Things to do & places to visit in Placerville, California, United States

Placerville city in California, United States. Timezone: America/Los_Angeles, current date and time: Friday, May 03, 2024, 14:00.

Top things to do (19)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Sherwood Demonstration Garden (15 reviews)
- Outstanding Gardens
Spent < 1 hour Nature & Wildlife Areas • Gardens

The Sherwood Demonstration Garden is built and run by the UCCE Master Gardeners of El Dorado County. Sixteen themed educational gardens feature sustainably grown plants chosen for our Mediterranean climate. You will enjoy its beauty while learning from the Master Gardeners. No pets. See more..
5.0 Community Observatory (15 reviews)
- Fun family friendly thing to do at night
Spent 1-2 hours Observatories & Planetariums

View Stars, Planets, Galaxies, Nebulae and even our own Sun through our telescopes. We have a 17" CDK Reflecting Telescope and a 4" APO Refracting telescope in the observatory for you to look through. While waiting your turn at the eyepiece you can view images on a monitor from our 14" SCT telescope outfitted with a special astronomy video camera that is many times more sensitive to light than your eyes. This allows you to see the beautiful colors of stellar nurseries, galaxies and more. We also have a 16" and 6" Dobsonian portable telescopes for you to use and learn about how to use a telescope. We also have an outdoor "Sky Theater" where docents give tours of the constellations outlining them with their laser pointers showing you what is up in the sky during your visit. On the first Saturday of each month we are open from 10am until noon showing you our Sun through our safe solar telescopes. We can show you the sunspots on the photosphere in "white light" and prominences, filaments, and flares in the chromasphere in Hydrogen Alpha light. Look for us on Facebook and YouTube. See more..
5.0 Imagination Theater (8 reviews)
- A Treasure for Young or Old!
Spent 2-3 hours Theaters
One of the top "small venue" theater groups in the greater Sacramento area. Lanny, Peter, and the team out in an extraordinary effort in to bringing popular, diverse, and enjoyable offering of plays to the community, from original Alice in Wonderland script, to local history, to "Tuna Does Vegas", it is great! A comfortable, "no bad seat" theater offers a unique experience. Lastly, the support of area non-profits from I.T. is superb. Treat yourself and make a trip! See more..
5.0 Apple Hill (4 reviews)
- Plenty of Apples & The Perfect Christmas Tree.
Farmers Markets

My wife and all my daughters ALWAYS enjoy going to Apple Hill in the Fall. We go year-after-year making it an annual trip, usually spending the entire day going from farm to farm. My favorite is O'Halloran's because of the variety of apple and pears. My Favorite? Arkansas Blacks... but they're only available early in the season. Weekends are busy, and traffic is like the 405 in L.A. at rush hour... but a Friday afternoon is perfect. You'll also want to check out Carson Ridge Christmas Trees... sustainable, and you get to pick out the exact, perfectly shaped tree you want. See more..
4.5 Boa Vista Orchards (256 reviews)
- Very nice people, always willing to help if needed.
Friday: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards • Farms

Open 363 Days a Year Offering Fresh Fruits, Pies, Ciders, Donuts, Wines, Veggies, Juices & More! We Also Offer Seasonal Events: Pumpkin Patch, Berry Festivals, Egg Hunt, Christmas Trees & More! See more..
4.5 Hangtown's Gold Bug Park (184 reviews)
- Lodes of Fun History on Mine and Stamp Mill Tour
Friday: Spent 2-3 hours Parks • Mines

You'll step back in time when you enter Gold Bug Park! It'a a REAL mining site from the Gold Rush days. Explore the park and then the mining museum. Find your riches in the gem panning trough. Be sure to visit our historic Stamp Mill and working Blacksmith Shop. Hattie's Gift Shop will be open for that special one-of-a-kind memento of your mining experience. Be sure to top off your visit with an audio tour of the Gold Bug Mine (see below; fee applies). Our Hours: April thru October: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Daily November thru March: 12:00 noon to 4:00 PM on WEEKENDS ONLY During your self-guided audio tour of the Gold Bug you'll hear a California Gold Rush miner tell about the tools he used to get at that elusive yellow metal - GOLD! As you enter the 352 foot drift of this hard rock mine, you will feel the cool air brush against your face. Activity Suggestions: Bring a picnic lunch. Take a relaxing hike suitable for all ages along our dog-friendly trails. Check out the gold rush museum and perhaps stumble upon a lively blacksmith or a "real" 49er to share stories of the good ol' days. Gold Bug Park promises to be a wonderful experience for you and your family. Outdoor Pavilion rental available for groups of up to 75 people - suitable for summer graduations, family picnics, weddings, reunions, and more. For Schools: We offer educational and entertaining guided tours for both schools and private groups. Contact the park to bring your California history curriculum to life. See more..
4.5 Apple Hill | High Hill Ranch (172 reviews)
- One of the best on Apple Hill
Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Farms

