tour of nevada city

• Work with Me
• Start a Blog
• Yearly Roundups
• 101 in 1001 Goals
• how to start a travel blog
• tips for new bloggers
• write me a guest post!
• Work With Me

A Passion and A Passport

Proving Travel is Possible with a Full-Time 9-5

Your Weekend Getaway Guide to Nevada City: California’s Prettiest Gold Rush Town

last Updated: May 7, 2023 california nevada city

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Spending a weekend away and looking for the best things to do in Nevada City, California? I’m sharing all my top tips, itinerary inspiration, and favorite things to do in this little historic western town.

Tall, evergreen pine trees, crisp mountain air, and a laid back historic downtown. That’s Nevada City in a nutshell. And it’s downright glorious. My recommendation — get there ASAP, because I have a feeling this little town is gonna blow up like there’s no tomorrow. It is the best preserved Gold Rush Town in all of California!

If you’re longing for a trip to the mountains (and wanna escape the crowds of popular Lake Tahoe and Big Bear Lake), head on over to Nevada City! This Gold Rush Town is one of Gold Country’s prettiest towns, and I promise you’ll fall for it the first time you visit. It’s full of artists, hipsters (and full-on hippies), and those just looking to escape the over-crowded Bay Area.

Not only are there pine forests, fresh air, rolling hills, and streams and creeks, but it’s super historic and artsy. There’s small town charm and friendly locals. It’s hippy dippy and historic, all-in-one! Meaning, something for everyone! And there’s about a million Dutch Bros around, so ya know… that’s more than a few points in my book.

You’ll find rock shops filled with moonstones, pyrite, and other magical crystals, herbal lounges with healing teas, and lots of great food and art galleries. There’s also an emphasis on eco-friendly practices and sustainability, which I absolutely love. People don’t say it’s Sierra Nevada’s friendliest and liveliest Gold Rush town for nothing!

Nevada City makes for a perfect weekend trip from San Francisco . And it’s only 2 ½ hours from the Bay Area (although avoid rush hour if you don’t wanna sit in traffic for extra hours). We’ve been there and it’s not fun. You can always stop at Fentons in Vacaville for some ice cream.

Some History of Nevada City 

The town of Nevada City began in 1849, right as the California Gold Rush was thriving. And it was actually called Nevada until the neighboring state (Nevada!) took the name for itself!

Since Nevada City was one of the richest mining communities during the Gold Rush (along with nearby Grass Valley), the business district really grew! As did the Victorian neighborhoods. 

A lot of cool stuff actually happened here back in the day!

• Former US President Herbert Hoover lived and worked in Nevada City as a gold miner when he was younger. Former US senators lived here as well.
• PG&E’s first general office was located here in Nevada City at the National Hotel (which you can still see today in downtown Nevada City).
• Lots of inventions were started here, like those in the mining, water, and electricity fields.
• The College of California, which later became the UC Berkeley was incorporated in Nevada City!

Since there’s so much historical significance, the entire downtown district is now a National Historic Landmark (and has been since 1985)! The little city still holds its old mining town appearance and retains its old-fashioned charm. I like to think of it as a unique blend of yesterday and today — and you’ll see exactly what I mean wandering around the town! There’s tons of gold mining history — way more than other Gold Country towns.

So, where is Nevada City?

Nope — it’s not in the state of Nevada (and nowhere near Las Vegas )! I could’ve fooled you, right?! Nevada City is actually found in thick pine forests in Northern California (about an hour from Lake Tahoe, and actually the gateway to Tahoe National Forest)! Yes, it can get confusing, I know. :p

To be more specific, Nevada City is located within Nevada County on State Route 49, “The Golden Chain Highway”, right between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe. It’s actually right on the border of the Tahoe National Forest, and only 80 miles west of Reno, Nevada. Because of this, a weekend in Nevada City makes for super easy weekend getaways from Reno, Sacramento, and the Bay Area .

Since it’s on the western slope of the Northern Sierra Nevada mountain range, there’s lots of lakes and rivers nearby! And of course tons of green, pine-covered hills.

How to Get to Nevada City, California

No matter where you’re coming from in Northern California , Nevada City isn’t terribly far. If you’re visiting from farther away, you’ll wanna book flights into either San Francisco (SFO), Oakland (OAK), Reno (RNO), or its closest airport, Sacramento (SMF).

Here’s some popular spots and how far they are from Nevada City to give you an approximate idea of travel time:

• Truckee : 50 miles (1 hour)
• Sacramento : 60 miles (1 hour, 15 min)
• North Lake Tahoe : 65 miles (1 hour, 15 min)
• Reno, Nevada : 80 miles (1 ½ hours)
• South Lake Tahoe : 95 miles (2 hours)
• Napa Valley : 130 miles (2 ½ hours)
• San Francisco : 147 miles (2 ½ hour)
• San Jose : 180 miles (3 hours)

When to Visit Nevada City 

My sister-in-law and her little family ended up moving to Nevada City not too long ago, and we’ve loved visiting ever since! Because of that, we’ve gotten to experience the little mountain town in all four seasons, and can honestly say, there’s no terrible time to visit (although fall will always be my favorite — those leaves are like no other)!

We love coming up here to not only visit our family, but to experience the changing seasons in California (since we kinda get perpetual spring in the Bay Area). Finally – a place in California that actually gets all 4 seasons (although there’s no palm trees — guess we’ll have to keep going to Palm Springs and San Diego for those)!

In the winter the town is covered with fluffy white snow, fall sees beautiful foliage, and there’s loads of flowers blooming in spring. Summer can get pretty hot, but thankfully there’s a bunch of watering holes to cool off nearby.

Honestly, there’s no horrible time to visit Nevada City, but it just depends on what you’re looking for! This is partially due to its perfect elevation at 2,500 feet. Not too high, and not too low!

Its high elevation offers an escape from the valley heat in the summer, yet low enough to avoid the surprising winter snows in California (which do happen at higher elevations more than you think)!

• Summer : July and August are honestly way too hot, but temps are about 10°F cooler than the steamy Sacramento Valley. And plus, there’s a few watering holes to cool off in if you do find yourself visiting during the hot summer months. This is also when you’ll find most of the town’s festivals and events, like First Friday Art Walk, Nevada County Fair, Nevada City Film Festival, and Movies Under the Pines. Be sure to check out the Nevada City events calendar to see what’s happening when you’re in town!
• Fall : OMG the foliage is so pretty in Nevada City in the fall. If you can get over here then, 100% do it. Not only does the town get such gorgeous fall colors in October and November, but the air is cool and fresh. The foliage is so spectacular here that the tourism board even has a DIY tour of all the top foliage spots in town!
• Winter : Looking to visit the festive Christmas markets and (possibly) some snow?! Head on over around the holiday season! It’ll be pretty cool and wet (fingers crossed the rain turns to snow), but just bundle up and you’ll be good to go! While you can’t count on snow all the time from December to February, the little town sure is a winter wonderland when it does!
• Spring : Wildflowers galore! Especially on the Buttermilk Bend Trail from March to May. This is also when you can frolic in the spring tulips at Crystal Hermitage Garden!

Where to Stay in Nevada City

There’s so many cute bed and breakfasts in Nevada City, it’s hard to choose which one to book!

When we visit the historic little town, we typically stay with family. BUT we’ve spent a night at The Holbrooke Hotel in nearby Grass Valley, and can 100% recommend that charming little spot. I mean, our room even had a clawfoot tub — yup, it’s pretty spectacular.

I also have my eye on glamping at the Inn Town Campground , which looks absolutely dreamy. A few others that sound right up my alley:

• The National Exchange Hotel: Newly renovated, combining Victorian opulence with modern comforts
• Broad Street Inn : there’s only 6 rooms (including a 700 sq ft carriage house that looks so charming and cozy, originally built in 1870), so book early! You’ll find a peaceful garden on property as well. 
• Gold Creek Inn: On our first visit to Nevada City (when my sister-in-law was thinking about moving here!), we stayed at the cutest little inn right outside of town – Gold Creek Inn. There were creeks and waterfalls in the backyard and a firepit and string lights for nightly s’mores — plus, its location was a super easy walk to town and even within walking distance to the suspension bridge hike (more details below). 
• Harmony Ridge Lodge : Rustic luxury in a stunning natural setting, with tended gardens and 3 1/2 acres of private woods.
• The Madison House : Want a historic Bed & Breakfast with Victorian rooms, hearty breakfasts, and gracious hospitality? You’ll find that over here!

My Favorite Things to do in Nevada City (and beyond)

1. wander around the historic downtown.

No visit to Nevada City is complete until you’ve spent a morning walking on Broad Street (the main street in town). You’ll find narrow streets and century-old buildings, old mining apparatuses with plaques explaining the history, red brick storefronts, and white church steeples. If it sounds like a historical dream come true, that’s because it is!

Despite all its history, the city has retained an artsy, bohemian flavor that just adds to its appeal. The shops downtown have everything you could want — from clothing, homemade local jewelry, wine, gems, and other fun goodies! We love wandering around and perusing the eclectic shops. My favorites are: The Earth Store, Mama Madrones, Solstice, and Kitkitdizzi ! 

Fan of old-school candy shops? Don’t miss Nevada City Chocolate Shoppe – there’s old-fashioned caramel apples, chocolate covered drumsticks, milkshakes, even homemade fudge! And definitely head to Treats for some ice cream! Want something more substantial? We love the fresh and local organic fare from Heartwood Eatery , right in town. 

And if you’re super interested in learning about all the history (it’s quite fascinating), sign up for a historic walking tour!

2. Cool off at the South Yuba River

A stunning blue river with boulders in the middle of the forest? Yes, please! Sounds like pure mountain paradise to me!

If you’re visiting in the sweltering summer months, get your butt over to the South Yuba River. I can promise you’ll need this little cool down session in between wandering the town and doing some hiking. 

It is a bit outside town (about 25 minutes or so), but I can promise you it’s well worth the short drive. There’s a few different spots to swim in the Yuba River, but we went to the South Yuba River Bridge and loved it. The water is so-super pure and ridiculously clear, kinda like the water in Lake Tahoe ! However, it’s very, very chilly — you’ll probably need a few minutes to adjust to the cold water temps! But it’ll feel good in the hot sun!

