Title: Visit Downtown San Rafael: 2026 Downtown San Rafael, San Rafael Travel Guide | Expedia.com [Hotels in Downtown San Rafael](https://expedia.com/Downtown-San-Rafael-Hotels.d944334058949931008.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Flights to San Rafael](https://expedia.com/Cheap-Flights-To-San-Rafael.d9924.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Things to do in San Rafael](https://expedia.com/Things-To-Do-In-San-Rafael.d9924.Travel-Guide-Activities)[Car Rentals in Downtown San Rafael](https://expedia.com/Car-Rentals-In-Downtown-San-Rafael.d944334058949931008.Car-Rental-Guide)[Downtown San Rafael Vacations](https://expedia.com/Downtown-San-Rafael.d944334058949931008.Destination-Travel-Guides) # Downtown San Rafael, CA ## San Rafael ![Sunset light shines on the historic Spanish Colonial mission and downtown skyline of San Rafael, California, USA.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/944334058949931008/44f72a29-9956-4df2-b60f-b1f19354bdd9.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Sunset light shines on the historic Spanish Colonial mission and downtown skyline of San Rafael, California, USA.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/944334058949931008/44f72a29-9956-4df2-b60f-b1f19354bdd9.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![The original mission was built here in 1817. Its original function was as a ‘sub’ mission for the church in San Francisco to assist in treating sick parishioners. It gained full mission status in 1822. Abandoned in 1847 with all its buildings being sold off or destroyed. A new church was built on the grounds in 1861. This chapel dates to 1949 and is a reconstruction of the building from 1817.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/9924/85bea5ad-39b2-4dae-ac9b-1e5d65453868.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Mission San Rafael Arcangel. Founded 1817. ](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/9924/178475c1-4750-4053-b3fa-104f31f3f888.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Mission San Rafael Arcangel featuring a statue or sculpture](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6065807/d20836b2-9b82-49e5-99b4-bc1b1d606e2a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ## Visit Downtown San Rafael Things to do Hotels Where to stay [San Rafael Travel Guide](https://expedia.com/San-Rafael.dx9924) --- ### Popular places to visit ![Mission San Rafael Arcangel featuring a statue or sculpture](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6065807/d20836b2-9b82-49e5-99b4-bc1b1d606e2a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### 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. [](https://expedia.com/Mission-San-Rafael-Arcangel-Downtown-San-Rafael.d6065807.Vacation-Attraction) ![Spire and fountain which are located in an outdoor space that is off the employee cafeteria area.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/9924/79973cd4-a955-4b95-9546-280323e089bf.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### 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. [](https://expedia.com/Marin-County-Civic-Center-Civic-Center.d6065809.Vacation-Attraction) ![Don't forget to stop by the camp cafe and check out the pictures on the wall. Some famous album covers have been taken here.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/9924/3500632a-0fae-4c37-a366-e40301a05d3f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### China Camp State Park Enjoy a trip to China Camp State Park and popular activities like hiking in San Rafael. Wander the lush forest in this family-friendly area. [](https://expedia.com/China-Camp-State-Park-China-Camp.d553248621558560557.Vacation-Attraction) #### San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park Catch an event at San Rafael Pacifics Albert Park, and enjoy other activities in San Rafael such as biking. Amble within the lush forest or visit the shops in this family-friendly area. [](https://expedia.com/San-Rafael-Pacifics-Albert-Park-Picnic-Valley.d553248621558560559.Vacation-Attraction) #### Marin History Museum You can spend time exploring the galleries in Marin History Museum during your trip to San Rafael. Amble around the area's lush forest or seek out the biking trails. [](https://expedia.com/Marin-History-Museum-Downtown-San-Rafael.d6334915.Vacation-Attraction) #### 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 biking trails. [](https://expedia.com/Classic-Billiards-Downtown-San-Rafael.d553248621532640604.Vacation-Attraction) ### Things to do ![2hr - SUNSET Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/48192215/33213992-0fc5-4389-88ab-2af065400bc2.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### SAN FRANCISCO: (2hr) SUNSET Sailing Experience on SF Bay $149 per adult [](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/san-francisco-2hr-sunset-sailing-experience-on-sf-bay.a48192215.activity-details) ![salmon sanctuary](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/51211669/69935b32-aaed-4cbf-94ec-36c6e0314832.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### The Secrets of Sacred, Sexy Salmon, Spawning NOW $55 per adult [](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/the-secrets-of-sacred.a51211669.activity-details) ![Combo image of City sightseeing and Muir Woods National Monument entrance](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/289567/a6ea6e92-6df4-4692-8342-327437120163.