Canal Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Popular places to visit
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.
Dominican University of California
Walk around the campus at Dominican University of California as part of your travels around San Rafael. Amble around the area's lush forest or seek out the cycling trails.
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.
Activities
Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour
Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise
Muir Redwoods Tour from San Francisco
Mix & Save: San Francisco Grand City Tour + Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise
Muir Woods and Sausalito 1/2 Day Tour (Small Group)
Our pick of the best Canal Hotel Deals
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Great hotel. Walking distance to Fisherman’s Wharf, covered parking, rooms clean and comfortable. AND one of the best breakfast offered by any hotel. My husband and I loved it.
Reviewed on 30 Dec 2025
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
The room and staff were both better than anticipated. Loved the view and they got my room to me early upon request. Parking is a little expensive per night but one can expect that in a nicer, centrally located hotel. Would stay again.
Reviewed on 2 Jan 2026
Fairmont San Francisco
Yes
Reviewed on 28 Dec 2025
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Berkeley Marina
All good
Reviewed on 31 Dec 2025
Hyatt Place San Francisco Downtown
The room was super clean and updated amenities. Love this hotel. Hyatt is always a good choice! 👍
Reviewed on 29 Dec 2025
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Great location. Close to all attractions in downtown. Safe to walk early morning and night. Helpful and great customer services. Thank you.
Reviewed on 30 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Canal
Canal Waterfront
While Canal Waterfront isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin Country Mart are some notable places to visit nearby.
California Park
While California Park isn't home to many top sights, Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal are some notable places to visit nearby.
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.
Country Club
While Country Club may 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 San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park.
Southeast San Rafael
While there might not be top attractions in Southeast San Rafael, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.
Bret Harte
Bret Harte might not have many top sights, but Marin Country Mart and San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
