Mission San Rafael Arcangel was founded in what is now downtown San Rafael as the 20th Spanish mission in the colonial Mexican province of Alta California. Named in 1817 after the Angel of Healing, it is now the county seat of Marin County.

At the city's heart is its charming, vibrant downtown shopping district. Downtown's mixture of Victorian buildings, ethnic restaurants, retail stores and financial institutions creates San Rafael's hometown flavor. Seasonal events such as the Thursday night farmers markets and summertime concerts gives residents the chance to stroll, shop, and dine in the agreeable climate.

Notable landmarks include the Marin County Civic Center building, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and George Lucas's Skywalker Ranch. A convenient hub, San Rafael allows for easy access to the wine country to the north, San Francisco to the south, and the East Bay across the Richmond Bridge.

Parklands and open space account for nearly 30 percent of the city's land. Since it borders the San Pablo Bay, San Rafael has an abundance of marinas and shoreline trails. China Camp State Park, a 1,600-acre park with hiking and biking trails and overnight campsites offers quiet natural beauty.