Bring your camera – the entire area is super scenic! There’s gigantic rocks surrounding the river pools, making for great photos and jumping spots (if you’re not as chicken as me). Hurl yourself up a rock, lay out a towel, and spend a few hours sunbathing and relaxing! Sounds like my kinda summer afternoon!

Note that there’s not tons of parking and the small lot gets filled up fast. We typically park on the side of the road leading to the bridge and walk in. There’s some rocky steps to get down, but if my 6-year-old little nephew can do it, you can too. Just be careful and wear sneakers!

If you want more of a hike, head to Hoyt’s Crossing . It’s about 1.5 miles down to the pristine water (be careful and watch out for rattlesnakes). Just be aware you’ll probably see a lot of naked men near the water, as this is a pretty secluded spot, and many people treat it as a nude beach! It’s been a nude beach for nearly 50 years, so don’t be surprised if you see naked people. Be prepared for some nudity!

3. Go Hiking!

Nevada City is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, and the hikes do NOT disappoint. With tons of fresh air and towering evergreens, what’s not to love? A few of my favorites:

• Deer Creek Tribute Trail/Nisenan Tribute Site Trail

How does hiking to a suspension bridge in the middle of a forest sound? We did this with my nephew and it was so much fun, despite getting lost once or twice! :p You’ll be walking through the forest (with great scenery I might add), and it’s super peaceful! We hardly saw anyone on the trail — that is until we got closer to the suspension bridge! 

Along the way, you’ll pass by a cute little stream, and then you can walk along the suspension bridge over Deer Creek! And be careful — the bridge is pretty wiggly (especially if people are jumping on it!). Why? Just why?!

The hike isn’t hard per say (maybe about 3 miles or so), but there’s some gentle ups and downs. There’s actually a few different trails which lead you to the suspension bridge. I do wish the signage was a bit better as we got slightly lost, went the wrong way, and accidentally turned our short hike a bit longer (whoops!). All part of the fun!

• Cascade Canal Trail

If you wanna get some fresh mountain air without expending too much exercise, head to the Cascade Canal Trail. You’re literally walking alongside a canal with fresh running water — what could be better? The trail is a bit out of town, and you’ll pass by some rustic houses, but it still feels extremely peaceful, especially in the cool morning air.

The trailhead actually starts just a few minutes away from my sister-in-law’s house, so we end up going for a short hike on the Cascade Canal Trail whenever we need a bit of fresh mountain air. We’ve never walked the entire length of the trail (4.5 miles one way), but go for it if you’re looking for a longer hike with hardly any elevation change.

• Buttermilk Bend Trail Along the South Yuba River

Wanna get your hike on before/after hanging out at the South Yuba River?! Head on over to the Buttermilk Bend Trail. The trail starts right across the river from the Visitors Center, so it’s not hard to find. Since it’s only 2 miles out and back, it’s not a difficult trail, and I’d rate it easy to moderate. And it’s beautiful! 

Expect to pass plenty of waterfalls, Kneebone Beach, a raging river, tons of wildflowers, especially in spring! There’s tons of poppies and lupines in the spring (and actually more than 100 wildflower species, making it one of the best things to do in Nevada City in springtime). There’s even wildflower walks from mid-March to early May with a docent!

Oh! One more semi-quirky thing! Don’t miss the giant frog-shaped rock when looking down from the bridge over French Corral Creek – I swear, it looks just like a frog!

• Hirschman’s Pond

Don’t wanna trek too far from the heart of Nevada City but itching for some tranquil scenery? Head to Hirschman’s Pond, a 5 mile round trip trail only about a mile from downtown. The pond was even designated a Nevada County Historical Landmark in 2021 to honor Leb Hirschman (a pioneer minor) who settled here during the Gold Rush!

Don’t worry, if you’re feeling sluggish you don’t need to hike the entire 5 miles. We simply made it to Hirschman’s Pond (maybe about half a mile or so in) and then turned around. The water is SO blue, and actually from hydraulic mining of the area in the 1800’s.

Along the way and at the pond you’ll see ducks, geese and heron, and probably some fish along the shore. 

• Independence Trail

A revamped historic gold mining ditch is what brought Independence Trail to life.  And it’s now one of the most popular trails in the area! Psst: there’s actually two separate sections – east and west! Both trails are out and back and roughly 5 miles roundtrip.

• East Trail: 2.2 miles each way, making it roughly 4.5 miles round (do note the last .2 miles are unmaintained, so be extra careful).
• West Trail: 2.5 miles each way, for a round trip of 5 miles

If you want a longer hike, you can combine the Independence Trail East and Independence Trail West!

Walk on shady paths and pass live streams, deep gorges, picnic areas, old flumes, rock arches, the South Yuba River, wildflowers, and even the Miners Tunnel, a mining artifact from the 1870’s! And thankfully, there’s plenty of parking at the trailhead.

Before heading out, I recommend checking the Bear Yuba Land Trust website to ensure the trail is open! Independence Trail West has been closed for quite some time, but Independence Trail East is OPEN!

4. Nevada City Farmers Market 

One of my favorite things to do when traveling is heading to the local markets! They’re so full of life and color! And typically pretty delicious. 

With that being said, visiting the Nevada City Farmers Market has got to be one of the top things to do in Nevada City. I mean, who doesn’t love loaves of fresh sourdough bread, organic pancake mix, gourmet rainbow popcorn, and delicate crystal necklaces? Yes, please! 

Psst: the market doesn’t allow reselling, so you know all products are locally made or grown by the sellers themselves!

It’s made up of two seasonal markets; the Summer Market and the Winter Market (because let’s face it, it snows in Nevada City, and farmers markets and snow don’t really go together). So no matter what season you’re visiting in, you can be sure to find lots of unique treasures!

Summer Market: 

• Location: Union Street in downtown Nevada City
• Dates: May 1st through December 18th
• Open: Every Saturday from 8:30am – 1pm

Winter Market: 

• Location: 505 Main Street, Nevada City SAEL School Auditorium
• Dates: January 15th through April 30th
• Open: every Saturday from 10am – 1pm

The winter market is brand-spankin’ new, and how awesome does it feel to be supporting local artisans and producers year-round? Plus, we could all use a little more winter produce in our lives (think sweet potatoes, brussel sprouts, and acorn squash). So hearty and oh so yum. 

The Nevada City Farmers Market has been supporting local farmers, ranchers, and artists since 2008, and there are a wide variety of things you can find here! When you’ve had your fill of delicious food, start looking for something unique to purchase – you’ll be spoilt for choice. A few of my favorite vendors below:

• Gold Rush Cookie Company: They’ve been producing tasty cookies since 1969. Some of the mouth-watering flavors include chocolate mint chip, double chocolate, and of course, the classic chocolate chip!
• The Mushroom Barn: So many different types of mushrooms here (make sure to pick up one of their legendary mushroom grow kits and/or a Garden Giant mushroom block).
• Starbright Acres Family Farm: I just love small organic farms, so this one was right up my alley. Expect to find a combination of fresh veggies like cucumbers, eggplant, figs, basil, and melon! 
• Soil Sisters Farm: All the pretty blooms by a women-owned business! What else can you ask for? They even do bouquets for weddings which look absolutely gorgeous. 
• Two Moons Native American Art: Looking for unique necklaces, bracelets, and earrings? Head to the Two Moons stall! The jewelry here is made out of a variety of materials including sterling silver, gold, stone beads, and even leather.

Trust me, you won’t leave empty-handed if you visit the market! Bring a reusable tote bag so you can easily transport all your goodies!

5. Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park 

Californias got over 250 state parks, and there’s one right outside of Nevada City!

Looking to get outta town for a bit? Head on over to Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park! It not only preserves the largest hydraulic gold mining site in all of California, but you’ll find tons more. 

Expect huge cliffs carved by mighty streams of water. Tons of fall foliage (in the fall, of course). A freakin’ ghost town! AND you can go panning for gold for completely FREE over here so that in and of itself is well-worth the time visiting.

A little background: The park was established in 1965 and covers an impressive 3,143 acres. It’s well known for its history and epic scenery, with the canyon here being 7,000 ft long, around 3,000 feet wide, and nearly 600 feet deep in certain areas. WHOA!

With over 20 miles of hiking trails, there are plenty of walks to keep you entertained. Hiking is one of the top things to do in Malakoff Diggins and trails are available for people of all fitness levels. If you want to get your hiking boots dirty, then why not try a few of these awesome trails: 

• The Rim Trail (3 miles)
• The Diggins Loop Trail (3 mile loop)
• North Bloomfield Trail (0.75 miles)
• The Humbug Creek Trail (6 miles out and back) 

However, one of the BEST things to do here in Malakoff Diggins is to go on a tour of North Bloomfield Ghost Town. Now, I know what you’re thinking but this isn’t a spooky tour, so don’t worry! 

This completely family-friendly tour takes you around North Bloomfield, to give you an idea about how mining came to the town, the people who lived there in the 1800s, and their way of life! 

So, why is this place known as a ‘ghost town’ anyways? It’s not because of a haunted horror story, or even a friendly ghost! 

It’s simply because the town used to be a huge mining hotspot until the 1880s and now it’s practically deserted. After hydraulic mining was officially made illegal, the majority of the residents departed town, leaving an eerie, silent, and deserted North Bloomfield! 

6. Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum 

If you’re looking for some free things to do in Nevada City, then this one’s for you! 

The Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum is dedicated to preserving artifacts from the narrow gauge railroad era, and during your visit, you’ll get quite the history lesson. 

Now, at first glance, this attraction may not seem up your alley, but give it a chance! Not only is the museum one of the top things to do in Nevada City for families, but it’s also an experience like no other. 

You’ll be offered a historical tour of the museum, rail yard, and restoration shop, and you may be thinking what’s so special about that? Well, let me tell you! The majority of the tour takes place on an actual railbus, where you’ll truly feel like you’ve stepped back in time. 

You’ll wind through the forests around the track, but make sure you hang on tight! They go surprisingly quick around some of the tight bends. Maybe not as exciting as a rollercoaster, but for FREE who’s complaining?

