Explore Nevada City, California

Downtown Nevada City, California

I have a small obsession with Nevada City California that has lasted for nearly 20 years.  When I was first married, our friend Chris managed the law library in Placer County, California.  During those years, we would visit Chris in the spring months and explore the surrounding areas.  I can still remember the first time that we took an afternoon excursion to Nevada City for Vietnamese Coffee.  It is still one of my favorite places in California.

While there are many things to do in Nevada City, I am sharing 6 ways to enjoy this city and the surrounding areas.  From unique accommodations to cooling off in the crystal clear waters of the Yuba River, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy in Nevada City.  Here are a few of my favorites.

Inn Town Campground

Experience a glamping tent or rent a retro camper in a tranquil wooded setting.  This has gone down as my all-time favorite camping experience to date.  The campground offers enough amenities that you can show up with nothing more than your clothes if you like.  Enjoy local restaurants for meals or prepare meals in the community kitchen on site.  You can read my full review of Inn Town Campground from a previous post.  This unique campground is unlike anywhere else that you can stay.

Inn Town Campground's glamping tents offer hotel-style amenities while enjoying nature!

South Yuba River

While the Inn Town Campground has a pool, you don't want to miss the South Yuba River.  The water is crystal clear and cool.  We opted for the Bridgeport entry with more shallow waters and sandy beaches for our little one.  There are 4 entry points.  The staff at Inn Town Campground helped us to decide on which location would be best for our group.  On the weekends, you can also catch a ride to the river on the Yuba Bus and leave the driving to them.  The bus even picks up at the campground to make it easy for campers!

The South Yuba River at the Bridgeport Entry

Nevada City Winery

After you enjoy the water and the river, head into town to the Nevada City Winery to taste some local wine.  We enjoyed a tasting selection for $8.  This tasting included 5 different wines - 2 whites and 3 reds.  I also recommend trying a glass of the Tempranillo Rose.  It is a drier rose that is really lovely.  The winery has a large area where you can enjoy a glass of wine and visit before or after your tasting.  This is the perfect way to relax before exploring the little shops around town.

Nevada City Winery - Tempranillo Rose

Three Forks Brewery

If wine is not your jam, head on over the Three Forks Brewery.  They have beer flights or try their homemade kombucha.  You can also have a snack or a meal.  My husband and I had the cheese plate with local cheese from Wheyward Girl Creamery.  The olives and bread were fresh. A glass of prosecco paired well with this snack.   Our son took out a chocolate nutmeg cupcake.  The baked goods looked amazing and are very popular.  If you are unsure of what to try, the staff is eager to make suggestions.

Railroad Museum

Make sure to check out the Railroad Museum.  They have little rail bus rides.  We tried to do this but missed the bus (no pun intended here) on the day we were leaving, but it was highly recommended.  And I think that we will do it when we go back. This donation-based activity won't break the bank and offers a gift shop complete with rail conductor hats!

The tracks of the Railroad Museum that is located next to the Inn Town Campground.

South Pine Cafe

Before leaving town, hit the South Pine Cafe.  I had not been to this place for over 10 years and was happy to see that it was still there and thriving.  The waitresses are friendly, and you can hear them chattering with the locals.  It's the kind of hometown experience that makes Nevada City charming.  Both the breakfast and lunch menus are diverse with options for everyone including vegans and vegetarians.  Try the Olallieberry French Toast or pancakes.  This is a local berry specific to this area that is somewhat of a cross between a raspberry and a blackberry.

Breakfast at the South Pine Cafe

These are only a few of the things you can do while in Nevada city.  You might consider enjoying an afternoon of pampering with a massage or facial.  There are lots of esthetician services nearby.  There is no shortage of hiking and outdoor activities.  This small town is anything but sleepy!

Nevada City is charming and worth the drive to get there.  It is a place that once you go, you will fall in love and want to go back over and over.

Until next time...