Grass Valley: Gold Rush History and Hotels

Historic Downtown and Mining History

Grass Valley’s historic downtown centers on Mill Street, a pedestrian promenade lined with many well-preserved buildings from the 1850s. The Del Oro Theatre in Grass Valley adds a different architectural note: built in 1942, the cinema has a 70-foot Art Deco tower. Together, the 19th-century streetscape and the architecture of a 20th-century cinema offer different perspectives on history.

The North Star Mining Museum is housed in a historic stone building from 1895, which once served as the power plant for the North Star Mine. Here, the building’s construction period and former technical use go hand in hand: it was part of the mine before becoming a museum.

Walking Tours by Interest

The self-guided Heritage Homes Walking Tour focuses on homes dating from the Gold Rush through the early 20th century. Also self-guided, the Trail of the Golden Pasty leads through downtown and takes in historic commercial buildings, shops, saloons, and former gathering places. The main difference between the two tours is their subject: one focuses on homes and their time span, while the other explores the former commercial and social life of the area.

A free guided walking tour of downtown is led by Terry McAteer, a historian and chair of the Historical Commission. Dates and arrangements may change, so check in advance when the tour is scheduled.

Tours are also available at Saint Joseph’s Chapel. Details visitors can see include ornate pressed-tin tiles and stained-glass windows. As tour arrangements may change, it is a good idea to check them before visiting.

Buildings and History of Mount Saint Mary’s

The buildings of Mount St. Mary’s Convent and Orphanage in Grass Valley are considered nationally, statewide, and locally significant. They illustrate a century of history, from the 1860s through the 1960s. The dedication of Mount Saint Mary’s Convent and Academy on May 2, 1865, marks a precise historical date.

Rose Garden and Trails

The Russell Rose Garden is considered the oldest garden in Nevada County and is home to more than 200 old and modern rose varieties. Grass Valley also has several scenic trail systems in the city’s wooded areas and the surrounding Sierra Foothills. The garden draws attention to a rose collection; the trails focus on the landscape and routes.

A section of the Wolf Creek Trail was completed in 2019. It is 1.2 miles long and runs north from Freeman Lane to Glen Jones Park at Allison Ranch Road and Freeman Lane. If you want to compare different types of trails, this specific section can be considered alongside the more general description of trail systems in the city’s wooded areas and the Sierra Foothills.

Dining

Tess Kitchen & Culinary is located in historic downtown Grass Valley and offers curated cooking classes. The Chef’s Table is an intimate combination of a cooking demonstration and a meal, reserved exclusively for VIP guests. Dates and reservation arrangements may change. If you plan to attend either offering, check the latest dates or arrangements in advance.

Discover more destinations: Nevada City, Penn Valley, Truckee, North San Juan, Rough And Ready.

For the broader travel overview: Nevada.