Everything you need to know for your visit to
Nevada City
Nestled amidst the picturesque Sierra Nevada foothills lies Nevada City, a quaint gem exuding charm at every turn. Steeped in Gold Rush history, this vibrant town boasts enchanting Victorian architecture lining its narrow streets, where time seems to slow down to a leisurely pace. Meandering through the heart of downtown, visitors are greeted by eclectic boutiques, art galleries brimming with local talent, and cozy cafes serving up artisanal delights. Nature lovers are drawn to the nearby Yuba River for refreshing dips in emerald pools and leisurely hikes along sun-dappled trails. With its lively community festivals, including colorful parades and spirited street performances, Nevada City effortlessly captures the essence of small-town charm, inviting all who wander its charming streets to linger a little longer and bask in its timeless allure.
Places to Stay
-
Garage Haus
A beautiful, private 1 bedroom BNB located on my property, capable of sleeping 3-4 people.
-
The Parsonage
Located in the heart of downtown Nevada City, this quaint and newly renovated bnb can sleep a large group of people, or you can rent rooms individually.
-
The National Hotel
If you want more of a hotel experience that comes equipped with a bar and restaurant, check out The Nash (as we locals like to call it). You might even get lucky and book a room that has a Little Green Eyes original artwork.
-
Moonrise on Mill Street Inn
Moonrise is also located in the heart of downtown Nevada City, only a stone’s throw from The Parsonage and The National and can accommodate large parties, or you can rent rooms individually.
-
The Dogwood
A beautiful 550 square foot self built house in the woods. Many of the materials used in this house were either reused from old local houses or milled on the property itself, giving it a lot of character, while remaining modern. Quiet, private and surrounded by trees. 5 minutes from downtown Nevada City. Near a variety of outdoor activities. Down a private driveway with lots of outdoor space to enjoy. Equipped with a full kitchen, BBQ, big bathtub, art, extra bedding, TV, library and washer.
-
Zen Abode in Apple Orchard
Welcome to our handmade casita retreat space with kiva fireplace on our 3 acre apple farm, 2 miles to downtown Nevada City! You will love swimming in your own private salt-water pool with waterfall. The magical bathroom has a Japanese soaking tub and bidet
High speed wifi is available. The common area includes a full kitchen with indoor and outdoor lounge. There is also a professional recording studio on the property. Use of the studio is separate and can be arranged with the owner.
Things to do
Breakfast and Coffee
Communal Coffee - my go-to spot to meet friends for coffee or work on my computer. Try their baked goods made by my pal Felicia. They have a GF/Vegan donut that’s so yummy.
Saturday Farmers Market in Downtown Nevada City
South Pine - Grass Valley - This humble café has been around as long as I can remember, serving breakfast and lunch. Get the home fries and their fresh squeezed orange juice. Say hello to my friend Sam (rock star looking fellow with long hair) if he’s your server.
Corvus GF Bakery - Grass Valley
Cake Bakery - Grass Valley
Brew Baker Coffee - Grass Valley
Dinner
Sushi Q - Nevada City - Delicious sushi in the heart of downtown Nevada City. Try the Ruby Slipper with real crab, The Fox, The Maui - honestly you can’t go wrong here
Heartwood - Ramen - Heartwood turns into a ramen and karaage chicken spot in the evening. I love the vibe of this place
Sushi in the Raw - A little bit off the beaten path but another tasty option for sushi. Try the Susan Roll and their shooters
Taste of Thai - Grass Valley
Lola - Nevada City - If you’re looking for a fancier meal in town go get some oysters or a big steak and a craft cocktail at Lola, the restaurant inside The National Hotel.
Jernigans - Nevada City - Casual burgers and sports vibe.
Holbrooke Bar and Restaurant - Grass Valley
Drinks
Brew Haus - Nevada City - Beautiful new spot with outdoor seating
The Pizza Joint - Nevada City -
The National Bar - Nevada City - Saturday night they usually have live jazz in the bar. This is my go-to bar for a moody hang and a craft cocktail
Gold Vibe Kombuchary - Grass Valley - a little bit off the beaten path but this large venue often has activities, music and some delicious hard kombucha on tap.
