Discover 45 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in San Mateo.
106 Upcoming EventsThe highest-rated places we recommend first — start here.
🛝 PlaygroundSan Mateo Park is a fantastic neighborhood destination offering something for every age group with its modern playground equipment and seasonal splash pad. The well-maintained grounds provide plenty of space for active play, while shaded picnic areas make it perfect for extended family outings or playdate gatherings.
🧗 AdventureSawyer Camp Trail offers families a gorgeous 6-mile paved path alongside the sparkling Crystal Springs Reservoir, perfect for biking, walking, or pushing a stroller. This car-free trail provides a safe environment for kids to ride bikes freely while spotting deer, squirrels, and various birds along the way, making it an ideal outdoor adventure for families looking to combine exercise with nature exploration.
🌳 ParkBeresford Park is a well-loved San Mateo neighborhood gem that hits all the marks for families seeking a full day of outdoor fun. With its modern playground equipment, seasonal swimming pool, tennis courts, and expansive lawns, it offers something for every member of the family whether you're looking for active play or a relaxing picnic spot.
📚 LibraryThis award-winning library is a treasure trove for families, featuring an extensive children's section that goes far beyond books. With regular storytimes, hands-on educational programs, and interactive learning activities, it's a welcoming space where kids can explore, learn, and discover the joy of reading in a vibrant community setting.
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🌳 ParkSan Mateo Central Park is a family favorite offering 16 acres of diverse attractions that keep kids entertained for hours. From the serene Japanese Tea Garden to an excellent playground and open fields perfect for running wild, this park delivers something special for every family member while remaining a peaceful urban oasis in the heart of San Mateo.
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🌿 NatureEdgewood Park & Natural Preserve offers families a chance to explore 467 acres of pristine California wilderness right in Redwood City. With well-maintained trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, kids can spot wildflowers, butterflies, and local wildlife while learning about Bay Area ecosystems through seasonal nature programs and guided walks.
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🌳 ParkWashington Park is Burlingame's crown jewel for family outings, offering something for everyone across its sprawling green spaces. With multiple playgrounds for different age groups, sports facilities, and plenty of room to run, it's the perfect spot for everything from casual picnics to full-day adventures.
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🌳 ParkLaurelwood Park is a treasured San Mateo neighborhood gem that consistently delights families with its well-maintained playground equipment, basketball courts, and generous shaded picnic areas. With an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 800 reviews, this park has proven itself as a reliable destination where kids can burn energy while parents relax under the trees.
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🎨 MuseumCuriOdyssey combines the best of both worlds,an interactive science museum and a zoo showcasing native California animals like bobcats, foxes, and river otters. Kids get hands-on with STEM exhibits inside, then step outside to meet rescued wildlife they might encounter in California's wild spaces, making it an educational adventure that keeps young minds engaged for hours.
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🌳 ParkSan Bruno City Park is a spacious community hub that offers something for every member of the family. With well-maintained playgrounds, ample picnic areas, and wide-open green spaces perfect for running around, this park is a reliable go-to for local families looking to burn energy and enjoy the California sunshine. The variety of facilities means you can pack as much or as little into your visit as your family needs.
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📚 LibraryThe San Mateo Public Library is a wonderful free destination that goes far beyond just books. With its extensive, modern children's section, regular storytimes, and year-round educational programs, it's become a beloved community hub where kids can explore, learn, and discover the joy of reading in a welcoming environment.
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⚽ SportsHighlands Recreation Center is a neighborhood gem offering something for every age, from preschool programs to youth sports leagues and summer camps. With tennis courts, a swimming pool, athletic fields, and both childcare and educational programs, it's a one-stop destination for active families in San Mateo's Highlands area.
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⚽ SportsNazareth Ice Oasis offers year-round ice skating fun for families in the Bay Area, regardless of the weather outside. With public skating sessions, beginner-friendly lessons, and helpful skating aids for wobbly first-timers, it's an excellent spot to introduce kids to the ice or practice their hockey stops and figure-eight skills in a supportive environment.
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🧗 AdventurePoint San Bruno Park is a hidden gem for families seeking an easy outdoor adventure along the San Francisco Bay waterfront. The flat, stroller-friendly trail makes it perfect for families with little ones, offering stunning bay views and excellent birdwatching opportunities without the challenging terrain found at many Bay Area parks.
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🌿 NatureThe City of Burlingame Shorebird Sanctuary offers families a tranquil escape where kids can discover shorebirds, explore bayfront trails, and learn about local ecosystems through informative signs. This hidden gem along the San Francisco Bay provides an easy, stroller-friendly nature experience perfect for budding naturalists and families seeking a peaceful outdoor adventure just minutes from the city.
