Downtown San Rafael Travel Guide
San Rafael
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.
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.
Rebound Bookstore
Enjoy an outing to Rebound Bookstore 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.
Top hotels in Downtown San Rafael
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG
Clean room, very close distances to grocery stores and walking distance to Lombard street
Reviewed on 11 Mar 2026
Handlery Union Square Hotel
Across the street from union square, this hotel is close to many restaurants and quick dining spots. Definitely an ideal place to stay if you don’t have a car. Super close to Powell BART, you can walk there with your luggage. Short walk to Chinatown. Hotel was very clean and I always wipe down my ...
Reviewed on 11 Mar 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Breakfast was great. Erita checked ua in and was great. Gave us wonderful tips of what to see all over the City. She recognized us and made us feel the love!!!
Reviewed on 11 Mar 2026
YOTEL San Francisco
Inside, the staff is very helpful and accommodating without being invasive. The rooms are peculiarly engineered, so make sure that you know what you are about to spend the night in. I think the room that I rented for two nights is made for single travelers or a close couple because I was in a sky ...
Reviewed on 10 Mar 2026
Hotel Julian
Very clean, all like new.
Reviewed on 11 Mar 2026
Embassy Hotel
I’m hoping someone reads this review because I wish I had read reviews before booking. First, this hotel is not affiliated with Embassy Suites. That’s what I assumed when I booked, but it’s actually a completely separate hotel called The Embassy. It’s located in the Tenderloin District, one of the ...
Reviewed on 10 Mar 2026
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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 Marin Country Mart.
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 Marin Country Mart.
Montecito-Happy Valley
While Montecito-Happy Valley isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin Country Mart are some notable places to visit nearby.
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.
