Things To Do
in Burlingame
Burlingame is a leafy, upscale small city on the San Francisco Peninsula known for a lively, tree‑lined downtown (Burlingame Avenue) and easy access to San Francisco International Airport. It blends charming early‑20th‑century architecture with affluent residential neighborhoods, stylish shops, and a strong dining scene. The city sits between the Bay and the coastal hills, making it a convenient base for bayfront recreation, hiking in nearby open space, and quick trips into Silicon Valley or San Francisco.
Burlingame is family friendly, safe, and popular with visitors who want a quieter stay near major Bay Area attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of Burlingame's cozy cafes, where you can enjoy delicious pancakes and locally brewed coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the charming downtown area, admiring the historic architecture and boutique shops. Don't forget to stop by the Burlingame Museum of Pez Memorabilia for a unique glimpse into pop culture history.
For lunch, indulge in a delightful meal at one of the local eateries offering fresh seafood or farm-to-table dishes. Post-lunch, explore the nearby Washington Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk or a leisurely afternoon on the grassy lawns. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bike and ride along the Bay Trail for stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront for a relaxing dinner at a restaurant with panoramic views of the bay. Savor the flavors of California cuisine while watching the boats glide across the water. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, enjoying the gentle evening breeze and the twinkling lights of the city.
Begin your day with a visit to nearby Coyote Point Recreation Area, where you can enjoy a morning of sun and sand at the beach. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy on the shore while listening to the waves lapping at the beach. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters.
After a fun-filled morning, have lunch at a beachside café offering fresh salads and smoothies. Spend the afternoon engaging in exciting beach activities like beach volleyball, frisbee, or simply relaxing under the sun with a good book. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the nature trails that wind through the park, boasting beautiful views of the bay.
As dusk approaches, find a spot on the beach to enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Afterward, head to a local seafood restaurant for dinner, where you can savor the catch of the day. Cap off the evening with a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories with friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-6 |
| 🚆Caltrain one‑way (short‑range) | $3-7 |
| 🏨Mid‑range hotel (per night) | $150-300 |
| 🍺Beer at bar | $6-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Very convenient location near SFO and public transit for Bay Area access
- Charming, walkable downtown with excellent restaurants and boutiques
- Good access to bayfront parks and nearby hiking/open space
- Generally safe, family‑friendly atmosphere
- High lodging and dining costs relative to many U.S. cities
- Traffic congestion during commute hours on US‑101 and I‑280
- Limited late‑night nightlife compared with larger nearby cities
- Parking can be challenging during peak shopping times
Places to Visit in Burlingame
Visit one of these nice places.
Tree‑lined shopping street with historic storefronts, seasonal decorations, and lively street scenes—great for candid urban shots and architectural details.
Historic station building offers classic railroad architecture and a sense of Peninsula commuter life; good for both daytime and golden‑hour photography.
Bayfront park with piers, marshes, and skyline views—excellent for sunrise/sunset, kite photos, and water reflections.
Lavish gardens and a stately house set against rolling hills—ideal for formal garden photography and seasonal flower displays.
Panoramic landscapes, wildflowers in spring, and wide views of the Bay and skyline—great for nature and landscape shots.
Food in Burlingame
Burlingame Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Locally sourced Dungeness crab and seasonal fish appear on many menus—try grilled or in a simple preparation at seafood restaurants along the Peninsula.
Must-Try!
Avocado toast, creative egg dishes, and grain bowls built around local produce—find these at downtown brunch spots and cafés.
High‑quality sushi and pan‑Asian small plates are common; look for omakase or inventive fusion rolls at several Burlingame restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal weekend market with local produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat items—great for snacks, picnic supplies, and sampling local vendors.
For a wider selection of specialty vendors and gourmet goods, the Ferry Building in San Francisco (farther north) and downtown San Mateo markets are good day‑trip options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Locals are generally informal—greet with a friendly 'hi' or 'hello.' Respect personal space and avoid loud behavior in residential neighborhoods.
Recycling and composting are common; follow local guidelines for waste disposal and be mindful of protected open spaces.
Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and respect bike lanes—cyclists and drivers expect predictable behavior. Use designated parking; curbside rules are enforced.
Form orderly lines and be patient during busy meal times; reservations are appreciated for popular restaurants.
Safety
Tipping in Burlingame
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 15–20% at full‑service restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and $2–5 for taxi or rideshare drivers when desired. Tip hotel staff and delivery drivers according to service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Cash is accepted but less necessary—carry small bills for markets or tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blossoming gardens, and fewer tourists—ideal for hiking and garden visits. Expect morning fog some days and pleasant afternoons.
Warm inland days with cooler, foggy mornings and evenings near the Bay (June gloom). Peak travel season—book accommodations early and layer clothing for coastal coolness.
Often the sunniest and warmest period with clear skies and comfortable temperatures—great for outdoor activities, dining al fresco, and photography.
Cooler, wetter months (November–March) with occasional heavy rain; mild compared with many U.S. regions. Carry a waterproof layer for hikes and expect quieter streets.
Burlingame at Night
Hiking in Burlingame
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, relatively flat trail along the water—popular for walking, running, and cycling with good birdwatching opportunities.
Steeper trails with panoramic views of the Bay and San Francisco; excellent for sunrise hikes and wildflowers in spring.
Known for spring wildflower displays and a network of trails with moderate climbs and native habitats.
Rolling trails through woodlands and grasslands suitable for hiking and trail running; quieter and less trafficked than some parks.
Formal gardens and surrounding estate trails provide easy walking and photographic opportunities in a cultivated setting.
Airports
How to reach Burlingame by plane.
Primary airport, 5–15 minutes by car from Burlingame depending on traffic. Accessible via short rideshare or local shuttle; Millbrae Caltrain/BART connects to SFO by shuttle/transfer.
About 30–45 minutes by car (more in traffic), serves many domestic and international flights—an option for some low‑cost carriers or different route choices.
Across the Bay, roughly 40–60 minutes by car depending on traffic and bridges; reachable by BART plus shuttle or a longer transit trip.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many tech and business professionals live in Burlingame and nearby Peninsula cities, reflected in higher median incomes and professional services.
A sizable community of families attracted by quality schools, parks, and residential neighborhoods.
Significant Asian communities (Chinese, Filipino, Indian, and others) contribute to cultural diversity, restaurants, and community events.
Proximity to SFO and Caltrain makes Burlingame home to frequent business travelers and commuters to San Francisco and Silicon Valley.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Major fandom for the Giants; many locals attend games at Oracle Park in San Francisco during the season.
Strong local support for the 49ers with many fans attending games in nearby Santa Clara (Levi's Stadium).
Basketball (Warriors) and soccer (Earthquakes) have regional followings; youth soccer and recreational leagues are popular locally.
Sailing, cycling, trail running, and paddle sports are common activities enjoyed by residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Burlingame.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are plentiful—many restaurants offer plant‑forward mains, salads, and grain bowls. Bay Area chefs are familiar with vegetarian and vegan substitutions; ask servers for recommendations.
Expect several vegan‑friendly cafés and menu items; specialty vegan bakeries and plant‑based dishes are increasingly common.
Many establishments accommodate gluten‑free diets but always inform staff about celiac disease or severe sensitivity to ensure cross‑contamination precautions.