At-a-Glance

Although you wouldn’t know it today, there was a time when Bay Areans knew Mill Valley (so named because it was the sight of the first sawmill in Marin County) for its summer vacation homes.

But it wouldn’t be long until San Francisco businessmen, attracted to it’s easy-going nature, began leaving the City’s busy streets to make the commute home to Mill Valley. Today, just over a century later, Mill Valley is one of the most desirable places to call home.

In a Few Words

Family-and commuter-friendly

Living Here

On a warm, sunny day, there’s nothing better than venturing out in Mill Valley to find a spot overlooking the Bay where you can unwind and refresh, ride Mt. Tam, or go for a long hike.

If it’s more organized activities you crave, the City of Mill Valley is known for its fun cultural events and seasonal celebrations.

Each year, droves of people head to Old Mill Park for the Annual Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival.

If you’re a movie-buff, fall is the season for you as it marks the return of the Mill Valley Film Festival and its award-winning, international features, documentaries, shorts and children’s films.

There’s also a wide selection of fine dining, leisure cafés and on-the-go favorites, all at your fingertips:

• Whether you’ve worked up a hearty appetite from a long day’s hike or are planning a romantic evening for two, The Buckeye Roadhouse is sure to please.
• Kick off a night on the town with dinner at Bungalow 44, Balboa Cafe, Tsukiji Sushi Bar and Restaurant, or Piazza D’Angelo.
• Tucked along the shoreline is Shelter Bay Cafe, where a brisk walk and beautiful view makes for one enjoyable morning.

Good-to-Know

On Locust Avenue between Sycamore and Walnut, look for a metal plaque set in the sidewalk that marks an area thought to be the 1781 birthplace of Chief Marin. Marin County and the Marin Islands are believed to be named in his honor.

Why Mill Valley?

Top-rated public schools, strong community involvement, and access to some of nature’s finest trails, parks and beaches continue to make Mill Valley one of the most sought-after communities in the Bay Area.