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Hop-on, Hop-off City Tour & Muir Woods Excursion $140 per adult **92%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/hop-on.a289567.activity-details) ![Sailing Across the Golden Gate Bridge](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/46781030/5da31d39-0214-4a96-95dd-05c6df8f48f6.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### 2hr. INTERACTIVE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay $149 per adult **100%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/2hr-interactive-sailing-experience-on-san-francisco-bay.a46781030.activity-details) ![ Electric Bike Tour De San Francisco](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/49993843/07ac4bd3-069d-4b27-9ea3-ef0f6d5e9bd6.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Electric Bike Tour De San Francisco $100 per adult **100%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/electric-bike-tour-de-san-francisco.a49993843.activity-details) ![San Francisco City Sights Seaplane Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/48909146/341b76fd-9b37-419f-bcba-17e0330d11c3.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### San Francisco City Sights Seaplane Tour $239 per adult [](https://expedia.com/things-to-do/san-francisco-city-sights-seaplane-tour.a48909146.activity-details) [See all activities in San Rafael](https://expedia.com/Things-To-Do-In-San-Rafael.d9924.Travel-Guide-Activities) --- ## Downtown San Rafael Hotel Deals ![Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/20000/10600/10538/9ba9bb1f_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Holiday Inn Golden Gateway by IHG 1500 Van Ness Ave San Francisco CA $119 nightly $140 total Mar 1 - Mar 2 Total with taxes and fees Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in San Francisco. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the pool ... 8.8/10 Excellent! (5,315 reviews) Clean room, good location. Reviewed on Feb 21, 2026 [](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?startDate=3%2F1%2F2026&endDate=3%2F2%2F2026&selected=10538&PinnedHotelID=10538&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=944334058949931008) ![Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/30000/24700/24625/6fb55356_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Hotel Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf 2500 Mason St San Francisco CA $151 nightly $177 total Mar 3 - Mar 4 Total with taxes and fees Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in San Francisco. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast ... 8.8/10 Excellent! (7,331 reviews) Great location and breakfast buffet Reviewed on Feb 22, 2026 [](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?startDate=3%2F3%2F2026&endDate=3%2F4%2F2026&selected=24625&PinnedHotelID=24625&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=944334058949931008) ![Handlery Union Square Hotel](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/10000/6700/6666/b8dfc462_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Handlery Union Square Hotel 351 Geary St San Francisco CA $147 nightly $174 total Feb 28 - Mar 1 Total with taxes and fees Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in San Francisco. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and valet parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and ... 8.8/10 Excellent! (2,872 reviews) Best part about the hotel is the night auditor Stephanie, she has amazing customer service skills and i keep returning because she impresses me every time. Rooms are clean and medium firm beds, good wifi, good black out curtains, windows can be opened in the room, close to union square close to subway ... Reviewed on Feb 18, 2026 [](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?startDate=2%2F28%2F2026&endDate=3%2F1%2F2026&selected=6666&PinnedHotelID=6666&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=944334058949931008) ![Hyatt Place San Francisco Downtown](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/32000000/31420000/31419900/31419890/fc76649d_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Hyatt Place San Francisco Downtown 701 3rd St San Francisco CA Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay $169 nightly $199 total Mar 19 - Mar 20 Total with taxes and fees Stay at this hotel in San Francisco. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in ... 9.2/10 Wonderful! (2,005 reviews) Clean Reviewed on Feb 23, 2026 [](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?startDate=3%2F19%2F2026&endDate=3%2F20%2F2026&selected=31419890&PinnedHotelID=31419890&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=944334058949931008) ![Hilton San Francisco Financial District](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/10000/4400/4302/77af977e_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Hilton San Francisco Financial District 750 Kearny St San Francisco CA $137 nightly $161 total Mar 8 - Mar 9 Total with taxes and fees Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in San Francisco. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), a fitness center, and WiFi (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful ... 