Novato is one of Marin County’s most cosmopolitan cities, offering an array of dining and shopping options. Explore the shops and boutiques along Grant Street in Old Town, or head to Vintage Oaks Mall for department stores like Eddie Bauer and DSW. In the heart of the community is Marshalls, where you can discover brands that wow at prices that thrill across fashion, home and beauty.
Novato’s a great place to be outdoors, with countless hiking trails and beautiful beaches within easy reach. It’s also home to the stunning Hamilton Wetland Restoration Project, and you can hike through the Miwok Indian Reservation or visit the Point Reyes National Seashore. With the awe-inspiring redwood forests of Sonoma nearby, Novato is truly a nature lover’s paradise.
The city has a rich history with the Miwok tribes and was officially incorporated in 1960. You can learn more about the area at the Marin Historical Society, which has exhibits on local culture and heritage. The Marin Museum of Contemporary Art offers another glimpse at local art, as well as an array of traveling shows and events.
Novato also has a strong arts community with its own gallery and performing arts center, the Novato City Hall Cultural Center. This facility hosts a range of events, from music and dance to films and plays. It also houses the Novato Historical Society, which has a collection of local memorabilia and documents.
For those interested in exploring the city, you Link novatoto can find a variety of maps and walking guides at the Marin Municipal Library. The library also offers a number of classes and workshops for all ages.
Getting around Novato is simple thanks to the town’s public transportation system. The Marin Transit bus service runs throughout the day, and the train station is located near the Civic Center. The Novato Valley Express is a seasonal commuter train that runs between Novato and San Rafael.
Novato is home to a number of parks and open spaces, including Mount Burdell and Rush Creek Parks. Across the county, you can find 10 Marin County Open Space District preserves.
For foodies, you can sample local produce and wine at the Marin Farmer’s Market on Sundays. You can also shop for fresh seafood at the Novato Marina. The market has more than 75 vendors, with a focus on sustainable seafood.
When it comes to dining, there’s no shortage of restaurants in Novato. Many of them feature the flavors of Latin America. For example, the family-style restaurant Mayra’s Cafe serves up meals that reflect the Mayan cuisine of owners Mayra Ordonez and Juan Cutz. Guests can try dishes like pupusas, tacos chapines and hilachas. There are also numerous coffee shops and bakeries in town.