Mill Valley Travel Guide: Things To Do In Mill Valley California
Mill Valley, tucked away in the redwood-covered hills of Marin County, California, is a picturesque town that offers a magical blend of natural beauty, vibrant community, and a rich history. Add in a lovely boutique hotel— Mill Valley Inn —located in within walking distance of all the town has to offer, and your experience is complete!
This charming enclave is a haven for nature lovers, with its lush forests, sparkling streams, and stunning hiking trails. Mill Valley also boasts a thriving art scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and theaters showcasing the talents of local artists. Its vibrant downtown area is lined with quaint shops, artisanal eateries, and wellness studios. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or tranquil moments of relaxation, Mill Valley offers an enchanting escape from the urban bustle, providing a true slice of California paradise.
To make the most of this quintessential Northern California town: book your guestroom at Mill Valley Inn, park your car (complimentary parking), and explore the area on foot or on bike (also complimentary!). Enjoy your car-free visit to Mill Valley!
Mill Valley Hiking
A lovely meander or an intense workout, you’ll find them both in Mill Valley.
Old Mill Park. Redwoods and easy paths wind around this sweet park. An easy walk from Mill Valley Inn you’ll be immersed in the grove in under 5 minutes. If you’re driving, there’s usually street parking around the area.
Cascade Falls is located just a 25 minute walk from Mill Valley Inn. In the summer the falls might not be running, but the walk is lovely year-round.
Explore the Stairways of Mill Valley. Mill Valley has 175 heritage stairways, lanes, and paths meandering through the residential areas of town. Download this guide or go here for links to a map and the Friends of Mill Valley Steps Lanes & Paths instagram feed.
Do The Dipsea. Your Dipsea route starts a few flat blocks from the Mill Valley Inn at the Dipsea Stairs in Old Mill Park, on a flight of 671 stairs in three separate sections. On the course of the 7.4 mile Dipsea Trail, you’ll follow in the footsteps of hundreds of walkers and runners of the oldest footrace in America.
Mill Valley Music, Art, Theatre
Mill Valley delivers entertainment with a little something for everyone.
For live music Sweetwater Music Hall is a must-do. Also check out The Junction, a local’s favorite.
Comedy at the Throckmorton Theatre.
Live Theatre at Marin Theatre Company.
Art at O’Hanlon Center for the Arts and Seager Gray Gallery.
A sidetone, but a related HIGH RECOMMEND: Add to (or start!) your vinyl collection at a truly world-class record store: Mill Valley Music.
Check out the Mill Valley calendar of events for and more things to do in Mill Valley at that link.
Mill Valley Dining
For a small town, there are many dining options in Mill Valley! Of course our favorites are our sister restaurants Piazza D’Angelo which offers great southern italian food, warm hospitality , and a fun atmosphere.
Some other favorites are:
Bungalow 44 for $1 oysters 5-6pm most nights of the week and a great bar scene.
Tamalpie because everyone loves their pizza.
Playa for contemporary mexican (also a Marin Magazine Reader’s Poll winner).
Here’s link to all of the restaurants in Mill Valley.
Wellness in Mill Valley
Walking through the Redwoods might be enough to set you right, but if you want to add more wellness to your stay consider a massage or yoga.
Red Dragon is a yoga studio located near downtown Mill Valley, an easy walk or bike ride (borrow one of our bikes!) from Mill Valley Inn.
Conscious Transformation for a truly magical, mystical, highly personal experience with Andrea Satyam in her small studio on the edge of downtown Mill Valley.
See you out there!