During your visit, make sure you head to the Engine 5 exhibit. This steam locomotive has had quite the life, with it even starring as a Hollywood extra at Universal Studios! 

7. Ananda Meditation Retreat 

If you’re feeling stressed out, swamped at work, or simply in need of a refresh, then the Ananda Meditation Retreat is the place for you. It’s a place to relax and renew the body, mind, and spirit, and let’s be honest after the past few years – who doesn’t need some ultimate relaxation? 

Whether you want to head to the Ananda for a full retreat or take part in one of their daily programs is completely your choice. You can also take online classes for yoga and meditation if you find your schedule is too busy! However, an in-person trip is the best way to make the most out of this place — trust me!

We all know that self-care is a MUST, and where better to come than a retreat that’s run by experienced yoga practitioners. They can help still your mind and rejuvenate your spirit, and we all need a bit more of this in our lives! 

There are a variety of programs and retreats to choose from, and if you’re not comfortable in a group, you can also have your own personal retreat. 

Here are all the details you’ll need for your trip: 

• Address: 18443 MacNab Cypress Road, Nevada City
• Opening hours:  Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm

8. Eat at Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co.

Two words: ALMOND CROISSANTS. Okay fine, they have a bit more than that, but promise me you won’t miss one of their famous pastries on Sunday mornings. 

If you’re looking for one of the best restaurants in all of Nevada City, then the Three Forks Bakery and Brewing Co. is a MUST visit. This place strives to source as much of their food from local organic producers as possible, so as you can only imagine their dishes are deliciously fresh, with the tastiest ingredients. 

The menu changes weekly based on what’s available locally during each season, but the highlight is their mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas. Made with organic wild yeast crust (YUM!), there are a variety of options available including salami, house pancetta, and oyster mushroom & kale pesto.

Even their coffee and tea is organic, and fair-trade at that, so you know the farmers and workers are getting a fair deal. Where better to spend your money on coffee if that’s the case? 

As if this place needed anything else to attract customers, but anyway, on to the best part. They have craft beer which is brewed in their own 7 barrel brewhouse! If you’re looking for a good ale on a hot California day, then this is the place to be. Why not try the ‘Mud In Your Eye Black Rye IPA’, the ‘Emerald Pool IPA’, or the ‘Oak Tree Pale Ale’. Such fun names I might add!

As noted earlier, Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co. is also famous for its delicious pastries. They only make the popular almond croissants on Sunday mornings, so plan your weekend with this in mind. You can thank me later! Almost as good as the massive ones in Big Sur … well, almost!

There’s other breakfast pastries (honestly, everything’s pretty good), but if you’re here for an almond croissant, plan to arrive early (they do sell out, and early at that!).

Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-intolerant, Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co. has something for everyone making it the perfect place to eat in Nevada City. 

9. Browse A rt Galleries 

Nevada City is an incredibly artsy town, so if you’re a fan of art and culture you’ll be right at home. There are plenty of unique art galleries to visit, but some of the BEST ones to visit are Elixart, the Neighborhood Center of the Arts, and the Center for the Arts.

Elixart is truly a unique art gallery with a collaboration of creative works by local artists. 

So what makes this art gallery so special? Well, the fact that they have a traditional tea bar on site! Yep, you heard me. Elixart serves flavorful rare specialty teas and health tonics so you can sit back and truly enjoy the art. It’s like an assault on all the senses! 

There is also a special event area that shows educational films and has workshops taking place. 

Another special art gallery is the Neighborhood Center of the Arts . It’s a non-profit center for artists that have developmental disabilities. The program gets individuals involved with a variety of art forms, so they can leverage art sales as an avenue for earning income. If you’re looking for some special art pieces but also want to help the community – this is your place! 

The Center for the Arts is another popular one and hosts the Western Nevada County Open Studios Art Tour & Sale . Now if you haven’t heard of this event, you’re in for a real treat! It’s an annual event that features a variety of classic and contemporary art, and hosts photographers, painters, sculptors, woodworkers, and much more!

It’s the perfect opportunity to meet the artists involved, watch live demonstrations, and even learn about their processes. Going to this event is one of the best things to do in Nevada City, especially if you’re an art lover. You’ll get to experience a wide variety of art styles, and truly appreciate the work that goes into a great art piece! 

10. Historic No. 1 Firehouse Museum 

Way back when (we’re talking late 1800s to early 1900s), you could find horse-drawn fire wagons, handcarts, and motorized fire engines rolling out the doors of the firehouse. 

Today, the building’s a museum — housing many of Nevada City’s hidden treasures!

This museum has a very strange combination of displays, however, it works! The exhibits are truly unique, and there are a wide variety of items on display. 

The first display is of the Nisenan Indians of the Nevada City Rancheria — I know, what a mouthful! They inhabited Nevada City for thousands and thousands of years. Some of the exhibits include ceremonial feather dance collars, arrowheads, hand game bones, and an extensive photo display. 

The Chinese exhibit is another of the museum’s displays and is home to house altars from the Hou Wang and Kuan Yin Temples. Opium pipes, cooking equipment, and school mementos are also displayed within the Chinese exhibit. 

Any Donner Party fans out there?! You can see actual items from the Breen and Graves cabins here!

However, it’s not only the exhibits that are popular. The building is BEAUTIFUL and is 

probably the most photographed building in Nevada City (it is grand and Victorian and all)! Make sure you have your camera on hand for this one, trust me you’ll need it! 

Here are all the details you’ll need for your trip:

• Address : 214 Main Street, Nevada City
• Opening hours: Summer hours (May 1 – Oct 31: Wednesday – Sunday, 1 pm – 4 pm) Winter hours (Nov 1 – Apr 30, by appointment only)

11. Go panning for gold

A trip to Nevada City isn’t complete without panning for gold! How can you visit California’s best-preserved Gold Rush town without having a go at this AWESOME activity? Exactly, so let’s get into some of the best locations for it! 

There are a variety of great gold-panning locations, and it can be hard to decide where to visit. However, some of the most accessible locations include Edwards Crossing and Washington, South Yuba River at Bridgeport, and the Middle Yuba River at Oregon Creek . 

Now, I know what you’re thinking — how on earth do I pan for gold? Well, I’ve got you covered with a very quick ‘how to’ lesson. 

So, since no digging tools are allowed, you’re going to need a 12 or 18-inch gold pan — both of which can be purchased in town. You’ll also need to pick up a small vial for any gold flakes you may find. 

Now on to the exciting bit. Simply put, gold panning is incredibly easy (although time-consuming). All you have to do is swirl some water, sand, and gravel in the gold pan, and slowly wash materials over the edge. Keep doing this until you’re down to the black sand at the bottom, and hopefully, you’ll have some gold in your pan! Fingers crossed, right? Don’t expect to make a fortune, but hey, maybe you’ll be able to afford your almond croissant from Forks after a few hours of panning, haha. 

The gold is easily distinguishable because of its unique color, but mostly because of its weight. Other substances like Fool’s Gold or Mica are very light and often break down when touched. Real gold won’t crumble!

If you’re looking for unique and exciting things to do in Nevada City, then make sure you add gold panning to your list! 

12. Go Wine Tasting

Nevada City has wineries? You betcha! Like so many other wine countries in California (think Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, etc), there’s plenty to choose from. 

Who doesn’t love drinking a delicious glass of red with the beautiful backdrop of the Sierra Foothills? Can you think of anyone? No me either! Lucky for you, you’ll be spoilt for choice as there are some fabulous options in Nevada City. 

One of the absolute finest is Nevada City Winery , which is the oldest operating winery in the Sierra Foothills. Aside from its flavorful wines, the winery has also partnered with a local gourmet restaurant and chocolate shop. They provide to-go orders that can be delivered right to your table at Nevada City winery. Now is that the perfect evening or what? 

Another popular choice is Clavey Vineyards and Winery , which is a family-owned boutique winery. They believe in working with the richness of the Sierra Foothills and blending organic winemaking methods with old-world techniques to cultivate the fullest and freshest flavors. If you’ve not had your fill of wine, head here next! 

Double Oak Vineyards and Winery is another great option if you don’t mind a 30-minute drive outside of Nevada City. Their tasting room is truly breathtaking and is filled with artwork from local artists. 

13. Empire Mine State Park and Cottage 

Empire Mine State Park and Cottage is the site of the largest, oldest, and richest gold mine in California. The mine opened in 1850 and was an active gold mine for nearly 100 years until it ultimately stopped production in 1956.

It produced a WHOPPING 5.8 million ounces of gold throughout the years, and that represents only 20% of the available gold in the area. So around 80% still remains, which is absolutely mind blowing! 

The park is famous for its historical tours of Bourne Cottage, the mine yard, and ‘living history’ events, and is a great way to learn about the local area and the history of gold mining. 

However, if you’re not really a tour person and prefer to wander around the grounds by yourself — you can! With 845 acres of forest backcountry and 12 miles of trails, you can definitely keep yourself entertained. 

Within the park, you’ll find many of the original mine buildings, the owner’s cottages, and the restored gardens (we visited in the fall but I can only imagine the blooms in the spring/summer). You can also head to the visitor center, and step into the “Secret Room”, with blacked-out windows that houses a scale model of the mine’s network, which is pretty interesting too! 

However, the highlight of this park is to see the entrance of the mine shaft itself. The mine covers an area of 367 miles (WOW!) and although you’ll get only a tiny glimpse into this underground maze, it’s very impressive! It was easily my favorite part of Empire Mine.

If you’re a fan of history, then visiting Empire Mine State Park is easily one of the best things to do in Nevada City. Even my 9-year old nephew loved it!

14. Spring Tulips at Crystal Hermitage Garden

Now if you’re a fan of nature, color, beauty (or anything else, really), this is a place you don’t want to miss during your trip to Nevada City. 

Each year over 90 tulip varieties are planted in the fields, along with a variety of other flowers, including pansies, azaleas, peonies, and wisteria (among others). Getting interested? I thought so! 

Once these flowers have bloomed, guests are invited to explore the gardens. This means you’ll have the chance to wander around this beautiful place, explore the upper terraced gardens, follow the paths by the pools and waterfalls, and visit the award-winning chapel. 

