10 Most Charming Town Squares In California's Sierra Nevada
California's Sierra Nevada Mountains are known for their stunning mountain landscapes, dense forest surroundings, and rich gold rush heritage, which present a compelling case for anyone seeking a vacation destination in Northern California. This storybook scenery promises the ideal backdrop for exploring the numerous small towns in the region, many of which maintain historic downtown districts, where the past seamlessly merges with the present. Exploring these vibrant corridors allows tourists to discover treasured historic landmarks, heritage sites, local restaurants, and entertainment hubs that bring out the community's unique character.
From Nevada City's spectacular skyline, decorated with rustic Victorian architecture, to Sonora's historic district, punctuated by Gold Rush era buildings and saloons, here are some of the most charming town squares in California's Sierra Nevada.
Sonora
Established by Mexican miners at the peak of the California Gold Rush, Sonora's downtown square lends credence to its rich heritage using a series of period landmarks. The Tuolumne County Museum elaborately documents the town's colorful heritage, with historic narrations, archives, and artifacts transporting visitors back to a time when outlaws, gunslingers, and ordinary criminals called the building home. The neighborhood houses the Sonora Repertory Theatre, a historic venue and vital cultural hub, where theater fans assemble to delight in gripping musicals, dramas, comedies, and other stage presentations.
Several pubs and taverns give Sonora's town square a lively night scene, which visitors can experience at the Sonora Tap Room. This cool watering hole boasts 20 beer taps that pour different brands of local craft beer and tasty homemade wines as the music plays and patrons make merry.
Columbia
Nicknamed "Gem of the Southern Mines," this mining boomtown feels frozen in time, thanks to a well-preserved old town district that brings back memories of the gold rush days. The Columbia State Historic Park boasts a collection of almost 30 original structures from the 1850s, providing a unique perspective. One of the most notable landmarks in the area is the historic Wells Fargo building, which was built in 1852 out of wood and later restored to its brick structure. To discover the urban square, guests ride vintage horse-drawn carriages courtesy of outfitters like Columbia Stage Line and Stable, adding to the authenticity of the experience.
While exploring the rich history along the main thoroughfare, you can take a break to indulge your sweet tooth at Nelson's Columbia Candy Kitchen. This pleasant store, housed inside a gold rush period building, sells delicious candies, chocolates, and other handmade confections.
Auburn
Auburn is a quiet community in Placer County rooted in gold rush heritage, and it harbors a rustic downtown square that reminds newcomers of its colorful past. This is a credit to a string of preserved historic markers, such as the Gold Rush Museum. An interactive collection of relics and memorabilia inside the venue chronicles life during the mining heydays. Also, the Bernhard Museum provides a glimpse of Auburn in its formative years. This Victorian farmhouse is the town's oldest building and displays original antiques and furnishings from that time.
Besides history, Auburn treats visitors to invigorating shows at the Auburn State Theatre, featuring concerts, plays, and live movies. Lastly, beer enthusiasts can enjoy a few pints of craft beer at Knee Deep Brewing Company to unwind at the end of a long day.
Mariposa
Like other gold towns in the Sierra Nevada, Mariposa has a lovely old town district with multiple structures from the mining boom days. The destination is home to the Mariposa Museum & History Center, a vivid portal to the California Gold Rush period with a curated collection of memorabilia and artifacts from the 19th century. Meanwhile, the California State Mining & Mineral Museum further interprets the region's mining heritage with a terrific display of gemstones, crystals, and mineral specimens found in California and across the globe.
Beyond the minerals, Mariposa interests art enthusiasts with fantastic exhibits of pieces by local artists at the Sierra Artists Gallery, featuring an array of media. Lastly, guests can dine and wine inside a Gold Rush-themed joint at Hideout Saloon, whose rustic setting features a pool table, darts, and karaoke.
Grass Valley
Grass Valley is another immaculately maintained Gold Rush town in the Sierra Nevada, where tourists can encounter rare period treasures and interact with a vibrant arts community. The town relays its rich history at the Northstar Mining Museum using a vast collection of photographs, vintage mining tools, and other period relics from the gold rush era. You can also visit what was once the state's richest gold mine. The Empire Mine State Historic Park provides a unique perspective of the Gold Rush peak across an 850-acre property.
