Looking for something fun to do in Grass Valley?
Check out our list of top things to do in the area, including visiting the Grass Valley Museum, walking around the historic downtown Grass Valley, and exploring California’s Largest Gold Mine.
Whether you’re a nature lover or an adrenaline junkie, there’s something for everyone in Grass Valley.
With so much to see and do, you will surely have a great time in Grass Valley!
Here are 15 fun things to do in Grass Valley California.
1. Uncover Grass Valley’s Mining Past at The North Star House
For a glimpse into Grass Valley’s rich mining history, visit The North Star House.
This historic home was built in 1905 and was once the residence of Superintendent Arthur De Wint Foote, a wealthy mining engineer who helped to found the town of Grass Valley.
Today, the house is open to the public and features several exhibits on local history.
You can see original mining equipment, learn about the area’s geology, and view gold nuggets mined in Grass Valley.
The North Star House is a great way to spend an afternoon exploring Grass Valley’s past.
2. Stroll Around Grass Valley’s Historic Downtown
Historic downtown Grass Valley is a great place to explore.
There are plenty of shops and restaurants to visit, and the area is rich with history.
The best way to start exploring is to pick up a map at the visitor center. Then, you can spend some time wandering around and checking out the different businesses.
Be sure to stop by the historic railroad depot, which is now home to a museum.
And if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can take a gold panning lesson at one of the local shops.
No matter how you choose to spend your time, you’re sure to have a blast exploring historic downtown Grass Valley.
3. Meet the Animals at Grass Valley’s Animal Place
Animal Place in Grass Valley is home to more than 600 rescued farm animals.
Dogs, cats, cows, chickens, rabbits, and goats all live on the sanctuary’s 60-acre property.
The animals are well-cared-for and have plenty of space to roam and play.
You are welcome to take a self-guided tour of the property, and there are also several educational programs available.
Animal Place is a unique and wonderful place, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in the area!
4. Tour California’s Largest Gold Mine the Empire Mine State Park
For over a hundred years, the Empire Mine was one of the most productive gold mines in California.
Today, it is a state park, and you can tour the old mining facilities and learn about the mining operation.
The park also has miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding, and prospects can still pan for gold in the same river where gold was first discovered in 1848.
Whether you’re interested in history or just want to try your hand at gold panning, the Empire Mine State Park is a great place to explore.
5. Take a Scenic Drive on Highway 49
Highway 49 is a scenic drive that winds through the Sierra Nevada foothills.
The route begins in the town of Grass Valley and follows the Bear River to Colfax.
Along the way, drivers will pass through rolling hillsides blanketed with wildflowers, forests of oak and pine, and meadows dotted with cattle.
Highway 49 also offers access to several recreation areas, including Rollins Lake and Auburn State Recreation Area.
For those looking to get away from it all, a drive on Highway 49 is the perfect way to do it.
6. Go Fishing in One of Grass Valley’s Many Lakes
Grass Valley is a nature lover’s paradise, and one of the best ways to experience all that it has to offer is by going fishing.
The area is home to dozens of lakes, each teeming with bass, trout, and other types of fish.
Some of the best spots for fishing include Scotts Flat Lake, French Meadows Reservoir, and the campsite at Bear River.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting started, you’re sure to have a great time fishing in Grass Valley.
So grab your pole and some bait, and head out to one of Grass Valley’s many lakes for a truly unforgettable experience.
7. Book a Room at the Vintage Holbrooke Hotel
Looking for a fun and unique place to stay in Grass Valley? Check out the Vintage Holbrooke Hotel!
This historic hotel has been beautifully restored and offers a variety of rooms and suites to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy room for two or a spacious suite for the whole family, the Vintage Holbrooke Hotel has you covered.
Plus, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained during your stay.
So what are you waiting for? Book your room today!
8. Go Golfing at Alta Sierra Country Club
The Alta Sierra Country Club is the perfect place to enjoy a round of golf.
