Museum
San Mateo County History Museum
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The San Mateo County History Museum is housed in the beautifully restored 1910 San Mateo County Courthouse in downtown Redwood City. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the region's past, from the Ohlone Native Americans to the dot-com era. Exhibits include a full-scale replica of a 1900s-era Main Street, a hands-on exploration of the 1906 earthquake's impact, and displays on local industries like fishing and agriculture. The building itself is a highlight, with its grand rotunda, marble floors, and stained-glass dome. Visitors can also explore the historic courtroom on the second floor, preserved with original furnishings. The museum's interactive elements, such as a simulated stagecoach ride and a printing press, make it engaging for all ages. It's a perfect stop for history buffs and families looking to understand the area's heritage.
Don't miss
- Explore the recreated 1900s Main Street with storefronts and a stagecoach
- See the original courtroom with judge's bench and jury box
- Interactive earthquake simulator demonstrating the 1906 quake
- Exhibits on Ohlone culture and early Spanish missions
- Rotunda with stunning stained-glass dome and marble columns
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit San Mateo County History Museum
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine San Mateo County History Museum with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inHearthstone Historic House Museum Admission Ticket4.9★ · 69 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →
Best full daySan Francisco Super Saver: Muir Woods & Wine Country w/ optional Gourmet Lunch4.6★ · 3,397 travelers~11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$179 per personSee dates →
Top ratedGolden Gate Bridge Muir Woods Sausalito with Optional Alcatraz4.9★ · 1,311 travelers~6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$119 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Photography is allowed without flash in most areas.
- The museum is family-friendly with hands-on activities for children.
- The gift shop offers local history books and souvenirs.
- Check for special events like lectures or family days on the website.
A bit of history
The building served as the San Mateo County Courthouse from 1910 until 1991. After a restoration, it reopened as the San Mateo County History Museum in 1998. The museum preserves the architectural grandeur of the Beaux-Arts style while telling the county's story.
Common questions
Is the museum suitable for young children?
Yes, there are interactive exhibits like the stagecoach and a play area that kids enjoy.
How long does it take to tour the museum?
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Is there parking nearby?
Yes, there are public parking garages and street parking. The museum does not have its own lot.
Can I host a private event at the museum?
Yes, the rotunda and courtroom are available for rentals. Contact the museum for details.
Are there guided tours?
Self-guided tours are standard, but docent-led tours are available by appointment.
What is the best way to get there from San Francisco?
Take Caltrain from San Francisco to Redwood City station, then walk 10 minutes.
More attractions in Redwood City