just a little out there.

Welcome to the Marin CVB Blog

There are places that simply feel different. Where a combination of uncommon things creates something truly unique. Marin County is such a place. Special, not because you can go hang gliding or kayaking. Not because you can find fresh, sustainable agriculture. Not because you can experience the pinnacle of luxury and the world’s finest wines. And not even because you can do all of these things in one place. What makes Marin special is the sense of purpose that courses through the land, the people, and the everyday practices that define this unique corner of California.

Highlight Community of the Month

San Rafael


San Rafael is at the center of things. The oldest, largest and most culturally diverse city in Marin also enjoys the best weather. San Rafael is a lively business and cultural center located in an area of incomparable natural beauty.

At the city’s heart is its charming, vibrant downtown shopping district. Downtown’s mixture of Victorian buildings, ethnic restaurants, retail stores and financial institutions creates San Rafael’s hometown flavor.

In the center of town is the new San Rafael City Plaza, with its innovative water wall fountain. The plaza has become a community gathering place and the center of seasonal events such as the Thursday night farmers markets and summertime concerts.

Nearby is an authentic recreation of Mission San Rafael Arcangel; founded in 1817 as part of California’s mission chain, a replica of the original mission with a museum, gift shop and self-guided tours, attracts many visitors. It is also the backdrop for the annual “Youth in Arts,” Italian Street Painting Festival.

San Rafael’s history is present in many of its beautifully restored turn-of-the century buildings, including the Marin History Museum, the Falkirk Cultural Center, and the 106-year-old Dominican University. Many of these buildings are featured in a self-guided walking tour guide, available at the local Chamber of Commerce.

The Marin County Civic Center, home to the county’s government offices and an architectural treasure, is a national and state designated historical landmark. Designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, it is available on weekdays for self-guided or docent-led tours.









Thursday, January 13, 2011

Easy Hike Around Phoenix Lake

We were trying to dodge the raindrops on a momentarily sunny day at Phoenix Lake. The hike is perfect for family members of all ages since it is not too long or steep.

The trailheads near the lake are easy to get to. Phoenix Lake provides convenient access and an abundance of hike possibilities for any type of hiker. For a short and easy walk around Phoenix Lake, hike uphill to the lake from the parking area and then combine Bill Williams Trail, Gertrude Orr Trail, and Phoenix Lake Trail, for a stroll of about 2.7 miles. You can't get lost if you stay close to the water!







At 0.19 mile, the road passes by the spillway (a great artificial waterfall in the winter) and then crests near the shores of Phoenix Lake.

 

Phoenix Lake is a reservoir on Kentfield's Ross Creek in Marin County,  and is used as drinking water for Marin County residents. Construction was completed by the Marin Municipal Water District in 1907. At normal levels it has a surface area of 23 acres.
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