Hotels in Downtown San Mateo

Discover the Heart of Downtown San Mateo: Where Urban Greenery Meets Cultural Treasures

Discover the charm of Downtown San Mateo, California, where vibrant urban life meets serene parks and waterfront views. Stroll through Central Park's lush landscapes, enjoy family-friendly activities, or explore the lively streets filled with trendy cafes and boutique shops. Just a stone's throw away, Hillsdale Mall offers shopping galore, while the nearby Natural History Museum captivates curious minds. With its welcoming atmosphere and proximity to the SF Bay Area's attractions, Downtown San Mateo is a perfect blend of culture, leisure, and family fun, making it an ideal getaway for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. For the best hotel rates in Downtown San Mateo and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Downtown San Mateo

Downtown San Mateo offers diverse attractions like the Chase Center, a premier sports venue; Pier 39, known for its lively waterfront and sea lions; and Coyote Point Park, perfect for outdoor activities. Accommodations near these sites range from luxury apartments and marina lagoon hotels to budget-friendly options. For first-time visitors, Pier 39 is ideal for its vibrant atmosphere and variety of experiences. Nearby, the Burlingame area and Crystal Springs also provide excellent lodging choices. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Downtown San Mateo:

1. Near Chase CenterOpens in a new window: If you're looking for a vibrant atmosphere with a sports theme, staying near Chase Center is ideal. This location immerses you in the excitement of the city while keeping you close to events and attractions. For a comfortable stay, consider LUMA Hotel San Francisco Opens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel perfect for those wanting a city-themed vacation. It offers a cozy lodging experience just a mile from the Chase Center. Another great option is Hotel VIAOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel that caters to business travelers with excellent amenities like a Business Center and Meeting Room. For pet owners, Hyatt Place San Francisco DowntownOpens in a new window is a suitable 3.0-star option that allows pets onsite, ensuring a welcoming environment for all guests.
2. Near Coyote Point ParkOpens in a new window: For a family-friendly getaway that embraces outdoor activities, Coyote Point Park is a fantastic choice. This area invites you to explore nature and enjoy recreational opportunities. Consider Hotel StrataOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that provides business amenities and services for children, making it perfect for families. Another good option is Hotel VueOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel that offers free breakfast and various sports and recreation activities nearby. If you’re traveling with pets, Extended Stay America Suites San Jose Mountain ViewOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that accommodates pets while providing essential business services, ensuring a convenient stay for all types of travelers.

What to do in Downtown San Mateo

Spend three days in Downtown San Mateo to enjoy a vibrant mix of urban parks, shopping centers, and entertainment options. Stroll through scenic green spaces, explore diverse dining experiences, and indulge in leisurely activities like boating or hiking, all while soaking in the charming atmosphere of the Bay Area. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Downtown San Mateo:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Coyote Point Park, where you can explore scenic trails and enjoy stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. After soaking in the natural beauty, head over to Lakeshore Park Beach for some relaxation by the water, perfect for a picnic or simply enjoying the sunshine. Conclude your day by taking a leisurely stroll along the San Francisco Bay, where the sunset creates a beautiful backdrop, making for a memorable evening.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Pier 39, a vibrant hub filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Don’t miss the chance to see the famous sea lions lounging on the docks! Next, make your way to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge for breathtaking views and fantastic photo opportunities. Wrap up your day at the Presidio of San Francisco, where you can take a scenic walk through this historic park and enjoy its beautiful landscapes.
• Day 3: Start your morning at Golden Gate Park, a sprawling oasis that offers gardens, lakes, and trails to explore. Spend some time visiting the de Young Museum or the California Academy of Sciences if you’re interested in art or science. Afterward, head to Miramar Beach for some fresh ocean air and a peaceful stroll along the shore. Finish off your day at the San Francisco Bay Discovery Site, where you can learn about the area's rich maritime history.

5 tips to find a great Downtown San Mateo hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking for an affordable getaway, consider visiting Downtown San Mateo in February, November, or December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. A stay of at least 2-3 days is perfect for enjoying the area's key attractions, including the beautiful urban parks and the natural history museum. This budget-friendly trip offers great value for money, allowing you to fully experience the charm of Downtown San Mateo without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you’re looking for last-minute deals to Downtown San Mateo, you could find some great options on Hotels.com. Simply head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you might uncover discounted rates on accommodations as your travel date approaches. To maximize your chances, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and special last-minute offers so you’re more likely to snag a bargain.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could increase the chances that you may save on hotel expenses in Downtown San Mateo.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Join Hotels.com's free One Key program and book your next stay in Downtown San Mateo. As a member, you can earn and use rewards points for hotel bookings. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various benefits like room upgrades when available, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up today.

What to eat in Downtown San Mateo

Here are some famous dishes in Downtown San Mateo, San Mateo, California, United States of America:

• Mission-style burritos: A San Francisco Bay Area staple, these oversized burritos are packed with a variety of fillings, including rice, beans, meats, and salsas, all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. The convenience of grabbing one on-the-go makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
• Dim sum: Reflecting the rich Chinese heritage of the area, dim sum offers a delightful array of small, shareable dishes, including dumplings, buns, and pastries. Enjoying dim sum is often a leisurely meal, perfect for socializing with friends and family over tea.
• Clam chowder: This creamy, rich soup is a classic dish along the California coast. Often served in a sourdough bread bowl, it highlights the region's fresh seafood and is a comforting choice for a casual dining experience.

Best time to go to Downtown San Mateo

Downtown San Mateo experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 51.3°F (10.7°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.9°F (18.3°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Downtown San Mateo, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.