Things To Do
in Novato
Novato is a city located in Marin County, California, known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreational activities. It has a rich history dating back to the 1800s when it was established as a ranching community. Today, Novato offers a mix of suburban neighborhoods, shopping centers, and dining options.
Residents and visitors alike can enjoy exploring nearby parks, hiking trails, and the beautiful coastline.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a coffee at a local café. Spend some time walking through Marinwood Community Center to enjoy the fresh air.
Visit the Marin History Museum to enrich your understanding of the area. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring local cuisine.
Relax at Pioneer Park, enjoying a peaceful sunset. Wind down with dinner at a casual eatery downtown.
Hike the trails at Marin County Open Space. Observe the diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery.
Have a picnic lunch at the open space while enjoying the view. Explore the trails further and take plenty of pictures.
Return to Novato and treat yourself to a hearty meal. Catch a movie at a local theater for some evening entertainment.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings with access to parks and recreational areas.
- Strong sense of community and small-town atmosphere.
- Proximity to San Francisco and other major Bay Area cities.
- High quality of life with good schools and low crime rates.
- Rich cultural and historical heritage.
- High cost of living and housing prices.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to urban areas.
- Traffic congestion, especially during commute hours.
- Potential for wildfires in certain areas.
- Limited public transportation options.
Best Activities in Novato
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic trails with beautiful views of Novato and surrounding areas.
Explore diverse bird species in a peaceful natural setting.
Experience thrilling mountain biking trails for riders of all skill levels.
Tours
Uncover the best of Novato with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Novato
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views of Novato and surrounding hills, and a variety of flora and fauna for photography enthusiasts.
Features a beautiful lake with surrounding hills, perfect for capturing stunning natural landscapes and wildlife photography.
Historic site with picturesque old military structures and open landscapes, ideal for capturing unique architectural and historical photographs.
Food in Novato
Novato Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Try the signature Beso Burger at Beso Bistro & Wine Bar, featuring locally-sourced beef, artisanal cheese, and house-made pickles.
Must-Try!
Head to Boca Pizzeria for their delectable fish tacos, crafted with sustainable seafood and fresh, vibrant garnishes.
Savor the artisanal pizzas at Hilltop 1892, meticulously prepared with locally-grown produce and premium toppings.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Novato better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Novato Farmers Market for an array of fresh produce, handcrafted food products, and ready-to-eat street food from local vendors.
Don't miss the annual Street Eats Festival, where you can indulge in a variety of global street food favorites and culinary delights from around the world.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Novato, it is important to respect personal space and maintain a reasonable distance when interacting with others.
Being on time is considered important in Novato, so it's polite to arrive promptly for appointments and social gatherings.
Using polite language and a friendly tone when communicating with others is valued in Novato's cultural norms.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Novato with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Novato
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in Novato, United States, especially in the service industry such as restaurants, bars, and hotels. A typical tip is around 15-20% of the total bill, although this may vary depending on the level of service received.
Payment in Novato, United States, is widely accepted in the form of cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. Most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and services, accept major credit cards and contactless payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Novato.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Novato, United States. Expect mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities.
Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and visiting local parks. Warm temperatures and occasional fog near the coast.
Great for fall foliage and wine tasting in the nearby wine country. Pleasant temperatures and clear skies.
Possibility of rain. Indoor activities such as visiting museums, art galleries, and enjoying the local culinary scene.
Novato at Night
Hiking in Novato
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination with stunning views of the Bay Area, featuring numerous trails of varying difficulty.
Offers a mix of coastal scenery and hilly terrain, with several miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
While primarily a shopping area, there are accessible trails nearby that lead to hiking opportunities in the Marin Headlands.
Famous for its extraordinary coastal scenery and diverse ecosystems, with numerous hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Features several trails that lead through historic sites and offers views of the Petaluma River and surrounding hills.
Aiports
How to reach Novato by plane.
Major international airport located 13 miles south of Novato, offering flights to numerous domestic and international destinations.
Located about 25 miles southeast of Novato, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Approximately 50 miles south of Novato, this airport provides access to a variety of international and domestic flights.
Located around 90 miles northeast of Novato, SMF serves as a hub for numerous airlines with domestic and international service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic in Novato, representing a significant percentage of the population.
A substantial demographic group in Novato, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Includes various subgroups, with a growing presence in Novato.
A smaller yet important demographic, reflecting the community's diversity.
A demographic that represents individuals identifying with multiple races, growing in numbers.
A very small demographic group within Novato.
The least represented demographic group in Novato.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in Novato, soccer is played by many youth and adult leagues and has a strong community following.
Baseball is a favorite pastime in Novato, with local teams and leagues providing opportunities for young players to develop their skills.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Novato, with community courts and leagues offering competitive play for all ages.
Lacrosse is gaining traction in Novato, with schools and clubs fostering youth participation and community events.
Running is a popular activity in Novato, with scenic trails and local events that encourage fitness and community participation.
Tennis is well-represented in Novato, with public courts available for players of all skill levels, along with local tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Novato.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most establishments in Novato provide a variety of vegetarian dishes, from plant-based burgers to fresh salads and creative vegetable-centric entrees.
Explore the city's culinary scene to discover a range of vegan-friendly offerings, including flavorful plant-based bowls, dairy-free desserts, and vegan comfort food.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can easily find gluten-free options at many eateries, such as gluten-free pizza, pasta, and dedicated gluten-conscious menus.