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106 upcoming family events in San Mateo
🌿 NatureCrestmoor Canyon offers families a peaceful escape into nature without leaving San Bruno. This hidden gem features easy-to-moderate trails perfect for introducing kids to hiking, wildlife spotting, and learning about local ecosystems. It's an ideal spot for parents looking to foster a love of nature and outdoor exploration in a safe, accessible environment.
🛝 PlaygroundBrentwood Park is a beloved neighborhood gem in Redwood City that delivers everything families need for a fun afternoon outdoors. The excellent playground equipment keeps kids entertained for hours, while parents appreciate the ample shaded picnic areas perfect for snacks or lunch. With basketball courts adding extra play options, this park has become a go-to gathering spot for local families.
📚 LibraryCourthouse Square is Redwood City's vibrant downtown plaza that offers something for families year-round. Kids love splashing in the interactive fountains during warm months, while parents appreciate the rotating calendar of free community events including outdoor movie nights under the stars, seasonal festivals, and the popular Saturday farmers market where little ones can sample fresh fruit and watch street performers.
🎭 TheaterThe Fox Theatre is a stunning Art Deco gem in downtown Redwood City that brings families together for memorable movie nights and live performances in a historic setting. Kids will be enchanted by the beautifully restored 1929 theater with its vintage charm, plush seating, and old-school movie palace atmosphere, while parents appreciate the carefully curated family-friendly programming and reasonable ticket prices.
🎮 EntertainmentThe Shops at Tanforan is a one-stop indoor destination perfect for families seeking entertainment beyond just shopping. With a movie theater, indoor play areas, diverse dining options, and family-friendly retailers all under one roof, it's an ideal rainy day refuge or casual weekend outing in San Bruno.
⭐ ActivityMaple Street in Redwood City serves as a charming pedestrian-friendly corridor connecting families to downtown's best attractions, dining, and seasonal community events. This walkable street offers a relaxed atmosphere where kids can safely explore while parents enjoy outdoor seating areas and the vibrant local scene. It's an ideal starting point for a family day out in downtown Redwood City.
Main Street in Redwood City is a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly downtown that's perfect for families looking to enjoy an afternoon of strolling, dining, and community fun. With its tree-lined sidewalks, outdoor seating areas, and regular events like farmers markets and weekend festivals, it offers a relaxed atmosphere where kids can explore safely while parents enjoy quality local dining and shopping.
📚 LibraryThe Redwood City Public Library is a family favorite with its spacious, modern children's section that invites kids to explore, learn, and discover new stories. Beyond the extensive collection of books, games, and puzzles, the library offers regular storytimes and hands-on educational programs that keep young minds engaged while giving parents a comfortable, air-conditioned space to relax.
🌳 ParkRed Morton Park is Redwood City's go-to destination for family fun, offering something for everyone across its sprawling grounds. With multiple playgrounds for different age groups, wide open sports fields perfect for impromptu soccer games, shaded picnic areas, and paved walking paths ideal for strollers and bikes, this beloved community park delivers hours of entertainment without breaking the bank.
🛝 PlaygroundHoover Park is a well-loved neighborhood gem in Redwood City that delivers all the essentials for a great family outing. With its modern playground equipment, spacious grassy areas for running around, and shaded picnic spots, it's the perfect place to burn energy and enjoy quality outdoor time without the crowds of larger regional parks.
⭐ ActivityRockaway Beach is a sheltered cove beach that's perfect for families with young children who want a more relaxed beach experience. The protected waters are calmer than typical California beaches, making it safer for little ones to splash and play, while the tide pools offer endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
⭐ ActivityLocated at the historic Sunset Magazine headquarters, these demonstration gardens offer kids a hands-on nature experience with winding pathways, diverse plant collections, and changing seasonal displays. It's a peaceful outdoor classroom where children can explore different garden styles, spot pollinators, and learn about sustainable gardening practices in a stroller-friendly setting.
🎨 MuseumStep back in time at this beautifully preserved 1846 adobe home where kids can explore California's rancho period through hands-on history. The peaceful gardens and free admission make it an ideal low-key outing for families wanting to introduce history in a tangible, walkable setting that won't overwhelm younger children.
🧗 AdventureMilagra Ridge Trail offers families a manageable coastal hike with stunning 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, San Francisco Bay, and on clear days, the Golden Gate Bridge. This moderate trail is perfect for introducing kids to hiking and wildlife conservation, with opportunities to spot the endangered mission blue butterfly during spring and summer months while learning about habitat preservation.
