Trip Ideas

1964 Mustang in front of the Nevada Theatre during annual Nevada City Film Festival

Things To Do Inside In Nevada City, Grass Valley, Truckee & Beyond

On those rare days that are rainy, chilly, or blisteringly hot here are some fun ideas of things to do indoors and still experience Nevada County's wondrous culture.

Tips & Resources

Weather doesn’t want to cooperate?

Explore the art scene in Nevada County indoors by visiting the ArtWorks Gallery in Grass Valley home to 35 artists & counting.

Take in a show at the oldest continuously operated theatre west of the Mississippi – the Nevada Theatre.

By Alex Silgalis

Nevada County’s weather is legendary with more than 230+ days of sunshine in Nevada City and upwards of 245+ days in Truckee. This makes us a perfect destination when you want to venture into the great outdoors. But there are those days when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Don’t worry… there are PLENTY of things to do inside that are worth your time. Here’s just a small sample of things to do inside in Nevada City, Grass Valley, Truckee, and throughout Nevada County.

Sample Nevada County’s Bounty… In Wine

food and wine sampling at Nevada City Winery
Image appears courtesy: Nevada City Winery

This part of California is home to some of the first vineyards in the state. With over 40 varietals which include classics like Zinfandel to lesser known ones such as Viognier, you may need more than just a day to really sample the county’s rich wine trail. Read about some of the wineries and wine you’ll experience here.

Enjoy History And Art Together

a colorful mural depicting the nighty sky inside the Nevada Theatre in Nevada City
Image appears courtesy: Nevada Theatre Mural by: Sarah Coleman Photo by: Akim Aginsky

Did you know that the OLDEST continuously operated theatre on the West Coast is in Nevada City?!? Since 1864, as in 155 YEARS, live theatre, music, film, and art have graced its stage. This historic building has hosted over its life famous celebrities such as Mark Twain, Jack London, and Emma Nevada. Even so, it isn’t stuck in the past but looks to the future. For example, the theatre is undergoing an interior renovation from a fine pairing of local artists. Take a peak inside here. For a list of upcoming events, visit either our community calendar or the Nevada Theatre’s website.

The Art Scene Is Thriving

things to do inside in California
Boxes and Bud Vases of Exotic Woods by Jane Markham. – Image appears courtesy: ArtWorks Gallery

Speaking of art, Nevada County’s art scene is having its own Gold Rush of sorts. All thanks in part to passionate folks at the Nevada County Arts Council. The California Arts Council has designated fourteen districts and TWO are here — Grass Valley-Nevada City and Truckee. If the weather doesn’t allow you to be outside and explore the art walks, you can still head to the ArtWorks Gallery in Grass Valley. You’ll find more than thirty-five talented artists presenting their work in this 2,000 square foot 19th century building.

All Aboard The Railroad!

The railroad was and still is a vital link to California. On May 10th, 1869, the Transcontinental railroad was completed. And one of the most crucial segments of the 2,000-mile route near the summit of the Sierra is what’s become the historic town of Truckee. You can see this history up close and personal inside the Truckee Railroad Museum. Housed in a converted Southern Pacific Bay window caboose, it’s a great option for families & train enthusiasts alike.

But remember, this is only a small sample of what you can do when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Foodies will feast their senses in our culinary scene. Saddle up to the longest bar on the West Coast in the historic Holbrook Hotel. Or just pamper yourself with a spa day at one our upscale boutique day spas. As the old saying goes, “The world is your oyster.”

alex_silgalis

Alex Silgalis

Alex founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.

Related Posts