Fairfax, California
Fairfax is a small town nestled in the hills between San Anselmo and the San Geronimo Valley. With a population of about 8,000, sunny weather, and a bustling downtown, Fairfax is a great place to visit or live.
1. History
Fairfax is named after Charles Snowden Fairfax, who was a descendant of English lords and arrived in California during the Gold Rush. He received the property in Fairfax as a wedding gift from a friend in 1855.
In the early 1900’s, Fairfax became a weekend getaway for visitors from San Francisco who could take the ferry and the train to Fairfax. Fairfax was also the site of many western films. The film “Salomy Jane” was filmed in Fairfax and other Marin County locations.
2. Schools
Students who live in Fairfax are served by the Ross Valley School District from TK-8th grade and then the Tamalpais Union High School District for high school.
The Ross Valley School District has 4 elementary schools and one middle school. Brookside, Wade Thomas, and Hidden Valley schools are all in the town of San Anselmo. Manor elementary and White Hill Middle School are in the town of Fairfax. The Ross Valley School District is known for its innovation and responsive teaching practices. Fun fact - I attended Wade Thomas elementary school and so did my mother and grandfather.
Archie Williams High School (formerly known as Sir Francis Drake High School) is located in San Anselmo. Not only did I attend this fabulous high school, my husband is currently an art teacher there. They have the best art department in the world!
3. Downtown, Restaurants, Shopping, and Things to do
Fairfax’s popular downtown area is full of restaurants, cafes, bars and shopping. Try the beignets at The Hummingbird Cafe and the pork belly street tacos from Stillwater. Grab your picnic supplies at the Good Earth Natural Foods supermarket in town. This place has a cafe, bakery, deli, and everything else you could possibly need.
Want some fresh air and exercise - try hiking to Cataract Falls. It’s steep, but worth it. Another idea is to learn all about the history of mountain biking at the Marin Museum of Bicycling. Or, grab a movie at the Fairfax Movie Theater. This classic theater has 4 screens and is located right downtown.
If you’re looking for some nightlife, you have a few options in Fairfax. Mac’s at 19 Broadway and Peri’s Tavern both have regular music and entertainment and lot’s of drinks!
