Free & Cheap Things to Do in San Mateo, CA

  • The list below includes 706 free or cheap things to do in or near San Mateo, California, including 127 different types of inexpensive activities like Parks, Gardens, Hiking Trails and Running/Jogging.
  • From The San Mateo Japanese Garden to Sawyer Camp Trail, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in San Mateo and in nearby cities within 25 miles like San Francisco, Pacifica, Half Moon Bay and Berkeley.
  • The list below includes 706 free or cheap things to do in or near San Mateo, California, including 127 different types of inexpensive activities like Parks, Gardens, Hiking Trails and Running/Jogging.
  • From The San Mateo Japanese Garden to Sawyer Camp Trail, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in San Mateo and in nearby cities within 25 miles like San Francisco, Pacifica, Half Moon Bay and Berkeley.
Showing 411-420 of 1154
16.5 Miles
100% 4 votes
Playgrounds 1001 Westgard Street, Union City, CA 94587 MoreLess Info
Dry Creek Park is also known by its longer name of Dry Creek Pioneer Regional Park, which is located in an area that was famous in the 1880s for large festival events. The park currently holds the Garin Barn Visitor Center, picnic areas, an extensive landscaped garden, and hiking trails.
16.6 Miles
94% 766 votes
History Museums 1000 Oak Street, Oakland, CA 94607 MoreLess Info
The Oakland Museum of California focuses on California artists. They also have a natural museum with exhibits on marine life in California.
16.6 Miles
- 0 votes
Religious Buildings 720 Washington St, San Francisco, CA 94108 MoreLess Info
Buddha's Universal Church welcomes practitioners from all sects of Buddhism. They have classes for those who would like to learn more about Buddhist teachings.
16.6 Miles
67% 6 votes
Neighborhoods Jackson Street between Battery and Kearny, San Francisco, CA 94111 MoreLess Info
Jackson Square is a neighbourhood which houses some of the oldest buildings in San Franscisco, some dating as far back as the 1850's with their iron shutters still intact. It's better to visit the place with an experienced guide to learn more about its history.
16.6 Miles
- 3 votes
Religious Buildings 855 Stockton Street, San Francisco, CA 94108 MoreLess Info
One of the most important Buddhist temples in San Francisco is the Kong Chow Temple. You may want to make a suggested donation of $3, and refrain from taking photos, since this is against Buddhist religion.
16.6 Miles
92% 52 votes
Neighborhoods 2356 Pine Street (at Fillmore), San Francisco, CA 94115 MoreLess Info
Huge. Luxurious homes, and stunning views are available from Pacific Heights, San Francisco's premier residential area. Unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge can be found on a self-guided walking tour of the area.
16.6 Miles
68% 31 votes
Comedy Clubs 444 Battery St. between Clay and Washington, San Francisco, CA 94111 MoreLess Info
Punch Line is a popular stand-up comedy club located in downtown Financial District of San Francisco. The weekday show have three comedians while the weekend shows have more than ten. The drinks are not too strong and they have a two drink minimum for orders.
16.6 Miles
93% 13500 votes
Parks 501 Stanyan St, San Francisco, CA 94117 MoreLess Info
Located in San Francisco adjacent to the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park is a tranquil and verdant area popular with hikers and dog walkers. It is also a favorite picnic spot during the warm summer months.
16.6 Miles
69% 3133 votes
419

Chinatown

Neighborhoods Grant Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94108 MoreLess Info
One of the most popular tourist attractions around the bay, Chinatown is within minutes of downtown. Explore Chinese culture and history with a long walk around the area. In Chinatown you can dine, shop and experience Chinese inspired architecture.
16.6 Miles
86% 338 votes
National & State Parks 17930 Lake Chabot Road, Castro Valley, CA 94546 MoreLess Info
Those who wish to go fishing may enjoy the trout, catfish, bass, and crappie catches at Lake Chabot Regional Park. Visitors can also rent canoes and boats and purchase 'bait and tackle' at Marina Cafe.
Showing 411-420 of 1154
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