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Explore San Mateo for Under $20 (or FREE!)
Things You Can Do for Under $20
Several of the ideas listed below offer residents and visitors the opportunity to take advantage of the great parks San Mateo has to offer, including two attractions at the recently renovated Shoreline Park.

The list also includes some of the unique special events that San Mateo has to offer like: Eggstravaganza, San Mateo’s signature springtime event; and the Central Park Music Series, which offers attendees free live music in beautiful Central Park.

In addition to the many recommendations listed here, residents and visitors can also enjoy some great bargains at several restaurants and shops throughout San Mateo.
Japanese Tea Garden, Central Park
Location: 50 East 5th Avenue Map
Hours: 10:00am - 4:00pm, Monday through Friday and 11:00am - 4:00pm, Saturday and Sunday
Koi Feedings: 11:00am and 3:00pm, M-F, Spring and Summer
Contact: (650) 522-7440
Price: FREE
Seal Point Dog Park (Shoreline)
This dog park has two areas – one for small dogs and one for larger dogs. It has nearby restrooms, shaded picnic benches and tables, water bowls and a hose.
Location: 1901 J. Hart Clinton Drive
Map
Contact: Call Rangers at (650) 522-7485
Price: FREE
Ryder Park Aquatic Play Area (Shoreline)
Location: 1801 J. Hart Clinton Drive Map
Hours: The water play area is open seven days a week from May 1 through October 31, 11:00am – 5:00pm
Contact: Call Rangers at (650) 522-7485
Price: FREE
Eggstravaganza
San Mateo’s signature springtime event and largest egg hunt in its 32nd year of existence. Egg hunt, parade, art & games, and entertainment...
Date: TBD
Time: 9:00am - 1:30pm (Rain or Shine!)
Contact: (650) 522-7470
Price: FREE
Pancake breakfast:
$7 for adults and $4 for children
Central Park Music Series
FREE live music in beautiful Central Park. Local talent, dance floor, local popular food vendors, and lots of dancing with your friends, family, and community.
Location: 50 East 5th Avenue
Map
Date: More Info
Time: Thursday Evenings 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Price: FREE
Contact: (650) 522-7522, ext 2767
FREE Family Golf Nights @ Poplar Creek Golf Course
Location: 1700 Coyote Point Drive Map
Date/Time: Friday evenings after 6:30pm from July 1 - September 2
Contact: (650) 522-GOLF (4653)
San Mateo's Public Libraries
Main Library
Free access to bestsellers, movies, compact discs, downloadable ebooks. Free access to the Internet and online resources (including wireless access); Variety of programs (e.g. authors, book discussions, biotech, music, cultural, informational); Comfortable seating and space to study, read, and contemplate.
Location: 55 West 3rd Avenue Find more libraries
Contact:
(650) 522-7802
Price: FREE
Other Ideas & Destinations
  • Century 12 Downtown Movie Theater: Window shop downtown before heading in for an Early Bird ticket with the family.
  • Biking/Hiking: How about going to any of our great delis (or supermarkets with delis) pack a lunch and go for a nice hike on Sugarloaf Mountain? Or pack a lunch and take the family to the park downtown (in the summer) for a train ride.

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