8.6/10 Excellent! (2,440 reviews) Staff was wonderful, view was awesome and the stay was nice. Will return to this Hotel. Reviewed on Feb 23, 2026 [](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?startDate=3%2F8%2F2026&endDate=3%2F9%2F2026&selected=4302&PinnedHotelID=4302&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=944334058949931008) ![YOTEL San Francisco](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/20000000/19520000/19510300/19510249/e1a4da25_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### YOTEL San Francisco 1095 Market St San Francisco CA $109 nightly $128 total Feb 26 - Feb 27 Total with taxes and fees Stay at this hotel in San Francisco. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ... 8/10 Very Good! (1,003 reviews) Great hotel Reviewed on Feb 18, 2026 [](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?startDate=2%2F26%2F2026&endDate=2%2F27%2F2026&selected=19510249&PinnedHotelID=19510249&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=944334058949931008) [See all 3,789 properties in Downtown San Rafael](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=2%2F25%2F2026&endDate=2%2F26%2F2026®ionId=944334058949931008) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ![](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2026/02/06/expedia-sale-2026-desktop-us-ca.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1400&h=600&q=mediumHigh) ## The Annual Vacation Sale Members save up to 40% on hotels and homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save. [Book now](https://expedia.com/deals?rfrr=DX-NH_SPRING_PROMO_944334058949931008) ## Check Downtown San Rafael hotel availability [Tonight ](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=944334058949931008&startDate=2026-02-24&endDate=2026-02-25)[Feb 24 - Feb 25](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=944334058949931008&startDate=2026-02-24&endDate=2026-02-25) [Tomorrow night ](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=944334058949931008&startDate=2026-02-25&endDate=2026-02-26)[Feb 25 - Feb 26](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=944334058949931008&startDate=2026-02-25&endDate=2026-02-26) [This weekend ](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=944334058949931008&startDate=2%2F27%2F2026&endDate=3%2F1%2F2026)[Feb 27 - Mar 1](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=944334058949931008&startDate=2%2F27%2F2026&endDate=3%2F1%2F2026) [Next weekend ](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=944334058949931008&startDate=3%2F6%2F2026&endDate=3%2F8%2F2026)[Mar 6 - Mar 8](https://expedia.com/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=944334058949931008&startDate=3%2F6%2F2026&endDate=3%2F8%2F2026) --- ### Other neighborhoods around Downtown San Rafael ![Dramatic sunset over Mt. Tamalpais, Marin County, CA.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/944335156291006464/bef904b1-a8eb-422f-9616-6f34fd87c5a3.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Gerstle Park While Gerstle Park might 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 Falkirk Cultural Center. [](https://expedia.com/San-Rafael-Gerstle-Park.dx944335156291006464) ![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Lincoln Lincoln might not have many top sights, but Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out. [](https://expedia.com/San-Rafael-Lincoln.dx984038753721253888) ![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Francisco Boulevard West While Francisco Boulevard West might 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 Larkspur Ferry Terminal. [](https://expedia.com/San-Rafael-Francisco-Boulevard-West.dx984039600677060608) ![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Picnic Valley Though Picnic Valley might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Larkspur Ferry Terminal. [](https://expedia.com/San-Rafael-Picnic-Valley.dx553248635976470347) ![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Fairhills Fairhills might not have many top sights, but Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out. [](https://expedia.com/San-Rafael-Fairhills.dx984038663904428032) ![San Quentin prison in San Rafael, California, United States of America.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248635976472269/6b359eee-a4e5-4805-b56f-cab7b4bc2c14.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### West End West End might not have many top sights, but Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Falkirk Cultural Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out. [](https://expedia.com/San-Rafael-West-End.dx553248635976472269) [See our Where To Stay guide](https://expedia.com/San-Rafael.dx9924.Where-To-Stay?rfrr=TG.LP.Dest.Neigh.Neighborhoods) --- --- - [Stays](?pwaLob=wizard-hotel-pwa-v2) - [Packages](?pwaLob=wizard-package-pwa) - [Flights](?pwaLob=wizard-flight-pwa) - [Things to do](?pwaLob=wizard-lx-pwa) - [Cruises](?pwaLob=wizard-cruise-pwa) - [Cars](?pwaLob=wizard-car-pwa) # Downtown San Rafael, CA ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save even more - get up to 20% on select hotels when you book on the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. Scan the QR code with your device camera and download our app