Northstar Mining Museum: A Glimpse into California's Golden Past
Explore California's Gold Rush history at the Northstar Mining Museum in Grass Valley, home to the world's largest Pelton wheel and authentic mining exhibits.
The Northstar Mining Museum in Grass Valley, California, offers a captivating journey into the state's rich mining history. Located within the historic 1895 North Star Mine powerhouse, the museum showcases the ingenuity and perseverance of those who sought their fortunes in the depths of the earth.
A brief summary to Northstar Mining Museum
- 933 Allison Ranch Rd, Grass Valley, California, 95949, US
- +1530-273-4255
- Visit website
- Wednesday 12 pm-4 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-4 pm
- Friday 12 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the museum's operating hours before visiting, as it's open seasonally (May-October) and has limited hours during the week.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking both indoors and outdoors.
- Take advantage of the knowledgeable docents who can provide fascinating insights into the history of the mine and the equipment on display.
Getting There
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Driving
The Northstar Mining Museum is located at 933 Allison Ranch Rd, Grass Valley, CA 95949. From Highway 49 in Grass Valley, head south and turn onto McCourtney Road. Then, turn right onto Allison Ranch Road. There is ample free parking available on site.
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Public Transport
To reach the Northstar Mining Museum via public transportation, take the Gold Country Stage bus service. Board the bus at any major stop in Grass Valley and ride to the nearest stop to Allison Ranch Rd. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk to the museum. Bus fare is typically around $1-$2.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From the Grass Valley bus station, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) is a practical option for the final 5-mile journey to the museum. The ride typically takes 10-15 minutes and costs approximately $15-$25, depending on demand and time of day.
Discover more about Northstar Mining Museum
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