Marinvisitorguide2018

OFFICIAL VISITORS AND MEETING PLANNERS GUIDE

C O U N I N R T A Y M

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU visitMarin.org

JUST A LITTLE OUT THERE visitmarin.oRG

WELCOME TO MARIN COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

Marin isn’t as far away as it feels... it’s just a little out there.

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU visitMarin.org

M

arin County is just a little out there.

As in one famous bridge away from San Francisco.

And right next door to the vineyards of Napa and Sonoma.

Closer than you could ever imagine to everything that’s unique in this clever corner of California.

So come take a vacation from the typical vacation.

The question is, where do you want to start?

The Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau announces the upcoming “Summer of Love” activities for Marin County.

This year-long event will highlight a number of festivals, musicals, activities, and other attraction-based programs to promote the original “Summer of Love” festival held in 1967 in Marin County.

Over fifty years ago, young CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU people by the thousands visitMarin.org flocked to San Francisco’s Haight-Asbury for what became known as the Summer of Love, a social phenomenon representing a freedom of peace, love and rock-n-roll and bringing in the “hippie movement.”

Many of these young adults stayed in the city, but many went north, over to the hills of West Marin to explore a calmer lifestyle that reflected exploring nature and commune living off the land. On June 10-11, 1967, 36,000 hippies attended the Fantasy Fair and Magic Mountain Festival at the Sidney B. Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre on Mt. Tam. Stop by our visitor bureau any weekday for your free bumper sticker and lapel pin to help spread the “Summer of Love” spirit in Marin County this year.

Follow our Social Media channels throughout the year for a chance to win our Summer of Love contest prizes!

This year the theme for the Marin County Fair is “Let the Funshine In” The fair will celebrate that 1967 spirit with music, art, fashion and more. Also featured will be a special Fantasy Fair exhibit, tie-dye and macramé competition, Flower Power floriculture, Groovy/Psychedelic and Abstract art and photography. This year’s musical lineup includes the 5th Dimension, Ann Wilson of Heart, The Commodores, UB40, The Turtles, The Association, The Box Tops, The Cowsills and more.

(June 30-July 4, 2017) Other Summer of Love themed events will include the following experiences: • Italian Street Painting Summer of Love: An Art & Music Experience in San Rafael. (June 24-25, 2017) • Larkspur/Corte Madera Parade: Celebrate the Summer of Love on the Fourth of July at this year’s 1967 themed parade. Beginning at 10:30 am at Redwood High School (395 Doherty Drive, Larkspur) and ending at Corte Madera’s Town Center the festivities will continue until 5:00 pm.

• Sound Summit: A musical gathering to benefit Marin’s treasured Mt. Tamalpais. (September 9, 2017) • WhistleStock: Jessie Colin Young formerly with the Youngbloods will be performing. The event will be in San Rafael at Marin’s Rod and Gun Club. This popular venue for live music and good times with friends will be a little bit of Woodstock shared for one fine afternoon in Marin.

(September 24, 2017) • Marin Music Festival: Known for its musical revolution in the 1960’s and 1970’s, Marin County provides a gorgeous natural backdrop for this free day of local music showcasing Marin’s musical flair at Marin’s Rod and Gun Club.

(October 14, 2017)

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S 5 Good Reasons to Visit Download the Visit Marin App “Made in Marin” and Some History

Pages

6-7

Pages

8-9

Pages 10 - 11

FEATURES Tips on Driving Marin Roads

Pages 12 - 13

When and how to drive Marin’s roads with points of interest and distances in miles and kms

Marin Communities

Pages 16 - 29

What To Do

Pages 30 - 35

Pet Travel

Pages 36 - 37

Dining and Nightlife

Pages 40 - 43

Find maps and highlights of Marin County towns: Mill Valley, Corte Madera, Larkspur, Novato, San Rafael, Fairfax/San Anselmo and Coastal Marin

Marin attractions include agritourism, farmers’ markets, outdoor adventures, the arts and museums

Find pet-friendly hotels and hiking trails for you and your woof

Experience the highlights of Marin’s culinary secrets and where to go after dark

Marin Shopping

Pages 44 - 51

Find the best of Marin’s shopping with name brand stores, convenient parking, and food courts

Marin Adventures

Pages 52 - 59

Marin Hotels

Pages 60 - 69

Outdoor activities, farm and family tours, romantic places, and girls’ day/night out on the town

Whether a beach side bungalow or a trusted favorite hotel, Marin has the perfect accommodation for you

DIRECTORIES Calendar of Events

Pages 14 - 15

Find a Beach

Pages 38 - 39

Maps of Marin’s Parks

Center Insert

Meeting Information

Pages 72 - 75

Index

Page

76

5 REASONS TO VISIT MARIN COUNTY

Shopping

The charm and character of Marin’s unique cities are reflected in its many neighborhood shopping districts. Each community in Marin offers shoppers something unique.

Dining and Nightlife

From cozy and casual to elegant and refined, Marin County is home to more than 500 restaurants. Every region of the world is represented with its own rich and diverse cuisine.

The Bay Area has always been a fertile ground for music and nightlife. Many renowned artists from the Grateful Dead to Metallica have made their musical mark in Marin.

Art and Culture

Fall is film festival time in Marin, with glitterati and paparazzi jetting in for the world-renowned Mill Valley Film Festival.

Winter abounds with seasonal art and craft sales, summer offers a variety of open air concerts and street fairs.

Bike Mount Tamalpais

Locally referred to as Mt. Tam, it is recognized as the birthplace of mountain biking. The Old Railroad Grade fire road that begins in Mill Valley, once the right-of-way of the Mount Tamalpais Scenic Railroad, is the easiest route for traversing up the mountain to its peak of 2,571 feet (784 m) at East Peak.

Location, Location, Location

Marin County is just a little out there. As in, one famous bridge away from San Francisco. And right next door to the vineyards of Napa and Sonoma. Closer than you could ever imagine to everything that’s unique in this clever corner of California.

6

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

5 REASONS TO VISIT COASTAL WEST MARIN Marin County’s Wilder Side Five Items Not To Miss

Muir Woods National Monument

Visitors come from around the globe pay homage to nature in this cathedral of redwoods, just a short drive from the Golden Gate Bridge off Hwy 101. The park is very popular and so parking is limited. Consider using the Muir Woods Shuttle with pickup locations in Mill Valley and the Sausalito Ferry.

Earthquake Trail

At Point Reyes National Seashore, you can walk right on top of the infamous San Andreas Fault. One easy place to locate it is on the short Earthquake Trail, which leads from the parking lot near the Bear Valley Visitor Center. See the fence that was moved a distance of 20 feet after the “Great Quake” that shook San Francisco on April 18, 1906.

Agritourism Activities

Take a farm tour, watch cheese being made, attend a local farmers’ market, learn about beekeeping and making sparkling mead, harvest apples and pet sheep on preserved ranches, taste and purchase wonderful artisan and farmstead cheeses and other specialty foods.

Point Reyes Lighthouse

The historic Lighthouse warned mariners of danger for more than a hundred years. Open year-round, Thursday through Monday from 10:00am to 4:30pm. Take the 300 step descent from the visitor center to the lighthouse.

View the Wildlife

Explore the beauty of the area and experience local wildlife events such as Gray Whale migrations and Elephant Seal colonies from Chimney Rock. Visit the many tide pools, hike among local Tule Elk and explore premier birding locations.

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

7

MARIN’S MOBILE APP

D

ownload the Visit Marin Mobile App for iOS and Android - Your guide to Marin!

Whether you’re into lounging on a beach, biking down a mountain, eating amazing food, visiting pristine ranches and farms, or just soaking in the beautiful scenery, Marin County is an absolute paradise. Now you’re able to stay up to date on the latest and

greatest attractions, events, promotions, and discounts from around town with the new Visit Marin App. Profess your love for tranquil Marin County and instantly have access to all its advantages.

Use code VisitorGuide when you download for an immediate 1,500 points

Download Here Use code iLoveMarin when you download the app for an immediate 1,500 points

We know you love Marin County as much as we do!

Download the Visit Marin app and be the first to hear about Marin County news, events, promotions, discounts, and MORE! Instuctions for download on back

8

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN’S MOBILE APP

We know you love Marin County as much as we do!

Be sure to download the new Visit Marin • Earn points you garnering advocacy app and be can the fiuse rst totowards hear about awesome achievements Marin County news, events, promotions, • Find theand locations discounts, MORE! of all your favorite Marin County activities, restaurants, events, and MORE

• Gain access to exclusive offers like hotel and restaurant specials • Be the first to learn about exciting Marin County events, news, and promotions • Have the ability to share any of your finds with all of your friends!

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

9

MADE IN MARIN The Food Marin French Cheese Company has been making cheese in Marin since 1865 when they first offered their original Breakfast Cheese. It is the longest continually operating cheese company in America.

Cowgirl Creamery Cheese: Best known locally for their award winning Red Hawk triple cream cheese made with wild bacteria native only to Point Reyes.

This cheese captures the true essence of West Marin.

Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese: The Giacomini family has been making award-winning Point Reyes Original Blue Cheese for over a decade and expanded their collection with four new cheeses. They opened a culinary center called The Fork which offers focused cheese tastings, chef demonstrations, farm dinners and other special events.

Heidrun Meadery: Producing naturally sparkling varietal meads using the traditional French Méthode Champenoise.

10

Trek Winery opened a public tasting room in 2012 in downtown Novato and has become a premier venue for live entertainment including professional stand-up comedy and live music; it is also available for special events.

The Arts Marin Music: The county’s vibrant music scene has a rich history that goes back to the ‘60s and beyond. At one time or another, Marin has been home to musical legends such as the Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane, musicians Huey Lewis, Bonnie Raitt, David Crosby, Carlos Santana, Sammy Hagar, Van Morrison, Lars Ulrich (Metallica), and many others.

Home to Mountain Biking: Mt. Tamalpais, the birthplace of mountain biking in the late 1970s, gave rise to legends such as Joe Breeze and Gary Fisher.

Local Art Walks: Promoting art to the public in open galleries and art studios, where wine and refreshments go hand in hand with local creativity.

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

A FEW HISTORICAL FACTS Sir Francis Drake and the Coastal Miwok People Sir Francis Drake probably first sighted and mapped the foggy coastline of the Marin Headlands in 1579, at which time he is thought to have camped along the beach which bears his name today. But before Drake came to California, the Coast Miwok people were the inhabitants of what is now called Marin County. They knew and blended with this bountiful land for thousands of years, developing a rich economy based on gathering, fishing and hunting. Village communities of 75 to several hundred people developed in sheltered places near fresh water and plentiful food. “Kule Loklo” (meaning “Bear Valley”) is a recreated village in Point Reyes. It stands where no village ever was, but where one might have stood.