High Hill Ranch serves up the best-selling Apple Pies, Apple Donuts, & Apple Fritters in all of Apple Hill. A prime Apple Hill location for breakfast, lunch & dinner, High Hill Ranch is also host to the largest selection of Apple Hill Outdoor Activities offering a Fishing Pond, Pony Rides, Tractor Hayrides, Field Trips, Wine Tasting, & Apple Hill's Largest Arts & Craft Show. Open Daily in beautiful Placerville, CA August 18th - December 24th! We welcome you to visit the largest, upmost popular Apple Hill Farm today. See more..
4.5 Boeger Winery (118 reviews)
- Worth the trip!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards

One of the most historic and enchanting wineries in the foothills, Boeger is considered the pioneer of Barbera in California. The oldest commercial winery in El Dorado County, Boeger produces unique varietals and artisan blends. If you are looking for the best in wine and ambiance, please join us in our intimate tasting room and enjoy our historic grounds and beautiful gardens. See more..
4.5 Lava Cap Winery (87 reviews)
- Skip Napa and Visit Lava
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards

Celebrate the magic of mountain-grown grapes and the beauty that surrounds Lava Cap Winery. Savor the taste of well-balanced wines rich with full flavor and body, vibrant fruit, crisp acidity and soft tannins. Bring a picnic and relax on the deck overlooking our vineyards. See more..
4.5 Eldorado National Forest (77 reviews)
- Bassi falls- Hidden gem
Friday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM National Parks • Forests

The hiking areas are located within this forest. See more..
4.5 Larsen's Apples (44 reviews)
- Fabulous Field Trip
Farms

The oldest apple tree here is over 140. See more..
4.5 Abel's Acres (44 reviews)
- Crazy over apples
Farms

Rides and treats abound here. See more..
4.5 El Dorado County Museum (35 reviews)
- Fascinating Historical Museum
History Museums

This history museum of this Gold Rush community displays old mining tools and railroad equipment. See more..
4.5 David Girard Vineyards (31 reviews)
- Amazing!!!
Wineries & Vineyards

Yes, you have to make an appointment, BUT it is so worth it! Loved taking the time to really think about the wine you are tasting- how it smells, looks, tastes... Best wine out of all of the vineyards we visited! Make the appointment, amazing wines, incredible experience and beautiful surroundings. See more..
4.5 Sierra Vista Winery and Vineyards (30 reviews)
- Wonderful afternoon of wine tasting!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Wineries & Vineyards

One of the most beautiful properties in the Sierra Foothills, Sierra Vista is true to its name with picturesque views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains & views all the way Mt. Diablo in San Francisco. An Eldorado original with a 45 year history featuring Rhone and Bordeaux estate wines & other varietals from around the world is only 15 minutes off Highway 50. Acres of rolling vineyards, a family oriented friendly atmosphere, an event room to plan your own event & numerous events around the year will sure to excite all. The estate wines are from ancient original rootstock with some lineage traces to the French regions of Cotie Rotie & Hermitage that create bolder more intense flavors that are true to their natural varietal. Sierra Vista has been making award winning wines since its inception and now has new family owners that are carrying on the tradition of the award winning wine making while further enhancing the estate to make it's guests enjoy their experience even more than ever. See more..
4.5 Miraflores Winery (26 reviews)
- Great selection of wine
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Wineries & Vineyards

Miraflores Winery was founded in 1998 by Dr. Victor Alvarez. Our first vines of Syrah and Zinfandel were planted during that year and our first vintage was produced in 2003. Today, on our 252 acre property, we now have 45 planted acres of 16 different grape varietals. Our renowned winemaker, Marco Cappelli, has been creating our wine from the very beginning and brings his old world experience and knowledge from wine making in France and Italy to the table while integrating unique and modern wine making styles. Escape the hectic pace of everyday life and come taste elegant wine on our stone patio overlooking our 42 acres of vineyards. We are proud to say that over 50 of our wines have been rated 90 points or more by and Wine Enthusiast since 2005! In summer, sit under our wooden beamed arbor to enjoy gourmet food & wine pairing lunches or in winter, warm up next to our centuries-old fireplace with a glass of red wine and a bowl of soup while taking in our gorgeous vineyard views! See more..
4.5 Holly's Hill Vineyard (22 reviews)
- Lovely wine and great view
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards

Thank you Holly and Tom for the nice stories about your lovely vineyard. We enjoyed your wines and the great view a loy! See more..
4.5 Jodar Vineyards (19 reviews)
- Great wine and conversation
Wineries & Vineyards