However, the true highlight of Crystal Hermitage Gardens are the 17,000 tulip blooms that are found here. Whoa! They come in a wide variety of colors and are truly beautiful. If there was ever a time to wear a pretty dress and have your camera ready — well, this is it! 

The Crystal Hermitage Garden is only open throughout the month of April (when the tulips are in bloom), and you must pre-purchase your tickets online in advance. This can be done at Crystal Hermitage’s ticket page .

Springtime at the garden really is something. If you’re a sucker for blooms like me (evidence here , here , here , and here , haha), don’t miss a visit to Crystal Hermitage.

The opening times for Crystal Hermitage are:

• April 1st to April 30th, 10 am – 5 pm. 

15. Swim at E merald Pools 

Hiking to the Emerald Pools is without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Nevada City. One look at it and you’ll see what I mean – it’s downright gorgeous!

No matter your fitness level, the hike is pretty accessible as it’s only around 0.7 miles (1.1km) in total. It takes you to one of the most breathtaking places in the area, and a tip — make sure you pack your swimsuits! 

Now I know not everyone is a fan of hiking, so think of it as more of a leisurely stroll because this is a spot you don’t want to miss. 

As the trail opens up from the trees, you’ll see the appropriately named Emerald Pools, as the pools are filled with crystal-clear emerald water. With a forested backdrop and plenty of areas to relax by the side, it’s the perfect place to chill out, take in the scenery, and enjoy a picnic. 

However, the MUST-DO activity is taking a dip in the pools to cool down under the hot California sun. Although, I must say be prepared for an icy surprise. The water here is from snow run-off so as you can imagine it’s pretty chilly! 

If you’re not a fan of crowds, then there is an accessible trail further along that follows the Yuba River. Once you get to the top, you’ll see a mini-gorge that’s incredibly secluded and usually very quiet. This is the perfect place for some me-time where you can relax and listen to the quiet sounds of the water running through the gorge. 

The best time to visit the Emerald Pools? Late summer to early fall — when the river has had time to dry up. If you visit during spring, the water level may be too high for you to access the pools, which would be a real shame! 

16. Check out Grass Valley, California

Grass Valley is oh so close to Nevada City, maybe like 10-15 minutes away with traffic, but the vibes couldn’t be any more different. Yes, it’s another living California Gold Rush-era town, but it’s got a lot of charm and even some style mixed in with all the history. I highly recommend you spend an afternoon here!

A few top things to do:

• Stroll down Main Street and go shopping – there’s lots of vintage and antique shops (don’t miss Sunchild’s Parlor and Cosmic Shark Clothing), boutique stores like Make Local Habit, and The Shops at the Nevada County Bank. 
• Learn about Gold Rush History at the Grass Valley Museum (if you haven’t already done so in Nevada City)
• Get some sweet treats at Lazy Dog Chocolateria , an old-fashioned candy shop with the most delicious chocolate and candy or stop by Cake Bakery & Cafe for some dessert and coffee instead
• Explore the Bourn Cottage in Empire Mine State Park ; you can even take a 45 minute tour if you’re interested!
• Listen to live music and sip a cocktail at The Holbrooke Hotel – the eclectic decor of this historic hotel is so fun! And Mark Twain and even some US presidents have been here!

17. BONUS! Victorian Christmas Markets

Visiting in December and looking for one of the best things to do in Nevada City in winter? DO NOT MISS THE CHRISTMAS MARKETS. The aroma of roasted chestnuts fill the air, hundreds of vendors line the city streets (with lots of holiday treats and warm drinks), and wandering carolers dressed in fun Victorian attire! It’s easily one of the largest Christmas markets in the U.S., and I can’t wait to visit!

I mean, what’s better than sipping on hot buttered rum (or hot mulled wine!) in a little city nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Sierra. Sounds like a lot of Christmas spirit to me! And plus, there’s a Walking Christmas Tree & Toy Soldier! There’s performances by the Scottish dancers, violinists, harmonic quartets, jugglers and magicians, and even the Nevada City High School band! Entertainment changes every year, but plan to be wowed regardless of when you visit!

Unfortunately this annual tradition only takes place on Wednesday evenings and Sunday afternoons in December, making timing a little less than ideal if you wanted to take a weekend trip to Nevada City. I think they do this on purpose to make sure they don’t get too wild and crazy (and crowded). But who knows.

Other Things to do in Nevada City (Day Trips and More!)

Now, if you’re visiting Nevada City, I say — stay in Nevada City! But if you’ve got an extra day (or two!), definitely check out the surrounding areas!

• Lake Tahoe: Lake Tahoe is far from a secret (and it deserves way more than a day), but if you’ve never been, I highly recommend driving over for the day. Without traffic the west side is roughly an hour away, but expect some traffic, especially on the weekends. We love to drive around Lake Tahoe , stopping at our favorites along the way. 
• Sacramento : California’s state capitol is only 60 miles away, so if you’ve never visited, now’s a great time to do so! You can really see a lot in a day — head to the stunningly white capitol building, Tower Bridge, the Old Sacramento Waterfront, and our favorite — Temple Coffee Roasters. There’s a lot of choices for brunch, and tons of colorful murals around town. 

Have I convinced you to visit yet? Which of these fun things to do in Nevada City will you be adding to your weekend getaway?!

Loo king for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

Did you know that …

When you purchase something through our links, we earn a small fee (but you still pay the same) ! Win-win! If you found this article useful, consider using the links within the article or below. Thanks for your support! 

• Book a hotel
• Best place to find tours
• Second favorite place for tours
• Favorite travel insurance
• Book a rental car
• My favorite packing items on Amazon
• Start your very own blog!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

You may also love...

Subscribe To The Newsletter

FOR TRAVEL INSPO   and   FUN

No spam, only fun!

Favorite Destinations

• About Jessica
• How to Plan a Trip
• Fave Travel Companies
• Shop My Faves

Destinations

• World Travel
• San Francisco
• Northern California
• Southern California
• Central Coast

• South Africa
• Czech Republic
• United Arab Emirates
• Puerto Rico
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• Accommodation
• Travel Gear
• Itineraries
• Travel Blogging + Photography
• Where I’ve Been
• Bucket List

15 Unique and Fun Things to do in Nevada City, California

Looking to discover the best things to do in Nevada City, California? By the end of this post you’ll know exactly the best things you can’t miss around town.

But first, let’s clear something up: Nevada City, despite it’s name, isn’t in Nevada at all.

It’s located in Northern California in the Sierra Nevada foothills about mid-way along the drive from Sacramento to North Tahoe, which makes it a great place to explore for those visiting Tahoe from the Bay Area.

Truthfully, I didn’t know all that much about Nevada City until a recent project with Visit California took me up that way.

Since I’m always on a mission to explore every corner of California and share it with you, I was excited to discover a new part of the state I hadn’t been to yet—and especially one that many people overlook!

We visited on our drive back to Sacramento from Tahoe for a few nights and it really surprised us in the best way. First off, exploring Nevada City feels like taking a step back in time to the height of California’s Gold Rush.

But what makes Nevada City so multi-faceted is that just beyond the historic downtown, you’ll find miles upon miles of gorgeous green spaces to get out in nature.

Another element I loved? Everything about this town is infused with rich history, yet Nevada City feels anything but “old.” The town has attracted a lot of young artists and creatives, which makes it one of the most unique places to visit in California .

In short, there are plenty of things to do in Nevada City to please all kinds of interests.

Whether you want to get out for a scenic hike, try your hand at gold panning, discover some spooky ghost stories from California’s gold mining history or sip down a delicious cocktail, you can do it all here, I promise.

So next time you’re planning a trip out to this historic town in California, make sure to have this list handy so you don’t miss the best things to do in Nevada City.

1. Explore Downtown Nevada City

The most important thing to know about Nevada City is that it’s a historic mining town with a ton of charm and a lot of quirky personality.

In fact, it is California’s best-preserved Gold Rush town and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places back in 1985.

The best place to witness this history in action is right in the heart of downtown Nevada City along Broad Street. Heading to Broad Street first will help you get your bearings and set your explorations off on the right foot.

Here, you’ll find a slew of funky shops, cafes, restaurants, and the iconic National Exchange Hotel , which has been a city landmark since the 1800s.

The National Exchange Hotel was recently renovated into a hip boutique hotel that maintains its Gold Rush-era personality with tons of old photographs, original architectural elements, and quirky wallpaper that both your great-grandmother and uber-stylish best friend would equally adore.

Around Broad Street you can also find plenty of funky shops, galleries, and cafes. Some of my favorite boutiques to peruse in the area are Crystal Rainbow Rock Shop (it’s literally a tiny little hut full of crystals), Kitkitdizzi , I M Element and Rose Market .

Also don’t miss the Nevada Theatre , which is California’s oldest existing theatre building, originally constructed in 1865.

If you want a more structured walking tour of Nevada City, the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce has a great self-led walking tour here that you can follow with points of interest.

Pro tip: Meters here are still coin-operated, so have a few on hand if you want to snag the most convenient parking downtown !

2. Visit Empire Mine State Historic Park

This is probably one of the most touristy things to do in Nevada City, but I’d be remiss not to mention it because it’s so important to the mining history of the area.

Located about 10 minutes outside of town in neighboring Grass Valley, Empire Mine offers guided tours and exhibits where you can learn about Nevada County’s Gold Rush roots and the largest hard rock gold mining complex in California.

And before you say to yourself, ‘I’ve visited one mine, so I’ve seen them all’ , trust me when I say this isn’t your typical mining site. It’s actually gorgeous, featuring gardens and well-manicured grounds, and walking trails as well as beautifully preserved stone buildings.

If learning about mining history isn’t really your thing, even a stroll or a picnic lunch on the grounds here would make for a lovely afternoon. Plus, pups are also allowed (on-leash only).

3. Hike in South Yuba River State Park

On a sunny day, jump in the car and drive over to South Yuba River State Park , which provides a number of beautiful hiking trails and historic bridges.

