San Mateo County History Museum

Welcome

History comes alive at the San Mateo County History Museum
Learn More
Ohlone-Portolá Heritage Trail

Spanish Discovery of San Francisco Bay, painting by Morton Künstler, SMCHA.
Learn More
School Programs

Registration for the 2019-2020 School Year Starts April 15!
Learn More
Exhibits

Explore the county's rich and colorful history!
Learn More
Rent the Museum

Make your own history!
Learn More

San Mateo County Historical Sites

Your journey through San Mateo County history doesn't need to end at the Museum.
Explore all of our historical sites!

San Mateo County History Museum

History of the Peninsula from the original Native American inhabitants to today.

Sanchez Adobe

Discover what life was like when California was part of Mexico.

The Woodside Store

Discover the rich history of this original trading post and store.

The Archives

Explore photographs, books and published materials from San Mateo County’s History.

Upcoming Events

For a full list of events, see our Event Calendar.

Walking Tour: Redwood City

Saturday, August 24, 2019 - 10:30am

Walking Tour: Pescadero

Sunday, August 25, 2019 - 1:00pm

Free First Friday

Friday, September 6, 2019 - 10:00am

San Mateo County History Makers Dinner

Tuesday, September 17, 2019 - 6:00pm

Rancho Day Fiesta

Saturday, September 21, 2019 - 12:00pm

Support us by shopping at our stores

Looking for a unique gift or memento? The Museum Store offers a wonderful collection of gifts to remind you of your visit to San Mateo County.

Museum Store

Encore Books

Visit the Store