The California Gold Rush made the charming mountain town of Grass Valley one of the wealthiest in the state. In fact, two of the largest gold mines are located here, including the North Star Mine and Empire Mine, which is now a state historic park.

Gold brought thousands of miners to the area from Cornwall, England, and their heritage remains. One of the most popular events in Grass Valley is the Cornish Christmas Celebration , where the downtown historic district comes alive with carolers, jugglers and musicians - many dressed in period costumes. During the event, local artisans sell their creations and the smell of roasted chestnuts fill the air.

Grass Valley has a thriving arts scene as well. The town has several notable galleries and studios, where visitors can browse the collections and chat with local artists. The performing arts are alive and well here, and the Center for the Arts hosts musicians, theatrical performances and comedy. There are also plenty of smaller venues to see local rock, pop and country bands.

Like its neighbor, Nevada City, Grass Valley has an emerging wine scene. Award-winning wineries in the area include Lucchesi Vineyards & Winery, Naggiar Vineyards and Winery and Sierra Starr Vineyard. The area is also known for its craft breweries, including Grass Valley Brewing Company, which serves its IPAs alongside hearty pub fare in its downtown eatery.

Nature lovers flock to Grass Valley, as it's a jumping-off point for Sierra adventures. Lake Tahoe is just over an hour away, and there are miles of hiking trails to explore, lakes to swim, and rivers to fish. Come winter, skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and other cold-weather activities are just a short drive away.
With easy access to Interstate 80 and Highway 49, Grass Valley is a good place to settle down for those looking for a slower pace of life without sacrificing amenities or services. Housing options run the gamut, and include secluded retreats and rustic homes with acreage. Families will find plenty of close-knit suburban neighborhoods with good schools and parks.