City Limits

In the 1860s, Darius Ogden Mills purchased land from José de la Cruz Sánchez to build a country estate. Bordered by what is now Skyline Boulevard, the Bayshore Highway, Millbrae Avenue, and Trousdale Drive, the estate became known as "Millbrae" from "Mills" and the Scottish word "brae," which means "rolling hills" or "slope."

Millbrae's economy is driven in part by its proximity to local transportation options including San Francisco International Airport. The city’s transit center provides quick connections to anywhere you want or need to go in the Bay Area, and tourists often choose to stay in Millbrae to take advantage of shops, restaurants, and more along El Camino Real and Broadway Avenue.

Millbrae By the Numbers

WHERE TO GO: Chic’s Picks

Millbrae Station – This intermodal transit station is served by both Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and Caltrain commuter rail, as well as SamTrans bus service, Alliance and Caltrain shuttle buses, and other shuttles. It’s the hub for workers moving throughout the Bay Area, travelers headed to SFO, and anyone looking for a quick excursion to San Francisco. Learn more

Millbrae Train Museum – Rail service to Millbrae began with 17 Mile House station, which opened in 1864. The station was rebuilt in 1890 and 1907 after twice burning down. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. When the modern station opened in 2002, the older station building was restored for use as a railway museum. Learn more

Bayfront Park – This small park on the eastern edge of the city features a walking trail and benches that are great for watching planes land or just lounging in the sun. While it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a quick nap, Bayfront Park has its own unique tranquility, but be prepared to spend a little time looking for a parking spot. Learn more

WHERE TO EAT, DRINK & HANG

Sixteen Mile House – The oldest restaurant in Millbrae, dating back to the 19th century, the Sixteen Mile House was originally located on El Camino and relocated to its present Broadway location in 1970. It serves up ample portions of the city’s finest steak and seafood dishes in an upscale, comfortable atmosphere. Learn more

Millbrae Pancake House – Owned and operated by the same family since 1959, the Millbrae Pancake House has watched the world change dramatically over the last 60 years, but their time honored traditions haven't changed a bit. They still make their pancakes and waffles from scratch, and they make their customers feel right at home. Learn more

Caffe Roma – Founded in 1977 in North Beach, San Francisco by Sergio Azzollini, Caffe Roma is built on the experience of three generations. Their reputation for high quality coffee and warm atmosphere have made it the top brew for locals and visitors alike. You can also find Caffe Roma coffees at many prestigious Bay Area restaurants. Learn more

LOCAL SCHOOLS

Millbrae Library

#16Mile

Built in 1872 by members of the Sánchez family, the original Sixteen Mile House was one of the original “mile houses” used as stage coach stops along El Camino Real, at one time the main highway connecting California’s coastal missions. Demolished in 1970 after an unsuccessful attempt to save the building, the restaurant moved to its current location at 448 Broadway. (More on that later.)

#MarqueeMoments

The Millbrae Theatre began with a single screen in 1949, with 1,000 seats, a balcony, and a large, ornate lobby. The theater was later triplexed and eventually shuttered in 1994. The original building was converted into a video store, but thanks to a tenacious community effort, the neon marquee was preserved and still rests atop the building.