San Rafael was founded by the Spanish in 1817, the downtown area is lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and restaurants, offering visitors a unique and eclectic shopping and dining experience. San Rafael is located at the base of Mount Tamalpais, a popular destination for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. The nearby China Camp State Park offers visitors a chance to explore the California coast, with miles of scenic trails and beaches to enjoy. Overall, San Rafael is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, or simply relaxing and enjoying the local vibe, you’ll find it in San Rafael.
Eat | Stay | Do
San Rafael Community
San Rafael Nonprofit The Canal Arts Creates a New Mural for Bon Air Greenbrae
The shopping center commissioned the artwork, which depicts its history dating back to 1952.
Take a Walk Through History Along San Rafael’s Fourth Street: 6 Historic Buildings to Visit
A short walk rewards passersby with some of the city’s most prominent buildings.
San Rafael’s Place for Cake Creativity
The popular San Rafael store gears up for its biggest season.
Homes
See How a Crisp, Modern Addition Revitalizes an Italianate Victorian Home in San Rafael
A couple hired the Berkeley-based firm Fischer Architecture to remodel and renovate their historic, two-story home.
Creating a Colorful Home In San Rafael’s Lincoln Hill Neighborhood
Marin native finds her happy place in an unexpected place.
Indoor-Outdoor Living in San Rafael
Garden schemes that will help you get the most out of your backyard.
San Rafael History
The History of San Rafael’s Boyd Gate House
This 145-year-old landmark is now home to the Marin History Museum.
How a Group of Marin Teenagers Created 420
Four San Rafael High students unwittingly coined pot’s most popular code name.
A Bottle-Themed Look at the Past at the Marin History Museum
Experience the county’s past through its bottling industries and the themes of bottled nourishment, health and entertainment.
