The old adage that good things come in small packages fits well when you visit San Rafael’s 450-acre McInnis Park. Mini-golf, tennis courts (for pickleball, of course!), and a stellar skate park all feature into the activities here. Start things off with a short hike up to a plateau overlooking sprawling McInnis Marsh and San Pablo Bay, with a panorama including Mount Tam.

Take a seat on one of the benches or at the lone picnic table and enjoy spying the birdlife (bring binoculars).

The surrounding hillside is specked with California poppies during spring. This is a nice place to picnic in warm weather (the park has barbecues and group picnic areas). If you’re going to add a sport to the day, reserve a time! There’s a 9-hole golf course, and an 18-hole mini-golf course, filled with gardens and water and a few artfully designed obstacles.

The Slush by the Park concession has tasty treats, including their signature Slush drink, in a rainbow of flavors.

Next door, The Club restaurant is a locals’ favorite, with an outdoor patio and an expansive menu ranging from salads and cheeseburgers to artisan sourdough pizzas, pasta, and pot roast!

The hiking trail is dog-friendly. No dogs on mini-golf course, skate park, tennis courts, or golf course.