Nevada County in Northern California is well-known for its historic, picturesque beauty. I want to invite you to come to visit and witness our Gold Country heritage!
I live in a spectacular part of Northern California, and I’d love to share it with you. Nevada County is a favorite destination for people from around the world to enjoy.
Discover 6 reasons to visit Nevada County and experience all that makes this area unique!
1. Every Season is Gorgeous in Nevada County
No matter what season it is, our county features spectacular natural sights! We experience all four seasons, so Nevada County is a diverse wonderland for you to enjoy! The wildflowers of spring welcome a wealth of summertime attractions and pursuits. Fall colors stick around until the charm of winter arrives. There’s no off-season, whether your plans include lakes, rivers, or mountains!
Nevada County’s brilliant autumn colors have been described as some of the most spectacular in the west. We often see recognizable Nevada County localities in publications near and far. Our autumn colors attract visitors and photographers to see and capture Nevada County’s picturesque colors, landscapes, and neighborhoods. Fall Colors start in early October and typically last until Thanksgiving. You can download a free self-guided fall tour map here from the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce. https://www.nevadacitychamber.com/images/fallcolors.pdf
2. Nevada County is Rich in Arts & Culture
No visit to this area is complete without taking in the local arts and culture scene. Many local artists feature exhibitions in the local galleries from Grass Valley to Truckee. At the Open Studios Tour and our annual Art Walks, you have the opportunity to meet the artist while enjoying their paintings, pottery, sculpture, and more!
Nevada County also has world-class music, which attracts connoisseurs from all over, including WorldFest, the Bluegrass Festival, Music in the Mountains, InConcert Sierra, and the Strawberry Festival. Many of our music events are held amongst the pines at the Nevada County Fairgrounds, dubbed “California’s most beautiful fairgrounds!”
Throughout Nevada County, there are theatrical productions and other entertainment from local and traveling musicians, writers, and artists. Whether you find live music at a pub, a play Off Broad Street, or our annual Storytelling Festival, there’s always something to do here!
3. We Have a Vibrant Gold Country History
Nevada City was one of the essential gold-mining towns in the 1840s. With its gold and gaslights, the busy town was named “queen city of the northern mines” with a history that few can rival. Its quaint streets lined with stately Victorian homes and historical landmarks have a powerful draw – and it all began with the gold.
Downtown Grass Valley has served the community since 1849, and there you’ll find galleries, a historic hotel, unique shopping, and award-winning restaurants. The Empire Mine in Grass Valley is a must-see for tourists and history buffs alike! It was the most productive mine in the state, and the property has been fully restored, making it a favorite spot for photographers.
The historical town of Truckee has a rich history, concentrated around the historic railroad and commercial row. This growing community that has kept its small-town atmosphere, and exploring the local sites and landmarks there is not be missed! Make sure to visit the Donner Memorial and Emigrant Trail Museum for interpretive displays and hiking trails.
4. Top-Notch Cuisine and Libations
Nevada County has a strong, growing wine industry which began in 1852 when the first vineyard was planted. Going on a winery tour offers a blend of experiences, from the rural beauty in the countryside vineyards to the charm of downtown tasting rooms. Sierra Vintners offers seasonal wine trails where you can taste the wines and meet the vintners.
Joining the local scene are various new taprooms and breweries, which offer award-winning, locally-made beers. Most taprooms offer food with an emphasis on locally sourced produce and meats. Visiting the Thirsty Barrel taproom in downtown Grass Valley will allow you to try beers from local favorites like the Grass Valley Brewery and Ol’ Republic.
Our local restaurants rival big-city fare, offering farm to fork cuisine for every palate. Organic? Try MeZe Mediterranean Eatery. Something sweet? Try Cake Bakery. There truly is something for everyone from fine dining to local coffeehouses.
5. Nevada County is Picturesque
You can’t go wrong with the natural beauty of Nevada County! Some of California’s most idyllic and picturesque sights can be found overlooking Donner Lake, along the Yuba River, and in the mountains. Traveling lower in elevation, you’ll find the rolling foothills of Penn Valley and Rough & Ready with their heritage oaks, many several hundreds of years old.
Nevada County’s historical sites such as the town at Malakoff Diggins or the covered bridge at Bridgeport provide incredible opportunities for taking awe-inspiring photos. Immerse yourself in the crystal clear waters, living beauty of wildlife, serene forests, and gentle pastures throughout the county.
Those hoping to head out into the wild will enjoy a backcountry hike or backpacking. We have state and national parks, with maps, trailheads, and campgrounds perfect for explorers.
6. It’s Home
Most of our residents moved here from other states and areas after discovering Nevada County’s fantastic richness. The biggest draw to our area seems to be the quality of life. We have all the amenities you can find in a big city, plus the pace here is pace is slower and more relaxed.
Our area continues to attract business owners and advanced tech companies, dating back to 1958. Nevada County is home to a diverse variety of thriving businesses, such as technology and research companies, manufacturing companies, cottage businesses, entrepreneurs, organic farmers, and developers.
From historical Victorian homes to horse properties, farmhouses to miner’s cottages, the homes here are as diverse as the people who call Nevada County home. We have gated communities with golf and lakes, equestrian properties, and neighborhoods built into the forest. There truly is something for every taste!