Official Visitors Guide

|

1817: Mission San Rafael Archangel is number 20 in a chain of 21 missions in California. It was originally a sub-mission of San Francisco de Asís used as a place of recovery.

1896: Mt Tamalpais Gravity Car: The Mount Tamalpais Scenic Railroad was dubbed by locals as the “Crookedest Railroad in the World” because of its 281 curves in just over eight miles of track.

1955: Louise Arner Boyd was a prominent resident of San Rafael and the first woman to fly over the North Pole. For more information, visit the Falkirk Cultural Center in San Rafael.

1957: Frank Lloyd Wright at the age of 90, was commissioned to design Marin’s Civic Center. This was his last project before his death in 1959.

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

11

TRAVEL TIPS

M

arin County is expansive.

Below are a handful of traffic tips that will help you on the roads. There are also a variety of other transportation methods at your disposal, from bus and ferry service, to destination shuttles, airport transfers, and car rentals.

Location

Marin County is located in Northern California, just across the Golden Gate Bridge, with San Francisco to the south, Sonoma County to the north, and Napa County to the north/ east. Highway 101, the main north/south artery, allows access to San Francisco and Sonoma Counties. Highway 1 takes you to the communities of West Marin/Point Reyes Seashore and the scenic Marin coast.

Commuter Traffic Tips

For the best use of your travel time keep in mind the commuter traffic times on Highway 101: • Morning commute: 6am to 10am, southbound • Evening commute: 3:30pm to 6:30pm, northbound • Utilize public transportation: Muir Woods Shuttle service 12

runs every day from Memorial Day to Labor Day • Golden Gate Transit/Ferry

Climate

Marin enjoys a temperate, Mediterranean climate year round. Winters are moderate with temperatures averaging 55 degrees, with occasional rain. Summers are warm and dry, with the strong possibility of morning and evening fog, especially in the Golden Gate area. The average summer temperature is 82 degrees. A light coat or jacket is recommended for summer evenings.

Airport Transportation MarinAirporter.com PureLuxury.com ShawTransportationManagement.com Marin is an estimated 1.5 hour drive from each of the following airports: San Francisco International Oakland International

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

To San Rafal Visitor Center

Driving Times

To Olema Visitor Center

Driving Times

DRIVING MARIN ROADS

Bear Valley Visitor Center

23mi/37km

40 min

1mi/15km

3min

Golden Gate Bridge

17mi/27km

20min

31mi/50km

50min

Muir Woods

14mi/23km

25min

22mi/36km

40min

Town of Napa

38mi/60km

45min

47mi/76km

1h 5min

Olema Visitor Center

22mi/37km

35min

-

-

Point Reyes Lighthouse

42mi/68km

1h 14min

22mi/35km

40min

Point Reyes Station

25mi/40km

40min

3mi/5km

6min

San Francisco Downtown

22mi/35km

35min

36mi/58km

1hour

San Rafael Visitor Center

-

-

22mi/37km

35min

Town of Sonoma

23mi/38km

30min

33mi/54km

50min

Stinson Beach

23mi/38km

45min

13mi/21km

20min

4hrs

228mi/367km

4h 30min

Yosemite Village 212mi/337km

West Marin is the largest rural region of Marin County.

The West Marin Chamber of Commerce includes seven unincorporated communities: Point Reyes Station, Olema, Stinson Beach, Bolinas, Tomales, Dillon Beach, and Inverness.

West Marin is located on the Pacific Ocean side of Mount Tamalpais, west of Nicasio, and northwest of Muir Beach.

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin

Trans port: marin transi t.o (415) 256-8 rg 8 32 golden gatetr ans (415) 455-2 it.org 000 West Marin Stage (415) 526-3 coach 239 angeli sland f erry (415) 435-2 .com 131

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

13

ANNUAL CALENDAR OF EVENTS For more great events, visit www.visitMarin.org

M

arin County is home to hundreds of public events throughout the year. These include theatrical productions, under-the-radar festivals, farmers’ markets, musical concerts, historical re-enactments, art & crafts shows, educational events and on and on. Below is a sampling that will keep you busy throughout the year.

YEAR-ROUND Farmers’ Market Marin Civic Center: Thursdays and Sundays Art Walks Mill Valley: First Tuesday of each month

Whale Watching Point Reyes National Seashore APRIL Opening Day on the Bay View sail boats from the Headlands

San Rafael: Second Friday of each month Marin Center Performing arts and music JANUARY to MARCH Egret Nesting Audubon Canyon Ranch

Elephant Seals In Point Reyes National Seashore 14

JUNE Dipsea Footrace Starts at Mill Valley’s Depot Fairfax Festival Bolinas and Peri Parks in Fairfax Italian Street Painting Festival Downtown San Rafael on A Street Mountain Play Mt. Tamalpais

Birding and Nature Festival Point Reyes Station MAY May Madness and Classic Car Parade Downtown San Rafael along Fourth Street Point Reyes Open Studios Memorial Day Weekend

Marin Outdoor Antique Market Marin Civic Center parking lot Novato Art, Wine and Music Festival Grant Avenue in old town Novato

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

ANNUAL CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JUNE Mill Valley Wine and Food Tasting Old Mill Park

Film Night in the Park Through September in various Marin outdoor parks Western Weekend Point Reyes Station JULY Marin County Fair Civic Center Fairgrounds

AUGUST Summer Outdoor Concerts Various locations through August Sand Sculpture Contest Drakes Beach, Point Reyes National Seashore SEPTEMBER and OCTOBER Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival Old Mill Park

Sound Summit Atop Mount Tam

Indian Big Time Celebration Point Reyes at Kule Loklo Village

NOVEMBER and DECEMBER Winter Wonderland and Parade of Lights Downtown San Rafael on Fourth St. Lighted Boat Parade Along San Rafael’s Canal Shoreline Marin Ballet’s Nutcracker Marin Center

Fleet Week on the Bay Bay festivities and flying Blue Angels!

Corte Madera & Larkspur Parade Along Magnolia Avenue to the Town Center

Trick ‘o Treat Fourth Street in San Rafael

Mill Valley Film Festival Sequoia and Rafael Film Centers

Mill Valley’s WinterFest Downtown Plaza Dickens Family Victorian Holiday San Rafael’s Falkirk Cultural Center Holiday Candlelight Concerts Marin Center

Oktoberfest Gazebo Square in Corte Madera Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

15

MARIN COMMUNITIES 6

4 7

3

5 1

MILL VALLEY

No other Bay Area community offers so much to so many, so close to San Francisco.

EAT/DRINK 1 El Paseo Restaurant: elpaseomillvalley.com 17 Throckmorton Avenue (415) 388-0741 Sammy Hagar’s American comfort food located in a cozy space hidden down a brick path.

2 Frantoio Ristorante: frantoio.com 152 Shoreline Hwy (415) 289-5777 Serves delectable Italian cuisine in a comfortable and elegant ambiance.

3 Piazza D’Angelo Ristorante: piazzadangelo.com 22 Miller Avenue (415) 388-2000 Serving wholesome Italian fare afternoons and evenings.

SHOP 4 Fashionable boutiques and eclectic shops such as EO Exchange fill the downtown area along Throckmorton Ave. 16

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN COMMUNITIES

2

8 EXPLORE 5 The Depot Bookstore and Cafe. Drink in the local scene at this bookstore/cafe. Get a seat outdoors so that you can watch the town going about its business in Depot Plaza.

6 Pick up a Steps Lanes and Paths map at the Library (375 Throckmorton Ave) and walk historic evacuation trails still in use today.

7 Old Mill Park, located in a redwood grove, houses part of the wood mill that gave Mill Valley its name.

8 The Marin Theater Company is a professional regional theater located at 397 Miller Avenue For more information: Mill Valley Chamber of Commerce 85 Throckmorton Avenue millvalley.org / enjoymillvalley.org (415) 388-9700 Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

17

MARIN COMMUNITIES

5

1 3

6

CORTE MADERA

The quaint town of Corte Madera is a small, vital community reflecting an easy, outdoor lifestyle.

EAT/DRINK Within Corte Madera’s two main shopping centers, explore the varied dining features offered at each center such as 1 Il Fornaio at the Town Center ilfornaio.com/cortemadera 2 The Cheesecake Factory and Boca Pizzeria at The Village. thecheesecakefactory.com bocapizzeria.com SHOP 1 Town Center Corte Madera: shopstowncenter.com 2 The Village at Corte Madera: villageatcortemadera.com 3 The Corte Madera Farmers’ Market is held every Wednesday, from 12:00pm to 5:00pm, year-round at the Town Center in Corte Madera. Farmers, food purveyors, bakers showcase their bounty along the Mediterranean style courtyard.

EXPLORE 4 Ring Mountain Open Space Preserve: An easy two-mile 18

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN COMMUNITIES

4

2 RING MTN OPEN SPACE

loop taking hikers through seasonal wildflowers, and old live oaks to the highest spot of the preserve, Petroglyph Rock with Native American carvings. Hike begins at 5300 Paradise Drive with trailhead in San Clemente Park.

5 The Corte Madera Town Park: Newly renovated, the park spans 22.7 acres, is fenceenclosed, and features seven picnic and BBQ sites.

6 Old Town Square: visit a classic gazebo where events are held throughout the year, and then stroll along the boutiques on First Street.

For more information: Corte Madera Chamber of Commerce 129 Town Center cortemadera.org (415) 924-0441 Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

19

MARIN COMMUNITIES 5

2

7

LARKSPUR - GREENBRAE

Located in the central part of Marin County, downtown Larkspur is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a typical turn-of-the-century California town.

EAT/DRINK Larkspur offers some very special places to play, shop, and dine. Here are some ideas: 1 Farmshop Marin: farmshopca.com 2233 Larkspur Landing Circle (415) 755-6700 2 Oyama Sushi: oyamasushibar.com/greenbrae/ 282 Bon Air Center (415) 295-7130 3 The Melting Pot: meltingpot.com 125 E Sir Francis Drake Blvd (415) 461-6361 A premier fondue restaurant where guests can enjoy a choice of fondue cooking styles.

SHOP 4 Marin Country Mart: marincountrymart.com An open-air shopping and dining destination that 20

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN COMMUNITIES 1

4

6

3

8

features boutiques and farm-to-table eateries.

