A relaxed, mountain-style brewery located right on-site at our venue. They typically operate from 4:00–8:00 PM, serving craft beers and casual bites (pizzas, wings, pretzels) in a laid-back setting. On our wedding day only, they’ll also be open during lunchtime (12pm to ceremony start), making it an easy and convenient option for a midday meal without leaving the property. No reservations required!
A charming local spot serving great coffee, homemade pastries, and small-batch ice cream — perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat while you’re in town. Please note that the town will be especially busy over the holiday weekend, so you may experience a bit of a wait!
A cozy lunch spot in downtown Graeagle serving fresh salads, sandwiches, soups, and baked treats. It’s perfect for a relaxed midday bite if you’re exploring the area. Just a heads up — they’re only open for lunch and close early, so plan to swing by before the afternoon wraps up!
A cozy local favorite in downtown Portola serving coffee, fresh-baked pastries, and casual breakfast and lunch. Perfect for a relaxed bite and small-town charm. Blue Door Cafe does offer online ordering for pickup, so you can place an order ahead of time for coffee, pastries, breakfast, or lunch.
A relaxed, scenic spot right in Graeagle, The Meadows offers classic American comfort food with beautiful golf-course and mountain views. It’s a great place for breakfast or lunch before heading to the venue, and the outdoor deck is perfect for soaking in the fresh Sierra air. Open daily from 8 AM–3 PM.
A cozy Italian spot in Graeagle serving fresh pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and great wines. It’s one of the more popular dinner options in town, with a warm, intimate atmosphere perfect for a relaxed meal. Be sure to call in advance for a reservation - (530) 836-2121. Note: Cuccia’s is only open Tuesday–Saturday from 5:00–8:30 PM.
The Brewing Lair A relaxed, open-air craft brewery tucked into the pines—perfect for grabbing a cold beer and enjoying the mountain atmosphere. With rotating brews, spacious outdoor seating, and plenty of room to hang out, it’s a great spot for couples, families, and groups. Open Daily from Noon – Darkish (7–8ish).
A cozy spot in Blairsden offering gourmet comfort food and a warm, rustic atmosphere. It’s perfect for a casual dinner out while you’re in town. The bar opens at 4:00 PM and dinner is served Thursday–Monday from 5:00–8:00 PM. Reservations recommended.
A stunning mountain-modern dining experience set inside Nakoma’s iconic Frank Lloyd Wright–designed Lodge. FIFTY44 offers elevated, locally inspired dishes in a beautiful, cozy setting with sweeping views. It’s a great spot for a special dinner during the weekend. Dinner Hours (Summer): Thursday through Sunday, from approximately 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Graeagle is famous for its small-town Fourth of July festivities, and the entire area comes alive for the holiday weekend. You can expect a fun, family-friendly parade down the main street, local events, and festive activities throughout town. More details will be shared as the holiday approaches, but it’s always a lively and memorable weekend to be in Graeagle!
The area is known for its world-class golf courses with incredible views. Graeagle Meadows and Plumas Pines are top local picks, Nakoma’s championship course offers stunning mountain scenery, and Chalet View Lodge (our venue) also has a small on-site course perfect for a casual round during the weekend. If you plan to golf off-site, be sure to book your tee time in advance, as courses fill up quickly—especially over the holiday weekend.
The region is full of stunning alpine lakes and scenic hiking trails, offering endless ways to explore the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevadas. From quick walks to full-day adventures, there’s something for every level. Popular nearby spots include the Lakes Basin area, Sardine Lake, and the trails around Gold Lake—each known for breathtaking views and crystal-clear water.
The area is also great for mountain biking, with miles of forest trails and terrain for all experience levels. Popular routes include the Mills Peak Trail, Mount Elwell Loop, and various Lakes Basin paths. Rental options and trail maps are available locally, making it easy to get out and enjoy the mountains on two wheels. If you plan to ride during the holiday weekend, consider securing rentals or gear ahead of time, as availability can be limited.
Downtown Graeagle is full of small-town charm, with local shops, cafés, and the iconic red-shed boutiques. It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon of browsing, ice cream, and taking in the mountain-town vibe. The town also hosts 4th of July celebrations all weekend, bringing extra festive energy to your visit.
About a 1-1.5 hour drive from Graeagle, North Lake Tahoe and Truckee make for a perfect day trip. Enjoy crystal-clear lake views, scenic hikes, charming downtown shopping, great food, and classic mountain-town vibes. Ideal if you want to explore a bit more of the Sierra Nevadas before or after the wedding.