Canal Travel Guide
San Rafael
Popular places to visit
Marin County Civic Center
After visiting Marin County Civic Center, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in San Rafael. Wander the area's lush forest or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Mission San Rafael Arcangel
This mission in San Rafael, which still offers services, is an interesting destination to learn more about California’s religious history.
China Camp State Park
Enjoy a trip to China Camp State Park and popular activities such as hiking in San Rafael. Wander the lush forest in this family-friendly area.
Dominican University of California
Walk around the campus at Dominican University of California as part of your travels around San Rafael. Amble around the area's lush forest or seek out the cycling trails.
Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market
You can enjoy retail therapy at Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market during your trip to San Rafael. Wander the area's lush forest or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Falkirk Cultural Center
Take the family on an outing to Falkirk Cultural Center during your trip to San Rafael. Discover the area's shops or seek out its cycling trails.
Things to do
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
Muir Woods & Sausalito Tour - Including Golden Gate Bridge
Muir Woods and Sausalito 1/2 Day Tour (Small Group)
Muir Redwoods Tour from San Francisco
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise
Top hotels in Canal
Hyatt Regency San Francisco
"Clean room and very comfortable beds. I ended up napping when I don’t even nap! Second time staying here and enjoy it very much."
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
"There were times I went to buy a bottle of water and snack, but the area had closed for the night. I wish there was an area (like other hotels have) where you can buy water and snacks 24 hours/day and it has self checkout. This makes it much easier on guests."
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
"Q"
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
"Excellent location within walking distance of all major pier attractions. Fantastic breakfast and beautiful rooms. Stay here if traveling to SF, even with family."
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
"Room and restroom was pretty clean, we did have issues with the A/C unit kept turning on the heat although we had it for cold."
Reviewed on 19 Jun 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
"Muy atentos, limpio y buena ubicación. Gracias!"
Reviewed on 20 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Canal
Terra Linda
Terra Linda might not have many top sights, but American Legion Log Cabin and Marin County Civic Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Lucas Valley-Marinwood
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Lucas Valley-Marinwood and surrounding area, you can visit Marin County Civic Center and Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market.
Southeast San Rafael
While there might not be top attractions in Southeast San Rafael, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
Dominican
While Dominican isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market are some notable places to visit nearby.
Gerstle Park
While Gerstle Park isn't home to many top sights, Falkirk Cultural Center and Mission San Rafael Arcangel are some notable places to visit nearby.
