Perched 2,000 feet above sea level on Mount Tamalpais, Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre is a lot more than just a show venue. This natural stone theater seems to melt right into the mountain, and the views of San Francisco Bay are honestly just stunning. Seating tops out at around 4,000, and the acoustics—thanks to all that serpentine rock and the mountain backdrop—are surprisingly good.
The theater’s story goes back almost 110 years, with most of the stonework built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. These days, the annual Mountain Play and other events turn the spot into a lively, festival-like scene. You can get there by hiking in on one of the trails that branch out from the main seating area.
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What really makes Cushing stand out is how it brings people together for both cultural events and time outdoors. It’s easy to make a whole day of it: hike the trails, picnic with a view, and then catch a performance in this historic spot. Depending on the season, you’ll see Marin County in a totally different light.
History and Legacy of Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre
Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre stands as one of the region’s historic landmarks, built in the 1930s and serving as a cultural centerpiece for generations. Its stonework and natural setting have made it a special place for performances that really do connect art and nature.
Founding and Architectural Significance
The Sidney B. Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre—locals usually just call it Mountain Theatre—was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1936 and 1938. You’ll find it at about 1,900 feet up, tucked into a natural bowl on Mount Tamalpais.
Workers used local serpentine stone to build the 4,000-seat theater, giving it a sort of Greek amphitheater vibe that fits right in with the mountain. They shaped the seating to work with the land, which not only looks good but also helps with the sound and the views.
Sidney B. Cushing, the man it’s named after, played a big role in developing Mount Tam in the early days. The stone benches rise in a semicircle around the stage, making the space feel both grand and somehow close-knit.
Notable Events and Performances
The amphitheater is probably most famous for the Mountain Play, an annual tradition that actually started before the current theater was even built. Every spring, thousands make the trek up the mountain for musicals and plays in this one-of-a-kind setting.
Back in 1967, the place made music history with the Fantasy Fair and Magic Mountain Music Festival—some say it was America’s first rock festival. The Doors played “Light My Fire” and “When the Music’s Over” there, which is wild to imagine now.
Jefferson Airplane and The Byrds also played that festival, which came two years before Woodstock and helped kick off the whole open-air music festival trend in the U.S.
Cultural Impact in Marin County
Over time, Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre has become a big part of Marin’s cultural identity. The Mountain Play Association keeps the tradition going, drawing crowds from all over the Bay Area.
For a lot of locals, going to shows here is a family tradition—sometimes passed down for generations. Getting there by trail or shuttle is half the fun and feels like a rite of passage.
It’s not just about the shows, though. The amphitheater stands as a reminder of what public works projects achieved during the Depression. It’s proof that thoughtful design can create places where art and the outdoors meet in a pretty magical way.
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Visiting the Amphitheatre: Essential Information
If you’re planning a trip to Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre, there are a few things you’ll want to know about getting there, tickets, and what to expect. The stone amphitheatre sits 2,000 feet up on Mt. Tam, so you get both killer views and unique performances.
Location and Getting There
You’ll find Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre inside Mount Tamalpais State Park, just north of San Francisco in Marin County. It’s about a half hour’s drive from Mill Valley, but the road winds up the mountain, so give yourself extra time.
Ways to get there:
- Car: Drive up Mt. Tam, but parking is pretty limited, especially on show days. Early birds get the spots.
- Shuttle: For Mountain Play events, shuttles run from Mill Valley parking lots. You pay for the round trip when you board in the morning.
- Hiking: If you’re up for it, several trails lead right to the amphitheatre. It’s a great way to soak in Mt. Tam’s natural beauty before the show.
From San Francisco, just take Highway 101 north over the Golden Gate, then follow signs for Mill Valley and Mount Tamalpais State Park.
Tickets and Visitor Guidelines
Ticket prices depend on the event, but here’s the usual for the Mountain Play (May-June):
- Adults: $45-65
- Discounts for youth and seniors
- Group rates if you’ve got 10 or more
Buy tickets online ahead of time—shows sell out fast. There’s a no-refund policy, but you can transfer tickets if your plans change.
On show days, gates open about two hours before curtain. You’ll want to bring:
- Sun protection (seriously, it gets bright)
- Layers (weather flips fast up there)
- Something soft to sit on (the stone benches are rough)
- Food and drinks (no alcohol, but picnics are allowed)
You can snap photos for personal use. If you want to bring a drone or pro camera gear, you’ll need special permission.
Accessibility and Facilities
The amphitheatre’s mountain setting isn’t the easiest for everyone, but the team’s made some improvements:
- Accessible parking spots close to the entrance
- Assistive listening devices for shows
- A few accessible seating areas (though they’re limited)
It’s a good idea to call ahead if you need specific accommodations.
