Discover Miwok Park: Novato's Gem & Marin Museum Of The American Indian
Why is Miwok Park in Novato so beloved by its community, and what makes it a destination worth exploring? Miwok Park seamlessly blends natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities, offering something for everyone in a picturesque setting.
Nestled at 2200 Novato Boulevard in the heart of Novato, California, Miwok Park isn't just a park; it's a vibrant hub that reflects the spirit of its community. Managed by the city of Novato, this cherished locale is a testament to the city's commitment to providing accessible, enriching, and aesthetically pleasing public spaces. From the expansive, emerald lawn perfect for a game of frisbee to the tranquil trails weaving through the landscape, Miwok Park has been carefully designed to cater to a diverse range of interests. The park is a place where families gather, friends reconnect, and individuals find solace in the embrace of nature. The park's popularity is evident in its numerous positive reviews and accompanying photographs, which serve as a testament to the park's undeniable appeal. With its myriad of amenities and attractions, it's a place that consistently draws both locals and visitors, offering an unparalleled experience for all who enter its gates.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 2200 Novato Boulevard, Novato, CA 94947 |
| Size | Approximately 38 acres |
| Historical Significance | Located on the site of a former Coast Miwok village; home to the Marin Museum of the American Indian |
| Amenities | Expansive lawn, horseshoe pits, bocce ball courts, hiking trails, playground, picnic/BBQ areas, large BBQ area with reservable tables |
| Recreational Activities | Volleyball, catch, frisbee, hiking, walking, exploring exhibits, playground use, bocce ball, picnicking |
| Museum Information | Marin Museum of the American Indian (exhibits available on the museum website during closure) |
| Events | Community events and cultural celebrations during warmer months; fundraising challenges |
| Trail Information | Popular trail for hiking and walking; average completion time: 29 minutes (easy route) |
| Additional Notes | Has a lot of shade. It is a great location for birthday parties, family events or just friends wanting to get together. |
| Safety | During a specific incident, a mother bear and two cubs were reported in the area of Miwok Park. The NPD advised the community to use extreme caution |
For additional information and to explore the history and culture of the Miwok people, visit the museum website at Marin Museum of the American Indian.
The expansive lawn at Miwok Park is a blank canvas for outdoor enjoyment. The inviting expanse is tailor-made for a game of volleyball, a friendly catch, or a spirited game of frisbee. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, the picnic areas offer a perfect setting to enjoy a leisurely meal, with picnic tables thoughtfully scattered along the creek, providing picturesque views to accompany your lunchtime gatherings. Moreover, the park is located at the site of a native american miwok village in novato, with its rich history, artifacts, and traditions of the ancient native american tribes, offering families a journey of discovery and cultural immersion. Miwok Parks facilities extend beyond the lawn, with horseshoe pits and bocce ball courts for those who relish a bit of friendly competition. A well-equipped playground ensures that younger visitors have ample opportunities for fun and games, while the network of hiking trails invites exploration and a deeper connection with nature.
The Marin Museum of the American Indian, located within Miwok Park, serves as a gateway to understanding and appreciating Native American cultures. Its exhibits, trails, and bocce courts are all part of the rich tapestry of experiences available at the park. The museum, formerly known as the Marin Museum of the American Indian, was founded in 1967, and offers programs and exhibits designed to deepen appreciation of Native American cultures. The museum is currently closed due to covid restrictions, but many exhibits can be seen at the museum website.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, Miwok Park provides access to hiking and walking trails. These trails, generally considered an easy route, take an average of 29 minutes to complete, and offer a chance to enjoy some solitude during quieter times of the day. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular guest, the parks, recreation, and community services department has something to offer. With its variety of amenities and activities, the park is designed for a range of recreational pursuits.
The park's design also allows for the easy hosting of larger gatherings. The large BBQ area, equipped with numerous tables, is available for reservation, making it an ideal choice for birthday parties, family events, and social gatherings. During the warmer months, Miwok Park comes alive with community events and cultural celebrations, adding another layer of appeal to the park's already extensive offerings. The combination of history, nature, and fun makes Miwok Park a top destination in Novato.
Miwok Park is another beloved park in the city, sprawling around 38 acres and built with various amenities for recreation. Its located along Novato Boulevard at the site of a native american miwok village. Pack your favorite snacks and drinks to eat at the picnic tables along the creek, and take in the gorgeous views.
Olompali State Historic Park, another notable location, offers a chance to experience Miwok culture and artifacts. This park is just north of Novato. What sets Olompali State Historic Park apart from other California State Parks is the recreated coastal Miwok village, complete with a native plant garden and traditional Miwok housing. Its also home to the Burdell Mansion, former ranch buildings, and adobe ruins. The highlight of the park is a loop trail just over 3 miles long. Olompali State Historic Park has had a long, strange procession of inhabitants, starting with the Miwok Indians, and ending with the Grateful Dead and a hippie commune, the Chosen Family.
The City of Novato's Parks and Facilities Reservation page provides an easy way to submit a rental inquiry for a park, picnic area, indoor facility, or athletic facility. Miwok Park is a city of Novato park located at 2200 Novato Boulevard. Whether you are a first time visitor or a regular guest, the city of novatos parks, recreation and community services department has something to offer. The park is named for local indigenous people and serves as the home to the museum of the American Indian.
The museum of the American Indian is starting an amazing new chapter with fresh exhibits, innovative programs, and a celebration of indigenous cultures. The event is free, however admission to the museum is $10 to $15. The historic state park is 700 acres of scenic land and hiking trails on the slopes of Mount Burdell, at the upper end of Marin County.
On one particular occasion, a mother bear and two cubs were reported in the area of Miwok Park at 2200 Novato Blvd, prompting the NPD to advise the community to "use extreme caution" when entering the area. Miwok Park's location, coupled with the Marin Museum of the American Indian, offers a unique cultural experience and a picturesque setting for outdoor activities. The park also houses a plethora of picnic tables, which are scattered along the creek to allow for lovely lunchtime views.
Miwok Park in Novato, CA, is a bustling community hub on the west side of the city, drawing locals and visitors alike with its array of amenities and attractions. It is home to the Miwok Museum as well as a wonderful kids playground, bocce ball court and it sits next to the creek. Families will enjoy exploring the history, artifacts, and traditions of our ancient native american tribes.
