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.
Classic Billiards
Enjoy an outing to Classic Billiards 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 & Sausalito with EXCLUSIVE Battery Spencer Small Group Tour
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 National Monument: Self-Guided Walking and Driving Audio Tour
Top hotels in Downtown San Rafael
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Room is clean
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Comfy beds. Short walk to Pier 39. Safe surroundings. Fire pits. Quiet.
Reviewed on 1 Feb 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
The room so very clean and the room was spacious; the only thing, we were not informed parking was billed separate and at a high rate, being the first time in SF it wasn't something I expected
Reviewed on 29 Jan 2026
Hyatt Place San Francisco Downtown
Everything was great. I got checked in fast, the hotel was very nice and clean. The buffet breakfast was really good. I’d definitely stay here again. Everyone was very nice.
Reviewed on 1 Feb 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
great location, awesome room, expensive parking
Reviewed on 29 Jan 2026
Club Quarters Hotel in San Francisco
Staff was great.
Reviewed on 29 Jan 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 American Legion Log Cabin 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 County Civic 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.
Fairhills
When in Fairhills, you can plan a visit to Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin County Civic 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 Larkspur Ferry Terminal are some notable places to visit nearby.
