Craving a simple plan for great food and fresh air? In Ross, you can pair dinner at Marché on Ross Common with a peaceful visit to the Marin Art & Garden Center (MAGC) and feel like you’ve hit two local favorites in one easy outing. Whether you live nearby or you’re scouting the area, this duo shows off Ross at its best. Below you’ll find hours, reservation tips, parking notes, and two stress‑free itineraries to try. Let’s dive in.

Why Ross is an easy escape

Ross is a small, walkable town centered on Ross Common, which makes planning a short visit simple. You can enjoy a relaxed dinner on the Common, then explore MAGC’s gardens and architecture when the grounds are open. For a quick overview of how these spots fit together, the local visitor guide outlines a convenient micro‑itinerary for Ross and nearby towns in this one‑day guide.

Dinner at Marché on Ross Common

What to expect

Marché is a farm‑to‑table, Euro‑Mediterranean and California‑inspired bistro at 23 Ross Common. The kitchen focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and a casual‑elegant vibe that fits date nights or small celebrations. Get a feel for the experience on the Marché website.

Hours and reservations

Marché serves dinner on select evenings, with later seatings headed into the weekend. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend nights and special occasions. For the most current schedule or to book, check the restaurant site or reach out via the contact page.

Menu and setting

Expect contemporary dishes with French and Italian influences, plus a thoughtful wine list featuring small producers. The patio and indoor dining room offer a comfortable setting, and the restaurant lists accessibility accommodations. Typical dinner spending ranges around $31–$50 per person, depending on what you order. Preview seasonal offerings on the Marché menu page.

A peaceful pause at the Marin Art & Garden Center

Quick facts and hours

MAGC is an 11‑acre nonprofit public garden and cultural site at 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. The grounds are free and open to foot traffic from sunrise to sunset. The parking lot and restrooms usually operate roughly 9:00 to 17:00, so daytime visits are easiest for parking and facilities. Get current details on the MAGC Visit page.

Gardens, design, and history

Stroll through garden rooms, terraces, trellised walkways, and informal paths across the property. MAGC’s mid‑century buildings and landscapes reflect work by notable Bay Area architects and designers. In 2022, the site was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a nod to its architectural and conservation legacy. Read more on MAGC’s National Register listing and its historic timeline.

Programs, events, and rentals

MAGC hosts exhibitions, lectures, workshops, family programs, and seasonal community events. Highlights can include happenings like Marin Open Studios, which brings local artists to the grounds. Dates and offerings change each year, so check the center’s calendar or event listings like this program overview to see what’s on.

Family‑friendly notes

Families often appreciate the daytime hours and open paths. Community resources like the Pixie Co‑op play area and Garden School programs are part of the local mix. For context on family amenities in Ross, see this neighborhood overview from the Ross Property Owners group.

Two easy Ross itineraries

• Late‑afternoon gardens, then dinner: Arrive at MAGC around mid to late afternoon, explore until near sunset, then head to Marché for dinner. This plan lines up with MAGC’s daylight hours and Marché’s evening service. Confirm garden hours on the MAGC Visit page and book your table on Marché’s site.
• Dinner first, gardens the next morning: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Marché, then come back to MAGC the following day for a quiet morning stroll. This keeps your evening unhurried and gives you great light in the gardens. Reserve ahead at Marché and check daytime access on MAGC’s page.

Practical tips for a smooth visit

• Parking: Ross Common has street parking and small nearby lots. MAGC offers a free lot during daytime hours, which can fill on event days. Plan a few extra minutes to park and walk.
• Reservations: Marché is popular on weekends. Book ahead and confirm any special seating or dietary needs on the contact page.
• Accessibility: Both Marché and MAGC note wheelchair access on listings. Review each site for current accommodation details before you go.
• Crowds and timing: Weeknights can feel quieter at Marché. MAGC is usually calm outside of scheduled events, so check the Visit page for any special closures.
• Seasonal notes: Marché’s patio and occasional live‑music events are seasonal. Verify current hours and programming on the Marché website.

Why this duo matters if you are considering Ross

Together, Marché and MAGC show the simple pleasures of life in Ross: a refined local dining scene and a treasured green space with culture woven in. If you are exploring homes here, this is the rhythm many residents enjoy, from date nights to weekend garden walks. Experiencing both gives you a clear feel for the town’s scale, pace, and community spirit.

Ready to get to know Ross through its neighborhoods, architecture, and everyday lifestyle moments? Reach out to Donna Goldman for a tailored tour and expert guidance as you explore your next move in Marin.

FAQs

Is the Marin Art & Garden Center free to visit?

• Yes. The gardens are free and open from sunrise to sunset. Parking and restrooms typically operate during daytime hours. Check the MAGC Visit page for any updates or special‑event closures.

What are MAGC’s hours and parking details?

• Grounds are open sunrise to sunset. The parking lot and restrooms usually run about 9:00 to 17:00. Plan daytime visits for easiest access and confirm details on the Visit page.

Does Marché take reservations for dinner?

• Yes. Marché accepts reservations and recommends booking for weekend evenings. See the restaurant’s latest schedule or contact them via the Marché site.

What kind of menu and price range does Marché offer?

• Expect seasonal California cuisine with French and Italian influences and a thoughtful wine list. Typical dinner spending is roughly $31–$50 per person, depending on what you order. Preview current offerings on the menu page.

Can I host a wedding or private event at MAGC?

• Yes. MAGC rents spaces for weddings and special events. Review details and start planning by visiting the center’s site and events information, beginning with the Visit page.

Is Ross easy to explore on foot between these spots?

• The town center around Ross Common is compact, and MAGC sits nearby in Ross. Many visitors pair the two with a short drive or simple local walk, then adjust plans based on parking and event schedules.