Its spring time, its spring break and its April, and arguably the best month of the year and the open road is calling for a April spring break road trip! What better way to answer than by embarking on a memorable 4-day April road trip from San Francisco to Nevada City? This scenic journey promises a delightful mix of natural beauty, historical charm, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking an escape from city life, this spring break road trip from San Francisco to Nevada City has something for everyone.
Spring break is definitely the best time to take road trips. It is a time to get out of hibernation mode and hit the road jack. The weather is perfect, and because it is California, the weather will be much warmer. I went on this road trip last year during my spring break last April and it could not have been a better time to go. So if you are thinking about taking a spring break road trip this one is it!
How long does it take to drive from San Francisco to Nevada City
The drive from San Francisco to Nevada City is about 150 miles and takes 2.5 hours. With stops this road trip takes about 6 hours. Incredible roadside fun stops along this road trip include San Francisco,Muir Woods National Monument, Sausalito, Sacramento, Placerville, Yuba River State Park, Grass Valley and Nevada City.
Day 1: San Francisco to Sacramento
Day 1: San Francisco to Sacramento
Distance: 90 miles, 1.5 hours
Your road trip from San Francisco to Nevada City begins in the iconic city of San Francisco. Fuel up your vehicle, check the tire pressure, and hit the road early to make the most of your first day.
Start in San Francisco
Begin your adventure by visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, a San Francisco icon. Take some time to snap photos and enjoy the breathtaking views of the bay. Best spots to take photos of the Golden gate Bridge are here.
Drive along PCH & Muir Beach Overlook
Drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway (Route 1), which offers some of the most stunning coastal views in California. Along the way we stopped at Muir Beach Overlook for a peaceful break by the ocean and a quick hike. The hike included a windy staircase that led us straight down to the ocean where we were able to sip and enjoy our coffee. The parking lot is decent sized. Picnic tables are available as well.
Muir Woods National Monument
While in Muir woods I highly recommend you make a detour to Muir Woods National Monument, home to majestic coastal redwoods, for a tranquil forest experience and a chance to see the astonishing incredible thousand year old redwood trees.
Sausalito for Lunch
Head to the charming town of Sausalito for lunch. Enjoy a meal with a view of the San Francisco skyline across the bay. We really enjoyed going to Scomas of Sausalito. The food was very fresh and very flavorful.
Arrive in Sacramento
Resume your journey towards Sacramento, the capital of California. Explore the Old Sacramento Historic District, where you can step back in time to the Gold Rush era. Visit the California State Railroad Museum and stroll along the cobbled streets.
Old Town Sacramento has a really nice waterfront where you can stroll and have a dinner picnic.
If you are having a sweet tooth check out Munchies Salt Water Taffy.They have tons of crazy flavors of taffy that are such a delight and really can’t be found anywhere else. We bought a pound of taffy and munched on it during the rest of our road trip to Nevada City. Old Town Sac is full of candy stores but the variety of flavors is truly impressive.
Where to stay overnight in Sacramento
Check into your chosen accommodation for a well-deserved rest. Sacramento offers a wide range of lodging options to suit all budgets. There are plenty of airbnbs and plenty of hotels to choose from. On our overnight stay we decided we wanted something charming and relaxing.
We chose to stay at Inn and Spa at Parkside. If you’re looking for a cozy and romantic stay, consider the Inn & Spa at Parkside. This charming bed and breakfast offers well-appointed rooms and a relaxing spa.
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Day 2: Sacramento to Grass Valley – Delving into Gold Rush History
Today, your road trip will take you deeper into Gold Rush history as you travel from Sacramento to the historic town of Grass Valley.
Discover More of Sacramento
Before departing Sacramento, visit the California State Capitol building for a guided tour. Enjoy breakfast at one of many local cafes or diners in town.
Pit Stop for Pies in Placerville
Wander around the small town of Placerville, a historic gold rush town and only 50 minutes from Sacramento. There are a number of museums and shops in Placerville, as well as opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
The Gold Bug Mine in Placerville is a fascinating place to visit and is REAL gold mind from the Gold Rush days. This mine is open for tours and offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of gold mining in California.
Explore the charming Main Street with its quaint shops and restaurants and stop to have a satisfying lunch at one of Placerville’s eateries. The Farm Table is a popular spot, offering farm-to-table cuisine that showcases the region’s best ingredients. For the best pies go to Sweetie Pies and try the olallieberry pie. I promise you won’t regret it.