5 Bon Air in Greenbrae: bonair.com EXPLORE 6 From Larkspur Landing take the ferry to San Francisco, an attraction all its own! The ride offers spectacular views of Mt. Tamalpais, Angel Island and the Golden Gate Bridge.

7 Walk the side streets in Old Town Larkspur for historic Victorian homes.

8 Bike the Larkspur/ Corte Madera Path.

For more information: Larkspur Chamber of Commerce larkspurchamber.org (800) 596-0747 Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

21

MARIN COMMUNITIES

8 7

NOVATO

Discover Novato, the heart of Northern Marin and gateway to wondrous West Marin.

EAT/DRINK 1 Hopmonk Tavern: hopmonk.com 224 Vintage Way (415) 892-6200 2 Rickey’s Restaurant: rickeysrestaurant.com 250 Entrada Drive (415) 883-9477 3 Trek Winery Tasting Room: trekwine.com 1026 Machin Avenue (415) 899-9883 4 Wildfox Restaurant: wildfoxrestaurant.com 225 Alameda del Prado (415) 883-9125 SHOP 5 Vintage Oaks at Novato: shopvintageoaks.com Home to more than 50 popular retailers and restaurants.

6 Old Town Novato is a shopping haven to over four hundred distinctive businesses including boutiques, antique stores, spas, salons, cafes and restaurants - all located along one mile of Grant Avenue.

22

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN COMMUNITIES 6

3

9

1

4

5

2

EXPLORE 7 Museum of the American Indian is devoted to Native American culture and is the only one of its kind in the Bay Area. marinindian.com 2200 Novato Blvd (415) 897-4064 8 Stafford Lake Park contains a bike park and fishing lake with nature trails.

3549 Novato Blvd 9 Novato City Hall: Built in 1896, it served as Novato’s city hall until 2005.

901 Sherman Avenue For more information: Novato Chamber of Commerce 807 De Long Avenue visitnovato.com (415) 897-1164 Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

23

MARIN COMMUNITIES

1

8

3

5

2

4

SAN RAFAEL

San Rafael maintains its small town charm, with diverse dining, shopping and its fantastic Mediterranean climate.

When it’s foggy in San Francisco, it is usually sunny in San Rafael!

EAT/DRINK 1 Green Chile Kitchen: greenchilekitchen.com 1335 4th Street (415) 521-5691 2 Il Davide: ildavide.net 901 A Street (415) 454-8080 3 Taste Kitchen & Table: tastekitchenandtable.com 850 4th Street (415) 524-2802 4 Vin Antico: vinantico.com 881 Fourth Street (415) 721-0600 SHOP 5 Art Works Downtown: www.artworksdowntown.org 1337 Fourth Street See resident artists at work! Also featured are new exhibits, events and classes every month as well as public art installations throughout San Rafael.

24

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN COMMUNITIES Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

6

7

6 The Mall at Northgate: shopatnorthgate.com The largest of three shopping centers in San Rafael.

EXPLORE 7 Explore the world famous Frank Lloyd Wright designed Marin Civic Center on a docent-led tour.

8 Visit one of California’s historical landmark missions - the Mission San Rafael Archangel founded in 1822.

For more information: San Rafael Chamber of Commerce 817 Mission Avenue srchamber.com (415) 454- 4163 Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

25

MARIN COMMUNITIES all sh

ar

ess rn

e nv

M To

I To

9

1

6

7

2 8

COASTAL WEST MARIN

Home to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Point Reyes National Seashore, West Marin offers a variety of amazing outdoor attractions and amenities.

EAT/DRINK 1 Cowgirl Creamery: 80 Fourth Street (415) 663-9335 2 Farm House: 10021 Highway 1 (415) 663-9000 3 Fog’s Kitchen & Lounge: 12938 Sir Francis Drake Blvd.

Inverness, (415) 669-9696 4 Marin French Cheese: 7500 Red Hill Road, Petaluma (800) 292-6001 5 Nick’s Cove: 23240 Highway 1, Marshall (415) 663-1033 SHOP 6 Each town in West Marin is a small gem that has taken special care to maintain its unique local character and heritage. Visit Susan Hayes Handwovens boutique in Point Reyes Station next to Cowgirl Creamery for unique and local American made clothing.

26

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN COMMUNITIES 4 10

9

5

3

EXPLORE 7 Bear Valley Visitor Center: For information on programs, exhibits, camping, tide conditions, weather, and services.

8 Five Brooks Ranch for horseback outings on the beach just three miles south of Olema on Highway 1.

(415) 663-1570 9 Blue Waters Kayaking and Point Reyes Outdoors: Explore Tomales Bay on water from either Marshall or Point Reyes Station.

10 Tomales Point: Hike out to the Tule Elk Reserve at the end of Pierce Point Road.

For more information: West Marin Chamber of Commerce pointreyes.org (415) 663-9232 Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

27

MARIN COMMUNITIES FAIRFAX

F

airfax offers the best balance of work and play, while retaining its small town atmosphere, charm, and identity.

EAT/DRINK Fairfax’s multiple venues have offered nightly live music for more than 30 years!

It is truly a unique setting for local and touring musicians to jam. TASTE Kitchen & Table is Fairfax’s eat-in or take-away, full-service bakery and cafe.

SHOP Locally-owned independent book stores, clothing and gift shops of the Fairfax Variety offers something for everybody.

The seasonal (June-September) Farmers’ Market is held each Wednesday evening in the Fairfax Park and is a gathering place for the entire community.

EXPLORE The countless miles of protected open space surrounding the town not only provide a beautiful backdrop for the town, but also the ultimate outdoorsman’s playground. There are simply more trails and open space than time in the day. If a bike adventure is your game, head to Camp Tamarancho, one of the few legal singletrack riding options available in Marin. Next, visit the Marin Museum of Bicycling at 1966 Sir Francis Drake Blvd.

In June, be sure not to miss the Summer Annual Fairfax Festival!

For more information visit: fairfaxchamber.org (415) 785-7462 28

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN COMMUNITIES SAN ANSELMO

S

an Anselmo’s sunny climate, rich history, creek-side location, and strong sense of community make it a wonderful place to visit and live.

EAT/DRINK Find your perfect spot along downtown streets with no parking meters, and lined with restaurants, coffee houses, and bakeries. Try a tasty margarita at a local favorite: Marinitas - 218 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, marinitas.net; or let your taste buds experience French food: L’Appart - 636 San Anselmo Ave, lappartresto.com SHOP With safe, friendly, walkable centers around a classic, century-old Carnegie library and Town Hall, San Anselmo is the all-American downtown! If antiques and eclectic shops are what you are after, spend a day exploring the many vintage and contemporary boutiques, and spas along San Anselmo Avenue.

EXPLORE San Anselmo’s Creek Park is perfect for picnics, and the site has outdoor movies during the town’s warm, fog-free summer evenings. Within walking distance from downtown, visit the “Castle on the Hill” of the SF Theological Seminary patterned after the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. Stop by Imagination Park at 535 San Amselmo Avenue to feel “The Force” of statues Yoda and Indiana Jones that George Lucas donated to the town.

For more information visit: sananselmochamber.org (415) 454-2510

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

29

ATTRACTIONS What To Do While Visiting Agritourism in Marin County

A

gritourism offers Marin’s ranches and farms a creative way to educate visitors, promote farm products, and diversify operations while caring for the land that supports them. Join the Marin Agricultural Land Trust (MALT) on one of their hikes, or Tours & Tastings and get to know the celebrated farms and ranches of West Marin. Many MALT protected working farms are not open to the general public, so these events offer visitors a way to experience these vibrant rural places to connect with the food and farmers.

Other farmers sell their products at the weekday farmers’ markets, mostly operated by the Agricultural Institute of Marin (AIM).

Did you know that there are 17 artisan and farmstead cheese makers in Sonoma and Marin, and that four are located in Marin?

The oldest continuously operating cheese plant in the US (since 1865) is just outside of Novato at the Marin French Cheese Company. Look for the California Cheese Trail maps (www.cheesetrail.org) available at our visitor center for local cheese-tasting locations. Overall, there are over 100 different types of artisan cheese made in both Marin and Sonoma.

30

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

ATTRACTIONS Farmers’ Markets

T

he Sunday Marin Farmers’ Market at the Civic Center in San Rafael is the third largest farmers’ market in California and has long been considered one of the premier markets in the state. At summer’s peak, nearly 200 local farmers, specialty food purveyors and artisans come together to celebrate a vibrant local food movement. Tourists from all over the world join local shoppers each week, to explore and taste the best of Marin and the Bay Area. On Thursdays, the market is known as the Local Chef’s Market.

Corte Madera: Wednesday, 12:00pm to 5:00pm, Town Center courtyard.

Downtown San Rafael: Thursday, 6:00pm to 9:00pm on Fourth St between B St and Lincoln from April to September. sanrafaelmarket.org Fairfax: Wednesday, 4:00pm to 8:00pm, Bolinas Park.

Mill Valley: Friday, 9:30am to 2:30pm, CVS parking lot, Alto Shopping Center, 759 E. Blithdale Ave. Novato: Tuesday, 4:00pm to 8:00pm, Grant Ave between First and Fourth Sts. visitnovato.com Point Reyes Station: Saturday, 9:00am to 1:00pm, Toby’s Feed Barn, 12250 Highway 1. pointreyesfarmersmarket.org

Larkspur: Saturday, 9:00am to 2:00pm, Marin Country Mart, 2257 Larkspur Landing Circle. Tam Valley: Tuesday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm, Marin Civic Center: Shoreline Shopping Center, Thursday at the Lagoon, 219 Shoreline Highway, 8:00am to 1:00pm, and Mill Valley.

Sunday behind the Civic Center. agriculturalinstitute.org

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

31

ATTRACTIONS About Marin Culture

M

arin County is well known for its arts, live music, entertainment and culture. The County is proud of its home-grown Marin Symphony that plays to sell-out audiences each season. The Marin Center in San Rafael is the main venue for national and international music, theater and dance productions and numerous exhibitions throughout the year.

The Arts

Art Works Downtown features three galleries, 35+ studios with artists at work, a jewelers guild, ceramic center, clothing boutique and more. Open to the public through multiple storefronts, hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00am to 5:00pm and until 8:00pm on the second Friday of every month for 2nd Fridays Art Walk.

1337 Fourth St (between C & D Sts) in San Rafael.

(415) 451-8119 artworksdowntown.org The Blissful Gallery currently carries Emmeline Craig’s work exclusively. Each painting is crafted as a mental spa. A visual meditation. Located at 3415 Shoreline Highway in Stinson Beach.

