Flying into the Bay Area? Don’t miss a stop in stylish, tree-lined Burlingame! Just south of San Francisco, Burlingame is known for its charming downtown, walkable waterfront, and classic California vibe. It's perfect for a relaxing layover, a weekend stroll, or boutique shopping and dining.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Burlingame is spring through fall (April–October), when the weather is mild and dry. Coastal breezes keep summers comfortable, and year-round sunshine makes it easy to explore the city's parks and downtown streets.
How to Get There
- By Plane: Burlingame is just 5 minutes from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), making it a convenient stop for travelers.
- By Car: Located along Highway 101 and just off I-280, Burlingame is about 25 minutes from downtown San Francisco or Palo Alto.
- By Train: Caltrain serves Burlingame Station with regular connections to San Francisco, San Jose, and other Peninsula towns.
Where to Stay
- The Westin San Francisco Airport – Upscale lodging with bay views, walking trails, and free airport shuttle service.
- Aloft San Francisco Airport – Modern, pet-friendly hotel with a vibrant lobby and great transit access.
- Inn at Bayshore – Comfortable boutique-style stay near the waterfront, shopping, and dining.
Top Attractions
- Burlingame Avenue – Explore boutique shops, cafés, wine bars, and local favorites in a picturesque downtown setting.
- Shorebird Sanctuary & Bayfront Trail – Walk or bike along scenic San Francisco Bay views with birdwatching and peaceful breezes.
- Washington Park – Historic city park with shaded trails, a playground, tennis courts, and space to relax.
- Broadway Business District – Smaller neighborhood full of retro diners, bakeries, and casual shops with local charm.
⮕ Reflect, Revere, and Admire the Tranquility of Our Lady of Angels
Our Lady of Angels is a Catholic church and parish in Burlingame that is served by Capuchin Franciscans. The religious structure came to be when Capuchins met with a group of Catholics in 1924 and purchased a small building which served temporarily as a church and a cottage which was converted into classrooms. Visitors are invited to visit the Catholic church, stay for mass, study in their School of Religion, take part in a support group, or join them for a Faith Formation and Prayer. Their ten-week program, LANDINGS, is a popular workshop which reconnects people with the Catholic faith.
1721 Hillside Dr, Burlingame, CA 94010, Phone: 650-347-7768
⮕ Uncover Icons and Hidden Gems with Trinity San Francisco Bay City Tour
Trinity San Francisco Bay City Tour is a wonderful company that will show you an insider’s view of Burlingame. The tours are run by professionals who have experience and expertise in various cities around California. The private tours are scheduled for you and your party around your interests, whether they be the outdoors, museums, wine, or cuisine. You can choose to celebrate a milestone or have a fun night out with one of their party buses or special sightseeing group tours. It’s the perfect way to see how the locals enjoy Burlingame and all the glorious things there are to see and do.
1415 EL Camino Real, Suite 8, Burlingame, CA 94010, Phone: 650-834-2011
⮕ Swing Through Scenic Fairways at Crystal Springs Golf Club
The Crystal Springs Golf Club is a San Francisco golf course which lies on a majestic 32,000-acre wildlife refuge. It was designed by W. Herbert Fowler, a British architect, who made the most of the surrounding views of the 20-mile-long Crystal Springs Reservoir. The championship caliber course is challenging and has a classic 6,515-yard, 18-hole, par 72 layout. You’ll be able to show off your most strategic shot-making skills on the course which follows the natural contours of the valley. After a round of golf enjoy great food at the Pub & Grill or buy some necessities at their renowned golf shop.
6650 Golf Course Dr, Burlingame, CA 94010, Phone: 650-342-0603
Where to Eat
⮕ Taste Tradition with a Twist at Crepevine
Crepevine is a family-owned restaurant that focuses on serving an eclectic array of foods that is sure to satisfy even the most particular diner. All of the items on their menu give focus to being fresh and healthy and are made with conscious ingredients such as cage-free farm eggs, fair-trade coffee, 100% natural beef, and ocean-raised Canadian salmon. With their food proving to be delicious, the restaurant has been a part of the Burlingame community for nearly twenty years and is a favorite with the families there. Stop by for a hearty breakfast of pancakes, French toast, crepes, and eggs of all kinds to start your day right.
1310 Burlingame Avenue, Burlingame, CA 94010, Phone: 650-344-1310
⮕ If You’re Hungry for Bold Flavors and Global Warmth, Then Dine at Mingalaba
Dine on authentic Burmese and Mandarin cuisine at Burlingame’s Mingalaba Restaurant. Enjoy the authentic dining experience which uses a range of spices and flavors to serve mouth-watering dishes to their patrons. You can feast on your choice of entrees with some of the main staples being their array of noodles and fried rice. Have an order of Burmese-style yellow beans fried rice, coconut rice, or saffron rice with delectable concoctions such as basil spicy beef or rainbow chicken which is tossed with pineapples, mangoes, and vegetables. Don’t miss out on the delicious appetizers as well; their Burmese samosas, egg rolls, pot stickers, and rolling lettuce chicken make great additions to the perfect meal.
1213 Burlingame Avenue, Burlingame, CA 94010, Phone: 650-343-3228
Local Events
- Burlingame Art in the Park (September) – Annual outdoor art festival featuring local artists, crafts, food, and music in Washington Park.
- Burlingame On the Avenue (August) – Two-day summer street fair with vendors, kids’ activities, and live entertainment downtown.
- Holiday Tree Lighting (December) – Family-friendly festivities, music, and lights to kick off the holiday season in style.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Burlingame, California
- San Mateo (5–10 min) – Walk Central Park’s Japanese Garden, shop downtown, or dine along 3rd Avenue.
- Millbrae (5–10 min) – Grab dim sum, browse Asian markets, or access trails with bayfront views.
- Hillsborough (5–10 min) – Drive scenic residential roads, admire historic mansions, or explore hidden parks.
- Foster City (15–20 min) – Paddle lagoon waterways, stroll the levee path, or enjoy waterfront dining.
- Belmont (15–20 min) – Hike Water Dog Lake trails, visit hillside parks, or unwind in peaceful neighborhoods.
- South San Francisco (15–20 min) – Explore biotech landmarks, hike Sign Hill, or dine in historic downtown.
- Redwood City (25–30 min) – Catch a show at Fox Theatre, dine on Broadway, or visit Courthouse Square events.
- Pacifica (25–30 min) – Surf Linda Mar Beach, hike coastal bluffs, or relax at ocean-view cafés.
- Daly City (20–25 min) – Shop at Serramonte Center, hike San Bruno Mountain, or visit cultural eateries.
FAQ
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What makes Burlingame a family-friendly destination?
- Burlingame is known for its wonderful, walkable spaces that blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, making it an ideal place for families to explore.
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Which notable people are from Burlingame?
- Burlingame is the hometown of several notable figures, including David Bakhtiari, starting offensive tackle for the Green Bay Packers, Glee actress Dianna Agron, and artist Percy Gray.
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What are some unique things to do in Burlingame?
- Visitors can explore the Burlingame Museum of PEZ Memorabilia, play a round at the Crystal Springs Golf Club, or visit the Peninsula Museum of Art for a cultural experience.
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Is Burlingame Museum of PEZ Memorabilia closed?
- Yes, Burlingame Museum of PEZ Memorabilia is closed.
Plan Your Trip