Placer County Museum
About
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.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive Gold Rush exhibits that let kids imagine life as a 49er prospector
- ✓Antique displays featuring period clothing, tools, and household items from the 1800s
- ✓Historic 1898 courthouse building with original architectural details
- ✓Child-friendly educational displays that make history come alive
- ✓Free admission makes it easy to revisit multiple times
Pro Tips
- 1.Park for free on Maple Street or in the nearby Old Town Auburn parking lots, then take a stroll through the charming historic downtown before or after your visit
- 2.The museum is completely free, making it a budget-friendly educational activity perfect for combining with other Auburn adventures
- 3.Ask staff about the interactive scavenger hunt or activity sheets designed specifically for kids to make the visit more engaging
- 4.The building itself is a piece of history,point out the beautiful architecture and courthouse features to older kids who appreciate the setting
- 5.Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more relaxed experience with plenty of space to explore
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10:00-11:30 AM) offer the quietest experience with fewer visitors. Avoid weekend afternoons during peak tourist season when Old Town Auburn gets busier with crowds.
What to Know
Admission is completely free, which is fantastic for families on a budget. The museum is located in historic Old Town Auburn with nearby street parking and is housed in a historic building with stairs (check ahead about accessibility needs).
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours seven days a week. The indoor venue makes it perfect for hot summer days or rainy winter weather. Check their website for special Gold Rush Days events and holiday programs that often feature extra activities for children.
Nearby Eats
Head to Carpe Vino (just steps away) for family-friendly Italian fare with a kids menu, or grab burgers and milkshakes at the classic Awful Annie's on Sacramento Street, a local favorite with a fun Old West atmosphere kids enjoy.
More Activities Near Auburn
The Gold Rush Museum
The Gold Rush Museum in Auburn brings California's gold mining history to life through hands-on experiences that kids absolutely love. Children can try real gold panning, explore a recreated mine shaft, and interact with historic artifacts in a way that makes learning about the 1849 Gold Rush feel like an adventure rather than a history lesson.
Auburn Library
Auburn Library offers a welcoming, modern space designed with families in mind. The extensive children's section provides age-appropriate books, interactive learning spaces, and comfortable reading nooks perfect for quiet exploration. Regular storytimes, craft programs, and the popular summer reading challenge make this a go-to destination for enriching, free entertainment that keeps kids engaged and learning.
Hidden Falls Regional Park
Hidden Falls Regional Park offers families an exciting outdoor escape with well-maintained trails that wind through stunning Auburn countryside to picturesque waterfalls. The park features multiple trail options suitable for various skill levels, making it perfect for families wanting to introduce kids to hiking in a manageable, rewarding setting where the promise of reaching a waterfall keeps little legs motivated.
Quarry Trail Parking Area
Quarry Trail Parking Area serves as the gateway to Auburn's popular trail system, offering families a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and recreational fun. With well-maintained hiking trails suitable for little legs, open spaces for running around, and quality playground equipment, this spot delivers multiple activities in one convenient location that keeps kids of all ages entertained.