Welcome to Nevada County, where historic Gold Rush attractions co-exist with the charming towns of Nevada City and Grass Valley.

The county is noted for many wonderful attributes in addition to its Gold Rush lore. Residents and visitors alike enjoy its mountain trails and scenic rivers, award-winning restaurants, quality theater productions, museums, art galleries and local wineries.

The small town charm is evident here, where friendly merchants still do business with a smile and a handshake. The downtown areas of both towns offer outstanding shopping in an eclectic mix of stores.

Many artists live here and often the art object you see was created by
a local artist. If you’re looking for quiet time, take refuge in a Victorian bed and breakfast inn surrounded by lush gardens. Savor the country lifestyle and friendly people.

Visitors and residents alike praise life in the Sierra foothills. Grass Valley is situated at the 2,500-foot elevation, and Nevada City is slightly higher. Both towns are on the forested western slope of the Sierra Nevada, where a dusting of snow occurs occasionally during the winter months.

Here, you will find a magnificent four-season climate. Spring brings rushing rivers, wildflowers, and hiking enthusiasts. Summer is filled with outdoor activities, including the popular Summer Nights in Nevada City. Autumn brings a slower pace and the most beautiful fall colors in the West. Winters are cool and rainy, with occasional snow; world-class skiing and snowboarding are less than an hour away.

Through its 150-year history Nevada County has changed with the times while preserving its rich history and traditions. Gone are the gold mines that brought continued prosperity, even as the nation fought the Great Depression. Today’s inhabitants are finding success in retail trade, real estate, tourism and agriculture.

Importantly, a growing high-tech electronics industry is a key part of the county’s continuing economic development.

As Nevada County has grown and changed, citizens and community leaders remain committed to preserving the natural beauty, local history and small town way of life that are treasured by those who live and visit here.