Have you ever wondered about places that hold a special kind of magic, a sense of history that truly speaks to you? The Outdoor Art Club in Mill Valley, California, is just such a spot. It's a place where history, beautiful buildings, and a strong community spirit come together in a very appealing way. This club is more than just a building; it's a living piece of local heritage, a place that has helped shape the charm of Mill Valley for over a century, you know.
Located right in the heart of downtown Mill Valley, this special club has a history that goes back to 1902. It began as a private, nonprofit group for women, and its goal was clear: to keep the natural beauty of Mill Valley and the surrounding areas safe and lovely. This vision was, in a way, inspired by the "City Beautiful" urban design idea, which aimed to make cities more attractive and pleasant for everyone, you see.
From its charming events like the annual garden tour to its role as a lovely setting for special occasions, the Outdoor Art Club offers a unique look into a cherished part of Northern California. We will explore what makes this place so special, from its famous architecture to its important work in the community. So, come along as we uncover the story of this amazing Mill Valley landmark.
- History and Legacy of the Outdoor Art Club
- The Iconic Building and Grounds
- Experience the Outdoor Art Club
- Supporting a Local Treasure
- Frequently Asked Questions About the Outdoor Art Club
History and Legacy of the Outdoor Art Club
The story of the Outdoor Art Club is a long one, reaching back to the early 1900s. It is, in some respects, a story of community spirit and a love for natural beauty. This club has, for more than a hundred years, been a cornerstone of Mill Valley life, very much shaping its character.
A Glimpse into the Past
The Outdoor Art Club began its life in 1902. It was started by a group of women who saw the importance of preserving the local scenery. One of the founding members was Carrie Klyce, whose husband, Harvey Klyce, was a well-known architect in Mill Valley. His own home and office, built in 1900, was quite a gracious shingle-style building, you know. This connection shows how deeply rooted the club was in the town's early days and its architectural growth.
Just two years after the club formed, in 1904, its own building came to be. The famous American architect, Bernard Maybeck, designed this structure. Maybeck was known for his unique style, often blending natural materials with a sense of grandeur. The club's building is, in fact, a historical landmark, a very important part of Mill Valley's architectural story. It reflects the ideas of the "City Beautiful" movement, which aimed to make urban areas more attractive and harmonious with nature, that is.
A Place of Purpose
From its very start, the Outdoor Art Club has been a private, nonprofit women's organization. Its main goal, or "corporate purpose," as they call it, is to keep the natural scenery of Mill Valley and the surrounding country safe and beautiful. This means they work to protect the local environment and make the area a nicer place to live and visit, very much so.
Beyond its preservation work, the club also plays a big part in helping others. It serves as a major fundraiser for different charitable groups in Marin County. So, when you support the club, perhaps by attending an event, you are also helping many other good causes in the area. This commitment to both local beauty and community support makes the Outdoor Art Club a truly special place, in a way.
The Iconic Building and Grounds
The physical location of the Outdoor Art Club is just as important as its history and purpose. It is a place that many people find truly charming, a spot that seems to have a story to tell. Its design and setting contribute greatly to its appeal, you see.
Maybeck's Masterpiece
The Outdoor Art Club building stands at 1 West Blithedale Avenue, right in the heart of downtown Mill Valley, California. It's a building that Bernard Maybeck designed in 1904, and it shows off his particular style. People often describe it as having a "magical old world charm." This is, apparently, thanks to its unique architecture and the way it fits into its surroundings.
Inside, you will find a beautiful wooden reception hall. This hall provides a warm and inviting space for gatherings. Outside, there is a large, enclosed, and private garden patio. This patio is surrounded by beautiful trees, creating a peaceful and very lovely setting. It's a place where you can feel a sense of calm and natural beauty, almost.
A Beloved Community Hub
The club's grounds and building are not just pretty; they are well-loved by those who visit. Reviews often speak of the "magical old world charm" and the "beautiful trees surrounding a patio." These comments highlight the unique atmosphere that the club offers. People who have been there, for instance, often share photos and positive thoughts about their experiences.
With many likes and visits recorded on social media, it's clear that the Outdoor Art Club holds a special place in the hearts of many. It's a place where people gather, celebrate, and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings. This strong connection to the community shows how much this historic building means to the folks in Mill Valley and Marin County, that is.
