Grass Valley CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Grass Valley, California.
1. Empire Mine State Historic Park
HISTORIC GOLD RUSH SITE
Empire Mine State Historic Park offers visitors a glimpse into California's gold mining past with guided tours through an underground mine and a scale model exhibit. The park features beautifully landscaped gardens and a museum that captures the essence of the Gold Rush era. Visitors can also watch working blacksmiths demonstrate their craft, providing an immersive historical experience.
2. North Star Powerhouse Mining Museum
MINING HISTORY SHOWCASE
North Star Powerhouse Mining Museum educates visitors about the rich mining history of the Grass Valley area. The museum features extensive exhibits about local mining techniques and technology from the Gold Rush period. Adjacent to the museum is a paved hiking trail suitable for visitors of all abilities.
3. Naggiar Vineyard & Winery
AWARD-WINNING WINE TASTING
Naggiar Vineyard & Winery has been voted the Best Winery in the Sacramento area by KCRA3 A-list voters every year since 2010. This family-owned and operated business is nestled in the picturesque Sierra foothills. The Tuscan villa-inspired tasting room provides a sophisticated setting for sampling their renowned wines.
4. Bourne Cottage
HISTORIC RESIDENTIAL LANDMARK
Bourne Cottage stands as a well-preserved historical residence in Grass Valley with significant ties to the area's mining heritage. The cottage provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into residential life during the Gold Rush period. Tours of this highly-rated attraction offer insight into the architectural styles and daily living of the era.
5. The Center for the Arts
CULTURAL ENTERTAINMENT HUB
The Center for the Arts serves as Grass Valley's premier venue for performing arts and cultural events. With spectacular shows year-round, the center has become an integral part of the community's cultural landscape. Visitors can enjoy a diverse lineup of performances ranging from music concerts to theatrical productions in this highly-rated venue.
6. Grass Valley Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
Grass Valley Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of this notable Gold Rush town. The museum houses artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Grass Valley's development and cultural heritage. Visitors appreciate the well-curated displays that bring the area's past to life.
7. Sierra Starr Vineyard and Winery
SMALL-LOT WINE PRODUCER
Sierra Starr Vineyard and Winery offers acclaimed small-lot Zinfandels and Cabernet Francs in a stylish brick-walled tasting room. This winery represents the growing viticultural tradition in the Sierra Foothills region. Visitors can sample distinctive regional wines while learning about the local wine-making process.
8. Lucchesi Vineyards & Winery
VIEW FOREVER VINEYARD
Lucchesi Vineyards & Winery produces award-winning wines from grapes grown on a steep 20-acre foothill parcel known as the 'View Forever Vineyard'. The exceptional terrain and growing conditions contribute to the distinctive character of their wines. Visitors can enjoy tastings while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
9. Grass Valley Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Grass Valley Brewing Company offers beer enthusiasts a selection of 12 craft brews on tap in a welcoming atmosphere. The brewery showcases locally-made ales and lagers that reflect the growing craft beer scene in the Sierra Foothills. Visitors can sample flights or enjoy pints of their favorite styles in this popular downtown establishment.
10. Watershed at the Owl
FARM-TO-TABLE DINING EXPERIENCE
Watershed at the Owl restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored 1862 building in downtown Grass Valley. The establishment takes a slow food approach with its changing farm-to-table menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. Diners appreciate both the historical ambiance and the thoughtfully prepared contemporary cuisine.
11. Tess' Kitchen & Culinary
GOURMET SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Tess' Kitchen & Culinary is the premier destination for a huge array of gourmet foods and kitchen items in Grass Valley. The shop's in-house chef, Alan Tangren, hosts special demonstration dinners and teaches cooking classes for culinary enthusiasts. Visitors can find unique cooking implements, specialty ingredients, and expert advice all under one roof.
12. Holbrooke Hotel
HISTORIC LUXURY LODGING
The Holbrooke Hotel stands as a beautifully renovated historical hotel in the heart of Grass Valley. This iconic establishment has hosted many famous guests throughout its history, including U.S. Presidents Ulysses S. Grant, Grover Cleveland, and literary legend Mark Twain. Visitors can experience a blend of historic charm and modern amenities while staying at this centerpiece of Grass Valley's heritage.
13. Thirsty Barrel Taphouse & Grille
CALIFORNIA CRAFT BEER HUB
Thirsty Barrel Taphouse & Grille features an extensive range of California IPAs and other craft beers on tap. The establishment combines quality brews with a full menu of complementary food options. Visitors appreciate the casual atmosphere and opportunity to sample numerous regional craft beer offerings.
14. Cirino's at Main Street
CLASSIC ITALIAN DINING
Cirino's at Main Street has been Grass Valley's go-to spot for old-school Italian classics since 1983. The restaurant serves traditional Italian cuisine in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Generations of locals and visitors have enjoyed their signature dishes and warm hospitality for nearly four decades.
15. Avanguardia Winery
RARE VARIETAL SPECIALISTS
Avanguardia Winery specializes in unique blends of rare and uncommon varietals not typically found in California wineries. This ultra-boutique establishment takes an innovative approach to winemaking that sets it apart from other regional producers. Visitors can experience distinctive flavor profiles created through the winery's experimental and artisanal techniques.