(415) 868-2787 emmelinecraig.com Desta Art & Tea Gallery In the heart of downtown San Anselmo, Desta Gallery is a unique conceptual gallery showcasing contemporary fine art and specialty organic teas. Located at 417 San Anselmo Avenue.

(415) 524-8932 destagallery.com

32

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

ATTRACTIONS The Arts

Italian Street Painting Marin Experience the performance art of street painting at its best. This event showcases approximately 100 master street painters who turn the streets into an amazing gallery for a full weekend in June. At 5th and A Streets in downtown San Rafael. (415) 884-2423 italianstreetpaintingmarin.org The California Film Institute is a beautifully restored, state-of-the-art, three-screen theater exhibiting independent documentaries, classics, retrospectives, features, and international works. Additionally, the theater hosts special events with filmmakers from around the world year-round including the internationally acclaimed and star-studded Mill Valley Film Festival in October.

1118 Fourth Street in San Rafael.

(415) 383.5256 cafilm.org mvff.com Marin Symphony The Marin Symphony Association is one of the longest running, most prestigious, cultural organizations in Marin County and the Bay Area. The orchestra was founded by a small group of professional and amateur musicians who wished to bring classical music, performed by local artists, to the people of Marin. Marin Center Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium, 10 Avenue of the Flags in San Rafael.

(415) 479-8100 marinsymphony.org The Mountain Play is a great outdoor theater event that takes place annually each summer at The Mountain Theater atop Mt. Tamalpais State Park.

801 Panoramic Highway, Mill Valley (415) 383-1100 mountainplay.org Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

33

ATTRACTIONS Museums

M

arin’s historical attractions offer all visitors a plethora of activities to choose from at any time of the year: visit State Parks that are scattered throughout the county such as China Camp and Olompali, check out local museums, walk the Earthquake Trail adjacent to the Bear Valley Visitors Center in West Marin, or discover historic downtown Larkspur with its turn-of-the century buildings.

Mission San Rafael Arcangel is a 1949 replica of the original Spanish mission, which was constructed in 1817 and was second-to-last in the California mission chain.

The Mission Chapel is open for visitors Monday through Friday, 6:30am to 5:00pm, Saturday from 8:30am to 5:00pm, and Sunday from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Self-guided tours are available.

Admission is free.

1104 Fifth Ave, San Rafael (415) 456-3016 saintraphael.com The Bolinas Museum reflects regional interests and the remarkably rich talent pool of artists from Coastal Marin.

48 Wharf Road (415) 868-0330 bolinasmuseum.org Novato’s Museum Association Make a day of art and culture in Novato with six museums.

Hamilton Field History Museum & Art Center Marin Museum of Contemporary Art Novato History Museum The Space Station Museum

34

Coast Miwok Village at Olompali Museum of the American Indian Hours of Operation: Check times for each museum since hours vary novatomuseums.org (800) 897-1164

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

ATTRACTIONS Marin’s Wilder Side

M

arin County is a paradise for outdoor recreation. The weather allows visitors and residents to enjoy hiking, running, golfing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and all manner of water sports including sail-boarding, surfing, fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoing all year round.

Its also a wonderful place to discover the natural, wilder side. Seasonal phenomena like the migration of whales, butterflies, lady bugs, bird watching, and garden tours are unique features of Marin. Time your stay in Marin County to coincide with some of these natural phenomena that occur each year!

Watch a Butterfly Migration. Every fall Monarch butterflies west of the Rocky Mountains move to coastal California.

Marin County has its share of Monarch butterfly overwintering sites: Elizabeth Terwilliger Grove off Highway 1 at Muir Beach close to the Pelican Inn, Monarchs flock to eucalyptus trees around the bank of Highway 1 at the north end of Stinson Beach, and in the town of Bolinas they can be found in the trees at Park Drive and Terrace Ave. openspace.org

During winter months, Elephant seals congregate at Chimney Rock in Point Reyes National Seashore. Meet up with a docent-led tour and learn the mating habits of these interesting mammals. From the same place, watch migrating California Grey Whales on their way towards the warmer waters in Mexico in winter and then back in the spring towards the cooler waters off the Pacific North East.

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

35

A PET’S LIFE Marin’s Dog Parks Are Really Something to Bark About...

M

arin County is a great place to be a dog.

Fresh air, sunshine, beaches, trails, and lots of aromatic wafts to whiff. There’s also an abundance of pooch-friendly parks where your dog can run free and act, well, like a dog!

Mill Valley’s Dog Park is located in Bayfront Park near the Sausalito-Mill Valley bike path and several soccer fields.

Adjacent to the shallow, birdrich estuaries of Richardson Bay, it offers million dollar views of Mount Tamalpais.

Novato’s Dogbone Meadow Park is a great local dog park that’s big enough to throw balls and frisbees. The park has a grassy, usually poop-free area in the middle and a long dirt track around the perimeter.

The park is located on Novato Boulevard, west of the Equestrian Center at O’Hair Park.

San Rafael’s Field of Dogs is located just across the street from the Civic Center. The park consists of a large fenced-in area with a smaller enclosure inside the main park for smaller dogs to play in if they are not comfortable with larger dogs.

Water bowls are provided for the dogs as well as hoses to fill the bowls and to clean off your 36

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

A PET’S LIFE dog on those muddy days. Picnic tables and benches are also available for relaxing while your dog is running around.

San Anselmo’s Red Hill Dog Park is a scenic one-acre facility located at the Red Hill Community Park, just behind Safeway. Just a few years old, the park is a completely fenced-in field for off-leash fun for the dogs.

Entry and exit areas with double gates provide peace of mind for owners. Benches, picnic tables, two water fountains (one for canines, one for humans), seasonal umbrellas and growing shade trees, trash cans and dog waste dispensers are available.

Dogs in County Parks Leashed dogs are permitted at all Marin County parks except McNear’s Beach and Stafford Lake. Dogs are also permitted off-leash but under direct, immediate control at portions of McInnis Park and Upton Beach at the north end of Stinson Beach.

Dogs on County Open Space Lands Marin County’s regulations permit only three dogs per individual on open space lands. Dogs are permitted on open space lands when restrained by a 6’ (maximum) leash. Dogs may be off-leash on maintained fire roads only when under direct and immediate control of a responsible person. For trail maps visit marinopenspace.org Dogs in Federal Park Lands There are many trails and some beaches within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) that allow off-leash dogs. Due to changes in park regulations, please check the current rule for off-leash policy on park website: www.nps.gov/goga/getinvolved/plan-dog-mgt.htm

For pet-friendly lodging, go to Accommodations on page 60.

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

37

Point Reyes * 1.5 mile hike

Drakes Beach

•

•

•

•

•

• • • •

Kehoe Beach * .6 mile walk

•

Limantour Beach

* estuary & wildlife

• •

McClures Beach * downhill hike

Palomarin Beach * strenuous hike

Great Beach

•

Wildcat Beach

•

* 11 miles undeveloped beach walking * 5.5 mile hike

•

Kirby Cove

* short downhill hike

Stinson Beach

• • •

Tenneesee Valley Beach

•

Muir Beach

a local favorite

Rodeo Beach

* short downhill hike

* 1.5 mile hike

• •

•

• • • •

• • • • •

•

•

• • •

• •

• •

State Parks Angel Island SP

38

Dog Friendly

• •

•

Sculptured Beach

Bolinas Beach

• •

•

Santa Maria Beach

GGNRA

Showers

•

Abbotts Lagoon * drive-up access * cafe & visitor center

Restrooms

Picnic Tables

Tidepools

Surfing

Kayaking

Firepits and Campfires

Swimming

Beach Location

MARIN BEACHES

•

•

•

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

•

•

• •

• • •

Heart’s Desire Beach

•

•

•

•

Indian Beach

• • •

Dog Friendly

Restrooms

•

Showers

Picnic Tables

•

Tidepools

•

Surfing

•

Kayaking

Swimming

China Camp SP

Firepits and Campfires

Beach Location

MARIN BEACHES

•

Tomales Bay SP * 1/2 mile loop hike * interpretive trail

Pebble Beach Shell Beach

• sheltered cove

Dillon Beach

* $8 parking fee * restaurant

Marin County Open Space Agate Beach Park - Bolinas, CA

•

• • •

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Bolinas Lagoon * birdwatching

•

Black Point Boat Launch - Novato

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Miller Boat Launch - Marshall, CA

•

•

•

Paradise Beach Park - Tiburon

•

•

•

•

•

* fishing

Chicken Ranch Beach - Tomales

* sheltered & calm

McNears Beach Park - San Rafael * sheltered cove * pool, fishing * snack bar

* fishing

Upton Beach Park * at north end of Stinson Beach

•

Official Visitors Guide

|

•

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

• • • 39

`

MARIN DINING Bon Appetit

F

rom sleek and sophisticated to folksy and farm-fresh, Marin’s eclectic dining destinations have a reputation for variety and innovation, and cuisine prepared with locally sourced, sustainably produced ingredients. Find out for yourself why dining in Marin is such a treat!

Fresh From the Farm Marin County is known throughout California and the nation for its outstanding organic agriculture, family farms, and unique produce.

Farm To Table Farm House pointreyesseashore.com (415) 663-1264 Farmshop Marin farmshopca.com (415) 755-6700

Terrapin Crossroads terrapincrossroads.net (415) 524-2773 Vin Antico vinantico.com (415) 721-0600

Fisher’s Cheese + Wine fisherscheese.com (415) 779-2201 Nick’s Cove nickscove.com (415) 663-1033 Sweetwater Music Hall sweetwatermusichall.com (415) 388-1700 TASTE Kitchen & Table tastekitchenandtable.com (415) 455-9040 40

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN DINING

E

ver since Alice Waters and Chez Panisse helped introduce the revolutionary concept of California cuisine, Marin restaurants have continued the refinement and evolution of this culinary philosophy, pairing fusion dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with creative presentation.

Here’s where to find the best of California cuisine in Marin.

International Fare Frantoio Ristorante frantoio.com (415) 289-5777

California Cuisine

Il Davide ildavide.net (415) 454-8080

L’Appart Resto Grille 101 at Embassy Suites lappartresto.com (415) 256-9884 grille101.com (415) 479-1623 Marinitas marinitas.net Hillside Tavern (415) 454-8900 fourpoints.com/sanrafael (415) 479-8800 Piatti Mill Valley piatti.com Mountain Home Inn (415) 380-2525 mtnhomeinn.com (415) 381-9000 Piazza D’Angelo Ristorante piazzadangelo.com Panama Hotel (415) 388-2000 panamahotel.com (415) 457-3993 The Marshall Store Oyster Bar and Smokehouse themarshallstore.com (415) 663-1339 The Melting Pot - Fondue meltingpot.com (415) 461-6358 The Range Cafe at Peacock Gap rangecafe.net (415) 454-6450 Wildfox Restaurant wildfoxrestaurant.com (415) 883-9125 Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

41

MARIN DINING And Nightlife...

