MILL VALLEY

Urban Sophistication And Small Town Charm

Population: 14,009

Mill Valley, which sits in the late afternoon shadow of Mount Tamalpais, has a charm all its own. Besides the quaint downtown, and being home to the relatively new community recreation center, it boasts antique stores, bookstores, a theater, nightclub, art gallery, coffee shops, and the Depot Bookstore café. Mill Valley also offers hiking and biking trails, a dog run, a nine-hole public golf course, and the annual Dipsea foot race, the oldest cross-country foot race on the West Coast. For those with an artistic bent, there’s a noted film festival every fall, as well as an outdoor arts fair, festivals of wine and Memorial Day parade and crafts festival in Bayfront Park.

What To See

Located at the base of Mt. Tam and the edge of Muir Woods, Mill Valley boasts some of the finest in outdoor opportunities on the parks’ hiking and biking trails. Stinson Beach and Golden Gate National Recreation Area are also nearby. Within Mill Valley’s borders, there are numerous shops and restaurants, several smaller parks, a movie theatre, nightspots, and a range of annual events.

Weather

When Mount Tamalpais blocks fog from rolling into central Marin, this is where it ends up, but it usually burns off by early afternoon. Mill Valley is near the bay, so is cooler than its inland neighbors, with average temperatures ranging from 40 to 74.

Housing

A wide variety here, from older established craftsman style homes in desirable Sycamore Park and Sunnyside neighborhoods close to down town. Many large contemporary homes on hills. Some large gated estates and mansions up high.

Schools

The Mill Valley School district is comprised of five K-5 elementary schools and a middle school. All are recognized as California Distinguished schools All campuses have been renovated thanks to over $26 million in local bond measures. The Kiiddo! School Foundation is a very busy and visible groups, providing support for all music, drama and art programs. Most students go on to Tamalpais High School, which is known for its strong arts and academics. Students here sometimes make an inter-district transfer to nearby Redwood High School in Larkspur. Both are widely regarded as excellent public high schools.

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