Almost everyone in Marin knows t, the one of the most celebrated architects in history. What a lot of people may not know about the Civic Center, however, is what a great spot it is for families throughout the week, all year long.
History Tours
Why not start out with the the Civic Center itself, if you or anyone else in your house is a history or architect buff? This state and national landmark offers docent led tours, available on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. that cost $5. No reservations are needed but groups larger than 10 can arrange for a private tour.
The Marin County Cultural Services website also has videos of the tour itself, if you and the kiddos want to check out the details before wandering the building on your own time.
Parks and Recreation
After the tour, head down to the 20-acre informal park known as the You can fish in the 11-acre lagoon and picnic area can be enjoyed by any number of family members. Don’t forget to bring some bread for the feathered friends who call the watery spot home.
Kids wanting to burn off some steam can do so at the playground. Right across the street is the petanque courts (a French game very similar to bocce or lawn bowling) and the Field of Dogs dog park, which is frequented by residents of San Rafael and all over Marin.
From Pinball Expos to Antique Fairs
The Civic Center Cultural Services Department offers events and expositions throughout the year. Ranging from pinball expos and antique fairs to car shows and art festivals, the variety makes each weekend a different adventure. A good percentage of those special events are kid-friendly.
Cultural Services also schedules concerts for parents and children alike at the , and department director Jim Farley has announced exciting performances for 2012 including music icon Peter Frampton, the legendary Debbie Reynolds, kid favorites such as Jay Alexander Magic!, Masque Unit Jr. Theater of Marin’s The Wizard of Oz and much more.
Keeping it Local
If you're looking for a farm-to-table experience, don’t forget to check out the wonderful , held Thursdays and Sundays from 8.a.m. to 1 p.m. rain or shine, year round. Kids will love to sample the freshly picked fruit, veggies and the belgian waffle truck, while moms and dads can learn and experiment with seasonal produce and all sorts of special treats.
Why not select your lunch at the market and head for Lagoon Park? Top it off with some petanque and it’s a near perfect day at the Civic Center.
