First Tuesday ArtWalk: A Local Gem in the Heart of Mill Valley

Imagine this: It’s early evening in Mill Valley. The sun is soft, dipping behind Mount Tam. You’re walking under redwoods and past ivy-covered brick buildings that feel like they’ve stood for a century. There’s a scent of eucalyptus in the air, and someone’s playing acoustic guitar outside a café just around the corner.

Then you wander into what looks like a boutique—except inside, the racks of clothing share space with local artwork: vivid paintings of the Marin Headlands, quiet coastal photographs, or playful mixed media from someone who lives just up the hill. You meet the artist. Someone hands you a plate of olives and cheese and offers you wine.

Welcome to Mill Valley’s First Tuesday ArtWalk!

What Is the First Tuesday ArtWalk?

Held on the first Tuesday of each month, this casual but meaningful event turns downtown Mill Valley into a walkable art gallery. Local businesses—from coffee shops to bookstores to real estate offices and actual art galleries—host rotating exhibits by Bay Area artists, with a strong focus on Marin’s homegrown creative talent.

This isn’t a high-profile gallery crawl with velvet ropes and press passes. It’s more front porch than red carpet. And that’s exactly why it’s worth experiencing.

What to Expect

• Time: 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM

• Where: Downtown Mill Valley (near Lytton Square, Throckmorton Ave, and Miller Ave)

• Cost: Free and open to the public

You’ll see a range of artwork—paintings, photography, ceramics, sculpture—and many of the artists are present and happy to chat about their work. Some stops may offer complimentary drinks or snacks. And because it’s all centrally located, it’s easy to stroll from one venue to the next in a matter of minutes.

If you're already planning to stay in Mill Valley, the ArtWalk is a perfect bonus to fold into your itinerary. It’s a lovely way to spend a relaxed evening, discover local art, and experience the small-town charm that makes Mill Valley so special. Think of it as an authentic, community-rooted experience—something that adds texture to your visit.

How to Make the Most of It

Here’s how we recommend building the ArtWalk into your stay:

🌲 Day 1: Arrive + Explore Nature

• Check in to your Mill Valley rental and get settled.

• Head out for a light hike in Cascade Canyon or a sunset stroll along Tennessee Valley Trail.

• Dinner at Watershed, Samurai or Bungalow 44.

🎨 Day 2: ArtWalk + Town Life

• Morning coffee at Madrona’s or Equator in town.

• Visit Muir Woods or take the Dipsea Trail if you're feeling adventurous.

• Light lunch downtown—Joe's Taco Lounge or the Depot.

• Relax in the afternoon, maybe flip through a book on the deck or nap under the redwoods.

• Head out around 5:30 PM for the First Tuesday ArtWalk.

• Afterward, grab dinner or drinks at El Paseo or Gravity Tavern, or catch a show at the Sweetwater Music Hall if there's something playing.

Bonus Insider Tips

• Locate the Map: The Mill Valley Arts Commission usually posts a PDF map of participating venues on their website or at the Chamber of Commerce.

• Talk to the Artists: Most are local and love to share stories. Some are amateur; others are total pros who with work in galleries across California!

• Don’t Rush: This isn’t about seeing everything—it’s about slowing down, walking around, bumping into surprises, meeting strangers or old friends, and soaking it all in with a deep breath.

Mill Valley is full of little surprises, and the First Tuesday ArtWalk is one of those quiet gems that reflects the soul of the town—creative, communal, and close to nature. If you’re lucky enough to be here on the first Tuesday of the month, don’t miss it.

And if you’re planning a visit, consider timing your stay around it. It’s one of those small experiences that ends up being unexpectedly memorable.

Looking to pair the Mill Valley First Tuesday ArtWalk with a relaxing stay?

A private retreat in one of Mill Valley’s sunniest microclimates offers panoramic views, a hot tub, and direct access to nature—perfect for unwinding after a day of art and music. Thoughtfully appointed and available for short stays, you’ll find it all at the Enchanted Waterfall Sanctuary.