Novato
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Novato's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the famous Pacheco Plaza, where you can savor fresh pastries and locally brewed coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area, admiring the charming architecture and quaint shops that reflect Novato's rich history. Don’t forget to visit the Novato History Museum to learn more about the town’s fascinating past.
In the afternoon, enjoy lunch at the popular La Toscana, where you can indulge in authentic Italian cuisine. Post-lunch, head to Marin Country Mart for some shopping and exploration of local artisan shops and boutiques. Take a moment to relax in the outdoor spaces, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps catching a live performance.
As the sun sets, dine at The Buckeye Roadhouse, a local favorite known for its cozy ambiance and delicious comfort food. After dinner, take a scenic drive through Marin County, savoring the views of the twilight sky over Mount Tamalpais. Conclude your evening with dessert at a local ice cream shop, enjoying a sweet treat under the stars.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading out to the Marin County Open Space, where hiking trails abound. Choose a trail that suits your fitness level and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the area, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views from the hilltops.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks after your hike, taking in the fresh air and peaceful surroundings. After lunch, explore the nearby Marinwood Community Center, where you might find community events or classes to participate in. Spend some time relaxing by the lake, watching the ducks and soaking up the sun.
After a fulfilling day outdoors, return to Novato and choose a casual spot like the Marinwood Market for a laid-back dinner. Consider trying some local craft beers or wines to complement your meal. Wind down your evening with a gentle walk around the community park to reflect on your day.
Kick off your day with breakfast at a local diner, then head to the Marin Museum of Contemporary Art to explore diverse exhibitions. Spend the morning immersing yourself in the artistic expressions of local and regional artists, taking your time to appreciate the creativity on display. Join a guided tour if available to gain deeper insights into the art pieces.
For lunch, visit a nearby bistro that emphasizes farm-to-table dining, allowing you to taste the local flavors. Post-lunch, stroll through Novato’s art district, where you can find murals and sculptures that add a unique charm to the area. Make sure to pop into some small galleries to discover hidden artistic gems.
As the evening approaches, book tickets for a live theater performance at the Marin Civic Center, known for its impressive lineup of shows. Enjoy a pre-show dinner at a nearby restaurant, where you can experience a delightful atmosphere and exquisite dishes. After the performance, take a moment to discuss the show over drinks at a local pub.
Start your day with a light breakfast at your accommodation before setting off for a wine-tasting adventure in nearby Sonoma Valley. Enjoy the scenic drive through picturesque vineyards and rolling hills, soaking in the beautiful landscapes. Your first stop will be at a renowned vineyard, where you can learn about the winemaking process.
After tasting some exquisite wines, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a vineyard restaurant that offers stunning views and delicious local cuisine. Continue your wine journey by visiting a couple more wineries, indulging in tastings and perhaps taking part in a guided tour. Don’t forget to purchase a bottle or two to take home as souvenirs.
Return to Novato in the evening and unwind with a casual dinner at a local pub that features a diverse menu. Share your favorite moments from the day with your dining companions while enjoying some local craft beers. Conclude your evening on a relaxed note, perhaps with a stroll through the nearby town square.
Begin your family-friendly day with breakfast at a local pancake house, where kids can enjoy fun and delicious options like animal-shaped pancakes. After filling up, head to Marinwood Plaza for a morning of activities, including browsing local shops and enjoying the community atmosphere. Kids can participate in fun events or play games in the plaza.
For lunch, choose a family-friendly restaurant that offers a variety of options to satisfy everyone's cravings. Afterward, take a trip to Marinwood Community Center, where there are often organized games and playgrounds for the kids. Enjoy some family bonding time while engaging in recreational activities like basketball or soccer.
As the day winds down, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a family-friendly pizzeria, where everyone can customize their own pizza. After dinner, take a stroll through the neighborhood, perhaps stopping for ice cream at a local shop. Share stories about your favorite parts of the day, making memories to cherish.
Start your morning with a healthy breakfast at a café before making your way to Marinwood Community Park. Engage in a lovely nature walk, where you can observe local flora and fauna in their natural habitat. Enjoy the tranquility of the park and consider bringing along a journal to sketch or write about your surroundings.
After your morning exploration, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Post-lunch, take part in some recreational activities like frisbee or soccer, making it a fun-filled afternoon for everyone. If you're interested, you can also check if any guided nature tours or workshops are happening.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a peaceful dinner at a nearby restaurant that offers outdoor seating with a view. Reflect on your day spent in nature while enjoying a delicious meal filled with local flavors. Wrap up the evening with a cozy campfire back at your accommodation, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows.
Begin your day with breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and rich coffee while planning your shopping excursion. Head to the Vintage Oaks Shopping Center, where you can explore a variety of stores, from fashion boutiques to home goods. Take your time browsing, and keep an eye out for unique items and local artisan crafts.
After a morning of shopping, take a break for lunch at one of the trendy eateries in the shopping center, enjoying a dish made with fresh, local ingredients. Once recharged, continue to explore the shops or visit the nearby Novato Farmers Market if it’s a Saturday, where you can find fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with local vendors and perhaps pick up some treats to take home.
As the day comes to a close, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine, celebrating the local food scene. Afterward, consider catching a movie at the nearby cinema for a relaxing end to your day. Reflect on your shopping finds and the delicious meals you enjoyed during your time in Novato.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before checking the local calendar for any ongoing festivals or events in Novato. Attend a local cultural festival, where you can enjoy live music, art displays, and delicious food from various vendors. Immerse yourself in the festivities, engaging with local artists and performers.
Continue to explore the festival atmosphere, participating in workshops or demonstrations that highlight the town's rich cultural heritage. Grab lunch from one of the food stalls, sampling local dishes while enjoying the entertainment around you. Spend time interacting with other festival-goers, making new friends and connections.
As the festival wraps up, enjoy a festive dinner at a nearby restaurant that showcases the culinary diversity celebrated throughout the day. Reflect on the experiences you've had while enjoying your meal, perhaps discussing your favorite performances from the festival. Conclude the evening with a leisurely walk to appreciate the vibrant atmosphere of the town at night.
Start your day with a healthy breakfast at a local smoothie bar, focusing on nutritious ingredients to energize you for the day ahead. Treat yourself to a morning of relaxation at a local wellness center, where you can choose from yoga classes or meditation sessions. Enjoy the peaceful environment and the opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle.
After your morning session, indulge in a spa treatment or massage, allowing yourself to unwind and rejuvenate. For lunch, find a cafe that emphasizes organic and healthy options to continue your wellness journey. Spend your afternoon at a serene location, perhaps by a lake or a park, reflecting on your self-care day.
As the day comes to an end, enjoy a light dinner at a restaurant known for its healthy cuisine, focusing on seasonal ingredients. Take a moment to relish the calming atmosphere and perhaps share your wellness experiences with a friend. End your day with a relaxing activity, such as reading or journaling, to carry the tranquility into the evening.