The San Rafael center is about the area of Mission San Raphael Archangel and the area of Downtown San Rafael.
The best season to visit San Rafael and the Bay Area is in autumn when the temperatures remain warm but there are fewer crowds. Hotel rates start to drop, and the average temperatures settle in the low 70s. You'll still want to pack a few layers, though, as the bayside breezes can be chilly.
If you plan on visiting San Rafael during the winter months, you'll enjoy slashed hotel rates and average temperatures in the high 50s. The Bay Area does experience fog and gusts of wind, which can make it seem colder than it actually is, but winter is a great time for exploring the area's indoor attractions.
Spring is another great season that offers mild weather and the chance to beat the tourist rush. While hotel rates do start to climb, you'll enjoy beautiful Pacific temperatures that are ideal for sightseeing. Spring also brings a number of Bay Area festivals, including the Other Minds Festival, Carnaval San Francisco, and the International Beer Festival.
Naturally, summer is the most popular time to visit San Rafael as peak tourist season comes to the Bay Area. As travelers crowd in from all over the country, hotel rates rise, but you can defer some of these costs by booking your reservation months in advance.
If you know where to stay, you can save even more money on your trip to San Rafael by taking advantage of discounts and special offers. Most area hotels, including Americas Best Value Inn-Corte Madera/San Francisco, extend special rates to seniors, AARP members, AAA members, corporate travelers, government employees, and military families. If you qualify, you can save as much as 20 percent off the hotel's best available rates, but be sure to provide proof of eligibility at check-in.
Other hotels offer their own seasonal deals. Four Points by Sheraton San Rafael offers numerous hotel deals that allow you to get a free night when you book so many nights, or enjoy as much as 35 percent off your stay as a Starwood Preferred Guest. These types of deals are unique to each hotel, so it pays to research your favorites to see what special deals are currently being offered.
San Rafael has many mid-range hotels that give you plenty of value for your dollar. Extended Stay America – San Rafael – Francisco Blvd. East is an all-suite property off I-580. Guest rooms are basic but feature work desks, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and full kitchens with ovens and stovetops. Upgraded suites include separate living areas with pull-out sofas for even more space. The site also includes free parking and breakfast, a fitness center, outdoor grills, a business center with meeting rooms, and laundry facilities. Pets are also welcome for a fee.
Another all-suite option is Marin Suites Hotel off Highway 101. This sleek property features a heated outdoor saltwater pool, a fitness center with sauna, a whirlpool spa, an outdoor lounge with fireplace, fire pits, and a garden courtyard. Guest rooms feature external entrances and feature flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, coffee makers, and full kitchens.
San Anselmo Inn is situated inside an early-1900s building, providing the perfect bed-and-breakfast experience for anyone looking to stay in a historic hotel. Guest rooms are decorated in the French-country style and include free Wi-Fi and televisions. Most feature en suite bathrooms. The inn features a café; free parking; loaner bikes, folding chairs, and surfboards; and free breakfast.
With so much to explore in the Bay Area, it's easy to overlook the sights in San Rafael. You won't want to miss a visit to the Mission San Rafael Arcangel, which is arguably the city's main attraction. The site features a museum and gift shop that feature limited hours of operation from Wednesday through Sunday, but the mission itself is open daily. If you like what you see, try taking a driving tour around the Bay Area to other area missions.
Located in downtown San Rafael, WildCare is a facility that treats sick and injured animals and provides instruction to visitors on how to live peacefully with the animal kingdom. While WildCare operates the Bay Area's most important wildlife hospital, it's also free to visit and is open to the public every day of the year.
Art Works Downtown brings together San Rafael's beloved art community, featuring classes, studio spaces, exhibit galleries, and outreach programs, all in a central location. The non-profit art center is open to the public from Tuesday through Saturday each week and is worth a visit if you're eager to explore the downtown area.
Experiencing the Bay Area is a tall order, but no matter what brings you to San Rafael, you'll find a vibrant, diverse city brimming with culture and history. Whether you're looking for an upscale lodging or an affordable hotel, you'll find the perfect accommodation to meet your needs and budget.
Hotels in San Rafael can often offer very affordable rates “ one just has to know where to look for such cheap hotels. If you are looking for a traditional, family-friendly experience, then Colonial Inn San Rafael is a good-value hotel you can choose to stay in. It has sixteen spacious rooms that offer all the necessities to ensure a comfortable stay for its visitors. It is also perfectly situated near a selection of dining options. North Bay San Rafael is also an excellent choice for you. The elegant rooms offer the essential requirements, such as a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and a refrigerator, with all assorted services. Villa Inn San Rafael is another great choice just for you. These are just a few cheap hotels you can find in San Rafael. Whether the hotel is on the shores of an impressive lake or the hotel is located in the heart of the city, you are guaranteed to find the location you desire most. There are many hotels in San Rafael to choose from, it just depends on how you wish to enjoy your time in the town.
If you have a taste for luxurious, more expensive hotels, then Embassy Suites Hotel San Rafael - Marin County or Conference Center is an excellent choice just for you. The four-star hotel provides unique rooms, which feature an indoor pool and a Jacuzzi. The Golden Gate Bridge is just twenty-minutes away while you drive your car from the hotel. Extended Stay America - San Rafael - Francisco Blvd East is also a great choice among luxurious San Rafael hotels. Four Points by Sheraton is another luxury three-star accommodation. It has 225 comfortable rooms that contain all requirements to ensure you an enjoyable stay in the city. The location in San Rafael is ideal for travelers wishing to go shopping, plus you can get to enjoy the stunning pool in the hotel.
If you prefer other affordable options, then Motel 6 San Rafael is a great choice just for you. Motel 6 San Rafael offers a comfortable setting while in San Rafael. The location is ideal for travelers wishing to discover the area's local attractions. Make your stay memorable in San Rafael by making the right hotel choice.
Below are reviews of the city of San Rafael, CA from an actual visitor's perspective.
I was in the area to participate in the Marin Art and Craft Show at the Marin Civic Center Exhibit Hall. Because I was busy all day, I really didn't experience much of San Rafael.
The city of San Rafael is beautiful, lots of green trees, clean and friendly. Great views.
Clean accommodations less than an hour to UCSF.
The location is great, good access to everything.
The scenery!
Clean streets.
Weather was great!
The room was clean, comfortable. The staff was friendly. Big Bear restaurant was very good, close to hotel and price was great.
Mall and dining options near hotel.
Clean and laid back place to stay. Easy parking.
Love this quite and nice area!
I lived in San Rafael for 15 years, before moving to Santa Fe, in May of 2019.