Hotels in Downtown San Mateo

Urban Oasis: Discover the Heartbeat of San Mateo's Vibrant Charm

Discover the charm of Downtown San Mateo, a vibrant urban oasis nestled between San Francisco and Silicon Valley. Stroll through picturesque streets lined with eclectic shops, delightful cafes, and diverse dining options. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Central Park, where lush landscapes offer a serene escape. Attend lively events at the San Mateo Event Center or catch a game at nearby stadiums. With its rich cultural scene and welcoming atmosphere, Downtown San Mateo is the perfect blend of urban excitement and relaxing leisure—ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a unique Californian experience.

Discover great hotels in Downtown San Mateo

Downtown San Mateo offers a variety of hotel accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly options to more upscale stays. Visitors can find charming boutique hotels alongside well-known chains, all conveniently located near dining, shopping, and attractions, making it easy to explore the area. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Downtown San Mateo:

1. Inn@BayshoreOpens in a new window: Inn@Bayshore is a 3.0-star inn that offers a unique blend of business and golf-themed experiences. This property features excellent amenities for travelers who appreciate a focus on golf, including opportunities to participate in golf-themed activities. The hotel is designed to provide a comfortable and distinctive stay, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a relaxing yet engaging vacation. Guests appreciate the serene atmosphere and the chance to unwind while enjoying their favorite sport.
2. Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHGOpens in a new window: Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco SFO by IHG is a welcoming 3.0-star hotel that emphasizes a business-friendly environment combined with LGBTQIA inclusivity. This hotel boasts a 24-hour accessible business center and multiple meeting rooms, catering to the needs of professionals and leisure travelers alike. The contemporary design and thoughtful amenities create an inviting atmosphere that promotes productivity and relaxation. Travelers commend the hotel for its stylish accommodations and commitment to creating a welcoming space for everyone.
3. San Mateo SFO Airport HotelOpens in a new window: San Mateo SFO Airport Hotel is a charming 2.5-star hotel ideal for shopping enthusiasts and families. Located in the vibrant shopping district, this hotel features essential business amenities, including meeting rooms and a business center, along with kid-friendly services like complimentary cribs. Its convenient location allows guests to explore local shops and attractions effortlessly. Review sentiments highlight the hotel's family-oriented ambience and accessibility, making it a delightful choice for those looking to enjoy a comfortable and engaging stay in the area.

Top locations to stay in Downtown San Mateo

Staying near San Mateo County Event Center, Coyote Point Park, and Miramar Beach offers diverse attractions for every traveler. The Event Center hosts exciting events, Coyote Point Park features stunning bay views and recreational activities, while Miramar Beach is perfect for relaxation. For first-time visitors, staying near Coyote Point Park provides a balance of adventure and scenic beauty.

1. Near San Mateo County Event CenterOpens in a new window: Staying near the San Mateo County Event Center puts you right in the heart of exciting events and activities. This vibrant location is perfect for those looking to enjoy a variety of cultural happenings, including fairs and expos. Plus, you're just a short distance from shopping at Hillsdale Shopping Center, where you can explore a range of retail options, making it easy to indulge in some leisure shopping without straying far from your base.
2. Near Coyote Point ParkOpens in a new window: If you love the great outdoors, staying near Coyote Point Park is a fantastic choice. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and plenty of recreational activities, including walking trails and picnic areas. You'll also find nearby access to the charming waterfront, providing a peaceful escape from city life. For those who enjoy shopping, Hillsdale Shopping Center is just a short drive away, ensuring you have plenty of options for a fun day out.
3. Near Miramar BeachOpens in a new window: Staying near Miramar Beach invites you to unwind by the stunning coastline. This area is perfect for beach lovers looking for relaxation and scenic views. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the shore or soak up the sun on the sandy beach. Nearby, you can explore the coastal trails that offer breathtaking perspectives of the Pacific Ocean. For shopping enthusiasts, Stanford Shopping Center is within reach, providing a variety of boutiques and well-known brands to enhance your stay.

Things to do near Downtown San Mateo

Downtown San Mateo offers a lively mix of urban charm and natural beauty, with lush parks and waterfront areas perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics. Enjoy a day of retail therapy at bustling malls, catch an exciting event at an arena, or unwind with boating and outdoor activities.

• Golden Gate ParkOpens in a new window – Discover a sprawling urban oasis filled with gardens, lakes, and scenic walking paths. Whether you're biking around or enjoying a picnic, this park is a delightful escape from the city's hustle and bustle, offering various events and spaces for relaxation.
• Pier 39Opens in a new window – Visit this lively jetty where you can enjoy waterfront dining, shopping, and entertaining street performances. Don’t miss the famous sea lions basking in the sun; they’re a charming highlight of this bustling tourist precinct.
• Presidio of San FranciscoOpens in a new window – Explore this historic park that offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay. With its well-preserved trails and scenic overlooks, this area is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk hike while soaking in the natural beauty.
• Lombard StreetOpens in a new window – Take a walk down the famously crooked street, known for its steep, winding turns and beautifully manicured gardens. Capture some memorable photos as you navigate this unique and iconic San Francisco landmark.
• Ocean BeachOpens in a new window – Relax on the expansive sandy shore of Ocean Beach, where you can enjoy the sun, go for a walk, or simply listen to the soothing sound of the waves. It's a serene spot to unwind and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Downtown San Mateo

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Downtown San Mateo is during February, November, and December, when hotel prices are typically lower. To fully enjoy the area’s significant landmarks, cultural sites, and historical attractions, it is advisable to stay for at least 2 to 3 days. During your budget-friendly trip, you can explore various sites such as the modern towers, urban parks, shopping centers, and symbolic landmarks. Additionally, attractions like the natural history museum, event conference venues, and the vibrant tourist precinct can provide great value for money while enriching your experience in this charming city.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Downtown San Mateo, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special last-minute promotions. Additionally, Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window is a useful comparison tool in the app that helps travelers compare hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to see the best options available. This way, if prices drop or rooms become available, you'll be among the first to know and book your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay in a Downtown San Mateo hotel. If you're interested in unique accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is higher, we’ll recommend alternative dates that could help you find a more budget-friendly option.
4. Consider your location: Staying near key attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. If you're looking for more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, where you can find a good balance between cost and accessibility to the sights you want to explore. You might also look into independent hotels a bit farther out, as they usually tend to be cheaper and can offer a more authentic, budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join our membership program for free and unlock incredible savings on your next stay in Downtown San Mateo! As a member, you'll have access to exclusive prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. Enjoy the benefits of quick tier progression, which can lead to perks like complimentary room upgrades (subject to availability) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your travel experience—sign up today and start saving!

Best time to go to Downtown San Mateo

Downtown San Mateo has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. 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, with no rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and April are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.