Iron Door Speak Easy at The Holbrooke - Grass Valley - A cool bar downstairs at the hotel.
GV Brewing - Grass Valley - Serving food and beer
Shopping & Self Care
Kitkitdizzi - best shop in downtown Nevada City, be prepared to love everything in there
Rose Market - Nevada City
Briar Patch Food Co-op - Grass Valley - great selection of organic goodies plus a hot bar and deli for lunch and dinner snacks.
California Organics Grocery - Nevada City - a small but sweet stop if you need to pick up a few things and don’t want to go to Grass Valley.
Crush - Nevada City - Roller skating gear, workshops and other nicely curated items
Gather and Mill - Grass Valley
Mint - Grass Valley
Bijou Bijou - Grass Valley
Sunchild Vintage - Grass Valley - Go see my dude Mikey (owner) and check out his awesome vintage selection.
Lost and Found Vintage - Grass Valley - Sometimes this quaint shop also hosts events. Check their insta to see what’s going on.
Enid and Edgar Vintage - Nevada City - Stop here on your way from Nevada City to Grass Valley. Check out their large selection of vintage then pop across the road to Fudenjuce for a smoothie.
Root & Stem Acupuncture - Nevada City - Book with Jess, she’s amazing
3 Circle Healing Massage - Grass Valley - Meegan is incredible, you won’t regret booking a massage or one of her many other offerings.
Bella Illumina Facials - Taryn will take care of you, plus she always includes a little face massage.
Lunch
Heartwood - Nevada City - bowls, soups and fancy toasts. This is one of my favorite places to eat
Three Forks - Pizza and salads and nice outdoor seating
Meze - Grass Valley - great casual middle eastern eatery with outdoor seating
Treats - Nevada City - Best ice cream in town
Diegos Mexican - Grass Valley - Lunch or dinner, outdoor seating.
Fudenjuce - Nevada City - great casual spot for smoothies, wraps and salads.
Entertainment
The Miners Foundry
Crazy Horse Saloon - Nevada City - a fun dive bar feel with burgers and music in the evenings.
The Stonehouse - Nevada City - I hear the restaurant is good but most people I know check out their music calendar for electronic music events and the open mic night.
The Center for the Arts - Grass Valley - You’d be surprised what music comes through our sweet little venue
Chamber of Commerce - Nevada City - check this out for some local happenings
Mountain Biking - check out the Round Mountain Trails and The Drop trails up by Scotts Flat Lake
Gold Crush Climbing Gym - Grass Valley
Ecstatic Dance - Nevada City - Typically held on Tuesday nights at The Miners Foundry. This is a well attended event that many people I know have on their weekly calendars.
The Onyx Theater - Nevada City - Get dinner either at Sushi and the Raw or Jernigans and then walk over to see a movie. Be sure to check out the murals on the ceiling painted by my friend Sarah Coleman.
Deloro Theater - Grass Valley - This historic theater is beautiful and centrally located in downtown Grass Valley if you’re looking to cap your day with a movie after some shopping and food.
Getting Here
If you are driving a camper van or motorhome or prefer to camp, I may be able to host you or check out:
Nevada City is 1.5 hours from Sacramento Airport and 3 hours drive from San Francisco.
We only have one Uber and 2 taxi’s in town and very little public transportation so your best bet is to rent a car if you’re flying in. I like to check out Turo for the best prices.
Travel tip: If you have a travel credit card, be sure to read the fine print of your benefits. Often there is some travel insurance offered as well as rental car coverage for things like broken windshields etc. Renting your car with your travel card can not only earn you points but offer peace of mind.
Reno : 1.5 hrs drive
Tahoe: 1hr 20m drive
SF: 3hrs drive
LA: 7.5hr drive
1 hour to Sugar Bowl & Boreal Ski Resorts
Yosemite: 5hr drive
Sonoma wine country: 2hr 45m drive