🌳 ParkBedwell Bayfront Park offers families a wonderful escape into nature with miles of flat, easy trails perfect for bikes and strollers, plus designated kite flying areas that kids absolutely love. The expansive bayfront setting provides opportunities to spot herons, egrets, and other wildlife while taking in panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, making it ideal for active families who want fresh air and space to roam.
🌳 ParkPacifica State Beach offers the perfect California beach day for families with its expansive sandy shores and calm areas ideal for younger children. Kids can spend hours building elaborate sandcastles, exploring tide pools teeming with sea creatures, or taking their first surfing lessons from nearby surf schools. The beach's family-friendly atmosphere and reliable amenities make it a go-to destination for both locals and visitors.
🏛️ Community CenterPacifica Community Center is your one-stop destination for keeping kids active and engaged year-round. With everything from sports leagues and recreational classes to youth camps and open gym time, this well-loved community hub offers affordable, quality programming in a welcoming environment that makes it easy for families to try new activities without breaking the bank.
🍽️ RestaurantNick's Seafood Restaurant has been serving families right on the oceanfront in Pacifica since 1927, offering a relaxed atmosphere where kids can enjoy fish and chips from the kids menu while parents savor fresh seafood. The stunning Pacific Ocean views and casual vibe mean parents can relax even if little ones get antsy,there's always waves to watch and beach access nearby for pre- or post-dinner exploration.
Be transported to six unique ecosystems through HD video projections, soundscapes, and scents. Opening May 22!
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Matchup between White Sox and Giants on May 22, 2026
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Farmer and flea market at African American Art & Culture Complex
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Foodieland is coming to Cow Palace in Daly City, CA for an unforgettable event
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One day choir event at the San Francisco Botanical Garden
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Carnaval San Francisco brings 500,000 people to our annual celebration, making it the largest multicultural festival in the West Coast. Our mission is to educate people on the Latino, Caribbean…
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On Sunday, May 24, 2026, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art opens its doors for Free Community Day, giving visitors full access to the entire museum, including the exhibition Matisse’s Femme…
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White Sox travel to face Giants in series finale
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Join the ABADÁ-Capoeira San Francisco parade! Celebrate with us at Carnaval San Francisco, the city’s premier multicultural extravaganza that brings...
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CONTACT ME ABOUT SPONSORSHIP hr Awesome List by Month March Awesome List April Awesome List May Awesome List June Awesome List July Awesome List August Awesome List SeptemberAwesome List October…
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Home » *Top Pick* , Art & Museums , Downtown San Francisco , Fairs & Festivals , Holiday Shopping , In Person , Shopping & Fashion The Box SF “Eat Me!” Artisan Food Fair (2026) Saturday, May 30…
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Food allergy awareness walk event
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Community event
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Spring edition event
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The Box SF “Eat Me!” Artisan Food Fair (2026) The Box SF The Box SF presents EAT ME! , a monthly artisanal food fest , kicking off on January 10-11, 2026! Enjoy a flavorful weekend at The Box SF…
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Visit the cute and cuddly animals from the Little Explorers Petting Zoo. This is a popular event for the whole family. * Be prepared to wait in line!
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Admission is free for all visitors on the first Thursday of every month (except Jan 2026). No tickets are needed but visitors can RSVP here. Please double-check the event information … Continue…
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Union Street festival
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Spring concert event
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Do you have an aspiring future zoo keeper at home? If so, Junior Keepers is the perfect camp! Campers will experience a day in the life of a zoo keeper, hike around Coyote point to observe animals…
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Enjoy an immersive lecture in Morrison Planetarium, exploring brain science and mind health.
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Phoenix Mercury vs Golden State Valkyries Jun 9, 2026 game result including recap, highlights and game information
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Visit the cute and cuddly animals from the Little Explorers Petting Zoo. This is a popular event for the whole family. * Be prepared to wait in line!
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Learn how to play the fantasy card game Magic: The Gathering! You will have the chance to sort cards, build a deck and play a match. The best part? You get to keep the deck you build! Materials…
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“Sundown Cinema” SF’s Outdoor Movie Night in the Park 2026Sundown Cinema San Francisco’s free outdoor movie tradition is back with a full season for 2026. The Sundown Cinema series has just…
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RSVP for a chance to win special access to the reserved seating section. Plus, Amazon is gifting one lucky winner up to $1,000 for their Amazon Wish List. Official Rules…
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View the Chicago Cubs vs. San Francisco Giants game played on June 12, 2026. Box score, stats, play-by-play timeline, highlights, odds & more
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Festival with live music, KidsZone, and fashion. Free RSVP required.
via Eventbrite: SF Food Trucks
RC aircraft, drones, and flight demonstrations! This is one of the best little airshows in California.
