Placerville Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the picturesque Sierra Nevada mountains, Placerville is a charming city located in the heart of California's Gold Country. Known for its rich history, friendly community, and stunning natural beauty, Placerville offers a unique blend of small-town charm and outdoor adventure.

One of the main attractions in Placerville is its historic downtown area, where visitors can step back in time and explore the city's Gold Rush past. The Main Street is lined with beautifully preserved buildings dating back to the 1800s, housing a variety of boutique shops, art galleries, and quaint cafes. Take a leisurely stroll along the streets, soaking in the atmosphere and admiring the architectural beauty of the buildings.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the El Dorado County Historical Museum is a must. Housed in a former jailhouse, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's past with exhibits showcasing Gold Rush artifacts, Native American history, and the region's pioneer days. The nearby Gold Bug Park and Mine provides an opportunity to experience the thrill of gold panning and explore an authentic gold mine.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Placerville. The city is surrounded by the El Dorado National Forest, offering miles of hiking and biking trails, pristine lakes, and breathtaking vistas. Head to the nearby Apple Hill region to indulge in apple picking, wine tasting, and farm-to-table dining experiences.

For those seeking a taste of adventure, the American River is a popular destination for white-water rafting and kayaking. The river's rapids range from beginner-friendly to challenging, catering to all skill levels. After an exhilarating day on the water, unwind with a picnic in one of the scenic riverside parks.

Placerville is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and theaters showcasing the work of local artists and performers. The annual Art and Wine Festival is a highlight of the city's cultural calendar, featuring live music, art displays, and tastings from local wineries.

Alternative names: Population: 10.7 thous.Area: 5.81 mi²Elevation: 1860 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 38°43'45"N, 120°48'4"W

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CaliforniaUnited States

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Placerville Top Attractions

Placerville Attractions - What to See and Explore

Placerville offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Fountain-Tallman Soda Works, Community Observatory, Confidence Hall, Church of Our Saviour. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Museum • History museum
Fountain-Tallman Soda Works
The Fountain-Tallman Soda Works is a historic building in Placerville, El Dorado County, California. It currently houses the Fountain & Tallman Museum, which is owned and operated by the El Dorado County Historical Society.
Museum • Observatories and planetariums
Community Observatory
The Community Observatory is a public outreach observatory located in Placerville, California, on the campus of the El Dorado Learning Center.
38°43'47"N • 120°47'56"W
Confidence Hall
Confidence Hall is a historic Italianate Style, Victorian brick building in Placerville, El Dorado County, California. The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on January 4, 1982.

Church
Church of Our Saviour
The Church of Our Saviour is a historic Carpenter Gothic Episcopal church located at 2979 Coloma Street, in Placerville, El Dorado County, California, in the United States. The church is part of the Episcopal Diocese of Northern California.
Park
Eddy Arboretum
The Eddy Arboretum is located at the Institute of Forest Genetics in the Sierra Nevada near Placerville, in El Dorado County, eastern California.
Vernacular architecture
John Pearson Soda Works
The John Pearson Soda Works, also referred to as the Placerville Soda Works, is a historic rustic vernacular Victorian brick building in Placerville, El Dorado County, California. The building, in the Gold Country region, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on December 12, 1985.
38°43'40"N • 120°47'42"W
Combellack-Blair House
The Combellack–Blair House is a historic house in the Gold Rush town of Placerville, in El Dorado County, California, built in 1895. The landmark house was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on February 14, 1985.

Day trips

Placerville – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Placerville, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Old Sacramento (Sacramento), Crocker Art Museum (Sacramento), Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail (Sacramento).

39 milesW
Museum, History museum, Specialty museum
Old Sacramento, Sacramento
Step back in time with a visit to Old Sacramento, a historical gem nestled in the heart of California's capital city. This unique district is a living testament to the state's storied past, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that transport visitors to the Gold...
39 milesW
Museum, Art museum
Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento
The Crocker Art Museum stands as a cultural beacon in the heart of Sacramento, California, inviting art enthusiasts to delve into its extensive collections and exhibitions. Established in 1885, the museum is renowned for being the longest continuously-operating art...
39 milesW
Hiking trail, Hiking, Park
Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, Sacramento
The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, also known as the American River Bike Trail, is a cherished natural corridor that weaves through the urban landscape of Sacramento, United States. This paved pathway, stretching approximately 32 miles, offers a serene escape for...
39 milesW
Museum, History museum, Specialty museum
California State Capitol Museum, Sacramento
The California State Capitol Museum, set in the heart of Sacramento, is not only the seat of the government for the state of California but also a vibrant historical landmark. This grand edifice, nestled within a park-like setting, offers a unique blend of rich...
39 milesW
The state's history in exhibits
California State Capitol, Sacramento
The California State Capitol is a beacon of political history and architectural grandeur in the heart of Sacramento. This historic edifice not only serves as the seat of the California government but also houses a museum that offers a deep dive into the state's...