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Hangtown days, Placerville, El Dorado County

Places to Visit in El Dorado County

El Dorado County, at the heart of California’s Gold Rush history, connects Sacramento, California’s capital, with the State of Nevada. Within its borders are stunning rivers, lakes, gold mines, historic towns, breathtaking scenery, adventure sports, wineries and breweries, and a diverse community.

El Dorado County was once the epicenter of the Gold Rush and was packed with miners looking to strike a fortune. Today, it is a picturesque place that offers adventure and relaxation. If you are up for a meandering drive through the mountains, the rustic charm of El Dorado County will reward you.

Read on to know the places worth visiting in El Dorado County.

Historic Downtown Placerville

Placerville is a charming gold rush town between Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe. It is a great place to begin exploring the county before heading further. A stroll through the downtown offers the chance to delve into its treasured heritage, reflected in the 19th-century architecture lining the streets. Also, visit the Placerville Main Street Farmers’ Market on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings on Placerville Drive in the summer and fall.

Marshall Gold Discovery State Park

The California Gold Rush might be over, but at Marshall Gold Discovery State Park, you can learn about the history behind how Gold Country earned its name. Many 19th-century monuments remain to remind how some of the first migrants to California lived their lives. Marshall Gold Discovery State Park also offers Gold Discovery Tours, where guides lead you through the area, narrating the story of life in El Dorado’s early days.

Apple Hill™

Situated in the Greater Placerville Region, Apple Hill comes to life in the fall when a series of apple orchards open their fields to visitors. Discover family farms and participate in special fun events hosted all year round – Pumpkin Patches, Egg Hunts, and Berry Festivals to U-Pick Apple Fun. Also, don’t forget to stop by any of the nearby bakeries to purchase Apple Hill™ goodies during harvest season.

Gold Bug Park and Mine

You will go back in time when you enter the Gold Bug Mine. It is a genuine gold mine from the Gold Rush days. Explore the Gold Bug and the mining museum. Do find time to visit the historic Stamp Mill and working Blacksmith Shop. While on your way back, stop at Hattie’s Gift Shop for that unique souvenir of your mining experience.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a one-stop adventure destination, offering mountain biking, paddleboarding, boating, skiing, snowboarding, and many other water and snow activities. The south shore of Lake Tahoe is an ever-evolving hub of entertainment, dining, and fun. It retains its rustic charm while blending seamlessly with growing trends. You can climb up the mountains or go diving in Lake Tahoe. There are plenty of fun things to do above and below the lake’s surface!

Interested in unraveling the gold rush history of California? Explore our website to plan an unforgettable trip to El Dorado County. Find information on outdoor recreation, shopping, history, events, accommodations, farms & ranches, wineries, directions, and arts and culture.

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Upcoming El Dorado County Events

Places to Visit in El Dorado County
Places to Visit in El Dorado County
Places to Visit in El Dorado County
Places to Visit in El Dorado County

Community Events Calendar

March 7, 2024
Youth Art Month
March 28, 2024
11:00 am THROWBACK THURSDAY 1/2 OFF PIZZAS
5:30 pm Mixer - Gold Country Health Center
March 29, 2024
REGISTER NOW: "Buckaroo" Outdoor Adventure Summer Camp
6:00 pm Sip and Paint at the Moose Lodge
March 30, 2024
Kiwanis Easter Egg Hunt
Placerville Speedway
7:00 am 19th Annual Honor Our Troops All American Breakfast Fundraiser
9:00 am Swap Meet
11:00 am EASTER BRUNCH
11:00 am Farm Tours at Sonny's Farm
1:00 pm Coloma Community Market