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.
