Discover San Mateo's development potential on foot!

Join San Mateo Forward for an engaging walking tour through downtown that will open your eyes to what our city has been, what it's becoming, and what it could be.

What to Expect

Over the course of this guided tour, you'll explore downtown San Mateo with knowledgeable speakers who will bring our streetscape to life. As we walk together, you'll learn about:

• The story behind the streets: Discover how real estate and transportation decisions over the decades shaped the downtown we see today
• Recent wins: Visit newly completed developments and hear about the process that brought them to fruition
• Stalled opportunities: Stop at sites where housing and mixed-use projects have hit roadblocks—and discuss what's holding them back
• Future possibilities: Identify underutilized parcels and imagine what thoughtful development could mean for our community

Why Join?

Whether you're a longtime resident curious about San Mateo's evolution, a housing advocate wanting to understand local development challenges, or simply someone who loves learning about cities, this tour offers a unique ground-level perspective on the opportunities and obstacles facing our downtown.

You'll leave with a deeper understanding of how zoning, community input, and economic factors shape our built environment—and how we can work together to create a more vibrant and accessible San Mateo for everyone.

Come walk with us and see downtown San Mateo with new eyes!

Comfortable walking shoes recommended. Tour covers approximately 1 miles over 1 hours.