Mill Valley Real Estate
A hip town with a magical, European vibe near San Francisco.
Mill Valley is in a prime location, along the foothills of Mount Tamalpais and the shores of Richardson Bay. This charming town has a history dating back to the 1800s when Coast Miwok inhabited the beautiful, untamed wilderness that was the area. Though things have changed since then, much of Mill Valley is still full of beautiful and natural areas for residents to explore. Into the 1960s, this town became increasingly popular, especially for its Fall Arts Festival, which is still a widespread event today in addition to the Mill Valley Film Festival.
Each neighborhood in the town offers a unique perspective, whether it’s the views or the eclectic vibes portrayed. Here you’ll find a variety of homes that range from early 20th-century summer cottages to elegant Victorians, depending on where you’re looking. Homes situated in the hills tend to be cottage-style and offer stunning views of Mt. Tamalpais and San Francisco. Other areas offer wide, tree-lined streets with modern homes that give a traditional suburban feeling to the heart of this small, rural town. Also available are luxurious, waterfront condominiums that are along Richardson Bay. Regardless of which neighborhood you’re in, the quiet charm and natural beauty of this area are quite picturesque and ideal to call home.
What to Love
Local Lifestyle
Residents love this charming community for its quiet, small-town feel and proximity to San Francisco. With exceptional views of the mountains, forests, canyons, and water nearly everywhere you turn, Mill Valley is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, especially for those who enjoy wellness activities. The epic trails of Mt. Tamalpais offer breathtaking views, picnicking spots, and plenty of wildlife sightings. The variety of neighborhoods all offer beautiful scenery, charming homes, and a true sense of community. Residents love the artsy and eclectic feeling that this town exudes, and the community events like the community campout and family fun fest only make Mill Valley more charming.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Mill Valley Depot Cafe and Bookstore is a resident favorite gathering spot for all your cafe and literary needs. Lytton Square, in downtown Mill Valley, houses a variety of boutique shopping options. Carolina Boutique offers a selection of modern women’s clothing in a California-specific style while Monarch Imports offers an eclectic variety of jewelry, clothing, and accessories. Two Neat is a charming greeting card shop that has been operating for over 30 years. There are also plenty of dining options in the square like La Ginestra, an elegant Italian restaurant that’s been a town staple for more than 50 years.
If that weren’t enough, the Mill Valley Lumberyard, located near downtown, is a great place for the community to gather and enjoy a bakery and restaurant in addition to boutique shopping options. Bloomingayles has a selection of natural arrangements for special occasions or just a beautiful table arrangement at home as well as unique gifts. Fideaux is a specialty pet boutique for everything your pets could ever need or want. For organic, sustainable, and ethically produced products, Makers Market is a local favorite. The lumberyard also houses the Watershed Restaurant with its creekside seating and exceptional locally sourced menu.
Things to Do
Mill Valley offers plenty of things to do, whether it’s outdoor recreation or one of the many events and festivals put on throughout the year. The Dipsea Race is the oldest trail race in America and is over seven miles from Mill Valley to Stinson Beach. This course is often considered the most beautiful course there is and has become increasingly popular throughout the years. The Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival and Mill Valley Film Festival both hold multi-day events focused on local and national artists and filmmakers. The Arts Commission hosts comedy in the plaza on Friday evenings. Other community events are held throughout the year and provide plenty for the whole family to enjoy.
Schools
