We love the Nevada City / Grass Valley area. The Oak Ridge Cottage in Grass Valley has been in the Kammeyer family since 2013, and Cora and Cary have taken many trips there for hiking, swimming, rock climbing, and peaceful respite from city life. We even lived there for six months in 2020! It holds a special place in our hearts and we are so excited to get married there.
This area is gold country - it was right where the Gold Rush of 1849 happened (yes, that is why the main road is Highway 49). Some will tell you there is still gold in these hills, and you'll still see people panning in the local rivers. Many historic mining sites have now been converted into recreation and education sites. Our favorite is Empire Mine State Park.
Beyond its golden history, another thing to love about the area is the spectacular South Yuba River. It is the place to be in the summer for swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking.
We hope you'll have some time to explore before or after the wedding!
Empire Mine State Park
10791 East Empire Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945, (530) 273-8522
This mine-turned-park has miles of shaded trails, plus historic mining equipment to look at and read about. This is a great spot to go for walk or run. It's 5 minutes from downtown Grass Valley and 10 minutes from the wedding venue.
South Yuba River Bridge
21200 California 49, Nevada City, CA 95959
Bring your swimsuit and go for a dip in the river! Or, just go stand on the bridge and take in the amazing view. There is also a hiking trail that goes along the river, though it can get narrow in spots. The drive to the river takes about 30 minutes from downtown Grass Valley.
Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co.
211 Commercial Street, Nevada City, CA 95959, (530) 470-8333
This is our favorite restaurant in Nevada City. They serve pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and soups all made with locally-sourced ingredients. They also have a microbrewery that serves great beer - Cora's favorite is the Oak Tree Pale Ale.
Grass Valley Brewing Company
141 East Main Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945, (530) 271-2739
Check out Grass Valley's local brewery for tasty beers, burgers, and fries.
Lazy Dog Chocolateria
111 Mill Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945, (530) 274-0774
If you have a sweet tooth, Lazy Dog is the spot to go! It's an old fashioned candy shop and ice cream parlor in downtown Grass Valley and it is oh-so-fun.
South Pine Cafe
102 Richardson Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945, (530) 274-0261
The best brunch spot in town! In addition to full breakfast offerings, they also serve fresh-squeezed juices, any of which can be made into a mimosa - yum!
Condon Park
660 Minnie Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945, (530) 272-5994
Take a stroll or play some disc golf in Condon Park, right by downtown Grass Valley.