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Local picks

Fun activities in San Mateo

Made for those who prioritize active engagement and refuse to spend their free time sitting still.

Based on 592 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Fred Astaire Dance Studios San Mateo image 1
Fred Astaire Dance Studios San Mateo image 2
Fred Astaire Dance Studios San Mateo image 3
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Two large ballrooms with excellent sound systems offer a spacious, airy space for dance lessons. Friendly, patient instructors break down moves clearly, making learning fun and easy. The warm, respectful atmosphere welcomes all levels with flexible scheduling for practice.

Teachers are friendly and fun, making dance easy to learn even with no experience. Instruction breaks down moves clearly, creating a patient and enjoyable learning environment.

People are saying

"The dance instructors here are patient, fun, and great at breaking down moves."

"I learned a beautiful wedding dance routine here."

"The instructors make learning dance moves fun and understandable."

Good to know

1

Transparent pricing with a published fee schedule applies to everyone.

2

Scheduling classes is flexible; you can come in whenever you want.

3

Monthly dance parties offer opportunities to learn new moves and perform.

02
F45 Training Burlingame image 1

Spacious gym with brand new equipment offers fast paced, challenging workouts full of variety. High ceilings and lively music create an open, clean environment that keeps energy high. Supportive community adds a family vibe, while showers and towels provide great convenience.

Workouts feel fast paced and challenging with lots of variety. Equipment adds to the fun and keeps sessions energizing.

People are saying

"The coaches at this weight lifting gym really challenge and encourage you."

"It's a lively, welcoming place with a really supportive community."

"The coaches here are so supportive and motivating during fun activities."

Good to know

1

F45 Burlingame offers free community classes at Washington Park during the new location's construction.

2

The gym features a variety of classes each day, focusing on different fitness goals.

3

Parking is easy and convenient, with plenty of spaces available.

03
Next Level Sports image 1
Youth organization

Youth sports organization offers well-organized programs with knowledgeable coaches who create a welcoming atmosphere. Football activities focus on fun, low-pressure play where kids learn and enjoy the game. Coaches communicate well and keep the experience positive.

Football activities focus on a fun, low-pressure atmosphere where kids learn and enjoy the game. Coaches communicate well and address issues quickly to keep the experience positive.

People are saying

"It's so well organized for kids, I was really impressed."

"The fun activities here are so well organized and professional."

Good to know

1

Events are held on Saturdays at SBCC for families wanting to join a sports community.

2

Next Level Sports offers flag football programs that are inclusive for all children.

3

The registration process for programs is quick and easy.

04
The Great Entertainer image 1

Brunswick Gold Crown 3 tables offer top-tier pool in a quiet, relaxed space. Families and teens enjoy ping pong and air hockey with plenty of room to move. Affordable prices make it a friendly spot for casual, clean fun.

Good, clean fun suits teenagers and groups of friends. The billiard hall offers a family-friendly spot to shoot pool, play ping pong, and enjoy casual fun without bar noise.

People are saying

"I had a great time and really enjoyed the beer."

"It's a nice place for casual fun with friends."

"It's a fun place for casual activities with friends."

Good to know

1

The Great Entertainer hosts nine-ball and eight-ball tournaments on Monday nights.

2

Expect street parking or park across the street on busy days.

3

Alcohol prices are reasonable and affordable.

05
BODYROK San Mateo - Reformer Pilates Studio image 1

Spacious studio hosts challenging Pilates reformer classes with great instructors who keep energy high through fun activities. Staff maintain immaculate vibes and offer varied schedules to fit all needs.

Classes offer fun and challenging activities that keep energy high and engagement strong.

People are saying

"The instructors at this Pilates Studio are super friendly and helpful."

"The classes are always fun and challenging."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky depending on the time, so leave enough time to find a spot.

2

The studio offers an affordable option for those aiming to attend 4-5 days per week.

3

There are lots of class times available throughout the week.

06
10th Planet Jiu Jitsu San Mateo image 1

Martial arts school blends modern jiu jitsu with a friendly community that values discipline and respect. Kids enjoy fun, safe classes led by an incredible coach. Training suits all ages and skill levels, balancing serious learning with engaging activities.

Classes feature an incredible coach who keeps sessions technical, safe, and fun. Kids aged 5-10 learn new skills while enjoying themselves, and training partners stay respectful and engaging.

People are saying

"This Jiu Jitsu gym's coaches make learning safe, technical, and fun."

"The people at this martial arts gym are super friendly and welcoming."

"The coaches here make training super fun and technical."

Good to know

1

Classes are held on Monday, Wednesday, Tuesday, and Thursday with varying intensity.

2

The facility is clean and well-equipped, providing a great training environment.

3

The Mini Jitsu program allows kids to earn stripes and belts quickly.

07
Basecamp Fitness San Mateo image 1

Bright gym with big windows offers diverse HIIT classes led by knowledgeable instructors. Workouts are both fun and challenging, building a strong community vibe that supports all skill levels.

