The best things to do in San Mateo County

“When the fog and drizzle kill your round, Norcal Golf Center keeps the swings going with state-of-the-art simulators, sharp swing analytics, and a course library that includes Pebble Beach. Go solo to grind or grab a couple buddies for a quick 18 without the 5-hour slog.”

From the Pacifica newsletter, October 6, 2026

“From bumper cars and immersive 3D motion simulators to shuffleboard, darts, pool, mini bowling, and timeless arcade favorites, GAMA Ride Amusement Center & Arcade brings the fun close to home. Grab food and drinks, rally the crew, and turn a random weeknight into bragging rights.”

From the San Mateo newsletter, September 25, 2026

“Bay Club Redwood Shores is basically a 10-acre backyard with four outdoor pools and a water slide, tennis and squash courts, a 15,000-square-foot fitness center, and Pilates, yoga, and group classes. Kid-friendly spaces and healthy bites mean your whole crew wins.”

From the Redwood City newsletter, September 23, 2026

“Mariners Point Golf Center is basically your neighborhood golf lab with a 9-hole par-3 along the Bay lit for evening rounds, 64-stall range with natural grass tees, a legit short-game area with bunkers, Toptracer to keep practice fun, and lessons when the slice wins. Perfect for an after-work tune-up this week.”

From the San Mateo newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Looking for a nearby upgrade to your golf and social life this week? The Peninsula Golf & Country Club pairs a championship course with vibrant community vibes, including the only Donald Ross design on the West Coast, plus racquets, fitness, and dining that turn routine days into little getaways.”

From the San Mateo newsletter, September 24, 2026

“From the San Mateo County Fair to festivals, consumer shows, trade shows, and sporting events, San Mateo County Event Center keeps the calendar stacked with reasons to get out of the house. Peek at what’s on this week, rally a friend or two, and make a night of it close to home.”

From the San Mateo newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Rafael Blanco’s “Cultural Pattern” now anchors the B Street Pedestrian Mall Mural, part of San Mateo’s Racial Equity Art Project. Grab a coffee this week, wander the mall, and let the new public art wake up your weekday routine, a quick dose of culture right where you already run errands.”

From the San Mateo newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Whether you're in the mood for big-name tours, comedy nights, or a cozy acoustic set, Fox Theatre brings the good stuff to the heart of RWC with that vintage glow. Check the fall lineup... Leonid & Friends, Jim Brickman, and more are on deck.”

From the Redwood City newsletter, October 7, 2026

“Since 1904, Menlo Country Club has been the Peninsula’s private playground for members who want to unplug, play, and actually hear their own thoughts. Got a friend with guest privileges? Cash in this week, say yes to fresh air and low-key bragging rights.”

From the Redwood City newsletter, August 27, 2026

“California Golf Club of San Francisco serves up a restored Golden Age layout by Kyle Phillips with MacKenzie-influenced bunkering, fine fescue, and a primarily walking vibe that rewards shotmaking. It’s private, but if you snag a spot with a member, this place is pure Peninsula golf bliss.”

From the Pacifica newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Green Hills Country Club is all about tranquil, elegant vibes, a welcoming all-ages community, and plenty to do from golf to just unwinding. Add it to your week if you want something that feels like a mini vacation without leaving town.”

From the Pacifica newsletter, October 10, 2026

“Theater complex with multiple screens, all-stadium seating & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“When your week needs a reset and your wedge needs the truth, Burlingame Country Club is the private-golf refuge locals keep in their back pocket. Quiet focus, tidy greens, and that satisfying thwack you’re chasing this week on the Peninsula.”

From the San Mateo newsletter, October 10, 2026

“The Centennial Street Mural turns downtown San Carlos into a colorful timeline, a pavement artwork that walks you from 1925 to 2025 with graphic pop and community heart. This week, grab a coffee, take a lap, and get a quick refresher on the city’s first hundred years.”

From the Redwood City newsletter, October 4, 2026

“If your week needs a project and a pick-me-up, Baking Arts & Coffee pairs hands-on baking classes with a treasure trove of decorating tools, bulk chocolate, and hard-to-find edible flowers. Then it fuels you with Bliss On Tap spiced coffee flavors like Give It A Chai and Dibs On Nibs.”

From the San Mateo newsletter, September 26, 2026

“Movie theater with stadium seating for regular, XD & 3D movies, plus arcade games.”

“Need a quick midweek reset close to home, San Mateo Japanese Garden - Entrance delivers quiet paths, a koi pond, bamboo groves, and a postcard-worthy pagoda, all designed by Nagao Sakurai of Tokyo’s Imperial Palace, plus summer koi feedings that are weirdly soothing to watch.”

From the San Mateo newsletter, October 14, 2026

“Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“Theater complex with multiple screens, all-stadium seating & self-service ticketing kiosks.”

“If your commute has you itching for real throttle, K1 Speed San Francisco serves instant‑torque electric karting on a professionally designed indoor track, plus a legit Paddock Lounge with burgers, pizza, and beer or wine. Bring friends, race, then hit the arcade for bragging rights.”

From the Pacifica newsletter, September 30, 2026

“In-theater waiter service is offered at this cinema with a bar menu & lounge area for cocktails.”