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.
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.
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 Redwoods Tour from San Francisco
Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour + Bay Cruise Adventure
Muir Woods & Sausalito Tour - Including Golden Gate Bridge
Hop-on, Hop-off City Tour & Muir Woods Excursion
SAN FRANCISCO: (2hr) SUNSET Sailing Experience on SF Bay
Our pick of the best Downtown San Rafael Hotel Deals
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
The property was very clean. It is located right next to a cable car stop.
Reviewed on 25 Mar 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
This hotel is central to everywhere we want to go in SF! Plus, we feel safe in this neighbourhood. We love the atmosphere at Union Square, and BART is close by for our trips out to the suburbs. The staff are always friendly and helpful. Our room was nice and clean, and our room requests were met ...
Reviewed on 24 Mar 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
la ubicacion y el servicio al cliente, son excelentes!!!!
Reviewed on 25 Mar 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
Self check in. The area is a bit sketch but that’s most of downtown. I’d stay here again as a solo traveler.
Reviewed on 25 Mar 2026
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Convenient location, central enough to walk around Chinatown, towards Embarcadero, water front
Reviewed on 24 Mar 2026
Hotel Julian
Hotel was conveniently located about 10-15 min walking to nearest bus stop or cable car. 1 king bed room we stayed had a good size bedroom and bathroom for two people. Location of the AC in the bedroom bothered us since it was installed above the bed with fans pointing towards the bed and it was ...
Reviewed on 25 Mar 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 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 Classic Billiards, 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.
