West End Travel Guide
Tourist Guide

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.
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.
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.
Activities

Golden Gate Bay Cruise - Sail Around Alcatraz! (1-hour)

Alcatraz Island Ticket and Hop-on Hop-Off Bus Tour

Alcatraz Visit with Night Option and SF Bay Cruise

San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour

Mix & Save: San Francisco Grand City Tour + Alcatraz Island
Our pick of the best West End Hotel Deals

Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
I love the location in the center of the city on Van Ness near California. For what you get the price is very reasonable. We received free parking which I don’t know if it’s normal but most hotels charge you $30-$80 per day to park. We were given a room on the 24th floor, which had a beautiful view ...
Reviewed on 22 Mar 2026

Handlery Union Square Hotel
The staff was very helpful and patient with our needs. The room was nice.
Reviewed on 21 Mar 2026

Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
LOCATION, lLOCATION, LOCATION! We stayed here for the convenience of the location closest to tourist attractions and transportation. The complimentary breakfast is complete with hot and cold items, juice and fruits. The beds were so comfy too! The pool was too cold for winter. Will recommend to stay ...
Reviewed on 22 Mar 2026

YOTEL San Francisco
The room is tiny! But it worked. I was awoken by very loud music at 5am, unfortunately. Took a star off due to that, the slim selection at breakfast, one elevator being out of service, and the check-in kiosk not working for me.
Reviewed on 21 Mar 2026

Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Loved!
Reviewed on 21 Mar 2026

Hotel Julian
Amenities were not worth paying for. Internet was really slow, morning snacks were scarce, and failed to provide a proper amount of bath shampoo/conditioner/body wash (even after letting staff know). Motion sensor light in bathroom was not convenient as it shut off frequently. Elevator is very slow ...
Reviewed on 22 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around West End

Sun Valley
While Sun Valley may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like American Legion Log Cabin and Marin County Civic Center.

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.

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.

Downtown San Rafael
While visiting Downtown San Rafael, you might make a stop by sights like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Classic Billiards.

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.

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.

