Welcome to Mill Valley
Set at the base of Mount Tamalpais, Mill Valley blends Old‑World charm with stunning natural surroundings. Enveloped by state and federal parklands, from the redwoods of Muir Woods to the trails of Mount Tamalpais State Park. It’s no wonder Mill Valley consistently ranks among the Bay Area’s most desirable places to live.
Downtown Mill Valley pulses with life: boutique shops, cozy cafés, art galleries, and the Sequoia Theatre anchor the scene. Lytton Square, built around an old train depot, hosts outdoor chess, impromptu street chalk art, and the spirit of community. Local music venues like the Sweetwater and the Throckmorton Theatre regularly bring in well-known artists for intimate performances. The acclaimed Mill Valley Film Festival draws international talent each year.
Mount Tamalpais isn’t just scenery, it’s central to local culture. The Dipsea Race, America’s oldest trail race, leads runners up stairs, through coastal redwoods, over Tam and to the ocean. Each spring The Mountain Play transforms the hillside amphitheater into a stunning open-air stage for Broadway classics.
From cozy cabins to grand estates, Mill Valley offers a wide range of home styles. Whether you want flat lots, canyons, ridgelines, or sweeping views, there’s a neighborhood to match your pace. I’d love to help you pinpoint the spot that feels like yours.
Mill Valley is home to top‑ranked, award winning, public schools. Tamalpais High School (Tam High) has been recognized multiple times as a California Distinguished School. Mill Valley Middle, Edna Maguire Elementary, Strawberry Point and Tam Valley Elementary are also recipients. In fact, all Mill Valley public schools receive A grades from Niche, with many elementary and middle schools ranking among the top in Marin and the state.
Mill Valley enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, often in the 60’s and 70’s. While some areas in Marin and the Bay bake in the hot sun, parts of Mill Valley have relief via coastal fog or shade from the towering redwoods. The many box canyons and redwood forests give rise to microclimates, creating pockets of cooler air or fog even while other areas are sunlit.
Fun Fact - Mill Valley has hosted music legends like Jerry Garcia, Bonnie Raitt, and Bob Weir — many of whom have played or jammed at local venues like Sweetwater Music Hall and the Throckmorton Theatre. Comedy legends have been known to test new material at the Throckmorton Theatre, as well. Often showing up unannounced to Tuesday Night Comedy events amongst up-and-comers.
