Offering a village setting surrounded by magnificent redwoods, Mill Valley is both a family-oriented town and an arts community nestled beneath Mount Tamalpais. Writers, artists, and film makers are attracted to the blend of residential tranquility and natural beauty. A quaint downtown district features restaurants, delis, boutiques, bookstores, and antique stores. Other popular attractions include a theater, art gallery, and charming inn. Mill Valley manages to harmonize an amazing variety of homes, from modest bungalows to luxurious custom builds or the most elegant Victorians. Many of the large homes were constructed in the 1950s and ’60s, reflecting the upscale styling of those decades. Known for its outstanding educational system, Mill Valley schools are consistently among California’s top 10 percent in percentile rankings. Amenities and attractions include an internationally famous film festival, botanical gardens, state park, a golf course, lovely parks, a senior center, and a seemingly endless list of classes and programs sponsored by the recreation department. With Mount Tamalpais nearby for hiking enthusiasts and the Pacific Ocean just around the corner, many commuters to San Francisco find that Mill Valley is the perfect place to call home.