The term “hidden gem” has become one of those overused social media hashtags to get people to stop scrolling past a post or link, but sometimes a quirky local landmark, neighborhood restaurant or longtime business truly fits the bill.
A Brisbane alleyway is home to San Mateo County’s newest landmark, the Alvarado-San Benito Stairway that doubles as a piece of artwork called “Sea to Stars” by mosaic artist Angelina Duckett and metalwork artists Scott and Madelyn McGrath of McGrath Arts studio.
The 116-step staircase, which transformed a dirt path known as the “Goat Trail” into a colorful passageway between Alvarado Street and San Benito Road, features mosaic depictions of flowers, hillside homes, stars and butterflies, plus lupine-themed metal handrails and light posts in the shape of California fuschias.
San Francisco has several tiled staircases, but they aren’t as common in San Mateo County, making it a unique, functional public art installation and a spot that Angelina considers “a special hidden gem.”
Take a virtual visit through Angela Swartz’s feature and Magali Gauthier’s photos, then see it for yourself anytime.
Julia Brown
Six Fifty Editor
editor@thesixfifty.com
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Some Midpeninsula artists who have taken part long-term in open studios share what makes the event so unique.
A ‘special hidden gem’: The newest landmark in San Mateo County is a 116-step mosaic staircase
Seen throughout San Francisco but less common in Silicon Valley, the new ‘Sea to Stars’ tiled stairway in Brisbane pays homage to the city’s history and California ecology.
10 dining experiences to celebrate Mother’s Day along the Peninsula
Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re looking to dine out for the occasion, it’s time to make reservations.
Congrats to Margaret W. of Los Altos Hills, who was the first reader to correctly identify where last week’s photo was taken (it’s Elleary Wine in downtown Los Altos!).
The first person to reply to this email with the correct place where the below photo was taken will win a gift card from The Six Fifty and a shoutout in our next newsletter!
Looking for more fun things to do? Check out our guide to free clothing and book swaps, plant exchanges and more!
Stanford Powwow: May 8-10 The 55th annual student-run Stanford Powwow returns, featuring a fun run, dancing and drumming, vendor booths and more celebrating Native American cultures.
Celebrate Moms & Migration: May 9 The San Mateo County History Museum hosts a free morning of bird-themed crafts and a “birding” museum scavenger hunt in celebration of Mother’s Day and World Migratory Bird Day.
Walk for Mental Health Awareness: May 9 Brisbane’s Quarry Park hosts the annual 90-minute Walk for Mental Health Awareness, followed by a community gathering with food, music and activities.
Woodside-Atherton Garden Club Plant Sale: May 9 Find California native plants, drought-tolerant species, vegetables, herbs, perennials, succulents and specialty plants propagated from members’ gardens for sale.
Redwood City Wine Walk: May 12 Taste wines, small bites and other specialty items from numerous businesses in downtown Redwood City on this walk, hosted by Redwood City Education Foundation and the Rotary Club of Redwood City.
The Corner Laughers: May 15 Bay Area indie-pop band The Corner Laughers (featuring The Six Fifty’s assistant editor) plays an intimate acoustic duo show at Little Green in celebration of the group’s new album.
Herbal Tea Party: May 15 Gamble Garden hosts an afternoon tea party, including some teas made with herbs grown on-site. Attendees will learn about growing herbs and preparing teas while sipping custom blends and munching baked goods.
San Carlos Hometown Days: May 15-17 San Carlos’ annual Hometown Days weekend includes a parade, live music, a fun run, a pet competition, a pancake breakfast, games and much more.
Nudie Records Grand Opening: May 16 The Half Moon Bay family-run record label celebrates the grand opening of its new location with a party with snacks and drinks – and the chance to buy music and Nudie merch.
Portola Valley Horse Fair: May 16 It’s the Year of the Horse and the Portola Valley Trails and Paths Committee is hosting a day of free, family-friendly activities celebrating horses, including pony rides, a petting zoo, crafts and more.
Plan Ahead:
Pints of Science Festival: May 18-20 This festival brings scientists to local bars and cafes to discuss their latest research and findings. Topics include the immune system, smart technologies and “the science of feeling safe.”
Larkin Poe: May 22 Roots-rock sister duo Larkin Poe is at The Guild as part of BottleRock’s “After Dark” programming.
Female Bird Day: May 24 Why should male birds get all the glory? Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District docents lead a guided hike at Windy Hill Preserve in celebration of Female Bird Day, paying special attention to the behaviors and roles of female birds in the avian world.
Story is the Thing: May 28 Four Northern California fiction authors – Ellen Barker, Andrew Lam, Portia Elan and Victoria Tatum – read from and discuss their work at this Kepler’s event, which also includes a reception with the authors.
Blue Moon on Black Mountain: May 31 Hike a Peninsula peak at twilight with Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District docent naturalists and check out views of the Santa Clara Valley and Santa Cruz Mountains while the second full moon of the month rises.
FoggyCon 2026: June 20 Daly City hosts its inaugural event devoted to gaming and collectibles with TCG tournaments, trading cards, vintage toys, sports memorabilia and more.
How motherhood inspired a San Mateo company that helps take meal prep off parents’ plates
Bebe Bitez produces ready-made, organic meals for babies and kids
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