When you arrive, you’ll park in the state park lot and pay $5 at the kiosk to park. Then if you cross the road and walk along the path toward the covered footbridge, you’ll soon arrive at the Visitor Center where you can pick up more information and peep the historic Shell Gas Station.

I recommend hiking down the Buttermilk Bend Trail, which is an easy 2 miles out-and-back trail that follows the river the entire time. The views are really stunning and we spotted a group of kayakers making their way down some small rapids.

Just don’t put “Buttermilk Bend” into Google Maps like we did if you don’t want to end up confused along a private residential dirt road. Whoops 😬. Navigate to “Buttermilk Bend Trail” or the “Yuba River Park and Recreation Department.”

Another popular trail is the Independence Trail, which is a bit longer at 4.4 miles out-and-back but is still considered an easy route.

This area is about a 25-minute drive outside of the main downtown of Nevada City.

4. Attend a Live Music Event

As I previously mentioned, Nevada City is full of creatives, hipsters and hippies attracted to the area’s slower pace of life. So naturally, the live music scene has followed.

There are several places to catch some live music while you’re in town, so make sure to check event schedules and ticket sites prior to your arrival so you can scoop any necessary tickets.

The first place I would look is the Center for the Arts in downtown Grass Valley. We saw an awesome show at this intimate venue, which is a one-minute walk from the Holbrooke Hotel, which makes for a great dinner and concert evening pairing.

Next, stop in for some cocktails at Golden Era Cocktail Bar with a side of live music which they usually offer on weekend evenings. The Stone House and the Miners Foundry are two other great places to look that regularly host live music events.

5. Grab Dinner in the National Exchange Hotel’s Lola Restaurant

The National Exchange Hotel is a historic hotel dating back to the mid-1800s that has served as an iconic landmark of the community for almost two centuries.

It has been beautifully restored, including the stunning Lola Restaurant, their main eatery. The restaurant’s interior features a mix of classic and contemporary decor, with a focus on photographs of women who were key to the community during the hotel’s early days during the Gold Rush.

If you’re a fan of bold wallpaper, Victorian decor, and unique gourmet eats, you’ll love Lola Restaurant and the entire National Exchange Hotel!

The restaurant oozes moody glamour, which makes it a great place for a romantic dinner or evening out with friends. Plus, every dish we ate here was absolutely exceptional.

You can tell that Lola has really upped the ante for the local dining scene and the community is embracing it. We loved their unique cocktail list and creative menu combinations.

6. Stay at the Holbrooke Hotel

If you’re looking for the best hotel in Nevada County area, look no further than the Holbrooke Hotel , which is where we stayed during our visit.

Located in the heart of downtown Grass Valley (just a few minutes from Nevada City), the hotel was built in 1852 and has played an important role in the town’s history ever since.

The sister hotel to the National Exchange Hotel, the Holbrooke was also simultaneously refurbished while keeping many of its most stunning historical features intact.

Most notably, the back piece of the bar in the Golden Gate Saloon is original and gives the restaurant a true Wild West feel.

Since its renovation, it has now resurfaced as one of the top places to stay in the area and provides a top-notch experience, from its beautifully decorated rooms and gourmet dining at Golden Gate Saloon, down to its unique historic charm.

The Holbrooke is also a popular event space for weddings and larger gatherings.

Over the years, the Holbrooke has hosted many famous guests, including Mark Twain, Ulysses S. Grant, and John Wayne.

The hotel has 27 beautifully appointed guest rooms, each one unique and filled with antique furnishings and decor; my room even had a charming clawfoot tub and a spacious patio out to the street that overlooked Grass Valley!

If you’re not staying overnight, it’s still 100% worth a visit for dinner or even a drink at the bar. Visitors to the Holbrooke can also enjoy live music and events throughout the year.

7. Book a Class at Curious Forge

Curious Forge is a maker space and community workshop located just a short drive outside downtown Nevada City. It is a collaborative space where people of all ages and skill levels can come together to learn, create, and share resources.

We got the chance to tour this space on our trip which was super interesting and peeled back the curtain on how so many products we use in our day to day lives are made—and how much work goes into them!

Curious Forge is huge—about 20,000 sq ft of space—and here you’ll find a wide range of tools and equipment available for community use, including 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and woodworking tools.

They also offer classes and workshops on various topics such as welding, blacksmithing, glassblowing, electronics, and more.

If you’re someone that loves the creative arts or wants to try a new hobby, this is one of the most unique things to do in Nevada City that will help deepen your understanding of the local community here.

You can use the space and equipment to work on your own projects or attend a class to learn something new. Check out their schedule of classes here .

read more: 50 fun things to do in california

8. Go Wine Tasting

While not as well-known as nearby Napa Valley, the Nevada County wine region offers some excellent wines to try. Visit local wine tasting rooms like Nevada City Winery and Lucchessi Mill Street Tasting Room to get a taste.

Nevada City Winery is a larger more open space in downtown Nevada City, with some art and wine class offerings on certain days of the week.

Lucchesi is a smaller, more industrial-style tasting room in downtown Grass Valley with the sweetest owner! This one feels more intimate with a family-friendly vibe.

9. Spend an Afternoon on the Lake

Can’t make the drive all the way to Tahoe? Well, Scotts Flat Lake is a popular recreation area located just a few miles northeast of Nevada City, California, and provides beautiful views for a day out in nature.

Here, visitors can enjoy a range of hiking trails, wildlife spottings (if you’re lucky you might see everything from deer and bears to eagles), fishing, and swimming in the warmer months.

If you don’t want to stay overnight right in Nevada City, this is also a great place to come camping as they have a range of camping spots available on a first-come-first-serve basis including waterfront tent camping and RV sites.

10. Try the Local Craft Beer

I don’t know about you, but I love a good craft beer, and trying the local drafts is one of my favorite things to do anywhere I go.

Nevada City has several breweries nearby, including Ribald Brewing , Grass Valley Brewing Company , and Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co .

The one I would definitely recommend is Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co. We decided to stop into Three Forks on a whim and were pleasantly surprised to find out that not only do they serve up awesome local beers (I’m partial to the IPA selection), but they also have some incredible desserts.

I mean, who doesn’t love a beer and sweet treat combo?

A server behind the bar was setting out a bunch of cups with some type of pudding in them that smelled insanely good, so I naturally had to inquire. She told me it was their popular butterscotch pudding, and after agreeing to try some myself I can confidently say it was DI-VINE. Maybe the yummiest thing we had on the whole trip.

Don’t miss ordering this if you head to Three Forks!

11. Stroll Downtown Grass Valley

Less than 10 minutes drive from downtown Nevada City is Grass Valley, which has a smaller downtown feel but has more official residents (about 13,000 versus Nevada City’s 3,000).

Head straight to Mill Street, which was under construction when I was visiting but is getting a beautiful facelift that will make the street more pedestrian-friendly and improve its accessibility.

There are some really cute shops along Mill Street—definitely pop into Mill and Main and Element + Loft . Along this road you’ll also find Lucchesi Mill Street Tasting Room and the super retro Del Oro Theatre .

Also don’t miss the Holbrooke Hotel , just across from Mill Street which is the central focus of Grass Valley’s social scene.

12. Attend a Film Festival

If you time your trip right, you can partake in one of Nevada County’s mot beloved annual events. Nevada City hosts several film festivals throughout the year, including the Nevada City Film Festival , which typically happens during the summer, and Wild & Scenic Film Festival , which falls over winter time.

NCIFF has been called by some, “The Sundance of the Sierra,” as it has a strong focus on independent films, and USA Today even named it the #3 Best Film Festival in the US.

13. Indulge in the Local Ghost Stories

As you’ll find with any mining town in the US, Nevada City, and Grass Valley are both chock full of ghost stories that the residents and hotel staff will gladly dole out upon request.

The two main hotels in the area—National Exchange Hotel and Holbrooke Hotel—are two good places to start on your hunt for spirits of centuries past. Both date back to the mid-1800s and welcomed plenty of interesting characters over the years.

Aside from doing your own deep dive into the stories by talking to the locals, if you want to go a step further, check out Mark Lyon’s Haunted Nevada City Ghost Tour .

14. Visit Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park

One of California’s 280 state parks, Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park is located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, just a few miles north of Nevada City. In the past, it served as the largest hydraulic mining site in the world.

This is a great place to spend an afternoon, and there are plenty of different ways to enjoy the area:

• Explore the Historic Ghost Town: North Bloomfield was once a bustling Gold Rush-era town that was home to thousands of miners. Visitors to Malakoff Diggins can explore the town’s historic buildings and learn about life during this important era in California history.
• Hiking : The park has over 18 miles of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains and the Yuba River. The trails range from easy to challenging, so there’s something for everyone. Some of the most popular trails include The Rim Trail (3 miles), The Diggins Loop (3 miles) and the Humbug Creek Trail (6 miles out and back).
• Gold Panning: Visitors can try their hand at gold panning in Humbug Creek, which runs through the park. It’s a fun and unique activity that gives you a chance to experience the Gold Rush firsthand.
• Bring a picnic lunch: The park has several picnic areas with tables, grills, and scenic views if you want to relax and enjoy a meal with family and friends.
• Camping: The park has a campground with 30 campsites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s a great place to stay if you want to spend more time exploring the park and the surrounding area.

15. Grab a Coffee or Healthy Bite at Heartwood

Out of all the places we ate during our time in Nevada City, Heartwood seemed to be the most poppin’ with a constant line out the door, thanks to their local, seasonal ingredients and beautifully plated dishes.

On the menu, you’ll find a range of soups, salads, and bowls, as well as a hefty toast menu—I mean, who doesn’t love a toast?!—with items ranging from a savory chicken pesto toast and Shiitake toast to more sweet delights like “Gheelish Toast” loaded with ghee, cinnamon sugar, bee pollen, and salt.

They also have all your typical caffeinated beverages, along with some fun additional concoctions like “Alligator Juice”—an icy electrolyte-rich refresher with salt-preserved lemon pureé, water, or yerba maté iced tea.

Another must-try is the “Chocolate Tonic” which is a blend of TCHO drinking chocolate paired with medicinal mushrooms, cinnamon, cardamom, cayenne, maca, ashwagandha, coconut oil, and oat milk.