Experience the Outdoor Art Club
The Outdoor Art Club is not just a historical landmark; it's an active center for events and gatherings. It offers different ways for people to experience its charm and support its mission. So, whether you are looking for a community event or a place for a personal celebration, there are options.
The Annual Garden Tour
One of the club's most well-known events is its annual Garden Tour. This tour is a major fundraiser, helping to support charitable organizations throughout Marin County. It features a look at gardens, architecture, and art in Mill Valley. The tour has been a tradition for many years, with the club even celebrating its 30th anniversary recently, which is quite a milestone, you know.
For example, in past years, the garden tour took place on a Thursday in May, typically from 9 AM to 4 PM. Tickets, which might cost around $100, often include a souvenir wine glass. Visitors pick a time slot for their tour, perhaps 9 AM, 10 AM, 11 AM, or 12 noon. The tour begins when you board a shuttle that leaves directly from the Outdoor Art Club's 1904 Bernard Maybeck building. It's a wonderful way to see some of Mill Valley's hidden gems and support a good cause at the same time, very much so.
Your Special Event Venue
Beyond its community events, the Outdoor Art Club is also a popular spot for private gatherings. Many people choose it as a venue for weddings and other special occasions. Its unique charm and beautiful setting make it a memorable place for celebrations, you see.
If you are thinking about holding an event there, the club does have rental fees. For example, in 2023, the rental rate for Saturdays was $6,500. Fridays and Sundays were a bit less, at $5,500. For weddings, prices can start around $9,145 for about 50 guests. The club allows you to customize your own price, and you can look at photos and special offers to help plan your event. This flexibility helps people create a day that fits their needs and wishes, which is rather nice.
Supporting a Local Treasure
The Outdoor Art Club is more than just a beautiful building or a place for events. It is a living part of Mill Valley's story, and it continues to contribute to the well-being of the community. Its work goes beyond just hosting gatherings, in a way.
Beyond the Events
As a nonprofit organization, the Outdoor Art Club is deeply committed to its original purpose: to preserve the natural beauty of Mill Valley and the surrounding areas. The funds raised from events like the garden tour and private rentals go towards maintaining the historic building and grounds. They also support various charitable organizations in Marin County. This means that every event held there, every ticket bought for the garden tour, helps to keep this important piece of history alive and supports wider community efforts, you know.
The club's long history, going back to 1902, shows its lasting dedication to its goals. It is a place that continues to inspire and serve its community. Its role as a historical landmark and a center for good works makes it a true local treasure. If you want to learn more about the club's ongoing work and how it supports the community, you can visit their website or perhaps look into their upcoming events. You can also read more about their garden tour and other activities.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Outdoor Art Club
People often have questions about the Outdoor Art Club. Here are some common ones that might come up, offering more details about this special place, you see.
What is the Outdoor Art Club?
The Outdoor Art Club is a private, nonprofit women's organization founded in 1902 in Mill Valley, California. Its main goal is to preserve the natural scenery of Mill Valley and the surrounding country. It also works to beautify the area and serves as a major fundraiser for charitable organizations in Marin County. It is, in fact, located in a historical landmark building designed by Bernard Maybeck in 1904, very much so.
Can I rent the Outdoor Art Club for an event like a wedding?
Yes, you can rent the Outdoor Art Club for special events, including weddings. The club features a large, enclosed private garden patio and a beautiful wooden reception hall inside. Rental rates vary depending on the day; for example, in 2023, Saturdays were $6,500 and Fridays/Sundays were $5,500. Wedding costs for about 50 guests might start around $9,145. You can contact them directly to customize pricing and get more details, that is.
What is the Outdoor Art Club Garden Tour?
The Outdoor Art Club Garden Tour is an annual event and a significant fundraiser for the club and local charities. It showcases gardens, architecture, and art located in Mill Valley. Visitors typically purchase tickets, which might include a souvenir glass, and board a shuttle from the club's building to explore various beautiful locations. This tour is a wonderful way to experience the local beauty and support good causes, almost every year.
Learn more about the Outdoor Art Club on our site, and link to this page here.
