San Mateo(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For families, Holiday Inn San Mateo - Silicon Valley is a top choice, located near the San Mateo Conference Center and California Science Center. The hotel offers spacious rooms, kid-friendly amenities, and easy access to the San Mateo River Trail, where you can enjoy views of the San Francisco Bay. With nearby parks like Metropolitan Park and walking distance to local eateries, it combines convenience with outdoor recreation—perfect for a relaxed family getaway.

The South San Mateo district provides some of the best hotel options, situated just minutes from Caltrain Station and Highway 101. This area hosts modern hotels like Courtyard by Marriott San Mateo, offering excellent access to shopping at San Mateo Shopping Center and dining spots. Guests also enjoy quick walks to the scenic San Mateo River Trail, with panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco skyline, blending urban convenience with natural beauty.

San Mateo offers a rich blend of Silicon Valley innovation culture and historic community life. Visit the San Mateo History Museum for guided weekend tours that explore the city’s transformation from an agricultural town to a tech hub. Don’t miss the annual San Mateo Jazz Festival held at Metropolitan Park, featuring live music and local food vendors. Art lovers should also check out exhibitions at the San Mateo Arts Center, showcasing contemporary works and community-driven creativity.

Couples will appreciate Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport/San Mateo, located just minutes from the airport but connected via complimentary shuttle to downtown San Francisco. The hotel features a rooftop terrace, infinity pool with bay views, and elegantly designed rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. Pair your stay with a sunset walk along the San Mateo River Trail or a picnic in Metropolitan Park—a serene escape within the tech-centric city.

Must-see landmarks include the San Mateo Conference Center, California Science Center, and Metropolitan Park. The California Science Center offers interactive exhibits on Silicon Valley’s innovation history—ideal for families and curious minds. Metropolitan Park, spanning over 100 acres, features biking trails, tennis courts, and a lakefront promenade perfect for relaxation. Stroll along the San Mateo River Trail to catch breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco skyline—a highlight for nature and photography enthusiasts.

Yes, San Mateo is a prime destination for business travelers. Hotels like Sheraton San Mateo Hotel & Spa provide fully equipped meeting rooms, high-speed internet, and dedicated business centers. Located close to Silicon Valley headquarters and the San Mateo Conference Center, they cater to executives and remote workers alike. With free parking, airport shuttles, and 24-hour room service, these properties offer seamless connectivity and comfort. Many also partner with local tech firms for exclusive rates and employee benefits.

San Mateo boasts a vibrant food scene blending California cuisine with global influences. Try French-inspired dishes at Cafe Boulud, or savor authentic Mexican fare at Mama's Kitchen. Don’t miss the weekly San Mateo Farmers Market, where local farmers and artisans sell fresh produce, handmade bread, and artisanal goods. Along the River Trail, cafés like Brew & Co. serve specialty coffee and healthy breakfasts—perfect for a morning refreshment during your exploration.

Yes, San Mateo has reliable public transit via Caltrain, connecting directly to San Francisco and San Jose in about 30 minutes. The SamTrans bus system covers major neighborhoods and commercial hubs. For independent travelers, renting a car or using ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft is recommended for accessing attractions like Metropolitan Park or the River Trail. Downtown South San Mateo is pedestrian-friendly, with many hotels offering free parking and airport shuttles for added convenience.

The San Mateo River Trail is a favorite photo spot, especially at sunrise or sunset when golden light reflects off the San Francisco Bay and frames the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance—ideal for landscape and portrait shots. Metropolitan Park’s lakeside gazebo and flower gardens also make stunning backdrops. The sleek glass façade of the San Mateo Conference Center adds a modern architectural touch. For night photography, head to the rooftop terrace of Hyatt Regency to capture the sparkling San Francisco Bay lights.

Yes, most hotels in San Mateo provide complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout guest rooms and common areas. Properties such as Hilton San Mateo, Courtyard by Marriott, and Holiday Inn San Mateo ensure strong connectivity for work or streaming. Premium hotels like Hyatt Regency even offer dual-band Wi-Fi optimized for video conferencing and online meetings. Many also feature business centers with printing and video equipment—making them ideal for remote professionals and digital nomads.