The Center for the Arts is the local cultural hub, hosting an impressive lineup of at least 150 musical shows, concerts, and comedic presentations throughout the year. Also, spare a few minutes at the end of the day to sample innovative craft beers at the Grass Valley Brewing Company.
Nevada City
Thanks to its well-preserved historic district, Nevada City boasts one of the most charming town squares in California's Sierra Nevada. The neighborhood is a portal to vibrant gold rush days, with several landmarks providing a look into the bygone eras. This includes the Nevada Theatre, California's oldest operating theater. Built in 1865, the building boasts over 150 years of history as a source of theatrical entertainment for the local community. Also, the Firehouse No. 1 Museum offers more unique glimpses of the past inside a 1861 firehouse. It displays rare artifacts and relics about Native Indians, Victorian life, and Chinese history in Nevada City.
Besides the historical lore, Crazy Horse Saloon & Grill is an excellent entertainment stop for tourists who relish late-night dining and wining. It is housed in one of the town's oldest structures and serves savory pub grub.
Bishop
Bishop might be famous for its outdoor activities, but it has an active downtown atmosphere with a delectable mix of local businesses. Guests can find plenty of entertainment spots along Main Street, starting with Bishop Twin Theatre. This laid-back movie house screens modern blockbusters and classic films on two screens. If you are not a fan of the silver screen, you can try out delicious crafts in a buzzing social environment at Mountain Rambler Brewery. The cool joint serves artisanal ales and beers with well-done burgers, while offering live entertainment.
Meanwhile, the Owens Valley Paiute-Shoshone Cultural Center offers a unique perspective of the region's Native American culture. It curates a collection of fascinating artifacts about the Shoshone and Paiute tribes, and features a preserved memorial hall and garden.
Oakhurst
Oakhurst is another interesting stop on your way to Yosemite National Park, with a low-key downtown square housing many local attractions. The corridor features noteworthy points of interest, including the Golden Chain Theatre. This historic performance art venue has entertained the community with quality stage productions for over half a century. Meanwhile, the Yosemite Gateway Art Center is where creatives from around the region display their works. You can stop by to admire a beautiful collection of jewelry, ceramics, sculptures, paintings, and glass art.
Historians will fancy a tour of the Little Church on the Hill for a glimpse into the late 19th century. Built in 1894, it was Bishop's only place of worship for half a century. Lastly, you can always connect with friendly patrons at South Gate Brewing Company to catch up over refreshing pub and grub in a buzzing atmosphere.
Placerville
This adorable small town in El Dorado County is steeped in Gold Rush history that comes to the fore along the lively downtown corridor. Placerville gives visitors a glimpse of its mining past at the Gold Bug Park & Mine. This abandoned mine site transports you back to the 1880s during a self-guided audio tour, exposing you to a period blacksmith shop, a museum, and a gem panning station. The neighborhood maintains a vibrant atmosphere with several entertainment venues. This includes the Green Room Social Club, where revelers enjoy live band performances while sipping craft beers and cocktails.
Alternatively, Imagination Theater connects the community with the arts through a string of engaging theatrical productions that nurture local talent. Finally, be sure to learn about Placerville's history at the Fountain & Tallman Museum, which showcases artifacts about the area's past dating back to the mid-19th century.
Murphys
Murphys is a former boom town with a small but active downtown district dotted with impressive attractions. Guests can get a unique perspective of the old days by touring Murphys Historic Hotel. This rustic inn was constructed in the 1850s and maintains several original artifacts across nine historic rooms. Also, Murphys Creek Theatre is where everybody goes to watch live stage performances. This cultural hub treats audiences to musicals, dance shows, and plays in an intimate atmosphere to support the region's creative community.
Meanwhile, a string of small pubs and quaint diners line the downtown, helping keep it busy. If you need something to eat, you can head to V Restaurant, Bistro & Bar for a classic American dining experience, before sampling fine handcrafted wines at La Folia Winery Tasting Room.
Final Thought
From uncovering hidden California Gold Rush lore in Grass Valley to admiring beautiful works by local artists in Oakhurst, the most charming town squares in California's Sierra Nevada reveal the region's cultural and historical diversity through an array of fun experiences. Whether making your first visit or returning to explore anew, these mountain gems offer a perfect blend of history, art, and local flavor, inviting travelers to connect with the past while enjoying the vibrant spirit of the Sierra Nevada in the United States.
