setting.
Eddie's Sports Bar
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and extensive drink selection at Eddie's Sports Bar, a top choice for nightlife in San Mateo.
McGovern's Bar
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Join the vibrant nightlife at McGovern's Bar in San Mateo, a lively spot for cocktails, craft beers, and unforgettable social experiences.
Sky Lounge
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning skyline views at Sky Lounge, San Mateo's premier rooftop bar for cocktails and relaxation.
Yuppie Cantina
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Discover Yuppie Cantina in San Mateo, a lively bar offering a fantastic drink selection and vibrant atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Bucky's Cocktail Lounge
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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
2.7 km
Route 92 Sports Bar: Your go-to destination for sports, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere in San Mateo, California.
The Swingin' Door
3.1 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
4.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Mateo at Steamies Bar, where craft drinks and a lively atmosphere await.
Antone's Cocktail Lounge
4.5 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
5.5 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.
