San Rafael was founded by the Spanish in 1817, when Vicente Francisco de Sarría established Mission San Rafael Arcángel, initially as a sub-mission. San Rafael Arcángel was upgraded to full mission status in 1822. And today it is the largest city in Marin. The downtown area is lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and restaurants, offering visitors a unique and eclectic shopping and dining experience. The city is also home to the Marin Civic Center, designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
The rest of Central Marin is made up of five towns: San Anselmo, Ross, Greenbrae, Kentfield, and Fairfax. Each city is known for its unique character and fun attractions. West of San Rafael is the tree-lined town of San Anselmo, home of The San Francisco Theological Seminary. If you enjoy a little greenery, you can find the Marin Art and Garden Center in Ross, below San Anselmo. In the neighboring communities of Greenbrae and Kentfield, you can find plenty of space to get your steps in. Then, in Fairfax, you explore the downtown area and visit the Marin Museum of Bicycling and Mountain Bike Hall of Fame.
Hotels in San Rafael
Embassy Suites
Just steps from Marin County Civic Center, Embassy Suites San Rafael is within easy walking distance of the Sunday and Thursday Farmers’ Markets, events at the Marin Center and the Sonoma-Marin Area Rapid Transit train system. Large corner suites feature a large living area and separate bedroom and a three-room suite accommodates larger groups with two separate bedrooms. A perfect choice looking for a vetted-value stay.
101 McInnis Pkwy, 415.499.9222
Four Points by Sheraton
The Four Points by Sheraton in San Rafael, CA is a hotel located in Marin County. The hotel’s convenient location near the US 101 highway makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. The hotel features 235 guest rooms, including traditional rooms, suites, and accessible rooms. All rooms are furnished with comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. Some of the rooms also offer views of the Marin County hills or the hotel’s outdoor pool. For business travelers, the hotel offers several meeting rooms and a business center, equipped with the latest technology and amenities. The hotel’s experienced staff is always available to assist with any event planning or business needs. Overall, the Four Points by Sheraton in San Rafael, CA is a top choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and modern hotel in a convenient location.
1010 Northgate Drive, 415.479.8800
AC Hotel
The new AC Hotel San Rafael is a new hotel that features guest rooms, each equipped with luxurious amenities such as plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, coffee makers, and free Wi-Fi. Many rooms also offer stunning views of the surrounding Marin County hills. The hotel will also include a fitness center, bar and lounge, and a restaurant. For business travelers, the hotel offers several meeting rooms and a business center with state-of-the-art technology and amenities. The AC Hotel is located near many popular tourist attractions and is also conveniently located near the US 101 highway. The AC Hotel is set to open on June 1st, just in time for summer vacation.
201 5th Ave, 628.336.5600
Panama Hotel
The Panama Hotel is a historic hotel that was built in 1910. The hotel features a variety of guest rooms equipped with modern amenities. Some rooms also have private balconies or patios with stunning views of the surrounding area. The hotel also has a garden area where guests can relax. Located in the heart of downtown, the Panama Hotel is within walking distance to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. It’s also conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to explore the rest of Marin County and the Bay Area.
4 Bayview St, 415.457.3993
San Anselmo
San Anselmo Inn
The San Anselmo Inn is a historic hotel located in downtown San Anselmo. Housed in a restored 1870’s Victorian building, the hotel offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. The hotel features 15 guest rooms, each uniquely decorated with antique furnishings, and modern conveniences such as flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast each morning in the hotel’s dining room, which features a fireplace and original Victorian details. In the afternoon, the hotel offers complimentary tea and cookies for guests to enjoy. The San Anselmo Inn is ideally situated for exploring the town’s many attractions, including boutique shops, art galleries, and local restaurants. The hotel also offers easy access to nearby hiking trails and recreational areas, making it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
4 Bayview St, 415.457.3993
Fairfax
Fairfax Inn
The Fairfax Inn is a bed and breakfast housed in a restored 1912 Craftsman-style home, the inn offers a welcoming atmosphere for travelers looking for a relaxing stay. The inn features six guest rooms, each equipped with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy breakfast each morning in the inn’s dining room, which offers a selection of fresh options to start the day off right. In the evening, guests can relax in the inn’s common areas, which feature comfortable seating and a fireplace.
15 Broadway, 415.455.8702
