Here's a roadmap to some of our favorite spots in Murphys. Keep in mind that in downtown, there are over 20 wine tasting rooms that are within walking distance of each other. Gold Country Roasters / Amazing coffee, be sure to watch the bean roasting action next door. Murphys Pour House / Small tap room with lots of outdoor seating. Doke Sushi / Great sushi! We recommend grabbing a reservation ahead of time if you plan to check this place out. Firewood / A place to grab a bite to eat where everyone can find something on the menu. We eat here about once a week! Grounds / Brunch is great, definitely try their house jam! Books on Main / Our local bookstore, wander in, say hi to the owner and grab a new book for the trip back. Sierra Nevada Adventure Company (SNAC) / Local outdoor equipment shop with another location in Arnold. Aria / Delicious pastries, try the potato foccacia! Murphys Community Park / Just our cute park that's fun to visit. We've even got a creek!
We would recommend hitching a trip to Yosemite to our wedding (especially if you are traveling from out of state!). As of writing, they are not requiring reservations to enter, but check back about a month before the wedding if you plan to make that a part of your trip. It's beautiful in May!
One of three tour-able caverns in the county, Mercer is not too far out of town and a good way to spend a few hours (even better if it's a warm May!). If you are interested if other caverns in the area, ask us about them! We can point toward some other amazing sights.
A local swimming hole in a cave, yes! We have that. It may be too cold in May to swim, unless you are very brave, have strong skin, or are used to swimming in lakes in the Midwest in the summer. In the last several years more visitors have visited, so we recommend coming early as there's limited parking. Bring lunch and wear your hiking shoes!
The Arnold Rim Trail is a network of hiking trails along the edge of Arnold. If you have a good chunk of time, the Top of the World is a great trail with a beautiful view. You can also use this trail to hike to White Pines, a beautiful well maintained lake in Arnold.