Things to do in Nevada City FAQ

• Is Nevada City worth visiting? Yes, absolutely. Nevada City is one of the prettiest preserved Gold Country towns. Beyond its interesting history and charm, there is plenty to do here, from hiking, camping, and other outdoor adventures, to wine tasting and experiencing the live music scene.
• What is Nevada City known for? Nevada City is known for its beautifully preserved Gold Rush era downtown, featuring plenty of hotels, theatres, and saloons that ooze historic charm.
• Where Should You Stay in Nevada City? When in Nevada City, the two places you absolutely need to stay are either the National Exchange Hotel or the Holbrooke Hotel . They are sister historic hotels that were recently given gorgeous makeovers into beautiful boutique hotels. Both feel historic but have a different vibe. Holbrooke Hotel is located in downtown Grass Valley and National Exchange Hotel is located in downtown Nevada City.
• What is the Best Way to Get to Nevada City? If you’re flying in, the closest major airport is the Sacramento (SMF) Airport, about 50 miles from Nevada City.

I hope this post gave you plenty of ideas for things to do in Nevada City!

Let me know what you’re most excited to do in the comments below ., planning a trip right now don’t miss my go-to websites for booking everything from flights and tours, to accommodation and more:.

• Booking.com for the best hotel deals
• World Nomads for flexible travel insurance
• VRB O for awesome home rentals
• Skyscanner for finding the best flight deals
• Hostelworld for budget accommodation
• Rentalcars.com for easy car rentals

Pin it for Later!

You Might Also Like

Why a Weekend Getaway in Virginia Beach Needs to be on Your Travel to Do List

16 Best Restaurants in Maui with a View You Can’t Miss

Best Restaurants in Carmel: 15 Spots You Can’t Miss

Wow, so many great tips! Next time come visit us at the Inn Town Campground to round out your Gold Country experience.

Thank you for the tip!

The next time you are up this way please come visit The Onyx Theatre in Nevada city. We are one of the most unique and beautiful movie theaters in the West. Because we aren’t in the historic district of Nevada City we are often overlooked. But, we are a true gem.

Thank you Celine for letting me know about the Onyx Theatre! I’ll remember that for my next visit 🙂

Going to Nevada City for Labor Day weekend – can’t wait!

Hope you had an incredible trip and that the post was helpful!

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

2023 © Live Like It's the Weekend - All Rights Reserved

Privacy Policy • Affiliate Disclaimer • Terms of Service

California Beautiful

The Top 13 Things to Do in Nevada City

• August 8, 2022

California Beautiful Team

Nevada City is a small town located in the Sierra Nevada foothills of California.

The community is renowned for its Victorian-style buildings and its past as a gold mining town.

Today, Nevada City is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.

The town offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and lodging options, as well as a variety of outdoor activities.

Nevada City is also home to several annual events, including the Nevada City Classic car show and the Nevada City Film Festival.

Here are the top 13 things to do in Nevada City.

1. Take a Walking Tour of Nevada City’s Historic District

Nevada City offers a unique walking tour of its historic district that is perfect for history buffs and architecture lovers alike.

The two-hour tour covers over 150 years of history, from the city’s Gold Rush beginnings to its days as a Victorian-era resort town.

You will learn about the city’s many iconic buildings, including the National Hotel, the Firehouse Museum, and the Miners’ Foundry.

Along the way, they’ll also hear stories about the colorful characters who called Nevada City home, from Mark Twain to Lola Montez.

The walking tour is a great way to experience Nevada City’s rich history firsthand.

2. Explore Empire Mine State Historic Park

The Empire Mine State Historic Park is a great place to visit if you’re interested in learning about California’s gold mining history.

The park is located in Grass Valley, and it includes the site of the Empire Mine, which was once one of the largest gold mines in North America.

Today, the park offers visitors a chance to explore the mine’s extensive underground tunnels, visit the historic buildings, and even try their hand at panning for gold.

In addition, the park hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, making it a great destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

So whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun day out, be sure to add the Empire Mine State Historic Park to your list of places to visit.

3. Take a Nature Walk at Hirschman’s Pond Trailhead

Nevada City is home to a beautiful nature trail that leads to Hirschman’s Pond.

The trailhead is located just off of Nevada Street, and the trail is well-marked and easy to follow.

The hike takes about an hour, and it’s a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.

Along the way, you’ll pass through a meadow and a forest of tall evergreen trees.

The pond is a beautiful spot to take a break, and it’s also a great place to see wildlife.

Ducks and geese often visit the pond , and you might even see a deer or two.

So if you’re looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, be sure to check out Nevada City’s Hirschman’s Pond trailhead.

4. See a Movie at the Historic Nevada Theatre

The Nevada Theatre is the perfect place to see a movie.

This historic theater has been around since 1854, making it the oldest theatre in California.

It was originally built as a hotel, and then later turned into a theatre.

The Nevada Theatre has been home to many famous actors and actresses over the years, including John Wayne, Clark Gable, and Shirley Temple.

Today, the Nevada Theatre is still a working theatre, showing movies, hosting live performances, and even hosting weddings.

If you’re looking for a unique movie-going experience, be sure to check out the Nevada Theatre .

5. Take a Hike or Camp in The Sierra Nevada Foothills

The Sierra Nevada foothills are a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

With miles of trails to explore, the Sierra Nevada foothills offer something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or an easy stroll, you’ll find the perfect trail in the Sierra Nevada foothills.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even camp overnight in the wilderness.

The Sierra Nevada foothills are a great way to reconnect with nature and enjoy some fresh air.

So get out there and explore the Sierra Nevada foothills today!

6. Visit the South Yuba River State Park

Nevada City is a historic town in the heart of the Sierra Nevada foothills.

And one of the best ways to experience all that Nevada City has to offer is by visiting the South Yuba River State Park.

The park features miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as picnicking areas and scenic lookout points.

Best of all, the park is located just a short drive from Nevada City.

So if you’re looking for a fun way to spend a day in the great outdoors, be sure to add the South Yuba River State Park to your list!

7. Shop at the Nevada City Farmers’ Market

Looking for a fun and delicious way to spend a Saturday morning? Then head on down to the Nevada City Farmers’ Market!

This vibrant market offers a wide variety of fresh and local produce , as well as artisanal loaves of bread, cheeses, and prepared foods.

You’ll also find a selection of handmade arts and crafts, perfect for picking up a unique gift or two.

And with live music playing throughout the market, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the day.

So whether you’re looking for some fresh ingredients for dinner or just want to stroll and soak up the atmosphere, be sure to check out the Nevada City Farmers Market.

8. Explore the Gorgeous Grass Valley City

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Grass Valley is a California Gold Country town with a rich history and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

The town was founded during the 1849 Gold Rush and quickly became known for its mining operations.

Today, visitors can learn about the town’s storied past at the Empire Mine State Historic Park.

For those looking to explore the great outdoors, Grass Valley offers easy access to hiking and biking trails, as well as fishing and boating on nearby lakes.

In the winter, nearby ski resorts provide ample opportunity for downhill fun.

No matter what time of year you visit, Grass Valley is sure to offer an abundance of activities to keep you entertained.

So come on up and explore all that this charming town has to offer.

9. Check Out the Firehouse #1 Museum

Nevada City’s Firehouse #1 Museum is a must-see for history buffs and those who appreciate Nevada City’s rich heritage.

The museum is located in the historic Nevada City Firehouse, which was erected in 1861 and served as the city’s primary fire station until 1938.

The building has been beautifully restored and now houses a variety of exhibits that chronicle the history of Nevada City’s fire department.

The museum also features a number of unique artifacts, including an antique fire engine and an old-fashioned fire pole.

You can also take a self-guided tour of the rest of the firehouse, including the dormitory where firefighters once slept.

The Firehouse #1 Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 4:00 pm, and admission is just $5 for adults and $2 for children.

So, next time you’re in Nevada City, be sure to check out this one-of-a-kind museum.

10. Go Gold Panning in Deer Creek

Deer Creek is one of the greatest spots to go gold panning in Nevada.

The creek is located in the Sierra Nevada foothills and has a long history of gold mining.

Today, it’s a popular spot for recreation, and there are several companies that offer gold panning tours.

The tours typically last about four hours and include all the necessary equipment.

No experience is necessary and the guides will teach you everything you need to know.

So if you’re looking for a fun and unique activity, consider going gold panning in Deer Creek. Who knows? You might just strike it rich!

11. Check out restored trains at Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum

The Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum is a must-see for anyone who loves trains!

The museum is located in the historic district of Nevada City, and it houses a collection of restored locomotives, cars, and cabooses.

You can take a ride on one of the restored trains, or you can explore the exhibit hall, which contains displays on the history of the railroad.

The museum also offers a variety of special events throughout the year, including Thomas the Tank Engine days and holiday-themed rides.

Whether you’re a train enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum is sure to please.

12. Spend the Day at Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park

Situated in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park is one of the most popular destinations in Nevada.

The park is known for its miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as its stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

You can also explore the remains of an old mining town that was once home to more than 10,000 people.

Today, the town is a ghost town, but it’s still fascinating to explore.

In addition to its hiking and biking trails, Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park also offers picnicking, fishing, and camping opportunities.

So whether you’re looking for a day of adventure or a relaxing weekend getaway, Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park is the perfect destination.

13. Attend the Nevada City Film Festival

The Nevada City Film Festival is a great opportunity to see some truly independent films.

This annual event takes place in the historic town of Nevada City, California, and features a wide variety of films from all over the world.

In addition to screenings, the festival also offers panel discussions, workshops, and other special events.

This is a great chance to support independent filmmakers and experience some truly unique films.

Get Our Latest Articles

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to get our latest tips and travel adventures right in your inbox.