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View the Oakland Roots SC vs. Miami FC game played on June 13, 2026. Box score, stats, play-by-play timeline, highlights, odds & more
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Family paint party event
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The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) welcomes families and inter-generational audiences to the museum for its Free Family Day on June 14, 2026. The June 2026 Free Family Day will…
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Minnesota Lynx vs Golden State Valkyries Jun 19, 2026 game result including recap, highlights and game information
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Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture (FMCAC), in partnership with Off the Grid, Stern Grove Festival, and West Coast Craft, is pleased to announce the return of its Fort Mason Night Market…
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San Francisco is a world-class city and a premier global destination for Juneteenth festivities, including the main event: a flagship parade in the heart of the City that engages, inspires, and…
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Native contemporary arts festival
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Join our friends at Alemany Farm for a California Native plant workday! Sign up here . Location: 700 Alemany Boulevard
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The San Leandro Historical Railway Society (SLHRS) invites you to their Summer Train Show & Open House: Saturday, June 20, 2026 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sunday, June 21, 2026 from 11:00 am to…
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Come celebrate Father's Day with DSE Runners! Flat, fast loop course at the east end of Golden Gate Park. Start/finish is near the intersection of JFK Drive and Transverse. Event details and…
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The San Leandro Historical Railway Society (SLHRS) invites you to their Summer Train Show & Open House: Saturday, June 20, 2026 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sunday, June 21, 2026 from 11:00 am to…
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Matchup between Dream and Valkyries on Jun 26, 2026
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FREE Starlight Movies in the Park will continue this summer for all families to enjoy. This fun-filled event will start at 6:30 p.m. with pre-show festivities including games and crafts for kids…
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Nature art class held at the National AIDS Memorial Grove
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Compete, win prizes and enjoy Pacifica Sharp Park Library's gaming consoles! Test your gaming skills against your fellow library goers in tournaments hosted by the library. We have a rotating game…
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Sunday, June 28 SF Pride Grandstand seating provides a comfortable viewing area to enjoy the San Francisco Pride Parade. Grandstands are located on the north side of Market Street between 7th and…
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Murphy (hip) could begin a rehab assignment with High-A Rome later this week, Grant McAuley of the Marietta Daily Journal reports. Strider (oblique) will travel with Atlanta on its road trip, but…
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We’re back for Cars & Coffee in the San Francisco Area. We’re at the Peet's Coffee in Daly City
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Known for their eclectic style and the widest-ranging repertoire anywhere, The Megatones always create energetic mash-ups that include hard rock, modern country, R&B, popular dance hits, the…
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Holiday craft faires at Prescott Market
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Come enjoy delicious food and shop from over 50 vendors selling or promoting fishing and outdoor related goods/services, clothing/apparel, and handmade crafts. Specific vendors TBD Fisherman's…
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The traditional kickoff for the Pistahan weekend. The largest Filipino parade on the West Coast, dancing in the streets of San Francisco.
via Pistahan Festival - Civic Center
Free 2-day outdoor festival fun for the entire family featuring world-class entertainment on the main stage including dance, hip-hop, jazz, martial artists, hands-on and authentic cultural experiences in 8 pavilions: Art, Culinary, Dance, Health, Heritage, Innovation, Sports and Tavern. Showcase of folk dance groups, variety entertainers, emerging talents and headline artists. Features local artisans, food vendors, entrepreneurs, and opportunities to discover Philippine history, heritage and traditions.
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View the Colorado Rockies vs. San Francisco Giants game played on August 16, 2026. Box score, stats, play-by-play timeline, highlights, odds & more
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At the completion of this one day course from 9am-5pm, you will receive your certification from the Health & Safety Institute (HSI).This pediatric CPR and First Aid class will grant …
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Enjoy a free family friendly event at our next Movie Night in the Park on Friday, August 22 at Martin Elementary School ballfield. Movie title to be announced. Check back for the latest updates…
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The San Francisco Standard is pleased to announce the return of Sundown Cinema, a free outdoor movie series spread across iconic San Francisco parks. Sundown Featuring a curated lineup of films…
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Annual summer Irish cultural festival
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“Pokémon XP”: Pokémon Official Fan Fest & World Championships in SF (Aug. 28-30)Pokemon San Francisco will host Pokémon XP, a new official fan event running alongside the 2026 Pokémon World…
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Showing 106 events in and around San Mateo