The quaint waterfront city of Burlingame is conveniently located 4 miles away from San Francisco International Airport, and a 20-minute scenic train ride from Downtown San Francisco. Burlingame is an excellent base for exploring San Mateo County and beyond. Aside from its prime location, Burlingame is also home to beautifully manicured parks, world-famous golf courses, and superb shopping.
Burlingame is an affordable destination to travel to. Savvy travelers can find cheap Burlingame hotels and discounted Burlingame flights using online comparison sites such as Hipmunk. Holiday costs can also be kept low with these affordable or completely free attractions that are found in the city.
Burlingame Pez Museum
A fun and quirky way to spend an hour is at the Burlingame Museum of Pez Memorabilia. This small museum features over 900 Pez characters, a classic toy museum, and even some toys that have been banned from sale around the world. Don’t forget to get a photo with the world’s largest Pez dispensing machine, which is over 7 feet high!
Guided tours are available, and admission is just $3 for adults and $1 for children.
Coyote Point Recreation Park
Enjoying a prime spot overlooking the shimmering waters of San Francisco Bay is the well-kept and lush Coyote Point Recreation Park. Visitors can enjoy swimming, windsurfing, fishing, jogging, boating, and sailing. The Magic Mountain Playground and the CuriOdyssey exhibit area are sure to keep kids of all ages entertained.
Admission to the park is completely free, and more information on opening hours and park attractions can be found on their official website.
Shorebird Sanctuary
Originally designated as a protected area in 1973, this pretty area of marshland is home to 15 species of migratory birds. The peaceful spot is a lovely and quiet place for a picnic and bird-watching stroll.
Shorebird sanctuary is located at the mouth of Mills Creek and it can be reached by car. Entry is free of charge.
Burlingame GoKart Racing
Finally, adventure seekers can get their thrills at the Burlingame GoKart Racer Center. This huge indoor arena has three racing tracks that are suited to different skill levels, while juniors’ and kids’ cars are available for younger drivers. If thee go-kart racing doesn’t catch your interest, there is also a Vault Assault Laser Maze where players have to attempt to break into a locked vault without triggering a complex network of lasers!
These are just a few of the many affordable or free attractions in Burlingame; in fact there are no less than 23 parks, gardens, recreation centers, and playgrounds, as well as several golf courses, driving ranges, and malls in the city. A day-trip to the City by the Bay to see the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the seals at Pier 39 is sure to make a lovely addition to any Burlingame getaway.