Design To Do: Frank Lloyd Wright's Masterpiece

Frank Lloyd Wright’s last major commission — the Marin County Civic Center — is hidden in plain sight (by design) just off 101 in San Rafael. Marin-ites are as familiar with this magnificent structure as we are with the Redwood Forests and the Pacific coastline. It’s part of the visual fabric that makes up our day-to-day. It’s the backdrop for a twice-weekly farmer’s market. We pass it as we’re criss-crossing the county from Sausalito to the Sonoma border. It’s the building we enter to report for jury duty. But it’s not just for locals!

If you’re a lover of architecture, design, mid-century modern, the movie Gattaca, or you just like to take photographs in interesting places: add this nationally designated historical landmark to your itinerary.

“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.” Frank Lloyd Wright

Docent-led tours take place every Wednesday and Friday for 90 minutes starting at 10:30. Cost is $10; $5 for students and seniors. If that timing doesn’t work out for you, here’s a link to a self-guided tour.

And seriously, watch Gattaca before you visit.

p.s. The Marin Civic Center is about a 20 minute drive from Waters Edge Hotel, 12 minutes from Acqua Hotel, and 20 minutes from Mill Valley Inn.