Magnificent Mill Valley: A Local's Recommendations

Nestled in a warm and inviting valley between Sausalito and Mount Tamalpais, Mill Valley is a pastoral paradise for all ages. I've lived here for seven years and continue to be amazed by the fun and adventure to be had in this bayside village. Whether you are into hiking, biking, a visit to the historic, local bookstore, or simply window shopping, Mill Valley is a must-see!

The Depot Bookstore is housed in the original historic Mill Valley Train Depot. Where you sip your latte and look for your favorite books and magazines, a bustling train station once served as a hub in transportation for the Marin Community. The Depot opens onto a spacious plaza where you can enjoy your breakfast or lunch while watchin... More >
The Depot Bookstore is housed in the original historic Mill Valley Train Depot. Where you sip your latte and look for your favorite books and magazines, a bustling train station once served as a hub in transportation for the Marin Community. The Depot opens onto a spacious plaza where you can enjoy your breakfast or lunch while watching kids at play. Music performances are also held here as well as seasonal festivals. A bonus for kids is an actual "gravity" train car on display at the end of the plaza. Just try to pull your kids away from it, you'll be captivated too!
One of the most well-known trails in the region, Tennessee Valley Trail is as scenic as they come. Start at the trail head at the end of Tennessee Valley Road. You will find a two-mile stretch of easy to moderate hiking terrain friendly for even your toddlers or babes in strollers. As you admire the surrounding Marin headlands and the ... More >
One of the most well-known trails in the region, Tennessee Valley Trail is as scenic as they come. Start at the trail head at the end of Tennessee Valley Road. You will find a two-mile stretch of easy to moderate hiking terrain friendly for even your toddlers or babes in strollers. As you admire the surrounding Marin headlands and the native flowers and vegetation you will be rewarded by a breathtaking view at the end of the trail where it ends literally on a beach at the Pacific Ocean's edge. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy with your family, play a game of frisbee and you are set-life is good!
The rangers are extremely knowledgeable about the grounds and show great pride as ambassadors of this beautiful national park.
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The Buckeye Roadhouse is the perfect place for a family meal or a date night. When you step into the foyer, you will feel like you have traveled to a mountain lodge. The rustic decor is warm and cozy. You and your kids will marvel at the roaring fire nearly always crackling in the main dining room as well as the authentic deer antlers perched on the walls. The food and wait staff service is top notch and the cocktails, fine wines and desserts are delicious.
There are only a handful of hotels in Mill Valley, but Acqua Hotel stands above the rest. Situated on Richardson Bay with a peaceful water view, Acqua is a Marin County Green Certified Hotel. It offers both a complimentary wine hour and continental breakfast, it's kid-friendly, and pets are welcome! The scenic bay side path way is step... More >
There are only a handful of hotels in Mill Valley, but Acqua Hotel stands above the rest. Situated on Richardson Bay with a peaceful water view, Acqua is a Marin County Green Certified Hotel. It offers both a complimentary wine hour and continental breakfast, it's kid-friendly, and pets are welcome! The scenic bay side path way is steps from the hotel for your enjoyment, a walk at sunset, perhaps?
The 142 Throckmorton Theatre is the jewel of Mill Valley and the town's entertainment lifeblood. People flock from the south in San Francisco and the north in Novato to catch the latest musical, cultural, comedy or dramatic event. It is very common for nationally and internationally known artists to play from the Throckmorton's stage. ... More >
The 142 Throckmorton Theatre is the jewel of Mill Valley and the town's entertainment lifeblood. People flock from the south in San Francisco and the north in Novato to catch the latest musical, cultural, comedy or dramatic event. It is very common for nationally and internationally known artists to play from the Throckmorton's stage. Unlike many small town theaters which only hold special events on the weekends, you will find that 142 Throckmorton hosts great events all week long. It frequently hosts children's programs, as well. Check their website before you visit for an updated calendar of events.
The Buckeye Roadhouse is the perfect place for a family meal or a date night.
When you think of Northern California, you think of majestic redwoods. Some of the most famous Redwoods in the U.S. reside right here in Mill Valley. The Muir Woods National Monument, named for naturalist John Muir, is home to these primordial and awe-inspiring trees. You can take a self-guided walk along the trail under the canopy of trees or request an official tour from one of the park rangers. The rangers are extremely ... More
When you think of Northern California, you think of majestic redwoods. Some of the most famous Redwoods in the U.S. reside right here in Mill Valley. The Muir Woods National Monument, named for naturalist John Muir, is home to these primordial and awe-inspiring trees. You can take a self-guided walk along the trail under the canopy of trees or request an official tour from one of the park rangers. The rangers are extremely knowledgeable about the grounds and show great pride as ambassadors of this beautiful national park. Admission is reasonable and free for kids under 16. The on-site cafe is welcoming and a great place to grab a hot cocoa for those often cool days among the redwoods.
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About the Author

Laurel Munson-Hilton
Laurel Munson-Hilton
Laurel is a freelance writer and published author. She has lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for 11 years. Raising two young daughters in southern Marin has given her ample opportunities to sample the best places to visit and have fun, whether for a day trip or extended stay.
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