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Landscape

Things To Do

Curious what to do in your free time? Below are some activities we recommend, and our favorite food stops. We hope this gives you a good place to start. TIP: Lake Tahoe is only about an hour away, so you can also plan a day trip to Truckee, Donner Lake, and/or Kings Beach (North Lake Tahoe).
Empire Mine State Historic Park

Empire Mine State Historic Park

10791 East Empire Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945

Empire Mine State Historic Park in Grass Valley is a preserved gold mining site that offers a glimpse into California's rich mining history. Visitors can explore the original mine yard buildings, including the main shaft entrance, and stroll through the elegant Bourn Cottage and its restored gardens. The park also features 14 miles of scenic trails for hiking and mountain biking.

The Sierra Vintners California Wine Trail

The Sierra Vintners California Wine Trail

When you hear “California Wine Trail”, the first thing that comes to mind for most is Napa Valley or Sonoma. These places come with a heavy price tag and can be quite busy. If you’re looking for a place to sample award-winning wines in a more relaxed atmosphere, look no further than the Sierra Vintners California Wine Trail. Montoliva, Naggiar, Nevada City Winery, and Avanguardia are some of Lauren's favorites.

Nevada City Farmers Market

Nevada City Farmers Market

100 Union Street, Nevada City, CA 95959

Every Saturday, 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. PT

Angkula Seo Suspension Bridge

Angkula Seo Suspension Bridge

Deer Creek Tribute Trail, Nevada City, CA 95959

This popular trail begins as an urban stroll through downtown Nevada City. During the months of October and November, check out the Victorian California Fall Colors Tour for a guided walk of historic architecture and established trees. A popular route departs from the Miner’s Foundry on Spring Street in downtown Nevada City. Look for trail signs, follow the switchback dirt trail through the woods and listen for the sound of Deer Creek’s water. A large sign with map of the trail system will help you find your way.

Gold Vibe Kombuchary

Gold Vibe Kombuchary

12615 Charles Drive, Grass Valley, CA 95945

Kids are allowed. They have fun games (darts, pin ball, ping pong, etc.) and areas to relax. They sell mainly Hard Kombucha, but they also have 1 - 2 options of regular Kombucha.

Condon Park

Condon Park

660 Minnie Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945

This 80-acre park has a nationally recognized skatepark design to arguably one of the best disc golf courses in the state, and an off-leash dog park and hiking trails.

Historic Bridgeport Covered Bridge

Historic Bridgeport Covered Bridge

17660 Pleasant Valley Road, Penn Valley, CA 95946

Have a picnic and cold plunge in the Yuba River, or come see the historic covered bridge.

Purdon Crossing

Purdon Crossing

Purdon Road, Nevada City, CA 95959

This 5 mile stretch of the South Yuba Trail runs along the shadier south side of the river between Purdon Crossing in the west and Edward's Crossing in the east. If you begin at Edward's Crossing, the trail has a very slight downhill. You'll travel through several microclimates - mossy, ferny streams, sunny rock outcroppings, forested areas - and through State Park, Bureau of Land Management and private properties. At Edward's Crossing, the Spring Creek Trail begins at the north end of the bridge. It continues downstream about 1 mile, crossing Spring Creek along the way. There are several points to access the river along this trail and go swimming.

Pine Street Burgers

1249 East Main Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945

These are the best burgers in town! They cater well to food sensitivities and allergies. They have gluten free, vegetarian, vegan, and dairy free milkshakes options.

The Ham Stand

821 Zion Street, Nevada City, CA 95959

The best sandwiches in town.

South Pine Cafe-Grass Valley

102 Richardson Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945

Honestly the best breakfast, according to Lauren.

Caroline's Coffee Roasters

128 South Auburn Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945

Great for coffee. They roast their own beans. :)

Tofanelli's Gold Country Bistro

302 West Main Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945

Great for breakfast and brunch.

Pete's Pizza & Tap House

114 West Main Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945

Caters to food allergies and sensitivities. Has vegan and gluten free options.

KAIDO Japanese Restaurant

207 West Main Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945

Our favorite sushi place.

Corvus Bakery

154 Mill Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945

100% Gluten Free Bakery. It is Lauren's absolute favorite.

Marshall's Pasties

203 Mill Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945

The best in town, and they have been serving these since back in the Gold Rush Days. They have odd hours so recommend looking up when they are open.

Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co.

211 Commercial Street, Nevada City, CA 95959

They have gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options. This is also a brewery, and is a great place to have a nice drink.

Communal Cafe

233 Broad Street, Nevada City, CA 95959

Lovely vibes here and great for coffee, or a light breakfast/lunch. They also have some good pastries.

Flour Garden Bakery

999 Sutton Way, Grass Valley, CA 95945

Bakery and deli. We love their bread, bagels and chicken salads. There are two locations, both are great.

Taste of Thai

204 West Main Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945

Our favorite Thai food place.

Taqueria El Gaban Mexican Grill

1041 Sutton Way, Grass Valley, CA 95945

We will be serving Mexican food at the reception, but if you just can't get enough, this is Luke's absolute favorite place.