Situated on the northern edge of the San Francisco Bay Area, Mill Valley boasts all the traits that families search for when selecting their next residence. From outstanding natural beauty to award-winning schools to proximity to one of the most sophisticated and culturally rich cities in the nation, Mill Valley offers an abundance of great opportunities within reach.

Before your next excursion to this area, explore the summary of adventures compiled by Mill Valley, California, real estate agent Beth Brody.

 

A large part of Mill Valley’s allure are the breathtaking woods surrounding the enclave. Named after notable naturalist John Muir, Muir Woods National Monument comprises 240 acres of enormous, ancient redwoods that soar high into the sky. Entering these woods is akin to walking into a fairy tale, and the Bay Area’s signature mix of sunshine and fog amplifies the park’s mystique. Spend a few hours hiking one of the forest’s trails and you’ll come across California bay laurel, bigleaf maples, and tanoak trees that are between 600 and 1,200 years old. If you’re interested in deepening your children’s bond with nature and getting them involved in the preservation of Muir Woods, the National Park Service offers a terrific and informative Junior Ranger program.

 

Mill Valley’s temperate weather and lush setting lend itself well to nestling down with a good book. The Depot Cafe & Bookstore makes this possible. Located at the heart of Mill Valley in Depot Plaza, this much-loved spot features an array of fiction and nonfiction titles for parents and a super-cozy nook filled with vibrant tales for children.

After meandering through the store and choosing your next reads, settle in for a delicious lunch. The Depot Cafe offers a wide selection of salads and sandwiches, including the locally-famous mezze plate with whipped feta and hummus. The Kid’s Cafe menu section includes favorites like grilled cheese sandwiches and PB&Js.

 

Throckmorton Theatre is nothing short of an icon. Deemed Mill Valley’s crown jewel, the gorgeous, well-appointed theater is a mecca for talent. Stand-up comedy, concerts, musicals, and plays frequently draw residents to its doors. Years ago, it wasn’t uncommon for Robin Williams to pop in and stun the crowds. Expand your children’s horizons by booking tickets to an event at this classic and unforgettable venue.

Hire your favorite babysitter and head out for a night on the town with your partner and pals. Established in 1972, Mill Valley’s Sweetwater Music Hall has seen the likes of Sammy Hagar, Etta James, and Bob Weir grace the stage since its inception. Today, the legendary venue continues to headline some of the greatest acts in music. After the concert, stop in at Picco’s for a nightcap and dessert — their Root Down drink with apple brandy, lemon, and Brucato Woodlands’ amaro is one for the record books.

Old Mill Park is a majestic place that flourishes with immense redwoods and boasts an interactive playground that’s perfect for kids who have the energy to burn. Once they’re tuckered out, find respite in Mill Valley’s splendid public library — a beautiful, open space brimming with children’s books. Check out the library’s schedule of events in advance, as children’s story times are often offered.

 

There are few better reminders of earth’s prodigious beauty than a gorgeous waterfall in a verdant, storybook setting. This is precisely what you and your family will find by hiking to Cascade Falls in Mill Valley Cascade Park. The short hike is accessible to children of nearly all ages, and you’ll find patches of bright wildflowers brought on by springtime rain showers.

When autumn rolls around, be sure to pack up your kids and head to Old Mill Park for the Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival. Over one hundred international and local artists present their work under the park’s towering redwoods while live music serenades the crowd. After exploring paintings, sculptures, and more, make a beeline for the Children's Grove, where kids will be delighted by music, puppets, craft time, and storytelling.

Buckeye Roadhouse is well-known across the San Francisco Bay Area — and not just because it’s located in an eye-catching manse (yes, just off the highway) or because it has been satisfying palates since 1937. The venerated palace of elegant comfort food evokes a simpler time, thanks to its oil paintings, stained glass, wood paneling, and old-fashioned bar. Get comfy in one of their large, red leather booths and dive into eats ranging from pan-roasted artichoke hearts with creamy tarragon to butternut squash ravioli with pecans, brown butter, and sage. Children will be thrilled with Buckeye’s retro desserts like s’mores pie, sticky toffee cake, and chocolate mousse, which will give the night a celebratory feel no matter the occasion.

Visiting the Walt Disney Family Museum requires a trip to San Francisco, but who doesn’t love an exciting day in the city? Situated in the ever-enchanting Presidio, the Walt Disney Family Museum tells the stories behind the most beloved children’s tales. Whether you want to peek behind the creation of The Jungle Book, view an impressive model of Disneyland, or take a class on animation, this magnificent museum underscores the joy of living in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Intrigued by all that Mill Valley has to offer? This is just a small sampling of the activities that await you and your family. If you’re interested in exploring homes for sale in Mill Valley, California, reach out to Beth Brody. Born and raised in Mill Valley, she has an exceptional handle on the town’s nuances and would be delighted to guide you to your dream residence. Book a consultation with her today to get started.