Redwood City sits at the center of the San Francisco Peninsula and offers a mix of culture, recreation, dining, and entertainment. While visitors may know the city for its historic courthouse square or proximity to Silicon Valley, locals appreciate the variety of activities available year-round. Whether you’re interested in outdoor recreation, live music, or family-friendly destinations, Redwood City provides a balance of small-town charm and urban amenities. For those considering moving to the area, exploring local activities not only highlights the quality of life but also adds valuable insight into the Redwood City, CA real estate market.
Downtown Courthouse Square
Courthouse Square serves as the community’s gathering place and hosts many popular local events. The square regularly features outdoor concerts, movie nights, and seasonal festivals. Residents enjoy free entertainment throughout the summer and family-friendly programming during the holidays. Surrounded by restaurants and coffee shops, the square also functions as a hub for social activity. For locals, spending time here reflects the sense of community that defines things to do in Redwood City.
Fox Theatre and Live Music
The historic Fox Theatre, located downtown, remains one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The restored venue brings in national touring acts, tribute performances, and community productions. Alongside the Fox, smaller venues such as Club Fox provide intimate spaces for live jazz, rock, and blues. Locals enjoy the variety of performances without needing to travel to San Francisco or San Jose, making live entertainment an accessible part of life in Redwood City.
Redwood Shores and Waterfront Trails
Redwood Shores, a planned community along the bay, offers walking and biking trails that locals frequently use for daily recreation. The shoreline paths provide open space for jogging, biking, or birdwatching. Many residents enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding in the lagoons. The area demonstrates the city’s blend of suburban neighborhoods with natural amenities and is a favorite spot for those looking for outdoor things to do in Redwood City.
Edgewood Park and Natural Preserves
For hiking close to home, Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve is a top choice. Known for spring wildflowers and open grasslands, the preserve features several miles of trails with moderate difficulty. Locals visit regularly for exercise, weekend outings, or quiet escapes from city life. The park highlights the natural landscape of the Peninsula while remaining just minutes from downtown.
San Mateo County History Museum
Housed inside the former county courthouse, the San Mateo County History Museum offers exhibits on local history, from the Ohlone people to the growth of Silicon Valley. Families and schools often visit, but many locals return for rotating exhibits and cultural programs. Beyond history, the museum frequently participates in community events hosted at Courthouse Square.
Farmers Market
The Redwood City Farmers Market operates seasonally on Saturdays downtown and is considered one of the longest-running markets in the area. Locals shop for fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and specialty foods from regional vendors. Beyond shopping, it provides a community gathering spot where neighbors meet and enjoy live music and food stalls. Supporting local growers and artisans makes the farmers market a weekly tradition for many households.
Dining and Local Restaurants
Dining is one of the main attractions in Redwood City. The downtown area offers a range of cuisines, from casual taco shops to established Italian and Mediterranean restaurants. Locals appreciate the ability to find diverse food options within a walkable downtown. Coffee shops and dessert spots further add to the appeal, making the dining scene a consistent favorite among things to do in Redwood City.
Parks and Recreation
In addition to Edgewood, the city itself maintains numerous parks for daily recreation. Stafford Park, for example, offers a playground and open space often used for summer concerts. Red Morton Park is a major recreation center with sports fields, tennis courts, and the community center. These parks support an active lifestyle and provide residents with convenient outdoor spaces within city limits.
Family Activities and Kid-Friendly Options
Families with children enjoy kid-friendly activities such as visits to the Redwood City Library, which frequently hosts reading programs and community events. Magical Bridge Playground, located in Red Morton Park, is a fully inclusive play space designed for children of all abilities. These attractions highlight the city’s family-oriented atmosphere and commitment to creating welcoming spaces for all ages.
Local Festivals and Seasonal Events
Seasonal festivals remain a highlight for residents. The city hosts events such as Oktoberfest, Salsa Festival, and Lunar New Year celebrations. These gatherings provide live entertainment, food, and cultural performances, often centered in Courthouse Square. Locals look forward to these annual traditions that bring the community together.
Movie Theaters and Entertainment
For more casual entertainment, residents visit Century 20 Downtown Redwood City and XD, a modern movie theater offering the latest releases. The location’s convenience to dining and the Courthouse Square events makes it a popular weekend option. Combined with the city’s live music and theater venues, Redwood City offers a variety of entertainment choices.
Redwood City and Lifestyle Appeal
The range of local activities reflects why Redwood City continues to attract new residents. From outdoor recreation to community programming, locals value the balance of amenities and accessibility. These experiences contribute to the overall lifestyle associated with the city, which is an important factor for those considering Redwood City, CA. Exploring these activities offers potential buyers insight into what day-to-day living in the city may feel like.
Redwood City offers more than just a central Peninsula location—it provides an active, connected, and community-focused lifestyle. Whether enjoying live music at the Fox Theatre, walking trails along Redwood Shores, or attending a seasonal festival at Courthouse Square, locals have a wide variety of options to fill their days. For individuals exploring a move to the Peninsula, experiencing these local favorites helps illustrate why so many people choose to call the city home.
About Stephanie Nash
A lifelong resident of the Bay Area and a licensed real estate agent since 1991, Stephanie Nash has built her career on guiding clients through the home-buying and selling process with outstanding service. She is dedicated to helping individuals and families find the right property to fit their needs. Known for her attentive listening, straightforward guidance, and work ethic, Stephanie provides clients with reliable support throughout their transactions. Her strong communication skills and consistent availability distinguish her within the industry, and she takes pride in helping many clients achieve their goal of homeownership.
If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Redwood City, CA real estate market, contact
Stephanie Nash today.