M

arin and music are synonymous and continue to thrive in venues that range from sleek and sophisticated to rustic and rowdy, offering a wide variety of musical styles from rock to reggae, jazz to folk.

L

ive music can be found in Marin on an almost daily basis, and, better yet, many music venues feature excellent food.

A

t L’Appart Resto in downtown San Anselmo, take in local musicians every

Thursday evening from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.

N

ovato’s Hopmonk is a tavern, beer garden and live music venue hosting a vibrant music scene, from reggae to rock.

A

nd the Sweetwater in Mill Valley is not only a state-ofthe-art nightclub and presenting nationally recognized, top-quality entertainment, its restaurant is the culinary domain of renowned chef-restaurateur Gordon Drysdale (Pizza Antica, Café de Amis), who creates delicious fare crafted from fresh, locally sourced and organic ingredients.

42

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN NIGHTLIFE Live Music/Food: Hopmonk Tavern hopmonk.com/novato (415) 892-6200

Sweetwater Music Hall sweetwatermusichall.com (415) 388-1700

L’Appart Resto panamahotel.com (415) 457-3993

Terrapin Crossroads terrapincrossroads.net (415) 524-2773

Panama Hotel panamahotel.com (415) 457-3993

Trek Winery (415) 899-9883 trekwine.com

Rickey’s rickeysrestaurant.com (415) 883-9477

Bars/Food: Dugout at Log Cabin americanlegionlogcabin.com (415) 456-0834 Farm House pointreyesseashore.com (415) 663-1264 Frantoio Ristorante frantoio.com (415) 289-5777

Piazza D’Angelo piazzadangelo.com (415) 388-2000 Vin Antico Wine Bar vinantico.com (415) 721-0600 Wildfox Restaurant wildfoxrestaurant.com (415) 883-9125

Grille 101 grille101.com (415) 479-1623 Il Davide ildavide.net (415) 454-8080 Marinitas marinitas.net (415) 454-8900 Nick’s Cove nickscove.com (415) 663-1033 Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

43

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS The Village at Corte Madera

F

ar From the madding crowds and bookended by Nordstrom and Macy’s, The Village at Corte Madera is an outdoor shopping sanctuary. The very best retail - alongside abundant flowerpots, whimsical fountains and even a firepit - satisfies sophisticated shoppers close to home in beautiful Marin County. Store after store of top-tier names pack a stylish punch. Take a morning to stroll, shop and refresh your outlook. Or while away an afternoon in peace and find something to make you feel gorgeous later.

618 Redwood Highway Corte Madera, CA 94925 (415) 924-8557 (415) 924-8921 Concierge villageatcortemadera.com The Village at Corte Madera offers an extraordinary shopping experience. The area’s upscale shoppers will find luxury, high-end shopping, including Macy’s, Nordstrom, The Apple Store, Coach, Abercrombie & Fitch, Anthropologie, Lululemon Athletic, Kate Spade, Tumi, Tesla Motors, and Michael Stars.

44

With more than 65 shops, eateries, and department stores, The Village at Corte Madera invites you to enjoy a complete shopping, dining, and entertainment experience during your visit.

Hours of operation: Monday through Friday from 10:00am to 9:00pm, Saturday 10:00am to 7:30pm, and Sunday 11:00am to 6:00pm.

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS Town Center Corte Madera

T

he Town Center is a charming lifestyle center that combines conventional retail and retail service uses to serve its community.

The center is characterized by meandering pedestrian passageways connecting the buildings and is highlighted by dramatic towers and outdoor plazas.

P

lan to do your organic produce shopping on Wednesdays from 12:00pm to 5:00pm during the year-round farmers’ market. Purchase farm fresh produce and delicious baked goods. The center offers both outdoor summer concerts and winter holiday events for the whole family.

100 Corte Madera Town Center Corte Madera, CA 94925 (415) 924-2961 shoptowncenter.com The 440,000 square-foot complex features popular retailers and restaurants such as Barnes and Noble Booksellers, Crate & Barrel, Athleta, the Container Store, REI, Sephora, Blue Barn, Marin Pizza, Pacific Catch, and Il Fornaio.

Official Visitors Guide

|

Stop by every Sunday from June to August, 2:00pm to 4:00pm for the outdoor Summer Music Series with music ranging from cool jazz to fiery rhumba flamenco.

Hours of operation: Most stores are Monday through Friday from 10:00am to 8:00pm, Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm, and Sunday 11:00am to 6:00pm.

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

45

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS Northgate in San Rafael

N

orthgate features exciting interior and exterior designs: a multitude of new retail stores geared towards the interests of Marin County residents.

Northgate is the only enclosed regional mall and the largest family oriented shopping destination in Marin County. The center utilizes new features that blur the boundaries between the indoors and the outdoors, including a courtyard gathering place called the Oak Plaza, open-air dining areas and an indoor-outdoor food court near the Century Theatre.

5800 Northgate Mall San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 479-5955 shopatnorthgate.com Northgate today features an anchor lineup led by Macy’s, Kohl’s, Sears, a 15-screen Century Theatre multiplex, specialty stores, services and restaurants, as well as a popular food court. This broadbased mix makes Northgate the largest, enclosed family oriented shopping destination in Marin County.

46

From July through August local bands perform concert series Under the Oaks from 6:00pm to 8:00pm every second Friday of each month through August 25th.

Hours of operation: Monday through Saturday from10:00am to 9:00pm, and Sunday from 11:00am to 6:00pm. Restaurant and Department Store hours may vary. Special holiday hours apply.

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS Vintage Oaks at Novato

V

intage Oaks at Novato is home to more than 50 of the most popular retailers, restaurants, and service providers in Marin.

Service providers include Sprint, Verizon Wireless, AT&T Cellular, H & R Block, Patelco Credit Union and Bank of America. Conveniently located just off of Highway 101 at Rowland Boulevard and with over 600,000 square feet, Vintage Oaks has something for everyone.

208 Vintage Way Novato, CA 94945 (415) 897-9999 shopvintageoaks.com Anchor stores include Target, Costco, and Sports Basement. Other stores are Nordstrom Rack, Sephora, Bath and Body Works, DSW Shoes, Pier 1 Imports, Gymboree, Petco, Ross Dress for Less, Marshalls, Old Navy, and GameStop.

Official Visitors Guide

|

Dining venues include Chevy’s Fresh Mex, IHOP, Hopmonk Tavern, In-NOut Burger, Jennie Low’s Chinese Cuisine, Panera Bread, and SushiHolic.

Hours of operation: Monday through Saturday from 10:00am to 9:00pm, and Sunday from 11:00am to 6:00pm.

Hours of anchor stores may vary, so please contact them directly.

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

47

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS Bon Air Center in Greenbrae

B

on Air is Greenbrae’s gathering place for shopping, dining, playing and relaxing.

Choose from over 50 specialty merchants, family-friendly restaurants and essential services conveniently located in the heart of Marin. For 65-years and counting, Bon Air’s welcoming outdoor spaces and spectacular Mt. Tam views have provided a sense of place for special events and the community. Local roots. Local spirit.

Throughout the year the center hosts community events that showcase local interests and activities.

New family-friendly activity areas include a bocce ball court and dedicated children’s play areas to engage all ages to stay, relax and play. For serious shoppers, there are outdoor gathering areas with comfortable outdoor seating, fire pits and more. From a massage and a blow dry, to new shoes and dinner, Bon Air Center has it all.

Food Truck Lunch: Try the collection of specialty food trucks each week on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 11:30am. Visit bonair.com for other upcoming events.

50 Bon Air Center Greenbrae, CA 94904 (415) 461-0200 bonair.com

48

Hours of operation: Times vary between types of stores. Check the website for individual store hours of restaurants, retail, specialty and service shops.

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS Marin Country Mart

M

arin Country Mart is an open-air shopping and dining destination that features a noteworthy collection of appealing boutiques, farmto-table eateries

and convenient services enhanced by myriad special events for adults and children, including Friday Night Jazz and the Folkish Festival series. Merchants are known for luxurious, locally sourced offerings that are unique and delight customers.

Most are unavailable elsewhere in Marin or San Francisco, and for many merchants, Marin Country Mart is their only location in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Marin Country Mart also hosts a Saturday Farmers’ Market from 9:00am to 2:00pm, rain or shine, with over 25 local farmers and vendors providing the freshest seasonal offerings from local farmers and purveyors, with an emphasis on organic and sustainable foods. Kids love to come along on these shopping excursions, thanks to complimentary activities like pony rides, a petting zoo, children’s crafts, face painting, kids’ music, and live music. On Sundays from 11:00am to 3:00pm, “Off the Grid” food trucks cruise up to Larkspur, for the largest such gathering in Marin.

2257 Larkspur Landing Circle Larkspur, CA 94939 (415) 461-5700 marincountrymart.com

Official Visitors Guide

|

Hours of operation: Many shops are open from 10:00am to 7:00pm Monday thru Saturday and 10:00am to 6:00pm on Sunday; however, please see website for details.

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

49

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS Boutique Shopping in Marin County

I

n addition to the regional and nationally-known retailers located in the shopping centers throughout the county, Marin hosts many local community shops. There are retail plazas strategically placed throughout Mill Valley and Larkspur, and all the way up through San Anselmo and Fairfax - and let’s not forget the organic finds and eclectic shops scattered through the hills of West Marin and Point Reyes.

LARKSPUR The town has several signature boutiques. There are 50+ retail stores in the downtown area.

Cafes and eateries are the most prominent category; home furnishings and women’s wear boutiques are also well represented, with the rest being a mix of local services.

Starting at the south end of the town, the Lark Creek Shops is a small strip of stores located on historic Magnolia Avenue.

Before heading north along Magnolia for other shops, explore the redwoods and recreation park on Madrone Avenue.

MILL VALLEY Downtown Mill Valley has many choices for the casual window shopper and as well as for an expert shopper with a purpose. Surrounded by ancient groves of giant redwoods and rolling hills, Mill Valley’s center is on Throckmorton and Miller Avenues. The shops here cover a full range of upscale establishments and casual, small boutique and artisan stores. Among the best in the San Francisco Bay

50

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS Area are Mill Valley’s regional craft and fine art galleries, shops with handmade gifts, gourmet food and wine, and local home furnishings. The town also boasts two Whole Foods Markets!

