Downtown San Rafael Travel Guide
San Rafael
Visit Downtown San Rafael
Popular places to visit
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.
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.
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.
San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park
Catch an event at San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park and enjoy other activities in San Rafael such as cycling.Amble within the lush forest or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.
Rebound Bookstore
Enjoy an outing to Rebound Bookstore during your stay in San Rafael. Amble around the area's lush forest or seek out the cycling trails.
Marin History Museum
You can spend time studying the exhibits at Marin History Museum in San Rafael. Amble around the area's lush forest or seek out the cycling trails.
Things to do
Muir Woods & Sausalito Tour - Including Golden Gate Bridge
Muir Woods and Sausalito 1/2 Day Tour (Small Group)
Muir Redwoods Tour from San Francisco
Hop-on, Hop-off City Tour & Muir Woods Excursion
Electric Bike Tour De San Francisco
Muir Woods National Monument: Self-Guided Walking and Driving Audio Tour
Top hotels in Downtown San Rafael
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Very good location very clean inside and outside area only thing I was placed next to janitor room and threw all the night I was staying there o just heard stuff hitting the walls all day
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Enjoyed staying here for a weekend birthday getaway! Within walking distance to Pier 39 and several good coffee shops! Complimentary buffet breakfast was an added plus! Probably most luxurious breakfast I've had in recent memory at a hotel. Tip: Get breakfast early for freshest food!
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Pool was out
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Hyatt Place San Francisco Downtown
The fire pit in the patio was a very nice touch.
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Windows very dirty. I asked reception about it and was told that they clean them twice a year.
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
Clean rooms. Great atmosphere. Rooms were a tad small but overall very comfortable.
Reviewed on 1 Mar 2026
Check Downtown San Rafael hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown San Rafael
Gerstle Park
While Gerstle Park isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center are some notable places to visit nearby.
Lincoln
While there might not be top attractions in Lincoln, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center.
Francisco Boulevard West
While there might not be top attractions in Francisco Boulevard West, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
Picnic Valley
While there might not be top attractions in Picnic Valley, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
West End
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in West End and surrounding area, you can visit Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center.
Bret Harte
Bret Harte might not have many top sights, but Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
