Your guide to exploring Grass Valley and Nevada City
Nestled within the Sierra Nevada foothills of Northern California, Grass Valley and Nevada City are twin gems full of rich California Gold Rush history. These charming towns, with their Victorian-era architecture, quaint streets and Gold Rush heritage make the perfect weekend escape. These small towns feel charming like Stars Hollow or the town in Practical Magic and transport you to a world where the echoes of the Gold Rush era live on.
Where to Stay
Holbrooke Hotel
Constructed in 1852, the Holbrooke Hotel played an integral role in shaping the town’s narrative throughout the years standing as a testament to the legacy of the Gold Rush era. Over the years it’s hosted historical guests such as Mark Twain, Ulysses S. Grant, and John Wayne. Recently restored, the hotel’s 27 guest rooms are full of unique charm with antique furnishings that feel nostalgic of the original days it was built. With Victorian charm, vintage decor and period details, the hotel creates an atmosphere that transports you back to a bygone era. Each room comes with a clawfoot tub to soak in and it stunning. Rumor has it it’s even haunted. If you’re not staying overnight, it’s still definitely worth a visit for dinner or even a drink at the bar. Visitors to the Holbrooke can also see live music and events throughout the year.
The National Exchange Hotel
The sister hotel to the Holbrooke, the National Exchange Hotel, is another historical landmark nestled in the heart of Nevada City, California that showcases the town’s rich history and charm. Originally built in 1856, this historic hotel has been a cornerstone of the community for generations. Meticulously restored to its former glory, the National Exchange Hotel showcases an exquisite fusion of Victorian elegance and modern comfort. With its ornate architectural details, classic furnishings, and period-inspired decor, the hotel’s interior transports guests to a the past evoking the spirit of the Gold Rush days. From its storied past to its contemporary amenities, the National Exchange Hotel offers a captivating journey into the heart of Nevada City’s past and present.
What to Do
While you could easily enjoy the lovely hotels in the area, there’s plenty of exploring to do. We bopped around the towns and stopped in thrift shops, bakeries, and coffee shops. It was such a lovely way to spend an early fall day.
- Stroll Downtown Grass Valley
- Grab a coffee or lunch at Heartwood
- Grab dinner or a drink at Golden Gate Saloon
- Get coffee at Bluebell Coffee
- Get dinner or drinks at Lola in the National Exchange Hotel
- Go wine tasting at the local wineries
- See a movie at the historic Del Oro theatre
- Spend an afternoon on the Yuba river
- Browse records at Clock Tower Records
- get local cornish pasty’s at Corvus Bakery
- Get a burger and root beer at the classic Big A Rootbeer Drive In
- Get coffee at Communal Cafe
- Drink beer at Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co.
We spend the first day exploring Grass Valley. We walked around the main street, got coffee at Bluebell Coffee, a cute coffee shop inside of the vintage movie theatre, and then stopped into some boutiques. There were some great vintage shops, and then we browsed records at Clock Tower Records.
On our second day we headed to the Yuba river to swim in the water, lounge and soak up the sun. Then we headed to Nevada City to explore. There were so many cute shops so we stopped by some antique stores, wandered around the neighborhoods and then had dinner and drinks at the National Exchange Hotel.
It was such a fun trip and makes me want to explore more hidden gems in California. Happy travels! If you want to see more guides check out my Instagram and TikTok.
xoxo Erika