NOVATO Downtown Grant Avenue boasts over 400 businesses, from boutiques to accountants, banks to contractors, automotive to building supplies, traditional services like shoe repair and a local Barbershop, upscale boutiques, charming restaurants, ethnic food, bakeries, cafes, a Whole Foods Market and much more. You can find it all downtown.

SAN RAFAEL There is always something happening in San Rafael.

The downtown area is the center of city life and showcases its diverse and eclectic character.

Fourth Street is packed with shops, businesses, art galleries, historical sites and restaurants. It’s a favorite gathering place for residents and visitors who come to shop or dine.

A Whole Foods Market, beauty boutiques and pet supply stores can also be found in the downtown area.

SAN ANSELMO The downtown area of San Anselmo is complete with galleries, creek-side cafes, restaurants and antique shops. The town’s extensive history has contributed greatly to the 130 antique dealers that have set up shop downtown, along Sir Francis Drake Blvd. You’ll find everything from 1930’s furniture to vintage wedding gowns, old maps and more.

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

51

MARIN ADVENTURES

Y

ou can lounge on a beach. Or you can launch yourself from a mountain and soar 2,000 feet to the ocean’s break. Or you can visit the ranches and farms that supply some of the finest restaurants in the world. There’s no such thing as a typical Marin County vacation. Because there’s nothing “typical” in Marin. Plan your next trip and it will be like no other!

Farm Tours Many farms and ranches can be visited on farm tours organized by these Marin-based organizations who support and sustain our agricultural productivity.

Tours by reservation are offered at these locations as well as retail cheese sales marked with an (R).

Marin Agricultural Land Trust malt.org (R)

AppleGarden Farm Tours applegardenfarm.com

The Fork at Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company theforkatpointreyes.com

Cowgirl Creamery (R) cowgirlcreamery.com

Straus Home Ranch (R) straushomeranch.com

McEvoy Ranch (R) mcevoyranch.com

West Marin Food & Farm Tours (R) foodandfarmtours.com

Heidrun Meadery (R) heidrunmeadery.com

Walking Foodie Tours Discover a different side of Marin by taking an edible excursion. Sometimes the best way to explore a town is through your good taste!

cheese, oysters, grass-fed meats, breads, produce and more. Take a food and farm tour and travel like an insider to discover what makes West Marin so unique – the food, the West Marin Food and Farm farms, the people, the scenery, Tours: Explore beautiful Point and the fascinating natural Reyes with a culinary and cultural history. adventure! Enjoy exclusive (415) 599 9222 tastings of the best wine, foodandfarmtours.com 52

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN ADVENTURES Family Tours

M

arin County has miles of open space trails, including campsites at Mount Tamalpais State Park and Samuel P. Taylor State Park.

Take a guided Hike on Mt. Tam and surrounding Bay Area regions. Learn about local Native American history and geology while hiking quiet trails through redwood forests. Customize any number of hikes to fit your interest and ability with our partners.

Coastal Walkers: coastalwalkers.com (415) 250-9941

The Bay Area Discovery Museum is recognized as Marin’s leading children’s museum dedicated to developing childhood creativity.

Hours of operation: 9:00am to 4:00pm on

Tuesday, 9:00am to 5:00pm on Saturday and Sunday, closed on select Mondays.

Bay Model Visitor Center is a three-dimensional representation of San Francisco Bay and the Delta capable of simulating tides, currents, and river inflows.

Hours of operation: 9:00am to 4:00pm, Tuesday through Saturday. Call for seasonal hours of operation.

Fort Baker 557 McReynolds Rd Sausalito (415) 339-3900 baykidsmuseum.org

US Army Corps of Engineers Marinship Way, Sausalito.

(415) 332-3870

Golf Peacock Gap Golf Club: (415) 453-4940 333 Biscayne Drive, San Rafael peacockgapgolfclub.com Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

53

MARIN ADVENTURES Explore Nature by Water

M

arin bays and beaches provide hundreds of possibilities to kayak, paddleboard, surf, kiteboard and much more.

Kayakers enjoy easy access to San Pablo Bay and can be found enjoying the coastal waters surrounding China Camp State Park with its views of Mt. Tamalpais. Take your pick

from any of the adventure outfitters listed below for a Marin experience.

Tomales Point Exploration This full day tour will take you to the waters where Tomales Bay opens up to the Pacific Ocean, an area with an abundance of wildlife, and an extremely low level of human infringement. Marine mammals such as seals and sea lions are commonly seen.

Blue Waters Kayaking 12944 Sir Francis Drake Blvd Point Reyes Station, CA 94933 (415) 669-2600 bluewaterskayaking.com

Point Reyes Outdoors offers Sea Kayaking Tours, kayak classes, and overnight trips in the Point Reyes National Seashore.

Point Reyes Outdoors 11401 State Route 1 Point Reyes Station, CA 94956 (415) 663-8192 pointreyesoutdoors.com

54

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN ADVENTURES Explore Nature by Water 101 Surf Sports is a full service water sports shop specializing in Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP), windsurfing, kiteboarding, surfing, and kayaking on Marin County waters as well as the San Francisco Bay. They also offer a full

Enjoy a Tomales Bay sailing adventure tour, while sightseeing and bird watching at the same time!

See local wildlife from this guided tour aboard a safe and stable catamaran.

Schooner Freda B 1001 Bridgeway Sausalito, CA 94965 (415) 331-0444 schoonerfredab.com Official Visitors Guide

|

range of lessons, gear rentals, board repair, kayak storage, guided tours, and retail shop.

101 Surf Sports 115 Third St San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 524-8492 101surfsports.com

Tomales Bay Sailing Captain Brett Miller Point Reyes Station, CA (415) 787-4886 tomalesbaysailing.com

Golden Gate Yacht Charters Departing from Sausalito and Tiburon year round 415-300-6095 www.goldengateyachtcharters.com

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

55

MARIN ADVENTURES Explore Nature by Land Evergreen Escapes blends the best natural wonders, boutique wineries, and urban enchantments into small-group day tours and custom, private escapes from your Marin County hotel. Customize your visit to Muir Woods or Point Reyes Natioal Seashore.

All naturalist guides and immersive experiences have been recognized by National Geographic Traveler, Tripadvisor, and more.

Explore Point Reyes on horseback. Five Brooks Stable is a full-service riding stable for the whole family. There are activities for all ages and kinds of buckaroos and buckarettes who wish to enjoy the magnificent Point Reyes National Seashore in the

company of their equine pals. The ranch offers private and guided trail rides for all ages.

Point Reyes Safari Tours Wild is Waiting as you join wildlife photographer Daniel Dietrich on an unforgettable experience seeing and photographing the amazing wildlife and scenic lands of Point Reyes National Seashore.

The Park holds incredible wildlife viewing opportunities

with bobcats, tule elk, coyotes, badgers, raptors, owls, and shorebirds, as well as many varied marine animals. Lunch is included with Daniel’s packages.

56

Evergreen Escapes Local: (415) 872-5007 Toll Free (866) 203-7603 evergreenescapes.com

Five Brooks Ranch 8001 State Route Highway 1 Olema, CA 94950 (415) 663-1570 fivebrooks.com

Point Reyes Safari Tours (303) 929-8443 pointreyessafaris.com

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN ADVENTURES Explore Marin’s Civic Center “In Marin County you have one of the most beautiful landscapes I have seen, and I am proud to make the buildings of this county characteristic of the beauty of the county.

Here is a crucial opportunity to open the eyes not of Marin County alone, but of the entire country, to what officials gathering together might themselves do to broaden and beautify human lives.”

Frank Lloyd Wright

Docent-Led Tours 10 Avenue of the Flags San Rafael, CA 94903 (415) 473-3762

Every Wednesday at 10:00am Second Floor Cafe, Room 233 marincenter.org

T

upgrade our facilities. You are invited to visit our art galleries within the Marin Center that showcase rotating exhibits throughout the year:

he Marin Cultural Association advocates for and serves as a catalyst to increase participation, advance collaboration and optimize resources for culture in Marin County. Proceeds to the Marin Cultural Association help us with our mission to support arts and culture in Marin County and are used to underwrite programming, education and tickets for underserved youth and to Official Visitors Guide

|

Bartolini Gallery Civic Center Gallery Friends of Marin Center Gallery Redwood Foyer Gallery (415) 473-6400 www.marincenter.org

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

57

MARIN ADVENTURES Just the Two of Us - Romantic Places A Morning Hike to Muir Woods. If you start early enough, you may catch the valley shrouded in fog, view rarely seen owls overhead, hear the sounds of a distant coyote, or walk alongside the local deer.

How romantic is that?

Steal a Kiss atop the Marin Headlands with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline - the perfect place to propose.

Full Moon, Sunset, or Bioluminescence Paddle Tour Evening is a great time to paddle on the bay where you can experience the tranquility and magic of a sunset and moon-rise over the water. Snug in your kayak, you’ll watch the day change to dusk, watch the

58

Sunset Cruise for Two Just the two of you and your private captain on the Bay. Pack some local Marin-made cheeses with wine then head to a secluded cove to watch the sun set behind Mount Tamalpais.

Suggestions: Nick’s Cove Tomales Bay Sailing Surround Yourselves in Wildflowers Spring in Marin is one of many romantic times to be here. Pack a picnic lunch and head to our seasonally green hills bursting with the wild colors of nature. sun set and the moon rise across the calm waters.

Suggestions: Blue Waters Kayaking, Point Reyes Outdoors, and 101 Surf Sports for events on the water.

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

MARIN ADVENTURES Girls Day and Night Out

A Day at Heidrun Meadery produces naturally sparkling varietal meads using the traditional French MĂŠthode Champenoise.

Their Champagne-style of mead is light, dry, delicate and refreshing, with subtle exotic aromas and flavors found only in the essence of honey. Call ahead to reserve a tour & tasting every day except Tuesday.

Dinner and a Show Spend time with your BFF at a local supper club. Sip on champagne, and listen to live music, all while dining on scrumptious food.

Suggestions: The Panama Hotel, Sweetwater Music Hall, and Terrapin Crossroads Official Visitors Guide

|

11:00am to 4:00pm, or simply to enjoy a glass of mead on the patio.

