Grass Valley is full of history, wine, and small town charm. Here is your guide to the best things to do in this Gold Country gem.
Grass Valley sits just four miles from Nevada City. It is a historic Gold Country town with its own character, its own restaurants, and its own attractions. Many visitors explore both towns in the same trip. If you are spending time in the area, Grass Valley deserves a day of your attention.
Here are the best things to do in Grass Valley California.
Downtown Grass Valley is walkable and charming. Mill Street and Main Street are lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. The pace is slow. The people are friendly. It is a great place to spend a morning.
You will find antique stores, boutiques, art galleries, and coffee shops. The selection is different from Nevada City but just as interesting. Many visitors enjoy comparing the two downtowns.
The architecture has a Gold Rush era feel. Brick buildings and wooden storefronts line the streets. It is well preserved and full of character.
Empire Mine is the top attraction in Grass Valley. It was the largest hard rock gold mine in California. Today, it is a state park with guided tours, hiking trails, and beautiful grounds.
The mine yard, the gardens, and the Bourn Cottage are all worth seeing. The cottage is an elegant country estate that belonged to the mine's former owner. The gardens are maintained by volunteers and are especially beautiful in the spring and summer.
Admission is modest. Dogs are not allowed inside the park. Plan to spend at least an hour or two here. It is a fascinating window into the Gold Rush era.
Grass Valley is home to several wine tasting rooms and nearby wineries. You can sample Sierra Foothills wines without leaving town. The tasting rooms are casual and welcoming.
If you prefer to visit the vineyards themselves, Naggiar, Lucchesi, and other wineries are a short drive away. A tasting tour through the area makes for a relaxing afternoon.
The wines are bold and expressive. They reflect the climate and soil of the Sierra foothills. If you have not tried Sierra Foothills wine before, you are in for a pleasant surprise.
The Holbrooke Hotel dates back to 1852. It is one of the oldest hotels west of the Rockies. The Golden Gate Saloon inside is legendary. The original back bar piece is still in place.
Even if you are not staying at the hotel, the restaurant and bar are open to the public. The food is excellent. The cocktails are creative. And the Iron Door Speakeasy downstairs is a unique experience.
The Holbrooke is a must visit for anyone who loves history, architecture, or just a really good drink in a stunning setting.
The drive between Grass Valley and Nevada City takes about 10 minutes. Many visitors split their day between the two towns. Morning in one. Evening in the other. It is easy and rewarding.
For dinner, head back to Nevada City and visit Friar Tucks. The seasonal menu, live music, and historic atmosphere make it the perfect way to end a day of exploring the area.
After a day of exploring, settle in at Friar Tucks for dinner and live music. The seasonal menu features local ingredients. The wine list is one of the best in the area. And the live music is a nightly tradition that has been going strong since 1973.
Reserve your table at Friar Tucks and make your evening complete.
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