Things to do in San Rafael

Activities, attractions and tours

Sunset light shines on the historic Spanish Colonial mission and downtown skyline of San Rafael, California, USA.
Sunset light shines on the historic Spanish Colonial mission and downtown skyline of San Rafael, California, USA.
Mission San Rafael Arc?ngel was founded on December 14, 1817 as a medical asistencia ("sub-mission") of the Mission San Francisco de As
Spire and fountain which are located in an outdoor space that is off the employee cafeteria area.
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.
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Most popular experiences in San Rafael

Tours & day trips

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Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour (Ferry & Bike Options Available)

Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour (Ferry & Bike Options Available)

Activity duration is 5 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 408 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €85 per adult
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Private & custom tours

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2hr. INTERACTIVE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay

2hr. INTERACTIVE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay

Activity duration is 2 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 26 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €128 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

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Visit Alcatraz + Golden Gate Bridge Bike Tour (2-Day)

Visit Alcatraz + Golden Gate Bridge Bike Tour (2-Day)

Activity duration is 2 days
9.6 out of 10 with 37 reviews
Price is €125 per traveller
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Food, drink & nightlife

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Alcatraz Night Tour with Aquarium + Muir Woods with Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

Alcatraz Night Tour with Aquarium + Muir Woods with Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

Activity duration is 2 days
Price is €292 per adult
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Air, helicopter & balloon tours

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San Francisco City Sights Seaplane Tour

San Francisco City Sights Seaplane Tour

Activity duration is 20 minutes
10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is €205 per adult
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What to do in San Rafael

Popular places to visit

Mission San Rafael Arcangel which includes a statue or sculpture

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.

Mission San Rafael Arcangel
Spire and fountain which are located in an outdoor space that is off the employee cafeteria area.

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.

Marin County Civic Center
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.

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.

China Camp State Park

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.

Dominican University of California

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.

Peacock Gap Golf Club

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.

Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market

Falkirk Cultural Center

Take the family on an outing to Falkirk Cultural Center during your trip to San Rafael. Discover the area's shops or seek out its cycling trails.

Falkirk Cultural Center

Gerstle Park

Gerstle Park is just one of the places to see in San Rafael, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Make time for the shops and cycling trails in this family-friendly area.

Gerstle Park

McNears Beach Country Park

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, McNears Beach Country Park might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to McNears Beach. Amble around the area's parks or visit its shops.

McNears Beach Country Park

Areas of San Rafael

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Southeast San Rafael

While there might not be top attractions in Southeast San Rafael, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Marin Country Mart and Larkspur Ferry Terminal.

Southeast San Rafael
Sunset light shines on the historic Spanish Colonial mission and downtown skyline of San Rafael, California, USA.

Downtown San Rafael

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

Downtown San Rafael
The beautiful, unspoiled hills of West Marin, with evening light.

Terra Linda

Terra Linda might not have many top sights, but Marin County Civic Center and Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Terra Linda
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Lucas Valley-Marinwood

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Lucas Valley-Marinwood and surrounding area, you can visit Marin County Civic Center and Marin County Civic Center Farmers' Market.

Lucas Valley-Marinwood
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Dominican

While Dominican isn't home to many top sights, Mission San Rafael Arcangel and Marin County Civic Center are some notable places to visit nearby.

Dominican
Dramatic sunset over Mt. Tamalpais, Marin County, CA.

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.

Gerstle Park
Green rolling hills of Marin County with view of San Francisco Bay

San Anselmo

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?
If you're searching for activities and sights for all ages, check out these fantastic ideas for what 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.

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