If you’re looking for a vacation spot that has history and culture, you’ve probably heard of Gold Country California. Located on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, this region has been the site of the California Gold Rush, when waves of immigrants arrived seeking the gold and minerals. While the region is still known for mining and gold, it’s a far cry from the days when it was primarily known for its shady, glitzy casinos.
This destination is an off-the-beaten-path destination with the original gold rush. Within striking distance of Sacramento and Lake Tahoe, it’s also a creative destination, offering plenty of outdoor adventure, farm-to-table cuisine, and a booming wine and beer scene. There are several things to do in Gold Country, so make sure to book your trip early. While visiting this area, be sure to wear appropriate clothing and carry extra layers of clothing.
Wine enthusiasts should not miss a trip to Inner Sanctum Cellars. This award-winning winery features grapes grown right in the area. Its tasting room is open Thursday through Sunday, where you can sample seven different wines and one wine cocktail. Located in Sonora, this vineyard is part of a 160-acre preserve. Guests can also experience a zip line ride and enjoy the majestic views of the foothills.
You can take the scenic route through historic Gold Country, which leads to Placerville and Coloma. Coloma was the site of a famous gold discovery that changed the fate of California, as well as the nation. While the historic towns are still vibrant, Highway 49 offers a taste of the Old West. Whether you’re traveling with kids or a family, Gold Country has a wealth of activities to do and places to stay for a fun vacation.
If you love history, Tuolumne County is the perfect destination for you. While there, you can explore the historic Gold Rush towns in nearby Amador, Calaveras, and Tuolumne Counties. Located right on the Golden Chain Highway, Columbia is the best preserved Gold Rush town in California. If you’re planning a trip to Gold Country, this is the place to start! And you’ll never be disappointed if you come to Gold Country, because there’s so much to see and do.
If you’re traveling with a family, you can opt for guided tours in Coloma and Placerville, which are both dotted with historic sites. During your trip, you can also sample gold-mining history. The gold-rush period’s rich history is evident in the architecture of the old towns and buildings. Whether you’re looking for a historic hotel or an old-fashioned bed and breakfast, there’s no shortage of activities to choose from.
You can immerse yourself in history and culture by visiting the historical sites and museums along the way. The National Historic Park of Sacramento and the American River Inn are both well-known sites in the Gold Rush era. The American River Inn is located at 6600 Orleans St. and offers free tours. And while you’re in town, make sure to visit Nelson’s Columbia Candy Kitchen. And make sure you bring plenty of water – it can get pretty hot!