Nevada City Day Trip California Gold Country

Nevada City, California, is a perfect destination to add a little history to your next road trip. With just over 3,000, the town has hardly grown in the past 100 years. This should not lead you to believe Nevada City is not worth a visit.

Nevada City started during the gold rush and is rich in history. Several sites are on the National Register of Historic Places. These sites include Firehouse No. 2 and the National Hotel, the oldest, still-functioning hotel west of the Rockies. Nevada City boasts three museums that will educate and entertain.

One of the most unique is the Nevada County Railroad Museum in the Seven Hills Business District. This narrow-gauge railroad is a sight to behold for model railroad fans.

It’s well maintained by volunteers who strive to preserve the rail history in this area. See a fantastic display of rolling stock, tunnels, buildings, and more as you watch the train travel all about the tracks inside the museum.

If you want something more relaxing and less active during your visit to Nevada City, check out their little shops and restaurants collection. Broad Street has many small shops and eateries, so you are in the right place if you desire a meal or a snack.

If you want something unique to remind you of your time here, you will find it on Broad Street. Shops sell souvenirs, apparel, sweet treats, outdoor gear, etc.

Another asset to Broad Street is the family of merchants who sincerely appreciate that you enjoy their little town. Friendly and full of information, they can give you inside information that only locals know.

Events

Depending on the time of year you visit Nevada City, you may enjoy one of the city’s annual events. In January, there is the Wild & Scenic Film Fest. June Nevada City celebrates Gold Rush Days. There is a storytelling Festival and the 4th of July Parade in July.

Nearby Nevada City

Not far from Nevada City in the Tahoe National Forest, the South Yuba River, and the High Sierras. Nevada City is only 45 minutes from the Donner Summit, named after the ill-fated Donner Party, and a short 60-90 drive from Lake Tahoe Ski areas.

Surrounding towns, such as Grass Valley, just a few miles away, offer similar quaintness and relaxing business and entertainment opportunities.

Still close by and worth fitting into your day are the towns of Truckee and Auburn. These towns are more pieces to the quilt, making up the Gold Rush Part of California’s History.

Another way to enjoy this area of California is a walk or hike on Independence Trail. Much of this walk is wheelchair accessible, and the vegetation along the South Yuba River is gorgeous.

Getting There

Finding Nevada City is easy enough. Travel east on Interstate 80 past Sacramento to Hwy 49. Take Hwy 49 north to Hwy 20. Where 49 and 20 meet you, come to Grass Valley.

Whether you choose Nevada City as your only destination for the day or part of an area tour, you will enjoy this part of California’s history.

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