McInnis Park is a hidden gem tucked away in San Rafael, and honestly, it’s got a little bit of everything. Spanning 450 acres, this regional park mixes sports, nature, and family fun in a way that feels surprisingly complete. Whether you want to play a quick round of golf, wander the wetlands with binoculars, or just let your kids loose at the skatepark, McInnis Park makes it easy to spend the whole day outdoors without ever feeling bored.
You’ll find it at 310 Smith Ranch Road, San Rafael—super easy to get to, and parking’s rarely an issue. The park’s open from early morning until evening (7 am to 8 pm in summer, 7 am to 7 pm in spring and fall), so you’ve got plenty of time to explore. There are softball and soccer fields, hiking trails, and peaceful wetlands all packed into one spot.
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The wetlands are especially nice for a quiet walk, dog stroll, or a bit of birdwatching. If you’re tired of the crowds at other Marin trails, you’ll appreciate the calm here—and those water views don’t hurt either. This blend of sports and nature makes McInnis Park a go-to for anyone looking for variety in Marin County.
Exploring McInnis Park and Its Surroundings
McInnis Park throws a lot your way: golf, sports, hiking, even a bite to eat, all wrapped up in a pretty Marin County landscape.
Overview of McInnis Park
With 450 acres to roam, McInnis Park stands out as one of Marin’s most flexible outdoor hangouts. It’s set along Gallinas Creek, so you get both open fields and natural spots.
Sports fans have options—there are two softball fields and two soccer fields, and you’ll see everyone from local teams to weekend warriors out there. The skatepark’s a draw too, with ramps and features that work for both newbies and seasoned skaters.
Families, in particular, seem to love it here. You can easily bounce between activities all day. Dogs are welcome (in certain areas, voice control is a must), so don’t leave your pup behind.
Set in Gallinas Valley, the park gives you views of rolling hills and connects to walking paths that wind through different parts of the grounds.
Golf Courses and Recreation
The McInnis Park Golf Center is a real highlight. It’s a 9-hole course—great if you’re just starting out or don’t have all day. Plus, the scenery’s not bad.
There’s a mini-golf course too, loaded with quirky obstacles and perfect for families or anyone just looking to have some fun without taking things too seriously.
If golf’s not your thing, you’ve still got options:
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- Tennis courts (which also double as pickleball courts these days)
- Canoe and kayak access on Gallinas Creek
- Skate park for every skill level
And if you’re itching to try a different course, check out these nearby golf options:
- Peacock Gap Country Club (full 18 holes)
- San Geronimo Golf Club
- Mill Valley Golf Course
- Indian Valley Golf Club
Each one brings its own vibe and challenges, so you’re never stuck with just one choice.
Nature and Wildlife Experiences
Right next to McInnis Park, the Las Gallinas Wildlife Ponds draw all kinds of birds—birdwatchers know this spot well. You’ll catch glimpses of everything from egrets to hawks if you’re lucky.
Trails wind through natural areas, some with views of San Pablo Bay. Walks here can be as easy or as challenging as you want, especially if you link up with the San Pedro Mountain trails.
Miller Creek meanders through the park, creating quiet places to spot local wildlife. The riparian habitat feels alive, especially if you’re into plants and critters.
Here’s how you can enjoy the wilder side of McInnis:
- Walking paths by Gallinas Creek
- Wildlife viewing spots near the ponds
- Trail connections that let you stretch your legs even further
If you’re after a bigger adventure, Mount Tamalpais and the Marin Headlands aren’t far—both open up even more hiking and nature options.
Dining and Relaxation Options
Worked up an appetite? There’s a restaurant right in the park, so you don’t have to go far for a meal. It’s casual, the menu’s classic American, and you get views of the golf course while you eat.
When it’s warm out, grab a seat outside and soak up some Marin sunshine. Nothing fancy, but it hits the spot after a morning on the trails or course.
Picnic areas scatter the park, with tables and BBQ pits ready for family get-togethers or group hangouts. Some spots overlook Gallinas Creek and the wildlife ponds—pretty relaxing if you ask me.
If you’re in the mood to branch out, downtown San Rafael is just minutes away. There’s a little bit of everything—cafes, fancier restaurants, and plenty of places to unwind if you want to keep the day going.
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Visiting Marin County: Attractions Beyond McInnis Park
Marin County’s got a lot more up its sleeve than just McInnis Park. The landscape flips from redwood forests and mountains to beaches and museums, with family-friendly stops sprinkled in.
Nearby State Parks and Outdoor Adventures
Mount Tamalpais State Park is kind of the crown jewel around here—over 50 miles of trails, jaw-dropping views from the 2,571-foot peak, and hikes for every energy level.
Muir Woods National Monument protects towering coastal redwoods that’ll make you feel tiny. If you want to skip the crowds, try going on a weekday or book your parking ahead of time.
Angel Island State Park, a quick ferry ride from Tiburon, mixes hiking with a dose of immigration history. The 360-degree views of the Bay and old military buildings are well worth the trip.
The Marin Headlands show off rugged cliffs, WWII bunkers, and the Point Bonita Lighthouse. These days, it’s all about wildlife and epic photo ops.
Samuel P. Taylor State Park is quieter, with redwood groves and Papermill Creek—nice if you’re after a more peaceful day out.
Family Entertainment and Theme Parks
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo mixes animal shows with roller coasters. You might watch dolphins, feed giraffes, and then hop on a ride—all in one spot.
The Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito is built for kids under 10, with hands-on exhibits about science, art, and the environment. Plus, the Golden Gate Bridge backdrop makes for some pretty memorable photos.
TrainTown in Sonoma is a hit with little kids—there’s a quarter-scale railroad, miniature towns, tunnels, a petting zoo, and carnival rides. It’s got a quirky charm.
If you’re craving water slides, Raging Waters in San Jose has everything from wave pools to thrill rides. There’s something for every age and bravery level, especially when the weather heats up.
Museums and Cultural Highlights
The Marin County Civic Center stands as Frank Lloyd Wright’s largest public project. If you take a tour, you’ll spot the iconic blue roof and that unmistakable architecture—it’s a National Historic Landmark for good reason.
At the Bay Area Discovery Museum, kids get to dive into art, science, and engineering through play, all with those unbeatable Golden Gate Bridge views. The place feels designed for curiosity, not just for kids but for parents tagging along too.
The Bolinas Museum keeps local history and contemporary art alive in a cozy coastal spot. With its rotating exhibitions, you’ll find regional artists and fresh takes on Marin County’s past—sometimes quirky, always interesting.
Hop just over the Golden Gate Bridge and you’ll hit the Exploratorium. It’s packed with hands-on science exhibits—seriously, over 600 of them. You won’t just read about science; you’ll poke, prod, and probably get a little messy figuring things out.
The California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco brings together an aquarium, planetarium, natural history museum, and a living rainforest—all under a single, eco-friendly roof. It’s a wild mashup, but somehow it works.
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