One Enriching Day in Novato, CA Will Lift Your Spirits

Novato is a small town with a big heart. Just a stone's throw away from the San Francisco Bay Area, it feels more country than cosmopolitan, but that doesn't mean it's void of depth. Novato has a little of everything, from beautiful scenery and hiking to good eats and quaint shopping. Add a little adventure and/or history to your day trip, and you might choose to extend your visit.

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Olompali State Historic Park
Olompali State Historic Park is a natural and man-influenced gem. With breaktaking views, it's perfect just for a day hike. Take a picnic and enjoy it when you get to the top, visit the Miwok Village and tour the mansion and gardens. If you're visiting during the summer and aren't afraid of fast-flying screeching things, check out the ... More >
Olompali State Historic Park is a natural and man-influenced gem. With breaktaking views, it's perfect just for a day hike. Take a picnic and enjoy it when you get to the top, visit the Miwok Village and tour the mansion and gardens. If you're visiting during the summer and aren't afraid of fast-flying screeching things, check out the bat house!
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Best Western Novato Oaks Inn
Nothing against Bed Westerns, but this one is not your typical roadside motel. Located conveniently just off the 101 - but nestled on a hillside - Best Western Novato aims to comfort and please. With a clean pool and hot tub, tasteful decorations, notable continental breakfast, room balconies, wifi, large-screen TVs, and the Wildfox Re... More >
Nothing against Bed Westerns, but this one is not your typical roadside motel. Located conveniently just off the 101 - but nestled on a hillside - Best Western Novato aims to comfort and please. With a clean pool and hot tub, tasteful decorations, notable continental breakfast, room balconies, wifi, large-screen TVs, and the Wildfox Restaurant next door, the fact that they're friendly to boot seems almost too good to be true.
Cute, quiet and full of fun little shops that will keep you shopping, Old Town Novato is so easy and charming, I wonder why it doesn't really seem to get crowded.
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Marvin's Restaurant
Perhaps before you hit Olompali for that jaunt, fuel up with a good breakfast or brunch at Marvin's. With an outdoor patio and views of the bay, the hefty portions might make you linger awhile. Try the vegetarian Benedict, pancakes or truly fresh-squeezed orange juice! Located in Old Town Novato, the service is good and the entertainme... More >
Perhaps before you hit Olompali for that jaunt, fuel up with a good breakfast or brunch at Marvin's. With an outdoor patio and views of the bay, the hefty portions might make you linger awhile. Try the vegetarian Benedict, pancakes or truly fresh-squeezed orange juice! Located in Old Town Novato, the service is good and the entertainment is unique: you can watch the chefs work their magic on your made-to-order omelette.
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Italian Delite
For Italian-style hoagies that would make Joey from 'Friends' order an extra sandwich to go (in his pocket), don't think this means these sandwiches are small, and definitely bring the men with you. This Philly Cheesesteak rivals the east coast and the special hot sauce is deservedly addictive. There's also a Chicken Cheesesteak for a ... More >
For Italian-style hoagies that would make Joey from 'Friends' order an extra sandwich to go (in his pocket), don't think this means these sandwiches are small, and definitely bring the men with you. This Philly Cheesesteak rivals the east coast and the special hot sauce is deservedly addictive. There's also a Chicken Cheesesteak for a new twist on an old favorite. Pack some hoagies To-Go for the end of that day hike!
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Old Town Novato
Cute, quiet and full of fun little shops that will keep you shopping, Old Town Novato is so easy and charming, I wonder why it doesn't really seem to get crowded. With a variety of dining options to re-fuel and renew, just park the car and walk/shop to your heart's content. My favorite stop is Sentimental Journey Antiques, where everything is neat, clean and not as overwhelming as some antique shops can be. Try the second-hand store next door for something gently used and really affordable. Toy stores and boutique shops line downtown's main core as well.
Located conveniently just off the 101 - but nestled on a hillside - Best Western Novato aims to comfort and please.
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Creekside Bakery
Actually located next to a creek, Creekside gets kudos for both cozy ambiance and comfort food. Tucked away behind a strip mall, they serve delicious lunch items and the locals are in the know. A modest family bakery, Creekside also offers quiches, fresh breads, cookies, eclairs and teas, and is especially known for their gorgeous cakes. More
Actually located next to a creek, Creekside gets kudos for both cozy ambiance and comfort food. Tucked away behind a strip mall, they serve delicious lunch items and the locals are in the know. A modest family bakery, Creekside also offers quiches, fresh breads, cookies, eclairs and teas, and is especially known for their gorgeous cakes.
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About the Author

Melanie Noel Light
Melanie Noel Light
Freelance writer, life and laughter lover, seeks grand experiences anywhere, anytime... And loves to write about them: www.SeeingSacramento.com
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