This California Town Has The Biggest Heart
Resting along the Pacific Coast of the United States, with its southern border along Mexico, California is a charming state for all. Whether you live in one of its major cities, like Los Angeles, or want to visit to experience the fusion of American and Mexican culture palpable throughout, the Golden State charms with opportunities. Natural wonders like Sequoia National Park house giant trees, while downtown LA is full of friendly faces and a modern vibe.
However, Los Angeles might be a bit too commercial for some, and there is one town in California that many say has an even bigger heart. Nevada City, located in Nevada County, is an amicable gem that many overlook on their journeys. Home to around 3,200 people, it seems like everyone knows everybody here, and the local events like the Nevada City Film Festival and Nevada City Victorian Christmas abound with smiling faces. This article delves into Nevada City and why it is the town with the biggest heart.
Mining Town To Loving Community
Nevada City and its community date back hundreds of years, when it was home to a settlement of Nisenan people named Ustumah. It wasn’t until the mid-1800s that European settlers began showing interest in the area due to reports of gold deposits along Deer Creek. As this was the time of the California Gold Rush, people came in from all over, and the community saw its first mine in 1850, and was named “Nevada,” which is Spanish for “snow-covered.” A sawmill was built in the same year, and by 1851, it had become the most important mining town in California, and also the county seat of Nevada County. The settlement soon developed its first newspaper and cemetery, indicating its strong growth.
To this end, “Nevada” was incorporated in 1856, and “City” was added to the name soon after. However, as gold reserves depleted and the mining rush died down, many buildings were left empty, and things slowed down for nearly a decade. Thankfully, the 1970s saw revamped growth in town thanks to David Osborn and Charles Woods, two men who worked to preserve the Victorian buildings in Nevada City and maintain its charm. Creating historical landmarks, museums, and more, the town has developed a 70-building downtown historic district that has become a hotspot for enthusiasts in the region. This rich past has inculcated itself into the local culture today, creating a town rich in heritage, culture, and friendliness.
The Friendly Charm Of Nevada City Today
Over the past few decades, Nevada City has become both a tourist hotspot and a great place to settle down. According to the most recent census in 2020, the town was home to around 3,200 people, and there is a friendly vibe throughout. People visiting can spend hours checking out local businesses, shopping, and exploring the Downtown Historic District. Moreover, Nevada City is popular for tourism, and the array of historic landmarks provides endless tours. That said, the best way to experience the local vibe is through the town’s many events.
Meet The Locals During These Events
Nevada City’s calendar is full of celebrations, but a few stand out as must-experience moments. December brings the Nevada City Victorian Christmas, when the downtown streets glow under twinkling lights and fill with carolers in Victorian attire. Horse-drawn carriages roll past shopfronts offering roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, creating a holiday atmosphere that feels like stepping into a storybook. In summer, the Nevada City Film Festival adds its own sparkle, welcoming filmmakers and cinephiles for screenings, Q&As, and lively after-parties that match the town’s creative energy.
Another highlight is the Nevada City Classic Bicycle Race, a thrilling Father’s Day tradition where elite riders conquer steep downtown streets while the community cheers from sidewalks and balconies. For a more relaxed summer vibe, the Summer Nights festival closes downtown to cars for three evenings of music, food, and family fun, making it one of the friendliest gatherings in town.
More Fun Things To See And Do In Nevada City
Apart from the fun events that take place throughout the year, Nevada City also has many historic attractions. People of all interests can visit to watch a movie, take a tour through California’s charming landscape, or walk amidst scenic fauna. The following are some of the most fun things to see and do when in Nevada City.
The Nevada Theatre
Located on Broad Street, the Nevada Theatre is California’s oldest existing (still-operating) theater building. It was built in 1865 to replace the Bailey House Hotel, which burned down in 1863. Since then, the venue has seen many unique phases, from silent films in 1908 to a remodel in 1909, and a short closing in the 1950s due to financial problems. Since then, it has seen performances from many prominent names such as Jack London, Mark Twain, and The Second City. As of 2025, it has over 200 seats with balcony and wheelchair accessible options so everyone can enjoy the live performances and movies shown throughout the year. The Wild & Scenic Environmental Film Festival is set to take place here, showcasing another aspect of Nevada City’s charming heart.
Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum
For people who want to learn more about Nevada City’s past, the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum is a must-visit. This museum was opened in 1983 and has since developed into one of the largest collections of railroad memorabilia, photographs, and items regarding the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad. One notable thing to see along the heritage railroad is Engine No. 5, which was sold after the railroad shut down in 1942, but was renovated and now runs as part of the museum. There is also a Railbus that transports people around, and the Antelope & Western Porter locomotive No. 1, a rustic vehicle. After taking in the many vehicles and exhibits, one can stop by the gift shop to purchase some railroad-themed toys, trinkets, and more as souvenirs.
Crystal Hermitage Gardens
A short and pretty drive from downtown leads to Crystal Hermitage Gardens at Ananda Village, where terraced flower beds step down a hillside above the Yuba River canyon. In spring, the grounds turn astonishing, with tens of thousands of tulips in neat rows and color blocks that ripple like a quilt across the terraces. Stone paths curve past fountains, koi ponds, and quiet corners for reflection, while a small chapel and statues lend a peaceful feel.
Timing matters here. The celebrated tulip bloom usually runs from late March into early May, and admission is ticketed during peak color. Weekdays are calmer, and the soft light of morning or late afternoon makes the views sing. When the tulips are gone, the gardens still welcome visitors with roses, dogwoods, Japanese maples, and gentle breezes that carry the scent of pine. It is a simple place to have a fun day out with the whole family.
The Biggest Heart In California
Not a single landmark gives Nevada City its big heart; it is how everything comes together. You feel it on Broad Street when the Nevada Theatre opens its doors, and a line forms with easy chatter. You feel it in the railroad museum when a volunteer points out a small detail you would have missed. You feel it on warm summer nights when the streets turn into a living room and strangers save each other a seat. No matter how you spend time in Nevada City, its heart and charm shine through, and it is perfect for all kinds of travelers.