Workouts combine fun and challenge with high efficiency. Classes build a strong community vibe while staying effective and engaging.

People are saying

"The coaches here are top-notch and genuinely care about your form."

"I found it to be an amazing place for a fast, intense HIIT workout."

"These fun activities are challenging and motivating."

Good to know

1

There is a run club on Saturdays and Wednesdays for runners.

2

Street parking is free for two hours.

3

The facility is consistently clean and well-maintained.

08
Crossfit Burlingame image 1

Large gym space features plenty of equipment and separate workout areas. Group classes bring lively energy and strong community support. Fun workouts include challenging routines that boost cardio and improve sleep.

Workouts offer challenging but fun routines tailored to individual abilities. Cardio endurance activities boost blood flow and support better sleep.

People are saying

"This CrossFit Gym has welcoming coaches who know how to scale workouts."

"The coaches at this weight lifting gym are kind, knowledgeable, and truly care."

"It's a supportive team where everyone feels like they belong."

Good to know

1

CrossFit Burlingame offers tailored workouts for all fitness levels.

2

The gym has a supportive community that welcomes newcomers.

3

Modified exercises are available for beginners.

09
Benihana - San Mateo image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious Japanese spot shines with teppanyaki grills where chefs like Brian and Armando perform live cooking shows full of tricks. Atmosphere swings from lively and fun to smoky and noisy, offering a unique mix of food and social fun for all ages.

Live cooking performances make the experience engaging for all ages. Chefs like Brian and Armando add fun and entertaining moments that keep both kids and adults involved.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and prepared perfectly."

"The bar staff, especially Parker, were so attentive and made us feel welcomed."

"The chefs made the cooking a fun and entertaining experience."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs weekdays from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM with sushi rolls and drinks.

2

Reservations are accepted, but walk-ins may face long wait times.

3

The restaurant has a 90-minute time limit for meals during busy hours.

10
Imagination City image 1
Children's amusement center

Spacious play areas with creative themes offer toddlers a safe, clean space to explore. Comfortable seating lets adults relax nearby while kids enjoy imaginative activities. Busy, lively atmosphere makes it perfect for fun parties and playtime.

Children find a safe and super clean space to play and use their imagination. Toddlers and young kids enjoy the activities, making it a fun spot for parties and playtime.

People are saying

"It's a truly imaginative and safe place for kids to explore."

"They handled all the setup and decorations for my birthday party."

"It's a fun place for kids to play and have a blast."

Good to know

1

Reservations fill up quickly, so book in advance for birthday parties.

2

Admission fee is $18 per hour for a 2-hour play window.

3

Only one parent is allowed inside at a time during visits.

11
Build-A-Bear Workshop image 1

Build-A-Bear Workshop offers doll-making activities with stuffing process and washing in the tub for hands-on fun. Clean, neat space welcomes all ages. Quality products and character meet and greets create a lively, warm atmosphere.

Stuffing process and washing in the tub offer hands-on fun for all ages. Build-A-Bear Workshop brings energy and warmth that make holiday activities lively.

People are saying

"The staff here are so nice and helpful with the kids."

"You'll have so much fun with these activities for all ages."

Good to know

1

Children can create their own stuffed animals at Build-A-Bear Workshop.

2

The workshop offers a variety of outfits for stuffed animals.

3

The store is designed to be engaging for both kids and adults.

12
Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids - San Mateo (Hillsdale Mall) image 1

Bright salon offers vehicle-shaped chairs like trains and cars that make haircuts fun. Kids enjoy the play area with slide and multiple TVs for entertainment. Lively, colorful space keeps children engaged and comfortable throughout their visit.

Staff make kids’ haircuts fun with themed seats shaped like trains and cars. TVs keep kids entertained, creating a playful setup that works well for pictures.

People are saying

"Ruben was so patient and gentle with my son's first haircut."

"The playground has colorful chairs and screens to keep kids occupied."

"The TVs and fun seats make it a great spot for kids' fun activities."

Good to know

1

Book an appointment with Ruben in advance as he is usually very busy.

2

The salon is neat and clean, providing a pleasant environment.

3

Miss Rachel is great at keeping kids calm during haircuts.

13
F45 Training San Mateo image 1

Gym blends challenging workouts with a strong community spirit and lively DJ sessions on weekends. Classes boost strength and confidence in a clean, organized space with easy parking. Workouts stay fun and efficient, making every visit rewarding.

Workouts offer unique challenges every session and feel efficient and complete. Saturdays feature a DJ playing music, adding extra fun.

People are saying

"This gym feels like family, with a super welcoming and encouraging community."

"The coaches here really help with your form during weight lifting."

"It's a supportive community where everyone feels valued."

Good to know

1

Classes are available throughout the week, focusing on strength, cardio, and hybrid workouts.

2

Parking is easy and accessible near the training facility.

3

Reservations for classes are recommended to secure a spot due to popularity.

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San Mateo, California

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