Tucked into the renowned Silicon Valley just outside San Francisco, San Mateo carves out its own unique spot within the hi-tech corridor. Diverse shopping districts, leafy parks, excellent museums and colourful gardens offer a pleasant mix of nature and culture.

Things to do

Parks in San Mateo are a perfect antidote for the constant technology buzz, starting with Sugarloaf Nature Area. You can hike several trails to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for spectacular views of the San Francisco and San Mateo bridge, then head to Sea Point Park for windsurfing and kayaking.

Travelling with the family? Coyote Point Park features the CuriOdyssey science museum and zoo, where kids can engage in science experiments and wander through naturalistic wildlife habitats for golden eagles, rubber boas and dozens of native birds in the aviary. Coyote park also boasts the Magic Mountain Playground with castles and dragons.

You can have traditional afternoon tea in the Japanese Tea Garden, then explore the exotic plants, bamboo grove and koi pond. You can also stroll Filoli Gardens on Canada Road before stopping by the Hiller Aviation Museum for an insider look at a 747 cockpit, original aircraft and flight simulators.

In the evening, indulge in international cuisine at small cafes lining Old Town San Mateo, which range from Latin American to Filipino, Mexican and Southeast Asian. Pick up some tickets for live music and theatrical performances at Fox Theatre or spend an evening with Broadway-style musicals or ballet at San Mateo Performing Arts Center.

Getting around

San Mateo benefits from the San Francisco Bay Area transit services, which include buses, trains, ferries, light rail and cable cars. Rental cars are available at San Francisco International Airport, about 10 kilometres away.