What to do in San Rafael, CA

Activities, attractions and tours

The Golden Gate Bridge at dusk with city lights in the background.
Sunset light shines on the historic Spanish Colonial mission and downtown skyline of San Rafael, California, USA.
A beach with rocks and two seals resting on the sand.
A coastal landscape with clear turquoise waters, rocky cliffs, and a sandy beach.
China Camp shore at San Pablo Bay inSan Rafael Marin County, Northern California.

Places to Visit in San Rafael

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Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best San Rafael attractions from NZ$11, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group San Rafael tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 83 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular San Rafael. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

Activities


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What to do in San Rafael


Discover the most popular places to visit in San Rafael

Our guide on where to stay in San Rafael

Find the best San Rafael areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about San Rafael
Learn more about San Rafael

Downtown San Rafael

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

Gerstle Park

While Gerstle Park isn't home to many top sights, Falkirk Cultural Center and Mission San Rafael Arcangel are some notable places to visit nearby.

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.

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 San Anselmo Town Hall.

Civic Center

While visiting Civic Center, you might make a stop by sights like Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market and Marin County Civic Center.


 

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Day trip destinations from San Rafael

Frequently asked questions

Is San Rafael worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor pursuits, there are plenty of fun things to do in San Rafael. Remember to enjoy the area's mix of cool attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in San Rafael?
Start your day with a visit to Stinson Beach and Muir Beach. Then, explore different areas of San Rafael for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in San Rafael?
Muir Woods National Monument is one of the top tourist attractions in San Rafael and deserves a spot on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in San Rafael?
Three days will be enough time to check out many city attractions, including Muir Woods National Monument, Barn Theatre and Imagination Park. The average stay in San Rafael is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your escape, San Francisco isn't far away.
Is San Rafael a walkable city?
That comes down to what you'd like to see and do in San Rafael. Several key attractions, such as Barn Theatre and Imagination Park, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of San Rafael's neighbourhoods, Picnic Valley is 2 kilometres away from downtown, while Terra Linda is 5 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in San Rafael with kids?
What to do in San Rafael for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in San Rafael, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to American Legion Log Cabin or Angel Island Immigration Station.
Are there free things to do in San Rafael?
In San Rafael, Imagination Park is an unmissable spot for anyone wanting to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's an easy way to find out about the best free things to do in San Rafael.