By Whitney Butler

 

Sometimes when you need to get away from it all, it’s not how far you go; it’s just the feeling of getting away that makes it special. Located just north of San Francisco, Larkspur, with its world-class dining and turn-of-the-century feel, is the perfect example of a great escape close to home. Here are just a few reasons you should spend this weekend in Larkspur.

 

World-Class Dining

Larkspur’s vibrant, farm-to-table food scene is influenced by its proximity to San Francisco and the fresh resources along the ocean coast and from the northern farmlands.

Located in Larkspur’s Marin County Mart, Farmshop Marin is the perfect place to experience the farm-to-table culture. A wood-burning oven is at the heart of the operation, crisping handmade pizzas, roasting free-range chickens and baking wild-caught salmon. The staff here can tell you just as much about the food purveyors that source their meat, seafood, fruits and vegetables as they can about each entrée.

While you’re at the Mart, stop by the Rustic Bakery for an artisanal pastry to enjoy with your morning coffee. And if you’re searching for that perfect burger, look no further than the Shake Shack. It is a modern-day “roadside” burger stand known for its 100% all-natural Angus beef burgers, chicken sandwiches and flat-top Vienna beef dogs. Stop by Johnny's Doughnuts - but only if you are a doughnut enthusiast! You will be in for a treat.

At Hog Island Oyster, dine on oysters and local seafood with sweeping views of the bay and iconic Mt. Tam in the background and browse a selection of Hog Island Oysters, Manila Clams, Tomales Bay mussels, and local seafood–ready to take home and cook. Order seafood or prepared items online for pick up at our oyster bar or give us a call to order directly.

Saving the best for last is the Left Bank Brasserie on Magnolia in Old downtown Larkspur. The Brasserie draws its inspiration from the birthplace of the original Parisian brasseries situated along the Seine River's Left Bank. With a seasonal menu that showcases the best of local ingredients, Left Bank Brasserie presents rustic, French-inspired dishes. The diverse selection includes natural meats, sustainable seafood, fresh vegetables, hearty salads, and delectable desserts.

 

Historical Sites

Larkspur’s Downtown District was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. While you stroll the main street in nostalgic contemplation, there are a few places you won’t want to miss during your Larkspur getaway.

The Larkspur Library is an understated hallmark of the community’s interest in preserving the past. The Lark Theater, built in 1936, has become the proud focus of the historic district. After renovations, the Lark Theater won several awards and became green-certified by Marin County. Today, the theater is run by its namesake nonprofit and features independent films.

Located opposite the Larkspur Ferry Terminal, Remillard’s Brickyard Kiln is a state historical landmark and a unique bit of San Francisco history located in Larkspur. The Green Brea Brick Kiln is the only surviving structure of the Remillard Brick Company, a fiery powerhouse during the 19th and 20th centuries. Most notably, this brickyard helped rebuild San Francisco after the earthquake in 1906.

 

Easy Transportation

Larkspur’s intimate setting makes getting from here to there incredibly easy. For visitors interested in traveling to or from San Francisco, there’s no better place to visit in Marin County. Settle in for the weekend at the Courtyard Marriott at Larkspur Landing and continue your adventure from there! 

The Golden Gate Ferry Terminal in Larkspur Landing is close to several unique features of Larkspur, including great views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Mount Tamalpais, shoreline walking trails inside Remillard Park, and the Larkspur Landing Shopping Center, which offers outdoor dining and live music during the summer.

If you’re headed to San Francisco, the ferry takes about an hour and will drop you off at the city’s famous Ferry Building, located along the Embarcadero. The Ferry Building features a wide array of shopping and dining options as well as the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market held every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Once you get to the Ferry Building, you’ll have easy access to the BART or MUNI to help get you around the city.

 

Self Guided Walking Tour

Be sure to take a fun full-day walking tour of the downtown Larkspur area by following the Larkspur Loop map! Hike it, Bike it, or Walk it - This is an eight-mile adventure past historic buildings, parks, shops, eateries, and waterways. Take a full day to totally immerse yourself in all that Larkspur has to offer. 

Larkspur is more than a destination; it’s a feeling you won’t soon forget while dining at fresh local restaurants or enjoying beautiful historical sites. Larkspur has all the charm of small-town America within arm’s reach of the city.

 

For all you need to plan your Marin County vacation, visit the Marin Convention and Visitors Bureau’s website or Facebook page.