Downtown San Rafael Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Activities
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 Tour - Including Golden Gate Bridge
SAN FRANCISCO: (2hr) SUNSET Sailing Experience on SF Bay
2hr. SUNSET Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay
Our pick of the best Downtown San Rafael Hotel Deals
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Room in great shape! Breakfast Excellent! Close to Pier 39 Close to VA Hospital Good Parking Lot
Reviewed on 13 Jan 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Courteous staff (check in & service), check in was a breeze and swift (thanks!). Room was nice & good view.
Reviewed on 8 Jan 2026
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Everything
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Fairmont San Francisco
The STAFF!! So friendly, chipper, smiley, warm - the bellhops/valets, in particular, all seemed to love their work and their jobs and get along so well with one another. Their enthusiasm was palpable! I travel over 150 days/year for business and I can’t remember the last time I saw a more jovial ...
Reviewed on 8 Jan 2026
Hyatt Place San Francisco Downtown
The single king room was the perfect place to recharge before our flight back home to Louisiana. It was the last night of our honeymoon and friends met us at Kaiyo for dinner which was exceptional. We can't wait to visit again!
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina
near campus, nice pool, beautiful sunset in the marina.
Reviewed on 12 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 Falkirk Cultural Center 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 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 Falkirk Cultural Center, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
West End
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in West End and surrounding area, you can visit Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center.
