Dreamy day trip to Mill Valley, California

Mill Valley is one of my favorite day trips – it’s just about 30 minutes north of San Francisco, and I went more often than I can count. Seriously Never gets old. With his peaceful Redwoods, cozy cafés, stylish shops and what is perhaps the most beautiful library in California, it is the perfect mix of nature and charm. Let me show you my go-to route for the perfect day:

Morning

Walk through Muir Woods

Muir Woods is a 558 hectare National Monument that is one of the last remaining old Redwood forests in the Bay Area, and some of these trees are really insane-more than 250 feet long and almost 1000 years old!

With about six miles of paths you can choose everything, from a short walk of 30 minutes to longer walks that make contact with Mount Tamalpais State Park. I usually stay with the one -hour loop through Bohemian Grove and Founders Grove. It is exactly the right amount of time to fully enjoy the beauty without hurrying – or need a backpack full of snacks.

Fast tips: Reservations are required (This place will be busy!)So make sure you book ahead. And because there is no mobile service once you are deep in the forest, don’t forget to download your reservation QR code before you go. Also keep the note of the piece between bridges 3 and 4 on the Bohemian Grove loop – it is hands without my favorite place for that epic view of Redwood.

Brunch at Flour Craft Bakery

Flower bakery is 100% gluten -free, but you would never know about the taste (seriously, everything is So Good). Hidden in the Trendy Mill Vallei Houtwerf, they serve traditional pastries, freshly baked bread and colorful, vegetable tartines that are just as beautiful as they are delicious.

We ordered the Stinson TartineHighly piled up with Basil-Almond Pesto, Marin Frans Brie and slowly roasted tomatoes, plus the Classic avocado toast Garnated with smoked salmon. Total heaven on a plate. And don’t even think about leaving without trying one of their flourless muddy cookies – they are rich, sticky and completely unforgettable.

Explore the Mill Valley Lumber Yard

What used to be a real Houtwerf in 1892, was beautifully re -conceived in a lively small village of shops, hangouts outside and casual pleasure – think of Cornhole games, seats on the creeps side and a view of Mount Tam that pays through the trees. Mill Valley Lumber Yard Is the kind of place where you can sip coffee, can browse through local boutiques and completely lose sight of the time (in the best way).

A few of my favorite places? Still is a dream for beautiful house goods and decor, and Aviors Nation Has the cozy 70s-inspired hoodies and sweat.

Afternoon

Visit the most beautiful library of California

I know it sounds crazy to say that a library is a must-see is but the Mill Valley library is perhaps the most beautiful in all of California. Hidden in the Redwoods, it is this beautiful mix of glass, wood and nature, with floor to ceiling windows that let the light flow in and trees practically cuddle the building. We only came in for a quick look, but I already dream of coming back with my laptop to work here for a day. I mean … view of the forest And Free WiFi? Yes, please.

Pro-tip: Parking can be a little headache near the local school, so try to avoid that busy drop-off and pick-up times.

Shopping in the center of Mill Valley

Downtown Mill Valley has this charming European village feeling that simply wanderes around as a mini holiday. Lytton Square is the heart of all this – Locals lounge with cappuccinos from the depot or equator coffee, street musicians who add a small soundtrack to your walk, and even a few friendly chess games that take place directly under the sun.

It is also a great place to shop! I always come in The goods For quirky gifts and vintage finds (honest warning: you will probably run away with something that you didn’t know you needed)!

Evening

Dinner at Playa

Finish your day with dinner PlayaAnd to be honest, I can’t think of a better way to end a perfect escape from Mill Valley. This modern Mexican restaurant nails the atmosphere-with seats indoors, cozy stoves and twinkling string lights, making it feel like you were transported directly to a chic baja beach town (minus the sand!).

I usually go all the way to the AHI Tostada, creamy guacamole and a few tacos. The flavors are fat and fresh, especially the pastor tacos with those sweet-spicy pineapple salsa, and the crispy empanadas filled with chorizo, currants and green olives.

➞ Looking for more trips from San Francisco? Here are a few of my favorites:

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