36 minutes in South San Francisco

An enlarged vintage photo of the city's iconic hillside sign greets visitors at the new South San Francisco main library. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

South San Francisco is in the midst of a renaissance of sorts. During the latter part of the 1800s, after a meatpacking battle between San Francisco butchers and Midwest meat packers like Swift and Armour (yes, those guys), William J. Martin and Ebenezer Cunningham made it their sole mission to bring factories and diverse industries to South San Francisco. It’s been 100 years since the area was named the Industrial City and an influx of innovative industries like biotech keeps the moniker alive.

Today, James Coleman, the town’s 24-year-old mayor, hopes to maintain the city’s innovative roots while preserving its small-town charm. The new architecturally stunning library and recreation center at the corner of Chestnut St and El Camino Real, built on a site where cattle were once herded off ships, has become a popular place for residents to congregate and innovate. BART’s South San Francisco station is just a quick walk from this new community hub. Hop off and check it out.

Let's go.

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The South San Francisco main library's makerspace is built for budding innovators. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

Amgen's makerspace creates endless opportunities for STEM and non-STEM projects. The hands-on workshop hosts scientist-led experiments and offers open slots for those wanting to explore their inner robot builder, jewelry maker or fashion designer.

There are plenty of places to read and relax at the new South San Francisco library. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

This massive three-story glass building holds not only the city’s main public library but also council chambers, administrative offices and event spaces that are rented through the recreation department. It sits adjacent to a 1.3-acre park and is across the street from the city’s police station.

The library's adjacent playground is a great way to burn off some energy. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

The library and recreation center campus includes two age-appropriate playgrounds (toddlers and children ages 5-12), a turf field for small-size lawn games, ample seating to watch the kiddos, open space for picnics and a refillable bottle station. Travel 0.8 miles to 901 Civic Campus Way.

This frequently used trail is a great alternative to El Camino Real. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

Built specifically for commuters, the Centennial Way Trail is 2.85 miles long and parallels Mission Rd and El Camino Real. It opened in 2008 with the intent to connect BART riders traveling between the South San Francisco and San Bruno stations. Plans are still in the works for it to extend to the Millbrae station. Pick up the trail behind the station and parking structure.

Grab a plate at Andy's and head back to BART. Photo courtesy of Sophia Markoulakis.

San Bruno and South San Francisco have plenty of Hong Kong-style restaurants to go around but many say that Andy’s in the Winston Manor Center is the best in the area. With plentiful portions and fast service, you’ll have left over time to grab lunch and pick up a few essentials at Grocery Outlet next door. Besides HKR Andy’s Restaurant, there is Coco Cubed in the center for your boba and cold drink fix with an endless variety of fruit tea and blended coconut drink options. Travel 0.6 miles to 121 Hickey Blvd.

Starbird's newest location is easy to access via the Centennial Way Trail. Photo courtesy of Starbird.

Billed as a super-premium fast food chain, Starbird attracts healthy-ish eaters looking for a quality chicken sandy or salad. This new location offers lots of outdoor seating. Or, grab your lunch and munch on it across the street at the recreation center's park. Travel 0.9 miles to 988 El Camino Real.

French toast is one of the many breakfast options at Jo Ann's. Photo courtesy of Jo Ann's Cafe.

Jo Ann's Cafe has been around long enough to watch South San Francisco evolve to the biotech epicenter it is today. The small, cozy breakfast-all-day place is not far from the area's hospital and caters to workers and others looking for a little comfort. The prices are great and the eggs are better. Travel 0.8 miles to 1131 El Camino Real.

Once you've filled your mind (and tummy) from the gems you'll find near South San Francisco BART, jump back on the train to your next 36-minute destination and adventure!

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