The club is located in Grass Valley, California, and offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The course is well-kept and offers a challenging round of golf for players of all skill levels.
In addition, the club provides a variety of amenities, including a clubhouse, pro shop, and restaurant.
Whether you are looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon or a challenging game to improve your skills, Alta Sierra Country Club is the perfect place to tee off.
9. Admire The Louvre’s Art Restoration
Art restoration is often thought of as a painstaking and serious undertaking.
However, the team at the Louvre in Grass Valley takes a lighter approach to their work.
They carefully restore the art to its former glory rather than simply protecting and preserving it.
The results are often breathtaking, and you can’t help but admire the skill and dedication of the team.
In addition to the obvious aesthetic benefits, art restoration also helps to preserve the history and meaning of the artwork.
By taking the time to restore each piece to its original state, the team at the Louvre ensures that future generations will be able to appreciate the art in all its glory.
10. Catch a Movie at the Del Oro Theatre
The Del Oro Theatre is the perfect place to catch a movie.
This historic theatre was built in 1940 and has been lovingly restored to its former glory.
The theatre is equipped with state-of-the-art digital projection and sound, making it the ideal place to see the latest blockbusters.
The Del Oro also offers a unique concession experience, with a full menu of gourmet food and drinks available for purchase.
Whether you’re in the mood for popcorn or caramel corn, the Del Oro has you covered.
So next time you’re looking for a night out at the movies, be sure to check out the Del Oro Theatre. You won’t be disappointed.
11. Picnic Along the South Yuba River State Park
The South Yuba River State Park is a must-visit for any nature lover.
Located in Grass Valley, California, the park is home to a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views.
From hiking and biking trails to fishing and swimming holes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The highlight of the park is the South Yuba River, which flows through a stunning canyon and is perfect for a leisurely float or an invigorating swim.
With so much to offer, it’s no wonder the South Yuba River State Park is one of the most popular destinations in the state.
So whether you’re looking for a day of adventure or a quiet place to relax, be sure to add the South Yuba River State Park to your list.
12. Play Mini Golf with Your Kids at 49er Fun Park
Looking for a fun activity to do with your kids? Why not try mini golf!
49er Fun Park offers a great mini golf course that is perfect for families.
With 18 holes, there is plenty of challenge for everyone. The course is also beautifully landscaped, so you can enjoy the scenery as you play.
And if you get tired of golf, there are plenty of other activities at the park to enjoy, including go-karts, bumper cars, and laser tag.
So next time you’re looking for something fun to do with your kids, head to 49er Fun Park and have a blast!
13. Visit the Grass Valley Museum
The Grass Valley Museum is a great place to learn about the history of this unique town.
Located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada foothills, Grass Valley was once a thriving center of gold mining.
Today, the museum offers tourists a chance to step back in time and learn about the people and events that shaped this town.
You can explore exhibits on the history of mining, the local economy, and daily life in Grass Valley.
The museum also houses a collection of artifacts from the Gold Rush era, including tools, personal items, and photographs.
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, the Grass Valley Museum is definitely worth a visit.
14. Go Horseback Riding in the Sierra Foothills
There’s nothing quite like a horseback ride through the Sierra foothills.
The grassy valleys and rolling hills are breathtaking, and the fresh mountain air is invigorating.
Horseback riding is a great way to explore the area and get some exercise at the same time.
Best of all, it’s a fun activity for the whole family.
If you’re looking for an adventure, go horseback riding in the Sierra foothills. You won’t be disappointed.
15. Have a Good Time at the Nevada County Fairgrounds!
Looking for a fun-filled day out? Then head to the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley!
With a wide range of family-friendly activities on offer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
From rides and games to live entertainment and delicious food, the fairgrounds are the perfect place to spend a day with loved ones.
And don’t forget to check out the animals in the petting zoo!
With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a great time at the Nevada County Fairgrounds.
So what are you waiting for? Come on down and join in the fun!
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