Auburn CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Auburn, California.
1. Old Town Auburn
HISTORIC GOLD RUSH DISTRICT
Old Town Auburn is a pleasant historic neighborhood featuring nice shops and fun antiques. Visitors can explore the well-preserved buildings that showcase the area's Gold Rush heritage. The district offers a charming atmosphere with its quaint streets, local boutiques, and dining options.
2. Lake Clementine
SCENIC WATER RECREATION
Lake Clementine offers a gorgeous vantage point to view the river up close with multiple trails for exploration. The lake provides opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing in a serene natural setting. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil waters surrounded by the beautiful landscape of the Auburn State Recreation Area.
3. Foresthill
PREMIUM MOUNTAIN BIKING
Foresthill features great mountain bike trails for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels. The area offers scenic routes through forests and along ridgelines with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Bikers can enjoy well-maintained paths that wind through the natural beauty of the Sierra foothills.
4. Auburn State Recreation Area
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARADISE
Auburn State Recreation Area encompasses 40 miles of the North and Middle Forks of the American River with diverse recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and whitewater rafting amidst stunning canyon landscapes. The park showcases the natural beauty of the Sierra foothills with its river canyons, riparian habitats, and oak woodlands.
5. Gold Rush Museum
INTERACTIVE MINING HISTORY
The Gold Rush Museum allows visitors to pan for gold and see an operating stamp mill that demonstrates mining techniques. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of California's famous Gold Rush era. Interactive displays and knowledgeable staff provide an educational experience about this pivotal period in American history.
6. Placer County Courthouse
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Placer County Courthouse is a beautiful building in a prime downtown Auburn location that impresses visitors with its architectural grandeur. Built in 1898, this historic courthouse features a distinctive dome and Classical Revival style that represents the prosperity of the Gold Rush era. Free guided tours begin at the courthouse every Saturday at 10 am, offering insights into the region's rich history.
7. Mt. Vernon Winery
UPSCALE WINE TASTING
Mt. Vernon Winery features an upbeat wine tasting area and comfortable, pretty outdoor seating for visitors to enjoy. This winery is part of the Placer County wine trail, offering locally produced wines in a picturesque setting. Guests can sample a variety of wines while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of this family-owned establishment.
8. Knee Deep Brewing Co.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY CRAFT BEER
Knee Deep Brewing Co. is known as the best family-friendly and pet-friendly brewery in Auburn with owners frequently on site. Their signature IPA, Breaking Bud, is a popular choice, but they consistently offer special edition brews on tap for visitors to try. The brewery provides a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts to sample craft beers in a relaxed setting.
9. Auburn Ravine Walking Trail
PEACEFUL URBAN NATURE
Auburn Ravine Walking Trail offers a tranquil escape within the city limits for walkers and nature lovers. The trail follows Auburn Ravine, providing a shaded path along the water with opportunities to observe local wildlife. This accessible trail connects various parts of Auburn while allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
10. Hidden Falls Regional Park
WATERFALL HIKING DESTINATION
Hidden Falls Regional Park features scenic trails leading to beautiful cascading waterfalls nestled in the foothills. The park offers over 30 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, running, biking, and horseback riding through oak woodlands and riparian habitats. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of nature while exploring streams, meadows, and the park's namesake waterfalls.
11. Bernhard Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE SITE
The Bernhard Museum provides visitors with an in-depth history of the Bernhard family in a small and well-kept historic setting. This museum is housed in one of the oldest buildings in the area, showcasing the lifestyle and culture of early settlers. The intimate setting allows for personalized tours and a deeper understanding of Auburn's pioneer history.
12. American River Canyon
THRILLING OUTDOOR RECREATION
American River Canyon offers adrenaline-pumping adventures including hiking, biking, and horseback riding along scenic trails. The canyon is known for its exciting whitewater rafting opportunities on the American River with various rapid levels for different experience levels. Visitors can enjoy the stunning natural scenery while engaging in a variety of outdoor recreational activities throughout the canyon.
13. Sutter Creek
VICTORIAN-ERA CHARM
Sutter Creek is a charming town known for its well-preserved Victorian-era buildings, antique shops, and art galleries. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along Main Street, lined with quaint shops and restaurants housed in beautifully restored historic buildings. The town offers wine-tasting opportunities with access to the Amador County wine region, known for its award-winning Zinfandels.
14. Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
LAKESIDE RECREATION HOTSPOT
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area offers swimming, fishing, boating, and relaxation on sandy beaches in a beautiful setting. The recreation area encompasses 18,000 acres of diverse terrain with trails for hiking, biking, and equestrian use around the lake. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills while participating in a variety of water and land activities.
15. Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park
HISTORIC HYDROELECTRIC FACILITY
Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park showcases the fascinating history of hydroelectric power in California through preserved historic structures and equipment. The powerhouse, built in 1895, was one of the first to generate electricity for long-distance commercial use, powering the city of Sacramento. Visitors can explore the original generators, transformers, and other historic equipment while learning about this important advancement in electrical engineering.