Craving something different this spring? The Mountain Play on Mount Tamalpais in Marin County might be just the ticket. Imagine Broadway musicals performed outdoors, with the whole thing set against sweeping mountain views. This tradition has been going strong for over a hundred years, and honestly, it’s got a special kind of magic you won’t find anywhere else.
The Mountain Play blends professional theater with the wild beauty of Mount Tamalpais State Park, making it a standout cultural event just north of San Francisco. Part of the fun is getting there—hop on a shuttle bus for $10 (adults) or $5 (youth) and skip the hassle of parking. A lot of folks pack a picnic and make a whole day out of it, soaking up the sun before the show kicks off.
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It’s not just about the performance, either. The Mountain Play is a chance to unplug, wander a few trails, and just be outside for a while. The 2025 season is shaping up to be another good one, with comfy seating and those jaw-dropping views. Bring your own snacks or grab something at the venue—either way, it’s a local tradition that’s worth experiencing at least once.
Overview of Mountain Play
There’s nothing quite like the Mountain Play: open-air theater on Mount Tamalpais, with the Bay Area spread out below. It’s a full-on festival vibe, with live music, laughter, and the occasional hawk circling overhead.
History and Significance
Back in 1913, the Mountain Play got its start, making it one of California’s oldest outdoor theater events. Performances happen in the historic Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre—a stone structure built in the 1930s that seats about 3,750 people.
The mountain itself adds a dramatic flair. You’re sitting at elevation, looking out over Marin County, with the show unfolding in front of you. Over the decades, this event has become a real community touchstone, connecting people to both the arts and the wild landscape. The organization behind it works hard to keep the tradition alive and make theater accessible to everyone who wants to join in.
Annual Schedule and Performances
Mountain Play usually runs late spring into early summer, with shows on Sundays in May and June. For 2025, expect weekend performances—professional productions, open air, and all the fresh mountain air you can handle.
Every year, they pick a new show—often a Broadway favorite. The 2024 season featured “Kinky Boots,” which felt like a perfect fit for the setting. Performances start at 2:00 PM and usually last 2-3 hours with an intermission. Since it’s all outside, you’ll catch the show and the scenery at the same time.
Family-Friendly Experience
Kids, grandparents, everyone seems to find something to love here. Arrive early, spread out a blanket, and have a picnic before things get started. Some families show up in the morning to hike or explore the mountain before settling in for the show.
It’s more than just watching a performance—it’s a full outdoor adventure. Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and layers; the weather up there changes fast. You can rent a cushion or bring your own seat pad, since those stone benches get pretty hard after a while.
Getting up the mountain is easy thanks to shuttle buses from spots around Marin. If you’re not into mountain driving, just let someone else do it. Some folks hike up or down for the extra challenge (and bragging rights).
Planning Your Trip to Mountain Play
A little planning goes a long way with the Mountain Play. Between tickets, transit, and weather, it pays to think ahead so you can just relax once you’re there.
How to Get There
You’ll find the Mountain Play on Mount Tamalpais, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge in Mill Valley. Here’s how most people get up there:
Shuttle Service: The Mountain Play Express shuttle is honestly the easiest option. Buses leave from places like Tamalpais High School and Mill Valley. It’s about $10 round-trip, and you don’t have to worry about parking.
Driving: Want to drive? There’s a parking lot at the theater, but you’ll need to arrive well before 11 AM—spaces disappear fast.
Hiking: Feeling adventurous? Hike up from Mill Valley on one of several trails. Some folks ride the shuttle up, then hike down after the show—a classic Bay Area move.
Carpooling: Grab some friends and ride together. It keeps traffic down and helps the mountain stay a little wilder.
Ticketing and Accessibility
Tickets usually run $30-$75, depending on where you want to sit.
How to Buy:
- Online through the Mountain Play website (easiest)
- By phone (old school, but it works)
- At the gate, if there are any left
Seating Options:
- Reserved benches with backs
- General admission stone seating
- Premium packages (cushions, shade, the works)
The venue does a good job with accessibility. There’s a shuttle from parking to the entrance, and a handful of wheelchair spaces (reserve those early, though).
Bring a cushion for the stone seats, and maybe a blanket—temperatures can swing pretty wildly during the show.
Best Times to Visit
The season usually runs mid-May through mid-June, with shows on Sundays at 2 PM. Occasionally, they’ll add a Saturday performance.
Weather Stuff:
- May can be foggy
- June is usually warmer and clearer
- Fog tends to lift by showtime, but you never know
Try to get there at least an hour early. You’ll have time to grab a seat, wander a bit, and take in those views. A lot of folks show up around 11 AM, picnic, and just hang out before the performance.
On a clear day, the views are unreal—San Francisco, Mount Diablo, all of it. If you’re sun-sensitive, aim for a shadier seat or bring extra sun protection.
Outdoor Adventures and Activities Nearby
Marin County is basically paradise if you like the outdoors. Trails, beaches, picnic spots—there’s a lot to do before or after the show.
Exploring Hiking and Trails
Mount Tamalpais State Park wraps around the amphitheater with over 50 miles of trails. The Dipsea Trail is a classic: 7.4 miles from Mill Valley to Stinson Beach, with killer ocean views. If that sounds like too much, try the 2-mile Verna Dunshee Trail around East Peak for 360-degree views without the sweat.
