Fourth Street, San Rafael Some locations along San Rafael's Fourth Street offer a glimpse into the simple avenue it used to be when it appeared in George Lucas' iconic film "American Graffiti," more than 30 years ago. Revamped and modernized, today it emits an eclectic, urban vibe with shops, an array of restaurants and a film center.

1. Rocking Chairs 100%

3. Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center

1118 Fourth St.: This marvelously restored, historical theater built in 1918 features three screens. It's owned and operated by the California Film Institute, a nonprofit that produces the Mill Valley Film Festival. Also known as the Rafael, the theater features documentaries, independent and international films. (415) 454-1222, www.cafilm.org.

5. Sabor of Spain

1301 Fourth St.: This ode to Spanish culture offers a fun combination of a restaurant, a wine bar and a retail shop, all under the same roof. Menu items include Paella Mixta, and Spanish wine choices include reds, whites, roses, cavas, sherries and sweet wines. In the retail shop there are stuffed olives, paella kits, books, music and handmade ceramics from Spanish regions such as Talavera de la Reina. (415) 457-4088, www.saborofspain.com.

6. Viva Diva

1327 Fourth St.: If you're not a fashionista before entering Viva Diva, you may be one when you leave. With the freshest, hippest women's clothing lines doable on a budget, a knowledgeable, enthusiastic staff and a welcoming atmosphere, this boutique makes it easy. (415) 256-8380, www.vivadivaboutique.com.

7. Art Works Downtown

1337 Fourth St.: Owned and operated by the charitable organization Art Works Downtown, this center promotes artists, educates the public and works to increase community interest in the arts through its programs including a gallery, public classes and affordable studio space for artists and organizations. (415) 451-8119, www.artworksdowntown.org.

PARKING

Two-hour metered parking on Fourth Street.

GETTING THERE

Golden Gate Transit: Take No. 70/80 bus from Folsom and Seventh streets, Mission and First streets, Seventh and Market streets or Polk Street at McAllister Street in San Francisco. Exit at the San Rafael Transit Center at Third Street. (415) 455-2000, goldengatetransit.org. From San Francisco: From the Golden Gate Bridge, continue onto 101 North. Take the Central San Rafael exit and turn left onto Fourth Street. From the Peninsula: Take Highway 280 north toward San Francisco and take Highway 1 north toward 19th Avenue/Golden Gate Bridge. Continue on 19th Avenue/Highway 1 North. Take the Golden Gate Bridge exit onto 101 North. Take the Central San Rafael exit and turn left onto Fourth Street.

GOOD TO KNOW

Greg Borrelli's May Madness 2007 Classic Car Parade and Rockin' Street Dance, 1 to 9 p.m. May 19 on Fourth Street between Lincoln and B streets. Festivities include fancy cars on display, a parade of cruising cars, live music and a post-parade street dance. www.downtownsanrafael.org.

Stephanie Wright Hession, 96Hours@sfchronicle.com