Novato

In the rolling hills and valleys of northern Marin County is Novato, the second-largest community in the county. A town once called "a gateway to the Wine Country," Novato is increasingly being discovered as a destination in its own right. It's due to great weather, a lively downtown, and homes that provide the best value in Marin.

You'll find luxury homes of Black Point, waterfront living on the lagoons of Bel Marin Keys, the wooded Alameda Del Prado, and Indian Valley Road and its horse-country estates. Each neighborhood brings its own personality. You can find the feel that matches your lifestyle.

Downtown, recent beautification has brought new life to the businesses along Grant Avenue. The downtown area is alive with a Tuesday evening farmers market, outdoor movies, parades, and art and wine festivals. The Vintage Oaks Shopping Center offers one-stop value with Costco, Target, and Macy's Furniture.

Let's point out one recent addition. In the '90s, Novato converted the Hamilton Field military base into new housing and a business park. The former hangars now host cutting-edge biotech companies, digital development, the Marin Museum of Contemporary Art, and more than 40 art studios. Novato is also the headquarters of the large insurance company Fireman's Fund and the Buck Institute, a research organization focusing solely on aging.