Facilities are basic but cover the essentials:
- Restrooms by the entrance
- Water fountains
- First aid during events
There aren’t any permanent food vendors, so definitely bring your own snacks. Cell service is spotty at best. You can hit the public trails to Muir Woods or other Mt. Tam spots right from the amphitheatre, so it’s easy to add more to your day.
Things to Do Around Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre
If you’re coming out for a show, don’t miss what’s around the amphitheatre. Mount Tamalpais is packed with natural beauty and cool spots nearby.
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Outdoor Activities and Scenic Trails
Mount Tamalpais has hiking for everyone. The Verna Dunshee Trail is an easy, mostly flat 0.75-mile loop with awesome views of San Francisco Bay—great for beginners or if you’re short on time.
If you want more adventure, branch off onto the trails winding through redwoods and meadows. Just remember to bring water and dress in layers, since the weather can pull a fast one.
Mountain biking is big here, too, on the marked trails. The scenery is unreal—worth stopping for a few photos if you get a clear day.
For something quieter, Bothin Marsh in Mill Valley has bird watching and easy walking paths through wetlands. It’s a peaceful spot—perfect if you want to do some yoga or just escape the crowds for a bit.
Nearby Attractions
Old Mill Park in Mill Valley is a lovely spot to wander among redwoods and check out the old sawmill replica. Downtown has plenty of cafes and little shops—makes for a nice stop before or after your amphitheatre visit.
If you’re up for a drive, Point Reyes National Seashore is about 30 minutes west. This coastal wilderness has beaches, hiking, and wildlife galore. Point Reyes Station nearby is a cute town with great food and local shops.
San Rafael’s Art District has galleries and venues if you want to keep soaking up the arts after your amphitheatre experience.
And for something truly different, you can go elk watching at Point Reyes—herds of tule elk roam the area, and it’s a rare sight.
Experiencing Mill Valley and Local Culture
Mill Valley is this perfect mix of small-town charm and a dash of sophistication, all nestled at the foot of Mount Tam. It’s a great home base for exploring the amphitheatre and the rest of Marin’s culture.
Dining and Nightlife
Mill Valley’s food scene is surprisingly diverse for such a small town. In the morning, grab a coffee at Equator Coffee in the old Lumber Yard—their pastries are legit, and the coffee’s roasted locally. Flour Craft is the spot for gluten-free treats, even if you’re not gluten-free.
For lunch, Parranga does Mexican with a fresh California twist—try the tacos and a cold Baja Brewing IPA. Dipsea Cafe (named after the famous trail race) serves up breakfast all day, and it’s solid.
Dinner? Buckeye Roadhouse has upscale comfort food and oysters, while Mill Valley Beerworks pairs craft beer with seasonal dishes. For a nightcap, the 2AM Club is a local legend—yep, that’s the one on the Tom Petty album cover.
If you’re craving sushi, Sushi Ran in Sausalito is a short drive and honestly some of the best Japanese food in the Bay Area.
Art, Shopping, and Events
Mill Valley’s artistic vibe pops up everywhere—in galleries, quirky boutiques, and even on the sidewalks if you’re paying attention. Every October, the Mill Valley Film Festival draws filmmakers and movie lovers from all over, with a lineup that leans heavily into indie and international films. If you want live theater, Marin Theatre Company keeps things interesting with thought-provoking productions in a cozy space that feels like you’re part of the action.
The old Mill Valley Lumber Yard? It’s now a gathering spot for shoppers and browsers, with places like Guideboat Co. (think sturdy outdoor gear) and Bloomingayle’s, which overflows with local artisan finds. On top of that, the Makers Markets—usually monthly—bring in artists who sell everything from jewelry to ceramics.
Craving more shops? Sausalito’s Bridgeway has you covered. The boutiques there line up along the water, giving you a view of Richardson Bay while you window shop. If you swing by, don’t skip Cowgirl Creamery. Their cheeses are legendary and, honestly, perfect for a picnic at Cushing Amphitheatre.
And once you’ve shopped enough, Woody’s Yogurt Place is the move. It’s a longtime favorite, and their organic frozen yogurt (with toppings you probably haven’t tried before) is the kind of treat you’ll remember.
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Angelico Concert Hall
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Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre
Downtown San Rafael Art District
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Ember Stomp
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Marin Art and Garden Center
Marin County Fair
Marin County International Festival of Short Film & Video
Marin Shakespeare Company
Marin Symphony
Marin Theatre Company
Mill Valley Film Festival
Mill Valley Music Festival
Mountain Play
Point Reyes Lighthouse
Ross Valley Players
Sausalito Center For The Arts
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The California Film Institute
The Playhouse in San Anselmo
Throckmorton Theatre
Tiburon International Film Festival
Tule Elk Reserve
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