Placer County Travel Guide

Discover Placer County with our comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures to cultural attractions, we have you covered with all the must-see spots in this beautiful California destination.


Introduction to Placer County

Placer County is a beautiful destination located in Gold Country, California. It is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and boasts an abundance of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing, to name just a few. Placer County is also home to a rich cultural heritage that can be discovered in museums and historical sites. With its stunning natural beauty and fascinating history, Placer County is a must-visit destination!

List of Places to Visit in Placer County

Here are some of the top places to visit in Placer County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Placer County Museum
  • Griffith Quarry Museum
  • Bernhard Museum Complex
  • Gold Country Museum

Natural Attractions of Placer County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Auburn State Recreation Area
  • Hidden Falls Regional Park
  • Tahoe National Forest
  • Donner Summit

Hiking/Biking Routes of Placer County

Placer County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with an abundance of hiking and biking trails. Here are a few of the must-try routes:

  • Western States Trail
  • Stevens Trail
  • Pioneer Express Trail
  • Foresthill Divide Loop Trail

Best Things to Do in Placer County: Activities and Tours

Visitors to Placer County will never be bored with many activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Whitewater Rafting
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides
  • Skiing and Snowboarding at Sugar Bowl
  • Tour of Old Town Auburn

Week-Long Itinerary for Placer County

If you are planning a week-long trip to Placer County, Here is a sample itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Visit Auburn State Recreation Area, go for a hike at Western States Trail, and enjoy dinner at Carpe Vino
2 Take a tour of the Bernhard Museum Complex, visit Hidden Falls Regional Park, and eat at Gourmet Garage
3 Go skiing or snowboarding at Sugar Bowl, have lunch at Sugar Bowl Lodge, and enjoy dinner at Petra Mediterranean
4 Visit Griffith Quarry Museum, go for a bike ride along the Pioneer Express Trail, and have dinner at the Monkey Cat
5 Take a hot air balloon ride, enjoy brunch at Awful Annie’s, and visit Gold Country Museum
6 Visit Donner Summit, go for a hike at Stevens Trail, and enjoy dinner at the Old Town Tavern
7 Tour Old Town Auburn, go for a swim at Lake Clementine, and have dinner at the Auburn Alehouse

Food and Drink Scene of Placer County

Placer County has a rich culinary scene with local ingredients and flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Farm to Table Cuisine at Carpe Vino
  • Mediterranean Cuisine at Petra
  • American Comfort Food at Monkey Cat

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer at Knee Deep Brewing Company and Auburn Alehouse
  • Wine Tasting at Lone Buffalo Vineyards
  • Freshly Brewed Coffee at Depoe Bay Coffee Roasters

Where to Stay in Placer County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, Placer County has many options to choose from. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • The Placer County Courthouse Inn
  • Auburn Holiday Inn
  • Skunk Hollow Inn

What to Buy in Placer County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Placer County has many unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Gold Rush-themed souvenirs
  • Handmade crafts from local artisans
  • Olive oil and wine from local vineyards

Local Culture and Customs of Placer County

Placer County has a deep connection with its mining history, and visitors may learn about it through exhibits at various museums and carefully-preserved buildings throughout the county. Respect and admiration for the area’s heritage is paramount, and locals are warm and hospitable.

Best Time to Visit Placer County

The best time to visit Placer County is from May to October when the region’s weather is mild and allows for a plethora of outdoor activities. Summer months show crowds that diminish as fall approaches, allowing tourists more peace and quiet.

Do’s and Don’ts of Placer County

Do:

  • Plan ahead for outdoor activities, allowing ample time for breaks and always bring water.
  • Take tours to learn about the area’s mining past and culture.
  • Enjoy local cuisine, wine, and beer.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or disrespect natural areas, and always abide by posted signage and rules.
  • Don’t ignore posted speed limits on the winding mountain roads.
  • Don’t engage in illegal mining activities that disturb preserved areas’ integrity.

Safety and Health

Safety in Placer County

Placer County is relatively safe, though travelers should keep their belongings secure while outdoors or exploring the area. Residential areas are quiet compared to metropolitan cities, and careful driving is vital on the area’s winding mountain roads.

Health in Placer County

Visitors should bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water for outdoor activities. The area has hospital services available.

Getting to Placer County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Placer County is easily accessible with four airports within a 2-hour drive. If traveling by car, approach via Highways 80 or 49. There is limited public transportation, so renting a car is recommended to reach attractions throughout this sprawling locale.

Airports Near Placer County

  • Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
  • Oakland International Airport (OAK)
  • Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO)

Bus Stations Near Placer County

  • Greyhound Bus Station
  • Adventure Mountain Shuttle Bus

Other Options

  • Uber and Lyft operate throughout the locale.
  • Numerous car rental loctions are avaialble throughout the county.

How to Get Around in Placer County

While the area is vast, buses operate in select areas with limited routes, and taxi services are also available, car rentals are the optimal choice for getting around and visiting attractions at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Placer County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Placer County is surrounded by many exciting destinations worth exploring. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Lake Tahoe
  • Yosemite National Park
  • Sacramento
  • Napa Valley

Conclusion

Placer County is a magnificent travel destination with breathtaking natural beauty, cultural history, varied cuisine, and incredible outdoor activities. From stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range to award-winning breweries, there is something for everyone traveling through this Gold Rush-era county in California.



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