Grass Valley

This is your travel guide for Grass Valley, California

1 : Empire Mine State Historic Park [2 hrs]

Explore the historic Empire Mine, once one of the richest gold mines in California. Take a guided tour to learn about the mining process and the lives of the miners. Wander through beautiful gardens and see the historic buildings on the grounds.

2 : Downtown Grass Valley [3 hrs]

Stroll along Mill Street in Downtown Grass Valley and explore the shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Visit historic landmarks like the Holbrooke Hotel and the Del Oro Theatre. Don’t miss the chance to catch a live performance at the Center for the Arts.

3 : Yuba River State Park [4 hrs]

Head to the Yuba River State Park for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and picnicking. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the river, forests, and rocky outcrops. You can also try gold panning in the river, a nod to Grass Valley’s gold rush history.

4 : Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum [1.5 hrs]

Visit the museum to learn about the history of railroads in the area. Explore the collection of historic locomotives, rail cars, and exhibits detailing the railroad’s impact on the region. Take a short ride on a vintage train for a fun experience.

5 : North Star House [1 hr]

Tour the North Star House, a historic Arts and Crafts style home designed by architect Julia Morgan. Learn about the house’s history and its former owner, the famous author Mary Hallock Foote. Enjoy the beautiful architecture and serene surroundings of the property.

Background Info

Weather

Grass Valley experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Summer temperatures average around 85°F (29°C), while winter temperatures can drop to around 45°F (7°C). Rainfall is moderate, with most precipitation occurring from November to April. Humidity levels are generally low, and air quality is typically good.

Language

English is the primary language spoken in Grass Valley.

Cost Of Living

The cost of living in Grass Valley, California is slightly above the national average. Housing and healthcare costs are the main contributors to this higher cost of living. However, prices for groceries and transportation are relatively in line with national averages.