To say this part of the Golden State is a hidden gem is like saying the Eiffel tower is just a cool building. There is so much more to Nevada County outside of the main attractions like its state parks and mountain biking trails. These may be your reasons to come visit, but after you’ve taken in the longest wooden bridge in the South Yuba River State Park or cruised the waters on Donner Lake, take a moment to explore the quaint towns.
An Attraction In Its Own Right
Shopping in Nevada County isn’t just a thing to do in between activities, but an experience of its own. Find funky hard to find vintage threads, dig through 1st edition books from the 19th century, or get fitted for an outdoor adventure. From creatives to mountain adventurers, you’ll find a shop or twelve that are you to a tee.
Kitkitdizzi
Nevada City
Pronounced kit-kid-dizzy but without over annunciating those four syllables. A hub for local emerging artists. Kitkitdizzi is named after an evergreen shrub only found on the western side of the Sierra Nevada. And even more specifically at elevations between 2,000 and 7,000 feet. It’s the perfect name to symbolize that this store at its core is the essence of Nevada County. What you’ll find is an eclectic mix of local artists’ crafts next to vintage finds, a hot water bottle, and incense sticks. You never know what you’ll find, but we guarantee it’ll be worth the visit.
Wild & Ruff
Truckee
Truckee is a town that’s gone to the dogs… as in it’s dog friendly. From pet friendly patios at places like Alibi Ale House to the sniff-tastic trails of the Tahoe National Forest, it’s a pup’s heaven. Whatever you do, be sure to make a stop at Wild & Ruff. A brand and store that’s developed their products with the mindset of being an outdoor loving, adventuring dog owner – built to last and have a nature-based aesthetic. Even if you don’t have a dog as a family member, Truckee is bursting at the seams with unique shops that any audiophile, art lover, or outdoor junkie will love.
Heathered Yarn Co
Grass Valley
There’s something in the water, air, or scenery of Nevada County that sparks creativity in both locals and visitors alike. The area is brimming with talented folks crafting everything from highly sought after custom kitchen knives to award-winning wines. Among these artisans, you’ll also find shops like Heathered Yarn Co., perfect for anyone wanting to create something unique using locally made products. After a decade in the yarn industry, owner Heather Kremesec took the leap and opened her own store, focused on supporting the local Northern Sierra fiber community. Here, you’ll find locally dyed and sourced yarns, plus weekly knitting and crochet groups to help you level up your skills.
The Hat Store
Nevada City
As you step through the magical door of the Hat Store, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into Dr. Seuss’ The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins. Look around, and you’ll find every kind of hat you can imagine—and then some. Many of the hats could easily have been perched on Bartholomew Cubbins’ head as he tried to remove them. “Hat 451 had, not one, but two feathers! Hat 452 had three. Hat 453 also had three—and a little red jewel! Each new hat was fancier than the one before.” Wide-brimmed hats perfect for a Kentucky Derby outing. Baseball caps that provide great protection from the sun. And stylish fedoras completing the ensemble. Alongside the hats, you’ll find plenty of accessories like bolo ties, hat bands, canes, scarves, wallets, and seasonal socks.
Goodtimes
Grass Valley
I still remember my first time in a skateshop as a young kid. Seeing dozens of brightly colored decks on a wall like flavors of ice cream. Each with a different shape and size. The employees being just as excited as I was to setup my first skateboard – a Santa Monica Airlines skateboard. Good Times skateshop is one of those rare skateshops that provides the positive shopping experience that even if you aren’t a skater anymore, you’ll still want to pick something up.
Zanders The BottleShop
Truckee
If you or a friend have a refined taste for unique cocktails or craft spirits, Zander’s BottleShop in Truckee is a must-visit. This isn’t your typical liquor store—they curate a selection of spirits, wines, and beers you won’t find at places like Safeway or BevMo. You might stumble upon award-winning bottles from Journeyman Distillery or WhistlePig’s BossHog. Plus, they host weekly tasting events so you can sample these one-of-a-kind finds and discover new favorites. It’s become so popular that in December 2023 they moved to a larger location next to Paco’s and Tahoe Mountain Fitness.
JJ Jackson’s
Nevada City
Established in 1978 in the charming downtown area of Nevada City, J.J. Jackson’s transcends the ordinary retail experience. While offering a thoughtfully curated array of textiles, tableware, body care, travel gear, greeting cards, toys, books, candles, and baby essentials, it’s more than just a store. At its core, it’s a creative haven where both the local community and visitors can connect and truly become a part of something special. Every detail tells a story, making your shopping experience not only enjoyable but also a journey into the rich history and community spirit that exists in Nevada City.
Gather and Mill
Grass Valley
Their story begins with the aspiration of two friends to create a captivating space where the community could come together and find inspiration. As the co-founder and current owner of Gather and Mill, Erica possesses a discerning eye for items that deserve a second life, whether an aging house, quirky dresser, or scraps of fabric. Drawing from her experiences and expertise, she skillfully restores and uncovers hidden gems, offering a collection of products that truly come to life when seen up close.
After exploring her curated treasures, extend your experience by venturing next door into the historic Holbrooke Hotel and settle in at the iconic Golden Gate Saloon. It proudly boasts one of the longest-running barrooms west of the Mississippi. A unique opportunity to soak in the rich history and ambiance of the region.
Arbor Tahoe
Truckee
One of only THREE flagship stores in the world. The Arbor Collective is the 1st action sports brand that was established to consider the environment across everything they do. If you love looking after our shared playground – the planet, a stop to this store in Truckee is in order. The Arbor Tahoe store carries the entire Arbor Snowboards and Skateboard line as well as winter snowboard outerwear and apparel for all seasons. Gain some stoke through the never-ending pursuit of snowboarding, skateboarding, and the good times that happen along the way.
