Mill Valley is one of my favorite day trips—it’s only about 30 minutes north of San Francisco, and I’ve gone more times than I can count. It seriously never gets old. With its peaceful redwoods, cozy cafés, stylish shops, and what might be the prettiest library in California, it’s the perfect mix of nature and charm. Let me show you my go-to itinerary for the perfect day:
Morning
Walk Through Muir Woods
Muir Woods is a 558-acre national monument that is one of the Bay Area’s last remaining ancient redwood groves, and some of these trees are truly insane—over 250 feet tall and nearly 1,000 years old!
With around six miles of trails, you can choose anything from a short, 30-minute walk to longer hikes that connect into Mount Tamalpais State Park. I usually stick with the one-hour loop through Bohemian Grove and Founders Grove. It’s just the right amount of time to fully enjoy the beauty without rushing—or needing a backpack full of snacks.
Quick tips: Reservations are required (this place gets busy!), so be sure to book ahead. And since there’s no cell service once you’re deep in the woods, don’t forget to download your reservation QR code before you go. Also, keep an eye out for the stretch between bridges 3 and 4 on the Bohemian Grove Loop—it’s hands down my favorite spot for those epic redwood views.
Brunch at Flour Craft Bakery
Flour Craft Bakery is 100% gluten-free, but you’d never know it from the taste (seriously, everything is so good). Tucked inside the trendy Mill Valley Lumber Yard, they serve up artisan pastries, fresh-baked breads, and colorful, plant-based tartines that are as pretty as they are delicious.
We ordered the Stinson Tartine, piled high with basil-almond pesto, Marin French Brie, and slow-roasted tomatoes, plus the Classic Avocado Toast topped with smoked salmon. Total heaven on a plate. And don’t even think about leaving without trying one of their flourless mudslide cookies—they’re rich, gooey, and completely unforgettable.
Explore the Mill Valley Lumber Yard
What used to be an actual lumber yard back in 1892 has been beautifully reimagined into a lively little village of shops, outdoor hangouts, and casual fun—think cornhole games, creekside seating, and views of Mount Tam peeking through the trees. Mill Valley Lumber Yard is the kind of place where you can sip a coffee, browse local boutiques, and totally lose track of time (in the best way).
A couple of my favorite spots? Still is a dream for beautiful home goods and decor, and Aviator Nation has the coziest 70s-inspired hoodies and sweats.
Afternoon
Visit California’s Prettiest Library
I know it sounds crazy to say a library is a must-see—but the Mill Valley Library might just be the prettiest one in all of California. Tucked into the redwoods, it’s this gorgeous mix of glass, wood, and nature, with floor-to-ceiling windows that let the light pour in and trees practically hugging the building. We only popped in for a quick look, but I’m already dreaming about coming back with my laptop to work here for a day. I mean… forest views and free Wi-Fi? Yes, please.
Pro tip: Parking can be a bit of a headache near the local school, so try to avoid those busy drop-off and pick-up times.
Shopping in Downtown Mill Valley
Downtown Mill Valley has this charming European village feel that makes simply wandering around feel like a mini vacation. Lytton Square is the heart of it all—locals lounging with cappuccinos from The Depot or Equator Coffee, street musicians adding a little soundtrack to your stroll, and even a few friendly chess games happening right under the sun.
It’s also a great place to shop! I always pop into The Goods for quirky gifts and vintage finds (fair warning: you’ll probably walk out with something you didn’t know you needed)!
Evening
Dinner at Playa
Wrap up your day with dinner at Playa, and honestly, I can’t think of a better way to end a perfect Mill Valley escape. This modern Mexican restaurant nails the vibe—with indoor-outdoor seating, cozy heaters, and twinkling string lights that make it feel like you’ve been transported straight to a chic Baja beach town (minus the sand!).
I usually go all in on the ahi tostada, creamy guacamole, and a few tacos. The flavors are bold and fresh—especially the al pastor tacos with that 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:
Traveling Soon? Use my Favorite Resources for Booking Your Trip!
Book Your Flight
Expedia is my favorite flight search engine, because it checks dozens of airlines so you can easily find the best fare deals. You can also select ‘Watch Prices’ to get an email alert when the prices change.
Book Your Accommodations
I use both Booking.com and Expedia for hotels, because each offers a couple different hotel choices and I like to compare the reviews on each one. If you have a group or are looking for more of a home atmosphere, head over to VRBO or AirBNB that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range.
Book Your Rental Car
If love the freedom to explore like I do, driving from place to place is the best option! I always book with RentalCars.com (it’s part of booking.com) for the best prices and top brand options.
Book Some Fun Tours!
Viator and Get Your Guide are my go-to search engines for cool bucket list experiences! Each one can have different tours, so check both—why limit yourself, right?
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel can be unpredictable. Whether it’s a last-minute cancellation, an injury, or (ugh) theft, things happen. That’s why I recommend never leaving the country without travel insurance. Here are my faves: Safety Wing and World Nomads.
Get Packing & Travel Essentials Ready
Check out the Bucket List Journey Amazon Store to find all my favorite travel essentials. Everything from Packing cubes, to travel adapters and toiletry containers to walking shoes.
*Lastly, check travel.state.gov for visa requirements and safety information.
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