11925 Highway 1 Point Reyes Station, CA 94956 (415) 663-9122 heidrunmeadery.com Take in an Indie Movie Christopher B. Smith Theater 11925 Fourth St San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 454-1222 rafaelfilm.org A Night at the Symphony The Marin Symphony is one of the longest-running, most prestigious, cultural organizations in Marin. The orchestra presents five pairs of classical concerts in the Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium as well as specialty concerts. marinsymphony.org

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

59

ACCOMMODATIONS

Best Western Corte Madera Inn Full Service Lodging 56 Madera Blvd Corte Madera, CA 94925 800-777-9670/415-924-1502 cortemaderainn.com A lush, five acre resort-like setting in the heart of Marin County, just minutes from the excitement of San Francisco and the beauty and natural wonders of Marin, Sonoma and Napa counties.

Best Western PLUS- Novato Oaks Inn

Full Service Lodging 215 Alameda del Prado Novato, CA 94949 800-625-7466/415-883-4400 novatooaksinn.com Recognized by Best Western International as one of the top quality hotels in the chain, the Best Western Novato Oaks Inn is ideal for the leisure or corporate traveler.

Embassy Suites Hotel Full Service Lodging 101 McInnis Pkwy San Rafael, CA 94903 800-362-2779/415-499-9222 sanrafael.embassysuites.com

Four Points by Sheraton Full Service Lodging 1010 Northgate Dr San Rafael, CA 94903 800-235-3535|415-479-8800 fourpoints.com/sanrafael

An all-suite hotel located 15 minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge and 15 minutes south of Sonoma and Napa wine country. Complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast and Nightly Manager’s Reception.

Just minutes away from San Francisco, the Four Points by Sheraton San Rafael is the ideal destination for business and leisure travelers alike.

Centrally located in Marin County. Complimentary high-speed Internet access.

60

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

ACCOMMODATIONS

Inn Marin Novato Full Service Lodging 250 Entrada Dr Novato, CA 94949 800-652-6565/415-883-5952 innmarin.com

Courtyard Marriott- Larkspur Select Service 2500 Larkspur Landing Circle Larkspur, CA 94939 800-321-2211/415-925-1800 courtyard.com/sfoll

Inn Marin offers a charming lodging experience for business or leisure travelers. Nestled on five acres it is minutes to major sightseeing attractions, shopping, restaurants and recreational activities.

Welcome to “Marin County’s Best Kept Secret!” In a quiet and central location, and only ten miles north of the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge, with a short drive to the Wine Country.

Courtyard Marriott- Novato Select Service 1400 North Hamilton Pkwy Novato, CA 94949 800-321-2211/415-883-8950 marriott.com/sfonv

Days Inn Novato Select Service 8141 Redwood Blvd Novato, CA 94949 800-DAYS INN/415-897-7111 daysinn.com

Close to the excitement of San Francisco and the beauty of Wine Country, the Courtyard

by Marriott Novato is in the perfect location and only18 minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge.

A true bargain for Marin County with a heated spa and solar heated pool. Every room has a television with VCR. Deluxe Continental breakfast served daily. Pets are allowed at $10 per night.

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

61

ACCOMMODATIONS

Extended Stay America Select Service 1775 East Francisco Blvd San Rafael, CA 94901 800-804-3724/415-451-1887 extendedstayhotels.com

Holiday Inn Express- Mill Valley Select Service 160 Shoreline Hwy Mill Valley, CA 94941 800-285-3894/415-332-5700 hiexpress.com

The Extended Stay Deluxe Hotel is designed especially for longer stays with studios featuring fully-equipped kitchens and plenty of work space. Newly renovated rooms.

Enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness center, and a hot breakfast buffet at this quaint Inn. Located near the base of Mt. Tamalpais, overlooking majestic mountains, peaceful wetlands and bike paths.

Marin Suites Select Service 45 Tamal Vista Blvd Corte Madera, CA 94924 800-362-3372/415-924-3608 marinsuites.com

Acqua Hotel Boutique Lodging 555 Redwood Hwy Mill Valley, CA 94941 888-662-9555/415-380-0400 marinhotels.com

Located just minutes north of San Francisco, Marin Suites is the premier lodging choice for leisure, corporate, relocation and extended stay needs in the North Bay area.

Inspired by elements of sky and water, the Acqua Hotel in scenic Mill Valley, melds stylish city sophistication with the natural beauty which surrounds it.

62

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

ACCOMMODATIONS

Mill Valley Inn Boutique Lodging 165 Throckmorton Ave Mill Valley, CA 94941 800-595-2100/415-389-6608 marinhotels.com

Mountain Home Inn Bed & Breakfast 810 Panoramic Hwy Mill Valley, CA 94941 415-381-9000 mtnhomeinn.com

A charming, boutique hotel, located in the heart of downtown Mill Valley. Though it is less than a block from restaurants, cafĂŠs, and shops, it feels as if it is in a world of its own.

The intimate warmth of a rustic mountain inn...In a spectacular setting of mountain scenery, towering redwood forests and famous ocean beaches.

Panama Hotel Bed & Breakfast 4 Bayview St San Rafael, CA 94901 800-899-3993/415-547-3993 panamahotel.com

America’s Best Value Inn Mill Valley Budget 155 Shoreline Blvd Mill Valley, CA 94949 415-332-1732 millvalleylodging.com

The Panama Hotel is a charming and historic bed & breakfast inn that includes a popular neighborhood restaurant. The restaurant features fine dining, jazz nights and patio dining.

Official Visitors Guide

|

The Best Value Inn provides comfortable and affordable accommodations for business and vacation travelers. It is conveniently located along Hwy 101 and just three miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

63

ACCOMMODATIONS

America’s Best Value Inn Corte Madera Budget 1595 Casa Buena Dr Corte Madera, CA 94925 415-924-3570 bestvalueinn.com

America’s Best Value Inn Novato Budget 7600 Redwood Blvd Novato, CA 94945 800-578-7878/415-892-7500 americasbestvalueinn.com

Just a few miles north of San Francisco, this Best Value Inn is a small, friendly inn that offers a casual atmosphere, guest-friendly amenities and comfortable rooms.

Located close to Napa and Sonoma, the inn offers suites with in-room Jacuzzis. The outdoor pool and spa area are the perfect place to relax and soak up some California sunshine.

Budget Inn Budget 706 Meadowsweet Dr Corte Madera, CA 94925 415-924-3680 budgetinn.com

Marinwood Inn and Suites Budget 275 Alameda del Prado Novato, CA 94949 415-883-2406 innnovato.com

Offering affordable rates for great accommodations, the motel consists of rooms with both double and queen size beds. Non-smoking and smoking rooms are available upon request. Close to two shopping centers with easy freeway access.

Nestled in a serene Novato neighborhood, and conveniently located close to both the downtown area and Highway 101. Non-smoking guest rooms have been recently renovated and suites have the atmosphere of a bed-and-breakfast.

64

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

ACCOMMODATIONS

Marin Lodge Budget 1735 Lincoln Ave San Rafael, CA 94901 888-785-2111/415-453-9188 marinlodge.com

Motel 6 Budget 737 East Francisco Blvd San Rafael, CA 94901 415-453-3450 motel6.com

Welcome to Marin Lodge where you receive hotel comfort at motel prices; all within a few miles of San Francisco, and just 21 miles south of the Wine Country.

Newly renovated guest rooms.

Motel 6 San Rafael, is located off of Highway 101 in Central San Rafael. Restaurants are within walking distance and shops are nearby. The Golden Gate Bridge is only 12 miles.

Free Wi-Fi is available in all guest rooms.

North Bay Inn Budget 855 East Francisco Blvd San Rafael, CA 94901 415-456-8620 northbayinn.com

Tamalpais Motel Budget 680 Redwood Hwy Mill Valley, CA 94941 415-381-4775 tamalpaismotel.com

Welcome to the North Bay Inn, overflowing with bed and breakfast style charm. Featuring stylish accommodations and first–class service, surround yourself with redwood groves, wine county, and the bright lights of San Francisco.

Conveniently located near major businesses and shopping centers, along with a wide variety of family attractions. Rooms come with free WiFi and cable TV/HBO.

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

65

ACCOMMODATIONS

TraveLodge - Mill Valley Budget 707 Redwood Hwy Mill Valley, CA 94941 415-383-0340 travelodge.com

TraveLodge - San Rafael Budget 865 East Francisco Blvd San Rafael, CA 94901 415-454-9470 travelodge.com

The Travelodge Mill Valley is located in Peaceful Marin County, yet only 15-20 minutes from Downtown San Francisco.

The TraveLodge San Rafael is conveniently located nearby historic downtown San Rafael.

We offer a variety of room types including kitchenettes, in-room Jacuzzis and large family rooms.

Villa Inn Budget 1600 Lincoln Ave San Rafael, CA 94901 800-424-4777/415-456-4975 villainn.com The Villa Inn has been providing no frills accommodations in Marin County for many years.

Included is free WiFi and complimentary Continental Breakfast. The Inn is located 11 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge.

66

C

oastal Marin is the region directly north of Point Reyes including bayside towns of Marshall, Tomales, and Dillion Beach. Marshall has long been known for dairy cows, but nowadays it is mostly known for oysters and clams. Three miles west of Tomales is Dillion Beach, best known for its ideal surfing.

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

ACCOMMODATIONS

COASTAL WEST MARIN

Coastal Marin and Point Reyes Seashore Lodging When visiting the West Marin coastal area, contact our Marin Visitors Center West 9940 Highway 1 Olema, CA 94950 888-925-2061/415-663-1060 staypointreyes.com All our West Marin properties are listed here on the following pages. Plan your adventure!

Official Visitors Guide

|

AppleGarden Cottage 3875 Tomales Petaluma Rd Tomales, CA 94971 707-878-9152 applegardencottage.com AppleGarden Cottage is a very private bed-and-breakfast located on a working farm just outside the historic small town of Tomales. This is the perfect place for a romantic vacation or a quick weekend getaway for two!

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

67

ACCOMMODATIONS

Bear Valley Cottage

Inn at Roundstone Farm

Highway 1 at Bear Valley Rd Olema, CA 94950 415-663-1777 bearvalleycottage.com

9940 Sir Francis Drake Blvd Olema, CA 94950 415-663-1020 roundstonefarm.com

Expect the home away from home feeling with privacy where you can relax after visiting the area. This is a self-catering unit with a small kitchenette. The cottage is stocked with coffee and tea making supplies, and tasty granola and yogurt. Great for people seeking privacy.

Enveloped in ten acres of rolling hills, this five guest-room bed and breakfast inn is a place of serenity where guests discover the pleasurable company of new friends, the sights and sounds of nature’s harmonies, and delightfully fresh breakfasts.

