Picnic Valley, CA
San Rafael
Visit Picnic Valley
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.
Dominican University of California
Walk around the campus at Dominican University of California during your stay in San Rafael. Amble around the area's lush forest or seek out the biking trails.
Peacock Gap Golf Club
Play a round of golf in San Rafael at Peacock Gap Golf Club, and enjoy other activities such as hiking. Wander the marina and lush forest in the area.
Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market
You can enjoy retail therapy at Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market during your trip to San Rafael. Wander the area's lush forest or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Things to do
Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour
Official Alcatraz Island Prison Tour with Free App Audio Packages
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise
Mix & Save: San Francisco Grand City Tour + Alcatraz Island
Picnic Valley Hotel Deals
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
EXCELLECT SERVICE, WONDERFUL VIEW
Reviewed on Mar 10, 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
I have been waiting for this pool to open for nearly a year. Keep bringing a bath suit bc they say it’s either open or will be open by the 3/6. Didn’t happen. No snacks and restaurants close early in the area. Also restaurants are extremely expensive.
Reviewed on Mar 10, 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Pros: Incredibly clean. Convenient location to Fisherman’s Wharf. Very safe. Great amenities and wonderful breakfast assortment. Cons: tiny bathrooms. Very loud location, could have used a sound machine at night to block out street (traffic) and hotel noise (doors closing).
Reviewed on Mar 10, 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
Inside, the staff is very helpful and accommodating without being invasive. The rooms are peculiarly engineered, so make sure that you know what you are about to spend the night in. I think the room that I rented for two nights is made for single travelers or a close couple because I was in a sky ...
Reviewed on Mar 10, 2026
Hotel Julian
Just far enough from the rougher parts of town but ideal location to see most of what you’d want for walking around. The staff were great, very personable and friendly. Not haunted either.
Reviewed on Mar 10, 2026
Embassy Hotel
I’m hoping someone reads this review because I wish I had read reviews before booking. First, this hotel is not affiliated with Embassy Suites. That’s what I assumed when I booked, but it’s actually a completely separate hotel called The Embassy. It’s located in the Tenderloin District, one of the ...
Reviewed on Mar 10, 2026
Other neighborhoods around Picnic Valley
Francisco Boulevard West
While Francisco Boulevard West might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin Country Mart.
Bret Harte
While there might not be top attractions in Bret Harte, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
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 Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center.
Downtown San Rafael
While visiting Downtown San Rafael, you might make a stop by sights like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Classic Billiards.
Montecito-Happy Valley
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Montecito-Happy Valley and surrounding area, you can visit Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin Country Mart.
Canal
While there might not be top attractions in Canal, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