Muir Woods National Monument is nearby, with ancient redwoods and paved paths. The main trail is just a mile and accessible for everyone.
China Camp State Park is another favorite. The Bayview Trail (3.5 miles) is moderate and gives you great views.
Bring water, wear layers, and check the weather or trail conditions before heading out. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall usually means crystal-clear skies.
Mountain Biking and Running
Marin is basically the birthplace of mountain biking, and the trails around Mt. Tam are legendary. Camp Tamarancho has single-track routes for intermediate to advanced riders—a 5-mile loop with some technical sections and fun descents.
If you’re new to biking, the Tennessee Valley Trail is a wide fire road that’s perfect for beginners. It’s 3.4 miles to the beach, and pretty flat.
Runners love the Coastal Trail for its mix of terrain and views. The 5.5-mile stretch between Muir Beach and Tennessee Valley is a favorite training route.
Every June, the Dipsea Race draws trail runners from all over. Quick tip: yield to folks heading uphill, stick to the trails, and avoid muddy routes after rain.
Picnic Areas and Scenic Spots
East Peak has picnic tables with some of the best views in the Bay Area. If you want a spot on the weekend, get there early.
Bootjack Picnic Area is tucked under redwoods and stays cool even on hot days. There’s a waterfall nearby, which is always a bonus.
Trojan Point, along Ridgecrest Boulevard, is a great spot for sunsets—no hiking required, just pull over and soak it in.
Rock Spring has tables near trailheads, perfect for a post-hike meal.
Remember to pack out your trash, stash your food from curious critters, and maybe bring a cushion for the wooden seats. Most areas don’t have tons of amenities, so bring water.
Beaches and Waterfront Visits
Stinson Beach is about 30 minutes from the Mountain Play, with three miles of soft sand—great for a swim in summer when lifeguards are around.
Muir Beach is smaller and quieter, with tidepools and a revamped parking area (restrooms and picnic tables included).
If paddling is your thing, Tomales Bay is ideal for kayaking or paddleboarding. Protected waters make it beginner-friendly. Blue Waters Kayaking rents gear and offers guided tours—maybe you’ll spot some harbor seals.
Point Reyes National Seashore is just up the road, with dramatic Pacific coast scenery. Limantour Beach is a quieter alternative to the southern Marin beaches.
Check tide tables before heading out—some spots disappear at high tide. Beach parking fills up fast on sunny weekends.
Experiencing Local Marin Culture and Attractions
There’s more to Marin than just the Mountain Play. The towns and parks nearby have a vibe all their own—quirky, creative, and very NorCal.
Discover Mill Valley and Sausalito
Mill Valley sits right at the base of Mount Tam, making it a great home base. The downtown is full of shops, galleries, and the Sweetwater Music Hall, which always has something interesting going on.
If you’re around in October, the Mill Valley Film Festival is a big deal. It draws filmmakers and movie buffs from everywhere.
Sausalito is just a short drive away, with waterfront charm and plenty of art galleries. The floating homes community is worth a stroll—colorful houseboats with a history that goes back to post-WWII bohemian days.
Muir Woods National Monument and Cathedral Grove
Muir Woods is one of the last old-growth redwood forests in the Bay Area—a peaceful spot just minutes from the amphitheater.
You’ll need to reserve a permit in advance; they limit visitors to keep things healthy for the trees. Early mornings are quieter if you want to avoid crowds.
Cathedral Grove is the highlight—massive redwoods, some over 250 feet tall and 800 years old. Stand there for a minute and just listen; it’s kind of magical.
The main trail is paved and accessible, so it’s easy for just about everyone.
Dining, Coffee, and Local Events
Marin takes its food scene seriously. In Mill Valley, Equator Coffee is a cozy spot for a pre-show caffeine fix. They’re known for sustainable practices and really good coffee.
If seafood’s your thing, FISH in Sausalito serves up dock-to-dish meals with a view. They were the first Seafood Watch Restaurant Partner, which is pretty cool.
Farmers’ markets pop up all week in different towns. The Marin Farmers Market in San Rafael (Thursdays and Sundays) is huge—over 200 vendors at peak season.
Wine lovers can check out small tasting rooms with local wines that really capture Marin’s cool climate. It’s not Napa, but that’s kind of the point.
Unique Stays and Camping Options
If you’re after a bit of luxury, Cavallo Point Lodge near Sausalito is tough to beat. This historic property used to be a military post, but now it’s all about those jaw-dropping Golden Gate Bridge views and an award-winning restaurant. Not a bad spot to unwind, really.
Camping, on the other hand, drops you right into nature. Mount Tamalpais State Park has a few campgrounds—just be sure to snag a reservation way ahead of time, especially if you’re eyeing a summer weekend or one of those Mountain Play dates. They fill up fast.
Mill Valley’s inns and B&Bs have their own kind of charm. Most are close enough to stroll to shops and restaurants, and a lot of them sit in historic buildings with lovely gardens. It’s easy to get a feel for the town’s personality just by staying in one.
And if you’re up for something out of the ordinary, renting a houseboat in Sausalito might be the move. These floating homes let you soak up the Bay Area’s maritime vibe and wake up to water and skyline views you won’t forget anytime soon.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Marin County! Look for deals here:
Marin County Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
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