Downtown San Rafael, CA
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 like 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 biking. 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 biking trails.
Marin History Museum
You can spend time exploring the galleries in Marin History Museum during your trip to San Rafael. Amble around the area's lush forest or seek out the biking trails.
Things to do
Muir Woods and Sausalito 1/2 Day Tour (Small Group)
Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour + Bay Cruise Adventure
Hop-on, Hop-off City Tour & Muir Woods Excursion
Muir Woods & Sausalito with EXCLUSIVE Battery Spencer Small Group Tour
SAN FRANCISCO: (2hr) SUNSET Sailing Experience on SF Bay
Muir Woods National Monument: Self-Guided Walking and Driving Audio Tour
Downtown San Rafael Hotel Deals
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 Jun 20, 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 Jun 20, 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
"Q"
Reviewed on Jun 20, 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 Jun 20, 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 Jun 19, 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
"Muy atentos, limpio y buena ubicación. Gracias!"
Reviewed on Jun 20, 2026
Where to stay in Downtown San Rafael
Terra Linda
While there might not be top attractions in Terra Linda, you can explore the larger area and discover places like American Legion Log Cabin and Marin County Civic Center.
Lucas Valley-Marinwood
Lucas Valley-Marinwood might not have many top sights, but Marin County Civic Center and Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Southeast San Rafael
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Southeast San Rafael and surrounding area, you can visit Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
Dominican
While there might not be top attractions in Dominican, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market.
Gerstle Park
While Gerstle Park might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Falkirk Cultural Center and Mission San Rafael Arcangel.
