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.
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.
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.
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 and lots of food options
Reviewed on 21 Mar 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
The staff was very helpful and patient with our needs. The room was nice.
Reviewed on 21 Mar 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Rooms were clean, breakfast buffet was fresh and plentiful. Amazing location close to the wharf
Reviewed on 21 Mar 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
The room is tiny! But it worked. I was awoken by very loud music at 5am, unfortunately. Took a star off due to that, the slim selection at breakfast, one elevator being out of service, and the check-in kiosk not working for me.
Reviewed on 21 Mar 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Loved!
Reviewed on 21 Mar 2026
Hotel Julian
I enjoyed that you could cast your shows to the TV, the gym was clean and the wifi was consistent. The AC worked amazingly and the water was good.
Reviewed on 20 Mar 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 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 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.