Spectacular grounds and fabulous chardonnays and cabernets make this winery a worthwhile visit. See more..
4.5 Narrow Gate Vineyards (18 reviews)
- great stop in wine country
Friday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards

Here's the dirt...You've just found wine you can trust. We are a small, intimate, boutique winery and vineyard tucked away in Ponderosa pines just outside the historic town of Placerville, California, in beautiful El Dorado wine country. Visit our relaxing, unpretentious tasting room located in our candlelit cellar and experience our warm hospitality and delicious wines. Our hands-on involvement in all aspects of our family business includes Certified Biodynamic farming, minimal intervention winemaking, creative food and wine pairing events, and an inspiring wine tasting experience in our romantic cellar. Wine Tasting only: Thursday - Sunday, Complimentary for Cellar Club up to 6 quarterly, $10 General Admission applied toward bottle of wine purchase per person Wine Tasting with Seasonal Picnic Box: Friday - Sunday (12:30pm to last seating 3:30pm) $20 Cellar Club/$30 Gen Adm, includes wine tasting flights. See more..
4.5 Grandpa's Cellar (15 reviews)
- No need for extra sugar— products highlight great fruit
Farms

The orchard is well known for its pies. See more..
4.5 El Dorado Trail (14 reviews)
- trail filled with nature and lovely human touches
Spent 1-2 hours Biking Trails • Equestrian Trails • Hiking Trails

I’ve used this trail for over a decade! It has beautiful nature and is peaceful. very family, pet, bicyclist, and even horse friendly. there’s a bridge with a river, that you can actually go down to the river (But I think it’s gated now), in the past people used to pan for gold. On the bridge has tons of locks that people have put on them to signify their relationship! There are also benches spread through out, and cool workout areas with instructions! I love when people make little rock towers by the path of the trail. You’ll see cows, and occasionally turkeys. There have been sightings of bears and mountain lions but I haven’t seen any, though I’d always go with someone if at night, otherwise it’s very safe. here is a picture from a few winters ago, along with a few other pics through-out the years. See more..
4.5 Hooverville Orchards (13 reviews)
- Great Pies and Jams!
Farms

While driving north on CA 49, we kept seeing signs for Hooverville Orchards, almost like the signs for Wall Drug in Wall, South Dakota. We weren't in a big hurry, so we followed the signs. A very interesting operation with outstanding pies and desserts. We haven't tried the interesting and varied jellies and jams that we bought yet. See more..
4.5 El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce (13 reviews)
- Very Knowledgeable People
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Visitor Centers

The El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce is home the Visitors Center in Placerville which distributes visitor information on the numerous attractions in the area. The El Dorado Lake Tahoe Film & Media Office and the El Dorado County Visitor Authority are also housed in the chamber. The staff has a wealth of knowledge and a valuable resource for the community, businesses and those seeking to do business in the county. See more..
4.5 Goldbud Farms (9 reviews)
- Fresh Summer Fruit
Wineries & Vineyards • Farms

We stopped by and bought plums, nectarines and peaches. Oh, juicy, sweet and perfectly ripe. Do stop by and get some. See more..
4.0 Bell Tower (63 reviews)
- Historic bell tower, center of town
Monuments & Statues

Placerville's fire alarm in 1856. See more..
4.0 Placerville Historical Museum (38 reviews)
- Nice Small Museum in Placerville,, Ca - Placerville Hisorical Museum
History Museums

Located in the oldest building in Placerville. See more..
4.0 El Dorado Fairgrounds (27 reviews)
- There's always something going on at the fairgrounds
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Amusement & Theme Parks

Home to the county fair each June and host of the El Dorado County Wine Competition, Gateway to the Sierra Sportsman's Expo, Miss El Dorado, 4th of July Family Blast, Placerville Speedway, plus weddings, reunions, cultural events, more. See more..
4.0 Gold Hill Vineyard (25 reviews)
- Go for the view and enjoy a glass of winw
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards

Located in Gold Country, this winery is perfect for weddings and open for tastings on weekends. See more..
4.0 Abel's Apple Acres (20 reviews)
- Relaxing and convenient
Spent 1-2 hours Farms • Farmers Markets

Abel’s farm is a new favorite of us because is not crowded. There’s plenty of parking and restrooms, they have excellent food choices. Kids have activities and best of all are the apple donuts, you won’t find better tasting donuts anywhere in Apple Hill. The only thing missing is a hay ride, pumpkin patch and alcohol. See more..
3.5 Red Hawk Casino (361 reviews)
- Playing the slots machines
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Casinos

Red Hawk Casino offers a variety of gaming options. We're proud to offer a world-class gaming experience, with something for everyone. See more..