Hit the Road to Grass Valley
Hit the road to Grass Valley, which is approximately an hour’s drive from Sacramento. Once in Grass Valley, explore the Empire Mine State Historic Park. This park provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of a 19th-century gold mine and its operations and is one of the oldest, deepest, richest gold mine in the US.
We did a guided tour that was led by an entertaining couple who filled the tour with lots of stories of what it was like to be in the mines when it was fully operational. Along the trails of the park you’ll find delicious blackberries!
We also just walked around the main downtown area of Mill St. and did some fun window shopping. There are bookstores, chocolate cafes, coffee shops and restaurants
Lunch in Grass Valley
Savor a delightful lunch at one of the local eateries in Grass Valley. You can find restaurants offering a mix of cuisines to satisfy your taste buds.
Arrive in Nevada City
After lunch, make the short drive to Nevada City, a town brimming with even more Gold Rush history and nestled in the Sierra Nevada Foothills. Nevada City, a once booming Gold Rush town houses unique shops and restaurants and is surrounded by beautiful Tahoe National Forest. It’s definitely an underrated city and it’s only a 2.5 hour drive from San Francisco. .
Things to Do in Nevada City
1. Explore the Historic Downtown: Nevada City boasts a beautifully preserved historic downtown. Stroll along Broad Street and Pine Street to admire the well-preserved Victorian architecture. Don’t miss the historic storefronts and quaint shops. 10. The downtown area offers a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Explore the local cuisine and perhaps try some farm-to-table dining options.
2. Nevada Theatre: Visit the Nevada Theatre, one of the oldest theaters in California, which has been in operation since 1865. Check the schedule for live performances, concerts, and events.
3. Empire Mine State Historic Park: This park provides a fascinating glimpse into California’s Gold Rush history. Take a guided tour of the Empire Mine, once one of the richest hard-rock gold mines in California. Explore the historic buildings and beautiful gardens.
4. Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park: Located just outside Nevada City, this park is home to the largest hydraulic mine in California. Explore the park’s trails and visit the North Bloomfield Historic District to learn about the environmental impact of hydraulic mining.
5. Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Nevada City is surrounded by natural beauty, offering numerous opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation. Trails like the Independence Trail and Deer Creek Tribute Trail provide scenic adventures.
6. South Yuba River State Park: Just a short drive from Nevada City, this park features hiking trails, swimming holes, and the famous Bridgeport Covered Bridge. It’s a great place to cool off in the summer.
7. Art Galleries and Studios: Nevada City has a thriving arts community. Explore the various art galleries and studios to discover local talent and unique creations.
8. Local Events and Festivals: Check the local event calendar for festivals and events that might coincide with your visit. The Nevada City Film Festival and Victorian Christmas are popular annual events.
9. Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum: Located in Nevada City, this museum showcases the history of the region’s narrow-gauge railroads with exhibits and historic artifacts.
10. Shopping and Dining: The downtown area offers a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Explore the local cuisine and perhaps try some farm-to-table dining options.
11. Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park: Located just outside Nevada City, this park is home to the largest hydraulic mine in California. Explore the park’s trails and visit the North Bloomfield Historic District to learn about the environmental impact of hydraulic mining.
12. Attend a Local Event: Depending on the time of year, you might be able to attend local events such as the Nevada City Film Festival and the Nevada City Farmers Market.
Nevada City is a place where history comes to life, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada foothills. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing in a charming small town, Nevada City has something to offer every traveler. Enjoy your visit and make the most of your road trip from San Francisco to this delightful Gold Rush-era gem.
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Where to Eat in Nevada City
For your last meal on this road trip, enjoy lunch at one of Nevada City’s charming eateries. Ike’s Quarter Cafe offers a taste of New Orleans with its Cajun and Creole dishes.
Where to Stay in Nevada City
For your final night, stay at a cozy inn like the Outside Inn or the Emma Nevada House, both offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere that complements the town’s charm.
Conclusion
Your road trip from San Francisco to Nevada City is not just a journey through landscapes but also a voyage through time, immersing you in the rich history of the Gold Rush era while showcasing the natural beauty of Northern California. From the bustling streets of San Francisco to the tranquil forestry of Muir Woods and the charming towns of Grass Valley and Nevada City, this road trip has it all and is a true adventure for the senses.