Nick’s Cove and Cottages

Straus Home Ranch

23240 Highway 1 Marshall, CA 94940 415-663-1033 nickscove.com

22888 Highway 1 Marshall, CA 94940 415-335-6630 straushomeranch.com

Nick’s Cove Restaurant, Oyster Bar and Cottages is a nostalgic and welcoming gathering place with luxurious waterfront accommodations on Tomales Bay. Private Cottages offer the ultimate in luxury, with a rustic style design, aesthetic, and elegant amenities.

The ranch is a beautifully renovated and furnished 150 year old farmhouse, overlooking 160 acres of organic pastures and Tomales Bay. Perfect for weekend getaways, retreats, events and small private gatherings with a private beach.

68

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

ACCOMMODATIONS

Ten Inverness Way

The Lodge at Point Reyes

10 Inverness Way Inverness, CA 94937 415-669-1648 teninvernessway.com

10021 Highway 1 Olema, CA 94950 415-663-9000 thelodgeatptreyes.com

Located at the entrance to Point Reyes National Seashore, and one hour north of San Francisco, Ten Inverness Way is just steps away from “downtown� Inverness and Tomales Bay. Hike, birdwatch or kayak right out the front door.

Surrounded by romantic gardens and bordering the Point Reyes National Park, the Lodge is the perfect place for corporate or leisure travelers. All rooms have private bathrooms and many include Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces.

Conference rooms available.

Tomales Bay Resort 12938 Sir Francis Drake Blvd Inverness, CA 94937 415-669-1389 tomalesbayresort.com Located on the shores of Tomales Bay, in the heart of the Point Reyes National Seashore, Tomales Bay Resort features 35 newly remodeled rooms, dining on the bay, conference facilities, boat marina, swimming pool, and kayak rentals.

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

69

ACCOMMODATIONS

27 28

31

33

11 14 15

35 32

17 18

29

15 13 16 14 17 13

30 34

22 23 21 2126 27 25 22 18 19 23 24 25 26

19 20 5

10

70

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

3 14 2 1 2 3

9 6 77 8 6 1011 1112

ACCOMMODATIONS Inventory of Marin Hotels Corte Madera

Rooms

San Rafael

Rooms

1. America’s Best Value Inn 18

19. Motel 6

2. Corte Madera Inn

20. Extended Stay Deluxe 112

110

3. Budget Inn

18

4. Marin Suites Hotel

100

22. Four Points by Sheraton 35 17

146

24. North Bay Inn

19

Rooms

25. Panama Hotel

10

26. Travelodge San Rafael

32

27. Villa Inn

60

Rooms

5. Courtyard by Marriott

6. Acqua Hotel

49

7. America’s Best Value Inn 27 8. Holiday Inn Express

100

9. Mill Valley Inn

25

10. Mountain Home Inn

10

11. Tamalpais Motel

22

12. Travelodge

58

Novato

235

23. Marin Lodge

Larkspur

Mill Valley

21. Embassy Suites

66

Rooms

13. Novato Oaks Inn

107

14. Courtyard by Marriott

136

15. Days Inn

56

16. Inn Marin Hotel

67

Coastal West Marin Rooms 28. Apple Garden Cottage

1

29. Bear Valley Cottage

1

30. Inn at Roundstone Farm 5 31. Nick’s Cove

12

32. Ten Inverness Way

5

33. Straus Home Ranch

1

17. Marinwood Inn & Suites 47

34. The Lodge at Point Reyes

24

18. America’s Best Value Inn 55

35. Tomales Bay Resort

35

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

71

Corte Madera

Outside Event

U-Shape

Reception

Conference

Classroom

Theater

Banquet

Event Space

Guestrooms

Hotels and Meeting Room Venues

HOTEL MEETING ROOM VENUES

Bn

Th

Cl

Cn

Re

U

O

Best Western Corte Madera Inn

110

6

120

200

110

65

200

35

150

Marin Suites Hotel

100

2

-

30

25

25

-

-

-

146

3

-

40

24

22

45

27

-

Acqua Hotel

49

3

120

140

80

60

200

40

120

Holiday Inn Express

100

5

100

100

70

50

150

50

20

Mill Valley Inn

25

1

-

20

-

12

40

-

-

Mountain Home Inn

10

3

70

-

-

-

100

-

100

Best Western PLUS Novato Oaks Inn Courtyard by Marriott

107

4

75

150

65

40

150

40

-

136

2

30

50

24

30

50

24

-

Days Inn

56

3

150

150

125

35

150

30

250

Inn Marin

68

4

120

150

75

40

200

35

400

Embassy Suites by Hilton Four Points by Sheraton

235

13

520

500

350

36

642

45

100

235

9

250

300

186

15

300

65

85

Panama Hotel

10

2

60

-

-

-

150

-

75

12

3

60

60

40

25

60

25

70

24

3

150

40

40

40

150

20

150

35

1

45

45

35

35

45

30

150

Larkspur Courtyard by Marriott

Mill Valley

Novato

San Rafael

West Marin Nick’s Cove Restaurant The Lodge at Point Reyes Tomales Bay Resort

Meet me in Marin County! Let us help organize an event for your group or business.

72

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

PLAN A MARIN EVENT

A n E ve n t i n M a r i n i s a n E v e n t R e m e m b e re d .

When you hold an event, you want it to be remarkable.

Marin has the people, landscape, and facilities you need to make your event shine. Just choose from any list on these pages to get started.

And remember, when in doubt, we’re here to help you with any event.

Compare the unique features and services of each hotel and meeting room event space here in sunny Marin County, California.

Submit an RFP for your upcoming event by going to our website at visitMarin.org Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

73

Corte Madera Corte Madera Community Center

-

1

Larkspur Farmshop Marin

-

1-3

Mill Valley

Outside Event

U-Shape

Reception

Conference

Classroom

Theater

Banquet

Event Space

Lodging

City and Conference Center

MEETING ROOM VENUES

Bn

Th

Cl

Cn

Re

U

O

150

-

-

-

250

-

-

Bn

Th

Cl

Cn

Re

U

O

60

60

40

40

90

30

65

Bn

Th

Cl

Cn

Re

U

O

El Paseo

-

6

158

-

-

-

191

-

111

Piatti Mill Valley

-

4

110

100

-

44

175

25

0

Piazza D’Angelo

-

-

100

40

20

35

130

-

50

Sweetwater Music Hall

-

3

135

150

75

45

300

50

75

Bn

Th

Cl

Cn

Re

U

O

Novato Hopmonk Tavern

-

2

125

-

60

40

160

30

175

Marin County Club

-

3

180

250

200

50

300

100

-

The Key Room

-

2

125

150

-

12

250

-

-

Trek Winery

-

3

250

-

-

22

100

-

100

Unity of Marin

-

6

200

300

150

75

250

60

380

Wildfox Restaurant

-

2

70

-

30

-

70+

50

70+

Bn

Th

Cl

Cn

Re

U

O

400

250

200

50

350

30

400

Bn

Th

Cl

Cn

Re

U

O

Ross Marin Art and Garden Center

-

9

San Anselmo American Legion Log Cabin SF Theological Seminary

74

-

2

175

250

150

150

175

-

75

70

4

110

70

40

25

170

20

170

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

San Rafael

Outside Event

U-Shape

Reception

Conference

Classroom

Theater

Banquet

Event Space

Lodging

City and Conference Center

MEETING ROOM VENUES

Bn

Th

Cl

Cn

Re

U

O

Desire to Inspire

-

2

-

60

18

20

180

32

-

Dominican Univ

-

15+

300

800

40

75

120

75

300+

Falkirk Cultural Center

-

2

70

60

30

14

100

-

125

Marin Bocce Federation

-

3

60

-

-

-

100

-

350

Marin Center

-

4

600

315

150

400

800

50

-

Marin Veterans Memorial

-

1

-

1911

-

-

-

-

-

Marin County Fairgrounds

-

1

-

-

-

-

-

-

6000

Terrapin Crossroads

-

5

350

-

175

-

450

-

150

The Clubhouse at Peacock Gap

-

7

941

605

562

478

1,600

257

1,411

Unitarian Congregation-Marin

-

5

200

250

75

40

250

40

200

VenturePad

-

5

48

50

30

30

60

40

-

Bn

Th

Cl

Cn

Re

U

O

Sausalito SF Bay Adventures

-

18 Boats

-

-

-

-

-

-

149

The Bay Model

-

2

600

250

250

-

1500

-

1500

5

150

-

-

-

150

-

150

Bn

Th

Cl

Cn

Re

U

O

-

140

96

35

-

35

-

Bn

Th

Cl

Cn

Re

U

O

Point Bonita YMCA Dorm

Tiburon Bay Conference Ctr

-

3

West Marin McEvoy Ranch

-

5

200

150

40

40

300

25

400

Slide Ranch

-

3

36

36

36

36

110

36

150

The Fork at Point Reyes

-

1

40

40

40

40

60

30

100

Official Visitors Guide

|

Marin Convention & Visitors Bureau

75

ALPHABETICAL INDEX

A Adventures......52 AgriTourism..... 30 Arts..................32 Attractions....... 30 B Bars.................43 Beaches...........38 Biking......6,23,21 BonAir.............48 Boutiques.........50 C Calendar...........14 Civic Center......57 Climate............12 CountryMart....49 Coastal Marin...26 Corte Madera....18 Culture.............32 D Dining..............40 Dog Beaches.....38 Dog Parks.........36 Driving.............13 E Exploring.........54 F Fairfax.............28 Family Tours.....53 Farmers’ Markets..31 Farm To Table...40 Farm Tours.......52 5 Good Reasons...6 G GGNRA......Insert Girls Out..........59 Golf..................53 76

H Hiking..............53 History.............11 Hotels..............60

V Venues.............74 The Village........44 Vintage Oaks....47

L Larkspur..........20

W WaterSports.....54 Weddings.........73 West Marin.......26

M Made in Marin...10 Maps..........Insert Marin App ..........8 Meetings..........72 Mill Valley.........16 MuirWoods..Insert Museums.........34 Music..........42,43 N Nature............. 35 Nightlife......42, 43 Northgate.........46 Novato.............22 O OpenSpace..Insert P Parks..........Insert Pets................. 36 PointReyes..Insert R Restaurants.....40 Romantic.........58 S San Anselmo.....29 San Rafael........24 Shopping.........44 T TowneCtr.........45 Transportation....13

visitMarin.org | 866 925 2060

WELCOME TO MARIN COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

Marin isn’t as far away as it feels... it’s just a little out there.

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU visitMarin.org

OFFICIAL VISITORS AND MEETING PLANNERS GUIDE

C O U N I N R T A Y M

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU visitMarin.org

JUST A LITTLE OUT THERE visitmarin.oRG