My Magical 3-Day Adventure in Mill Valley

Nestled in the scenic embrace of #MarinCounty , #MillValley , #California , offered me a delightful mix of natural beauty, art, and culinary experiences. Just a stone's throw from Strawberry Village Dental Care, my 3-day adventure was nothing short of magical.

Mill Valley

Marin County

Here’s a glimpse into my journey:

Day 1: Embracing Nature

Morning: Muir Woods National Monument

Muir Woods National Monument

I started my trip with a visit to Muir Woods National #Monument, a place I had always wanted to explore. The towering #redwoods were even more majestic in person. I spent the morning wandering the serene trails, the fresh forest air filling my lungs and setting a peaceful tone for the day.

Time Spent: 3-4 hours

Cost: $15 per adult (well worth it!)

Photo of From Redwoods to Bakeries: My Unforgettable Trip to Mill Valley, California by Dr. Chris Johns

Muir Woods National Monument at 17 minutes drive to the west of Strawberry Village Dental Care" data-linkurl="" />

Afternoon: Mount Tamalpais State Park

Mount Tamalpais State Park

After Muir Woods, I headed to Mount Tamalpais #StatePark . Driving up to the East Peak, I found a perfect spot for a picnic with panoramic views of the Bay Area. I hiked a few trails, soaking in the breathtaking scenery and feeling a deep connection with nature.

Time Spent: 3-4 hours

Cost: $8 for parking

Mount Tamalpais State Park at 11 minutes drive to the southwest of Strawberry Village Dental Care Mill Valley" data-linkurl="" />

Evening: The Junction Beer Garden

The Junction Beer Garden

To end the day, I visited The Junction Beer Garden. The friendly atmosphere and great selection of craft beers made it a fantastic spot to unwind. I enjoyed a delicious meal and reflected on the day’s #adventures .

Time Spent: 1-2 hours

Cost: About $30

The Junction Beer Garden at 6 minutes drive to the south of Strawberry Village Dental Care" data-linkurl="" />

Stay: Mill Valley Inn - A charming boutique hotel right in the heart of Mill Valley. The comfortable rooms and convenient location made it a perfect choice.

Mill Valley Inn

Day 2: Immersing in Art and Culture

Morning: Old Mill Park

Old Mill Park

The next day began with a peaceful visit to Old Mill Park. I took a leisurely stroll through the redwood grove, and the serenity of the park was a wonderful way to start the day. Watching families enjoying picnics and kids playing added a lovely community feel to the experience.

Time Spent: 2-3 hours

Cost: Free

Old Mill Park at 6 minutes drive to the west of Strawberry Village Dental Care Mill Valley" data-linkurl="" />

Afternoon: Seager Gray Gallery

Seager Gray Gallery

In the afternoon, I visited Seager Gray #Gallery to immerse myself in the local art scene. The gallery's contemporary fine art and craft collections were truly inspiring. I spent a couple of hours appreciating the creativity and talent on display.

Time Spent: 1-2 hours

Cost: Free

Seager Gray Gallery at 6 minutes drive to the west of Strawberry Village Dental Care" data-linkurl="" />

Evening: Dinner at Piazza D'Angelo

Piazza D'Angelo

For dinner, I chose Piazza D’Angelo, a cozy Italian #restaurant in downtown Mill Valley. The meal was a highlight of my trip—classic Italian dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. It was the perfect end to a culturally enriching day.

Time Spent: 1-2 hours

Cost: Around $40

Stay: Acqua Hotel - With stunning views of Richardson Bay, this modern #hotel provided a relaxing retreat and excellent service.

Acqua Hotel Mill Valley

Day 3: Culinary Delights and Relaxation

Morning: Le Marais Bakery

Le Marais Bakery

On my final day, I kicked things off with a delightful breakfast at Le Marais Bakery. The freshly baked pastries and gourmet coffee were the perfect start to my day. The bakery’s Parisian charm added an extra touch of delight.

Time Spent: 1-2 hours

Cost: About $15

Le Marais Bakery at 6 minutes drive to the west of Strawberry Village Dental Care Mill Valley CA" data-linkurl="" />

Afternoon: Exploring Downtown Mill Valley

I spent my afternoon exploring the quaint shops and boutiques of downtown Mill Valley. From unique clothing stores to local artisan shops, there was plenty to discover. I picked up a few souvenirs to remember my trip by.

Time Spent: 2-3 hours

Cost: Varies

Evening: Relax and Reflect

I wrapped up my trip with a quiet evening stroll through the town, reflecting on my experiences. The peaceful ambiance of Mill Valley made it a perfect ending to my adventure.

Stay: Holiday Inn Express Mill Valley San Francisco Area - Conveniently located and offering comfortable accommodations, this hotel was a great choice for my final night.

Holiday Inn Express Mill Valley San Francisco Area

Final Thoughts

My getaway to Mill Valley, CA, was a perfect blend of nature, culture, and culinary delights. From hiking among ancient redwoods to enjoying local art and savoring delicious food, every moment was memorable. Whether you’re looking for a family outing or a solo retreat, Mill Valley offers an unforgettable experience for all.