Before computer modeling, engineers and scientists needing to see what would happen if levels of the San Francisco Bay and Sacramento Delta River system changed dramatically built the very detailed and still very big Bay Model in Sausalito. It was constructed in the late 1950s to see if a proposal to build two huge dams in the Bay was feasible. Fortunately for everyone, the model helped determine it wasn't. The model was then used for other scientific research and is now exclusively an educational facility. Housed in a former World War II Liberty ship building, there's also a growing section devoted to Sausalito's World War II shipbuilding history.
Parking and public transportation at The Bay Model
At the north end of Sausalito's harbor, the Bay Model is within walking distance from downtown and the ferry terminal. A goodly amount of free parking is also available on the premises and nearby. Several Golden Gate Transit busses run very close by.
Best and worst time go to The Bay Model
Many people use the parking lot to start hikes or bike rides in Southern Marin plus it's a nice place to hang out at the water. In such a nice area it can get busy on weekends, but most of the time it's not as crowded as it could be.
Admission to The Bay Model
Parking nearby is free and entrance to the model is free but donations are accepted and certainly necessary to keep the exhibit going.
Must see/do at The Bay Model
Take your time and check out the entire Bay Model, from San Pablo Bay to San Jose, up the Delta towards Sacramento and out into the Pacific Ocean. It doesn't take too long for the tide to go in and out so you can see it at work. There are several free interpretive audio spots and plenty of conservation-based activities for the kids. The entire WWII exhibit spotlights a very important part of Sausalito, California and United States history.
Other places to visit near The Bay Model
After seeing the Bay Model and the WWII exhibits, why not go see the Bay and some old military installations from WWII and much earlier? The nearby Marin Headlands offers both spectacular scenery and old U.S. Army barracks, bunkers and more. The two places go hand-in-hand. There are plenty of fine places to eat and drink in Sausalito and nearby Mill Valley.
Insider tip for visitors to The Bay Model
Go around the exhibit as far as you can and check out areas you've never been. Might get an idea for a hike or a day trip. Pick an area near some of the tidelands or another obvious spot and watch the water rise and fall. The kids activity section is also really fun even for adults. And when you're done learning about the Bay, going out the door and seeing it for real makes you appreciate where you are that much more.
Author's bio: Alex Drude is a Bay Area native. He has been fascinated by the Bay Model since he was a kid. Follow his sports and travel musings on Twitter @Alex_Drude and on Facebook.