Things to Do with Kids in San Mateo — 15 Family-Friendly Places

Epic castle-and-dragon themed playground at Coyote Point with a 42-foot castle, one of California's longest enclosed slides, two huge purple dragons, 11 slides, and 13 swings. Separate gated area for toddlers.

A unique science zoo and playground in Coyote Point featuring native wildlife exhibits, hands-on science stations, and a fantastic outdoor nature play area. Kids can meet animals, conduct experiments, and explore nature trails.

The Bay Area's premier ninja warrior gym with over 6,000 sq ft of American Ninja Warrior-style obstacles including warped walls, rope swings, monkey bars, and more. Designed for all skill levels with classes, open gym, camps, and birthday parties.

An interactive role-play city inside Hillsdale Shopping Center where children experience real-world roles in a child-sized city. Kids develop confidence, social skills, and fundamentals of math, reading, and science through imaginative play.

Popular animal-themed indoor playground with multi-level climbing structures, slides, and a dedicated toddler area. A favorite for birthday parties and rainy day outings.

A year-round ice skating rink in Bridgepointe Shopping Center in San Mateo offering public skating sessions, skating school, figure skating and hockey programs. Rental skates available with a variety of camps and classes for kids.

A scenic 6-mile paved trail along Crystal Springs Reservoir, perfect for family biking, jogging, and strolling. The flat southern section follows the lakeside through beautiful woods. Benches along the trail let everyone enjoy at their own pace.

One of the oldest and most respected martial arts schools in the Bay Area, training thousands of children and adults since 1988. Located near Hayward Park train station in San Mateo, specializing in taekwondo.

The premier cooking school for kids and teens on the Peninsula. Camps, after-school classes, parties, and private sessions at multiple Peninsula locations. Teaching foundational culinary skills in a fun, encouraging environment.

Professional gymnastics training center in San Mateo with preschool, recreational, and competitive programs for ages 2 and up. Also offers camps with gymnastics, acrobatics, tumbling, circus acts, and arts & crafts.

Popular dumpling chain known for hand-pulled noodles, xiao long bao, and pan-fried dumplings. Kids love watching noodles being made through the kitchen window. Affordable and casual family dining.

Family-owned restaurant inside a historical San Mateo train station serving wood-fired pizza and rotisserie chicken. Kids love watching the trains from the heated patio.

NY-style pizzeria chain with 11 Bay Area locations. Kids eat free on Tuesdays from 5pm to close. Locations in SF, San Rafael, Mountain View, and more.

Located in Hillsdale Shopping Center, this Cheesecake Factory serves the full 250+ item menu in a spacious setting. Perfect stop during a family shopping trip. Kids menu and booster seats available.

The official LEGO Store at Hillsdale Shopping Center features the full range of LEGO sets, exclusive products, and a Pick-a-Brick wall where kids can choose individual bricks. Interactive displays and building tables make this a hands-on experience.