Welcome to Burlingame
Picturesque suburb with historic roots and modern-day charm.
When William Davis Merry Howard planted eucalyptus trees on his land in the 1850s, he had no idea they'd become a beloved feature of the town that would one day occupy the area. The town of Burlingame started when Bay Area residents needed to find new places to build after the 1906 earthquake. Homes, shops, and restaurants sprung up around Howard's trees, creating a picturesque suburb for former San Francisco residents.
Burlingame should be at the top of your list if you want a charming, family-friendly town with plenty of amenities. Burlingame retains much of its turn-of-the-century charm, with a walkable downtown, tree-lined streets, and established neighborhoods filled with elegant architecture. You'll find sprawling Mediterranean estates next to charming craftsman bungalows, giving you plenty of options to suit your needs and budget.
What to Love
- Quaint downtown area with a mixture of boutique and nationally known brands
- Family-friendly community with lots of parks and plenty to do
- Good transit links via the 101 and Caltrain, and close to San Francisco International Airport
Local Lifestyle
The Burlingame lifestyle revolves around family time and being outdoors. The area has mild temperatures most of the year, so residents like to make the most of the beautiful Bay Area location by boating, golfing, or spending time at the local parks. Family-friendly activities are commonplace, with holiday festivals, cultural events, and seasonal outings. Burlingame retains that small-town feel despite its size, so this is a community where you'll get to know your neighbors quickly. The laid-back pace of life is infectious, making this a place where it's easy to put down roots.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Burlingame has a few bustling commercial centers, but you'll find the most activity in the trendy Burlingame Avenue area. It's where you'll discover Alana's Cafe, a popular brunch hotspot serving phenomenal pancakes alongside other delicious dishes. Copenhagen Bakery & Cafe is another local favorite, great for a taste of Europe and well-known for its danishes. If you are in the mood for some homestyle comfort food, book a table at SaltYard. They serve pasta and seafood in a cozy bistro environment. Their outdoor area is perfect for a date night when the weather is nice. Venture off Burlingame Avenue to the waterfront, and you'll find Kincaid's Fish, Chop & Steakhouse. The restaurant serves surf and turf dishes while you take in stunning views of the bay.
Things to Do
There is plenty to do in Burlingame! Start with a trip to Washington Park, an excellent city park with sports fields, a popular playground, and a horseshoe pit. Head to the Burlingame Fresh Market to pick up locally grown produce and freshly made foods. The market runs Sunday morning from the third week of January through the Sunday before Christmas from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., as well as Thursday afternoons between May and October from 3-7 p.m. In the late summer, you'll want to clear your calendar for Burlingame on the Avenue, a weekend festival featuring live music, local artists, food stalls, and an epic selection of wine. Burlingame residents kick off the holiday season with the annual Holiday Tree Lighting, held at City Hall with musical performances and plenty of holiday cheer. Keep your eye on the town's event calendar for even more family-friendly activities.