Mill Valley's history dates to the late 1800s when it served as a destination for San Franciscans escaping urban life via the scenic Mill Valley and Mount Tamalpais Railway. Today, the town retains much of its original charm while evolving into a sophisticated community of approximately 14,500 residents. The town spans diverse terrain, from the flats near downtown to hillside homes with panoramic views of Richardson Bay and the San Francisco skyline. Mill Valley's downtown—centered around Miller Avenue and Throckmorton—features locally-owned boutiques, farm-to-table restaurants, and cozy cafes that create a walkable village atmosphere. The town has long attracted artists, writers, and creative professionals, contributing to its bohemian-meets-affluent character. The adjacent Mount Tamalpais State Park and Muir Woods National Monument make Mill Valley a gateway to some of the Bay Area's most spectacular natural environments.