NEVADA COUNTY
Where history comes alive in historic downtowns and you come alive in the great outdoors
Discover the magic of Nevada County’s Gold Rush towns! Step back in time through beautifully preserved steepled churches and Victorian hotels that hosted presidents away from the bustle of the city. Explore Empire Mine State Historic Park, and cross the world’s longest covered bridge. Immerse yourself in outdoor adventures, from scenic trails to kayaking. Your unforgettable journey awaits – come create memories in this captivating destination just an hour from Sacramento and Lake Tahoe!
Vibe:
Nevada County blends a creative, free-spirited vibe with historic charm and outdoor adventure where arts and culture thrive alongside scenic beauty and a welcoming community.
Known for:
The twin cities of Grass Valley and Nevada City are iconic historic era towns and Nevada County is the only rural county that has two-state designated cultural districts.
Don’t miss:
Charming historic towns with unique shops, eateries, and galleries, miles of scenic trails, sparkling rivers and lakes and a thriving arts and culture community.
Historical Landmarks & Cultural Hotspots:
- Empire Mine State Historic Park in Grass Valley — home to one of the oldest, largest, and richest gold mines in California
- North Star Mining Museum — mining equipment and local artifacts that tell the story of the Gold Rush era.
- Nevada City — the entire downtown district is a preserved National Historic Landmark for its Victorian architecture.
- Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum pays tribute to the pioneers who braved the Sierra Nevada, including the ill-fated Donner Party.
Key Attractions and Things To Do:
- Camping
- Music, Arts & Culture
- Sierra Vintners Wine Trail
- Gold Panning
- Biking
- South Yuba River State Park — home to the longest single-span wooden covered bridge in the world.
- Hiking and Trails
- Historic hotels like The Holbrooke (built 1879) and The National Exchange (built 1853–56)
- Shopping
- Fishing
Major Annual Events:
- Wild and Scenic Film Festivals
- Nevada County Fair
- Sierra Storytelling Festival
- Nevada City Victorian Christmas
- Cornish Christmas
Popular Food and Drink:
Restaurants
- The Owl Tavern
- Kaido Sushi & Japanese Grill
- Lola’s at the National Exchange Hotel
- Heartwood
- Old 5 Mile House
Beverages
Recent Media Features
This Northern California Gold Rush town was named one of the nation’s top small towns | KCRA 3
Nevada City RV campground voted nation’s best by USA Today for 3rd straight year | CBS Sacramento
Mardi Gras glitters in this Gold Country hamlet | NBC Bay Area
Want to learn more?
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Go Nevada County
950 Maidu Avenue
Nevada City, CA 95959
(530) 470-2795
Media & Travel Trade Contact:
Kimberly Parker,
Program Manager Nevada County Economic Development
kimberly.parker@nevadacountyca.gov
(530) 470-2795