Recent Posts

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Surfing Beaches in California

30 Beautiful Lakes in California: Nature’s Tranquil Escapes

Exploring Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks: Your Ultimate Guide to the Finest Experiences

25 Ocean & Beachfront Hotels in San Diego for Your Coastal Getaway

22 Best Places to See Wildflowers in California (South + North)

23 Fun & Exciting Things to Do in Yosemite National Park: Unleash Your Inner Explorer

Privacy Policy | Sitemap

Tour Of Nevada City Bicycle Shop

Review Highlights

“ Once again, I entrusted the expert fitting of Duane and the ongoing great sales relationship with Connie, Kurt, and Larry. ” in 4 reviews

“ Picked up a souvenir water bottle and had a friendly chat with Joe about bikes and burritos. ” in 6 reviews

“ I have a Stumpjumper from the 90's that needed some parts replaced that are difficult to come by. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

457 Sacramento St

Nevada City, CA 95959

You Might Also Consider

Auburn Extreme Powersports

24.4 miles away from Tour Of Nevada City Bicycle Shop

For over two decades, we've been working hard to build our reputation as Auburn's most trusted one-stop shop for supplying what our customers need to sustain their off-road obsessions. As a Polaris dealer specializing in everything… read more

in Motorcycle Gear, Motorcycle Dealers, Motorsport Vehicle Dealers

HUNTNHOUSE Archery by SOLO HNTR

Did you draw an Archery Tag? We are Reno’s largest stocking dealer for Hoyt, Mathew’s, Bowtech, PSE & Prime bows. Hundreds of bows in stock. We stock Easton, Victory, Black Eagle, Gold Tip and Day Six Arrows. Spot Hogg, Black Gold,… read more

in Archery, Outdoor Gear

Famous Footwear

4.4 miles away from Tour Of Nevada City Bicycle Shop

Sylvia C. said "I'm new to the area and I had to go to Petco for my cats. After I was done I popped into Famous Footwear as I am SO TIRED of wearing my tennis shoes. The moment I walked in I was greeted by a very friendly guy who said "Hi! Welcome!…" read more

in Shoe Stores, Sports Wear, Accessories

Amenities and More

About the business.

Located in one of the most popular bicycling areas in the U.S., we offer the highest quality service, sales and rentals to local bicycle enthusiasts as well as those visiting from outside the area. With one of the most well informed and qualified staffs you'll ever meet, we'll gladly help all riders from beginners through professional racers. …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Yelp users haven’t asked any questions yet about Tour Of Nevada City Bicycle Shop .

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

About 4.5yrs ago I was turned-off by the rude service manager that used to work here so I started going elsewhere, however under the new ownership & staff they are definitely the BEST bike shop around now! Joe is the best, went above & beyond to earn my business w a new bike, I learned a ton from him while taking my time to educate myself on the best choice for me. I appreciate his diligence & saying what he means / meaning what he says. The owner is awesome as well, so is Lauren & the mechanics. I'm so glad I gave this place another chance, the support I've received after the purchase has been STELLAR & is the reason I purchased from them. Competence, professional customer service, a positive attitude and good value is everything to me and these people go the extra mile to deliver! Thanks for everything you do and for leading by example. You guys deserve more than 5 stars!!!

We rented e-mountain bikes for our family of 4 to have an adventure while visiting Nevada City over the holidays. Their rental prices were reasonable, and service was top-notch. They recommended a route for all of us to take that was reasonably family friendly, and helped us get it loaded into my phone to make it easy to follow. Mom and daughter didn't love the whole mountain bike experience as much, but I loved it so much I went back the next day for a solo ride. They hooked me up with some amazing trails with a lot more challenge and I had an absolutely blast. They did a great job addressing our different and specific needs for each day we visited, and I couldn'e be happier with the experience.

I've had a 2017 stumpjumper for years, still do. One of the reasons I got a '23 stump evo was this shop. It's definitely the nicest bike I've ever owned. And I feel confident it's in good hands here. (Having a local shop that sells and regularly works on specialized is a must since they can be snooty with parts and work etc.) Mateo has been the main mechanic and person I've interacted with and he is always helpful and pleasant and knowledgeable. I wish I had a better memory for names here and could also mention others, but the short version is, literally everyone I've dealt with calls me back, goes the extra mile, and assures whatever repair or upgrade I'm adding fits me well. This is one of the best LBSs and I feel lucky to have such a great shop here in town.

I arrived at the Tour of Nevada City bike shop at 4:30 today, not knowing what to expect in servicing 2 older mountain bikes. I was warmly welcomed by Lauren, who came out to my car and helped me unload the bikes from my car's bike rack and bring them in. Lauren assessed my needs as she had Austin begin checking my 4 tires. Within 40 minutes, Lauren and Austin completed meeting and exceeding my expectations, rang up the transaction that was very reasonable, and helped me load the 2 bikes safely onto my car. I am so happy that I chose Tour of Nevada City and highly recommend this great shop to everyone who appreciates great service. Thank you Lauren and Austin, plus their management that allows employees to give great customer service!

This is a great shop and everybody is so helpful! They fix up my kids' bikes and flats super fast and super cheap. They gave me a great deal on my 7 year olds bike last year too.

They really are an excellent bike shop. Repairs, equipment, advice. They have it all. Lots of different types too. They have skilled techs for road, mountain and now even e-bikes. They've got pretty much everything you need and their prices for equipment is even cheaper than online. You can't beat their repairs. From fixing a flat, tune-ups or replacing cables. Their prices are reasonable and quicker than I expected. If you are visiting check them out.

Wow! This place is amazing! We walked in, and they immediately fixed my son's bike in minutes. They even added some air to his tires, and we were ready to go. Definitely went above and beyond.... Friendly, professional and so quick! I totally recommend these guys!

Front of the shop... so charming!!!

After my Walmart bike went out after a decade of great fun I realized I was an adult now who could afford something nicer. I tried all the bike shops I could but Covid had everyone snatching them up. This shop had a fair selection and I saw a beautiful specialized rockhopper expert. I figured it would be worth the investment. Bought it back in Fall 2020. Actual review starts here: So I had my tires changed to tubeless when I bought a bike here and the tires did not seal properly. They sealed them again for free since it didn't work the first time. After a few rides my back derailer wasn't switching gears well so they did 1 free tune up. So why not 5 stars? Well you see, 5 stars is perfection. And the people here are great but I do have some suggestions. Since my review is so specific and the workers/owner may read this, I would like to talk to them here specifically. You guys are doing a great job! I appreciate all the help. I don't know his name but the light brown haired guy who occasionally does register and greets people who sold me my bike (he knows who I am). He needs a raise. 5 stars to him. So conclusion why I'm leaving 4 stars. To the new owner, I met you on the trail the day you said you were buying the place. It was a neat experience. You've been helpful each time I come in but please, feel free to treat me like a friend, get to know me a bit, I don't bite. I want to come back and keep buying more stuff. Maybe not every time, but I'll be buying more as time goes on. I want to feel at home when I come in so don't be afraid to have a little chat or something. I'd love that. Seems kinda like a weird review statement but my point is to just be willing to make more connections with your customers. Make us feel welcome. Just like a few of the 1 star reviews said: some people feel like they were ignored by customers who crank out the money and have fancy bikes. Not all of us lower middle class folk can afford a $10000 bike but we have just as much passion as the fancy riders. Lift our spirits and we will be more willing to make the decision to spend more on biking rather than giving a bit of a cold shoulder when we become indecisive. Well that about sums it up. Overall I would recommend this place. Without the experience I had here I might not have bought a bike. I hope to see more warm smiles next time I come in. Sincerely, -Brandon M

I didn't realize the place was under new ownership but it definitely shows. My go to guy has been Joe and he is tremendous in the arena of customer service. You feel like Norm when you walk into this place. I got a flat on my ride through town today and he offered to send someone to get me going again. I explained to my daughter, this is what happens when you shop local, support your community and keep our dollars to people who know your name. No big box store would ever give us 10% of the support and joy we get from voting our dollars right here in town at Tour...

My girlfriend and I were on vacation and rented two bikes from the shop. This was our first time going mountain biking, so we didn't really know what we were getting our selfs into. Luckily Mateo and everyone else in the shop went above and beyond to make this a great experience. They had helmets ready for us, a car bike rack, and pointed us in the right direction of great trails for beginners. I would highly recommend renting a bike from this shop.

Riding Stumpjumper Specialized bikes on Hirschman trail.

6 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Collections Including Tour Of Nevada City Bicycle Shop

Basic services and stuff in Grass Valley/Nevada City.

By Sierra S.

People Also Viewed

You Bet Bicycle Sales & Service

Xtreme Outfitters

Sierra Ebike

Area 13 Ebikes

Mountain Recreation

Goob Cyclery

Harley-Davidson of Yuba CIty

Kelly Bike Company

Van’s Bicycle Center

Browse Nearby

Sporting Goods

Things to Do

Bicycle Shop

Travel Agents

Bikes Near Me

People found Tour Of Nevada City Bicycle Shop by searching for…

Bicycle Repair Nevada City

Bike Rental Nevada City

Bike Shops Nevada City

Best Mountain Bike Shop in Nevada City

Bike Store in Nevada City

Bike Shop Repair in Nevada City

Other Bikes Nearby

Find more Bikes near Tour Of Nevada City Bicycle Shop

Related Cost Guides

Nevada City Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game

• Access to the interactive scavenger hunt tour and challenges you follow & find with your smartphone.
• There's free 2 hour parking available nearby. Additional time costs more. Check before you park.
• 211 Broad St, Nevada City, CA 95959, USA The tour starts and ends at 211 Broad Street, Nevada City, CA 95959. Please make sure you complete checkout on our website (enter your booking number as a coupon code) and can access the scavenger hunt content through the My Account page before you arrive.
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Stroller accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• The Nevada Theatre

Similar experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Nevada City Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game provided by Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours

• Travel Alerts
• Truckee & Donner Summit
• Nevada City
• Grass Valley
• Small Town Gems
• Getting Here
• Festivals & Special Events
• Community Calendar
• Music Arts & Culture
• Health & Wellness
• Food & Drink
• Road Trip Itineraries
• Meetings & Retreats
• Weddings & Event Planning
• Boating and Rafting
• Gold Panning
• Horseback Riding
• River Recreation
• Rock Climbing
• Ski, Ride, Snowsports
• Visitor Tips

Get In The “Spirit” This Halloween Season With These Spooky Tours Of Nevada County

There are historic cemeteries to visit, tales of renowned buildings to learn about, walks through history-rich downtowns, and much more. Here's all the guided tours happening this Halloween that will get you in the mood for this season.

