Photo: J Hitchcock
Photo: Renee Cheatwood
Photo: Evgeniy Loktev
Old Town Auburn Business Association
★4.6(74 reviews)FreeActivity
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger elementary-aged kids especially enjoy the historical buildings and stories of the Gold Rush, while teens appreciate the unique shops and ice cream parlors. Toddlers can manage the strolling, though the historic sidewalks may require a sturdy stroller.🧡 Saved by 12 families
About
Step back in time to California's Gold Rush era in this charming historic district that's perfect for a family day out. Old Town Auburn offers a delightful mix of walkable streets lined with unique shops, the impressive Auburn Courthouse (complete with a museum), and family-friendly restaurants that make exploring history fun and accessible for kids of all ages.
Highlights
- ✓Auburn Courthouse with its distinctive gold dome and free museum featuring Gold Rush artifacts
- ✓Old-fashioned candy shops where kids can pick their own treats
- ✓Historic fire station with vintage equipment often visible from the street
- ✓Antique shops with fascinating treasures from California's past
- ✓Seasonal festivals and First Saturday events with kid-friendly activities
Pro Tips
- 1.Park at the free public lot near the Auburn Courthouse to start your adventure at the heart of Old Town
- 2.Stop by the Placer County Museum inside the courthouse for free admission and kid-friendly Gold Rush exhibits
- 3.Visit on First Saturday of the month for special events and extended hours at many shops
- 4.Bring quarters for the old-fashioned penny candy shops that kids absolutely love
- 5.Wear comfortable walking shoes as the historic sidewalks are uneven in places
Best Time to Visit
Saturday mornings (9-11 AM) offer the best experience with all shops open and extended hours, plus cooler temperatures in summer months. Avoid hot summer afternoons as there's limited shade on the main streets. Spring and fall provide ideal weather for strolling.
What to Know
Old Town Auburn is free to explore with paid parking minimal or free in public lots. Most shops and restaurants are cash-and-card friendly, and there are clean public restrooms available at the courthouse. The historic district is mostly flat and stroller-accessible, though some shops have steps.
Seasonal Notes
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most comfortable weather for walking. Summer can be very hot, so visit early or late in the day. December features holiday decorations and special events. Note that some shops may have reduced hours in winter months.
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Nearby Eats
Carpe Vino is family-friendly with a kids' menu and patio seating, while Bootleggers Old Town Tavern & Grill offers casual American fare perfect for families. For a sweet treat, visit one of the ice cream shops along Lincoln Way.
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Adventure
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Museum
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Step back in time at this charming FREE museum housed in a beautiful 1898 courthouse building in historic Old Town Auburn. Kids can explore Gold Rush-era artifacts, antique treasures, and hands-on exhibits that bring California's gold mining history to life in ways that captivate curious young minds.
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