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.
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.
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.
Things to do
Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour (Ferry & Bike Options Available)
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
Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour + Bay Cruise Adventure
Top hotels in Downtown San Rafael
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Great hotel, super clean.
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
The property is in a great location in downtown San Francisco. However it is an older hotel so some the rooms and bathrooms are very small.
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Great location and overall great value for the price, but the room could have been cleaner.
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Breakfast was delightful
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
I can handle bad luck items. If, for example, The neighbors were noisy, or the ac wasn't working that day, that might not apply to the next guest. No, my problems are more ongoing. The premium room pictures clearly showed a chair under a small side table built into the bed that could be be considered ...
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Hilton San Francisco Union Square
Very comfortable beds and amazing concierge Havier
Reviewed on 17 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown San Rafael
Gerstle Park
While Gerstle Park isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park 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 Marin History Museum.
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 San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park.
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 San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park.
Fairhills
When in Fairhills, you can plan a visit to Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Montecito-Happy Valley
While Montecito-Happy Valley isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin History Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.