Tips & Resources

Join Folk Trails Hiking Club and the Inn Town Campground on the popular Historic Cemeteries tour.

Experience actor, writer, and master storyteller Mark Lyon on a colorful Haunted Nevada City historical walking tour

Take in Truckee’s colorful history on your own time with a self-guided downtown Truckee historic tour

By Alex Silgalis

Nevada County is blessed when it comes to fall. From eye-popping fall colors to an amazing list of things to do . But there’s one in particular you should include on your trip this autumn. Take in one of the many guided tours happening. Here’s some of the upcoming best tours this season.

Historic Cemeteries & Fall Colors Of Nevada City

October 12 th , 2023.

The popular annual local history hike series with Folk Trails Hiking Club and the Inn Town Campground returns for the Historic Cemeteries tour. The free hike starts at the Robinson Plaza in downtown Nevada City, in front of the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce. At 4pm, you’ll set off on a lovely four-mile stroll through its historic cemeteries. This includes Pioneer Cemetery off West Broad Street, St. Canice Historical Cemetery, and Pine Grove Cemetery on Red Dog Road. Each of these cemeteries offer a glimpse into Nevada County’s past. Learn about individuals buried here and pay respects to those who have come before us. Visit the Folk Trails website for more about this hike and others.

To add to the experience, consider picking up a copy of “Cemeteries of the Western Sierra” by local historian Christopher Ward. You’ll find the book at Nevada County’s bookstores –   Harmony Books .

Truckee’s Historical Haunted Tour

October 12 th & 13 th , 2023.

Truckee may be a lively town filled with upscale boutiques, wine shops, and award-winning fine dining, but it wasn’t always so. As part of the annual Historical Haunted Tour, you’ll experience its past through talented characters. Watch as they engage in rowdy tales of its history in seven historical sites located throughout downtown Truckee.

Note: The Historical Haunted Tour is so popular that it sells out the day tickets go on sale. If you want to join the fun, be sure to set a reminder that 2024 tickets go on sale July 4th at 8am .

Self-Guided Tour Of Truckee

Even if you can’t get tickets for this year’s haunted tour, there’s plenty of exploring to do on your own. Take in the history by going on a self-guided downtown Truckee historic tour and explore Truckee’s oldest buildings. Learn about its early settlers, the first transcontinental railroad, and discover the interesting stories behind Truckee’s landmark sites and historical buildings. For more Halloween fun, be sure to read Truckee’s Guide to Halloween .

Haunted Nevada City Tours

Nevada City has a deep history literally and figuratively because of its Gold Rush era past. Explore the stories of the numerous spirts, apparitions, and specters that are known to frequent its historic buildings. Join actor, writer, and master storyteller Mark Lyon on a Haunted Nevada City historical walking tour in his Victorian gold rush era hometown. You’ll walk Broad Street and get highlights on local color, historic references, and history of buildings. And of course, tales of ghost and paranormal sightings that have happened over the years. Tours are available by digital download and can be purchased at the Nevada City Chamber office at 132 Main St. Or if you wish to experience Mark’s storytelling in person, private tours can be arranged by contacting him at [email protected] .

Alex Silgalis

Alex founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.

Related Posts

How to watch March Madness: Full NCAA Tournament TV schedule, start times

March Madness is back.

Below is a full schedule of every game in the 2024 men’s NCAA Tournament, including tipoff times (in ET) and TV channels.

(Click here for the women’s schedule.)

• Follow live coverage of the 2024 men’s NCAA Tournament second round

Thursday, March 28

No. 2 Arizona vs. No. 6 Clemson , 7:09 p.m., CBS (Los Angeles)

No. 1 UConn vs. No. 5 San Diego State, 7:39 p.m., TBS (Boston)

No. 1 North Carolina vs. No. 4 Alabama, 9:39 p.m., CBS (Los Angeles)

No. 2 Iowa State vs. No. 1 Illinois , 10:09 p.m., TBS (Boston)

Friday, March 29

No. 2 Marquette vs. No. 11 NC State, 7:09 p.m., CBS (Dallas)

Advertisement

No. 1 Purdue vs. No. 5 Gonzaga , 7:39 p.m., TBS (Detroit)

No. 1 Houston vs. No. 4 Duke , 9:39 p.m., CBS (Dallas)

No. 2 Tennessee vs. No. 3 Creighton , 10:09 p.m., TBS (Detroi)

Elite Eight

Saturday, march 30.

TBD vs. TBD, 6 p.m., TBS

TBD vs. TBD, 8:30 p.m., TBS

Sunday, March 31

TBD vs. TBD, 2 p.m., CBS

TBD vs. TBD, 4:55 p.m., CBS

Saturday, April 6

TBD vs. TBD, 6 p.m. TBS

TBD vs. TBD 8:30 p.m., TBS

NCAA championship game

Monday, april 8.

TBD vs. TBD, 9 p.m., TBS

The 10 most intriguing players in the NCAA Tournament

What happened to the 2021 NFL Draft QBs? Why Justin Fields and others are with new teams

(Photo: Kelley L Cox / USA Today)

Get all-access to exclusive stories.

Subscribe to The Athletic for in-depth coverage of your favorite players, teams, leagues and clubs. Try a week on us.

Jayna Bardahl is a college football staff editor for The Athletic. She has worked as an editor and reporter covering Big Ten football and men's basketball, and was an intern at The Boston Globe, where she covered the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots. Follow Jayna on Twitter @ Jaynabardahl

Nevada City Tree Tour

Nevada City is filled with beautiful trees and you can learn about them through the Nevada City Tree Tour, now available as a downloadable PDF  or downloadable Google Earth file (to open the file you’ll need to  install the desktop version of Google Earth ).

The self-guided walking (or driving) tour of 42 native and non-native trees in the downtown Nevada City area was originally prepared by horticulturist and tree care consultant Ellen Solomon in 2008, along with contributors Randall Frizzell, Roger McGehee and Chet Blackburn.

This original map was updated for accessibility on smart phones and computers under the supervision of the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce in 2017.  The Tree Tour is divided into 2 routes, each taking about an hour to walk in most instances.

Patterned after tree guides of other communities, the City of Nevada City has painted sidewalk leaves to identify trees on the route, which are maintained by the Chamber of Commerce.

Critical additions and edits for the 2017 text were generously contributed by Greg Archbald, Zeno Acton and Randall Frizzell. Pamela Biery, the 2008 map designer, managed the 2017 project update and digital implementation.

The production of the Nevada City Tree Tour has been supported by California ReLeaf, Pacific Gas & Electric, the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce, with the sponsorship of Acton Arboriculture, Inc., Byers LeafGuard, Gold Creek Inn B&B, Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co., and GoFundMe.com donations. Thank you for your support.

Nevada City’s Horticultural Heritage

Nevada school meal funding going back to pre-pandemic policy

The carson city school district is speaking out on the issue.

RENO, Nev. (KOLO) - Certain students all over the state of Nevada will be going back to the way meals used to be.

“We are going from everybody eating for free regardless of anything, to free and reduced-price meals and paid status based on income,” explained Elizabeth Martinez, Director of Nutrition services for the Carson City School District.

During the bulk of the pandemic, Nevada got federal funding to cover free meals for all students. That continued for the past two years with American Rescue Plan, but those funds have run out. And a bill to have all Nevada students get free meals at school was vetoed by the Governor.

While this is a statewide change, it is the Carson High School district that is speaking out on the issue.

Martinez says some students at Carson High school, Eagle Valley Middle school, and Al Seeliger Elementary school will soon have to pay for food again, with state funding for free meals ending May 30.

“The others schools qualify under the community eligibility provision, so people will continue to eat free at those sites,” Martinez said about all other schools in the CCSD.

Parents of students impacted can apply for free or reduced-price lunches but must do so before the May 24th deadline or they will be automatically enrolled in the full pay option.

For additional information in the CCSD, you can call Nutrition Services at 775-283-2150.

Copyright 2024 KOLO. All rights reserved.

Nevada fines Laughlin casino record $500k for security guards roughing up patrons

Operation at Vagabond Inn results in 10 arrests

Teacher who resigned after her OnlyFans page was discovered says new employer fired her for violating social media policy

New report shines light on south Reno fire that killed 2 teens

Sparks police looking for motorcyclist who allegedly shot someone

Latest news.

A Reno mother set up a foundation to help wildland firefighters to memorialize her son

Easter Dining at the Atlantis

Carson City Sheriff’s Office encourages everyone to check on their home security measures before summer

Carson City Sheriff’s Office: Check on home security measures before summer

South Virginia Street Safety Survey

Mon - Fri: 10:00am - 6:00pm Sat: 10:00am - 4:00pm Sun: 11:00am - 4:00pm

• Stores Stores
• Mountain (7)
• City & Recreation (8)
• 24-Inch (7+ yr. old) (1)
• Specialized Turbo 7
• Specialized 7
• Show More Sizes
• Show Fewer Sizes
• $2000 to $3499.99 3
• $3500 to $5999.99 8
• $6000 to $100000 3

• Things to Do
• Community Calendar

City Morgue – Bombs In The Mail Tour with fourfive

We want to hear from you if you have an event to share or updates to this event .

Images provided by AmericanTowns.com , Ticketmaster

Other Events You May Like

The Landscape of NIL in College Athletics

Laugh Factory Feat. Bill Dawes

Upcoming AARP Events

Featured event, aarp nevada "swinging saturday" dance classes.

Saturday, Apr 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. PT

The Ballroom of Reno School of Dance

A Virtual Class in Gentle Chair Yoga

Friday, Mar 29, 2024 at 5:30 a.m. PT

Online Event

Your Friend, the Ombudsman

Friday, Mar 29, 2024 at 7:30 a.m. PT

View All AARP Events

• Immediate access to your member benefits
• Discounts on travel and everyday savings
• Subscription to AARP The Magazine
• FREE second membership

Contact AARP Nevada

• [email protected]
• AARP Nevada

What community do you want to visit?

¿qué comunidad quieres visitar.