Known restaurants, stores, intimate coffee houses and unique shopping centers offer things to see & do in Larkspur, but you shouldn't miss the amazing redwood groves, winding trails and waterways. There's a boardwalk where people live suspended above water and rock formations. It's a must see.
A state and city historic district officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places because the buildings are representative of commercial architecture that was typical of small California towns at the turn of the century, Magnolia Avenue looks much as it did when it was the main county road. The false-front store facades, the Mission Revival style church and City Hall, the early Queen Anne Victorian structures and the Blue Rock Inn, all evoke the flavor of the city's past. Be sure to see the charm as you roll back the clock on a walk along Larkspur's downtown sidewalks between the Lark Theater and the Lark Creek Inn. California's gold rush era commerce that included gold, lumber, cattle are echoed in what's now fashionable stores and restaurants that line Magnolia.
Larkspur Landing is a short walk from Ferry Terminal connecting to San Francisco. You can book a room at The Courtyard by Marriott which stands on the hillside above the terminal and shopping. Larkspur Landing appearing in the final scenes of Clint Eastwood's 1971 movie Dirty Harry, was known as the old Hutchison Gravel Quarry. It has been repurposed and now features rambling outdoor shops, dining and entertainment. More than fifty businesses sell clothing, art, jewelry, gifts, food, and more.
Transportation: Larkspur Landing offers the main ferry terminal for commuters between Marin County and the San Francisco. The Golden Gate Transit boasts ridership of over 6,000 per day. There is special direct ferry service from the Larkspur Ferry Terminal to AT&T Park for San Francisco Giants games.
Eat: Remillard's brickyard (State Historical Landmark and is listed in the National Register) includes a brick kiln built in 1889. One of the nation's most authentic dining experiences is available here. Tavern at Lark Creek - The Lark Creek Inn restaurant nestled beside a creek among the redwoods. In the fall there's an Oktoberfest styled beer garden where you can enjoy the glorious redwoods while sipping cold tap brews. (larkcreek.com)
See: Legendary rock and blues performer Janis Joplin once called
Larkspur home. Her small abode was purchased for an Open Space District to open a public trail that could take hikers and joggers to the top of Blithedale Ridge.