Central San Mateo Travel Guide
San Francisco
Visit Central San Mateo
Popular places to visit
Central Park
Central Park is just one of the places to see in San Mateo, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
Golden Gate Bridge
Cars trundle across it and ships sail under it, but the best way to experience this iconic bridge is on foot.
Golden Gate Park
This beloved park offers relaxation among trees, flowers and wildlife, right in San Francisco’s backyard.
Pier 39
This waterfront attraction offers thrilling rides, innovative street performers and colorful souvenir shops, but it’s the sea lions that win the day.
Moscone Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Moscone Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Francisco. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Oracle Park
Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, this charming ballpark with outstanding views should be on your San Francisco sightseeing list.
Things to do
Pacific Coast Highway App-Based Driving Audio Tour Bundle
Napa, Sonoma and Exclusive Battery Spencer Small Group Wine Tasting Tour
Silicon Valley Self-Guided App-Based Driving Audio Tour
Half Moon Bay Guided E-Bike Tour
Half Moon Bay Family Friendly Guided E-bike Tour
Top hotels in Central San Mateo
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Nice hotel
Reviewed on 21 Jan 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
The room was very clear. I loved the modern decor. The gentleman who checked me in was extremely warm and friendly! Sorry. I forgot to write his name down.
Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
My second time staying at Hilton FiDi. Great room, location and service as always.
Reviewed on 22 Jan 2026
Hyatt Place San Francisco Downtown
breakfast food was ok, but selection was limited (no bacon, no sausage)
Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
The best service ever! Thank you <3
Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Clean, nice staff.
Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Central San Mateo
Excelsior
Though Excelsior may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Cow Palace and San Bruno Mountain State Park.
Potrero Hill
The live music and architecture are just a few things visitors like about Potrero Hill. San Francisco Bay and Museum of Craft & Design are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at 20th Street Station or 23rd Street Station to get around the larger area.
Noe Valley
Appreciated for its churches and architecture, you might consider exploring Noe Valley. Check out the variety of things to see and do like 22nd St Hill, and jump on the metro at Church St & Clipper St Stop or Church St & 24th St Stop to get around the city.
Mission District
You might enjoy the bars while in Mission District. SF Armory is a notable sight, and you can get around town at 16th Street Mission Station or 24th Street Mission Station to see more of the city.
Mission Bay
While you're in Mission Bay, take in top sights like Chase Center or Lefty O'Doul Bridge, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at UCSF/Chase Center Stop or Mission Rock Station.
South of Market
Gourmet restaurants great entertainment and top sights from Oracle Park to Chase Center – discover South of Market, a destination also famous for its shopping.
