Explore Auburn
Things to Do in Auburn
From scenic trails to Gold Rush history, discover everything Auburn has to offer
Adventures Await in Gold Country
Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills, cultural experiences, or a glimpse into California's Gold Rush past, Auburn offers unforgettable activities for every interest.
Explore over 32 curated attractions across 6 categories.
Top Auburn Attractions
The best of Gold Country—trails, history, and experiences that define Auburn
Hidden Falls Regional Park
Year-round waterfall destination with 30+ miles of trails through oak woodlands and canyons.
Auburn Confluence Trails
Where the North and Middle Forks of the American River meet—epic views and swimming.
Foresthill Bridge
California's highest bridge at 730 feet—stunning canyon overlook and photo opportunity.
Gold Country Museum
Interactive Gold Rush exhibits, mine replica walkthrough, and hands-on gold panning.
Old Town Auburn Historic District
Walk through California's oldest continually operating post office town with 1850s buildings.
Explore by Category
Outdoor Adventures & Nature
Explore Auburn's stunning natural landscape with hiking trails, parks, waterfalls, and scenic river access along the American River.
History & Culture
Discover Auburn's rich Gold Rush heritage through museums, historic landmarks, and preserved 1850s architecture in Old Town.
Wine, Food & Markets
Savor local wines, farm-fresh produce at weekly markets, and unique dining experiences in Auburn's historic downtown.
Events & Seasonal Fun
Experience Auburn's vibrant community through year-round festivals, seasonal celebrations, and special events.
Active Adventures
Get your adrenaline pumping with mountain biking, rafting, horseback riding, and other outdoor sports in Gold Country.
Arts & Culture
Explore Auburn's creative side—Old Town galleries, the historic State Theatre, public murals, live music, and community celebrations.
Outdoor Adventures & Nature
Explore Auburn's stunning natural landscape with hiking trails, parks, waterfalls, and scenic river access along the American River.
Lake Clementine Trail
Scenic 3-mile trail along Lake Clementine with stunning views of the North Fork American River, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the historic North Fork Dam.
Hidden Falls Regional Park
1,143-acre regional park featuring seasonal waterfalls, 30+ miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding through oak woodlands and rolling hills.
Overlook Park
Scenic 6.8-acre park offering panoramic views of the American River Canyon, Auburn Ravine, and surrounding foothills with paved walking paths and picnic areas.
Railhead Park
Urban park in downtown Auburn with walking paths, green space, and historic railroad heritage along the old rail corridor.
Ashford Park
Neighborhood park with walking trails, playground, and open space for recreation and relaxation.
Black Hole of Calcutta Falls & Quarry Road Trail
Hidden waterfall and swimming hole accessed via Quarry Road Trail, offering a secluded natural experience with swimming opportunities in the American River Canyon.
Auburn Swim Hole on American River
Popular summer swimming spot along the American River with natural pools, sandy beaches, and easy water access for cooling off on hot days.
Auburn Confluence Trails
Where the North and Middle Forks of the American River meet—a hub of riverside trails, swimming holes, gold panning, and the historic No Hands Bridge.
Quarry Road Ponds Trail
An easy, mostly flat out-and-back along the Middle Fork American River past old mining-era ponds—ideal for families, birdwatchers, and casual walkers.
Training Hill
Auburn's legendary ~1-mile climb from the river up toward the Overlook—a training ground for Western States 100 ultrarunners and a quick canyon workout.
American River Rafting
World-class whitewater on the North, Middle, and South Forks of the American River—from mellow family floats to Class IV rapids—just minutes from Auburn.
History & Culture
Discover Auburn's rich Gold Rush heritage through museums, historic landmarks, and preserved 1850s architecture in Old Town.
Placer County Museum
Free museum housed in a historic 1851 courthouse featuring Gold Rush artifacts, Native American exhibits, and Placer County history.
Gold Country Museum
Interactive museum featuring Gold Rush exhibits, a recreated mine tunnel, working stamp mill, and hands-on gold panning experiences.
Bernhard Museum Complex
Historic 1851 Traveler's Rest Hotel and ranch complex showcasing Victorian-era life with original buildings, artifacts, and period furnishings.
Old Town Auburn
Historic downtown district with preserved 1850s Gold Rush architecture, antique shops, restaurants, galleries, and the iconic clock tower.
Old Town Auburn Walking Tour
Self-guided and interactive scavenger hunt walking tours exploring Auburn's Gold Rush history, historic buildings, and local landmarks.
Auburn Firehouse Clock Tower
Iconic 1891 clock tower atop the historic Auburn Firehouse, a beloved landmark and symbol of Old Town Auburn.
Foresthill Bridge
One of the highest bridges in California at 730 feet, spanning the North Fork American River Canyon with spectacular views and photo opportunities.
Placer County Courthouse
Auburn's defining landmark—an 1898 Classical Revival courthouse crowning Old Town and home to the free Placer County Museum.
Chinese Joss House
A rare surviving temple honoring Auburn's 19th-century Chinese community, who were central to Gold Rush mining and the building of the railroads.
Wine, Food & Markets
Savor local wines, farm-fresh produce at weekly markets, and unique dining experiences in Auburn's historic downtown.
Mt. Vernon Winery
Family-owned winery in the Sierra Foothills producing award-winning wines with tasting room, events, and beautiful vineyard views.
Auburn Old Town Farmers Market
Year-round Saturday farmers market featuring local produce, artisan goods, baked goods, and seasonal crafts from Placer County farmers and vendors.
Out of Order Arcade Bar
Retro arcade bar featuring classic and modern arcade games, craft cocktails, beer, and a fun nostalgic atmosphere for adults.
Old Town Auburn Restaurants & Cafes
Diverse dining scene in historic Old Town featuring American, Italian, Mexican, Asian cuisine, cafes, breweries, and wine bars.
Events & Seasonal Fun
Experience Auburn's vibrant community through year-round festivals, seasonal celebrations, and special events.
Auburn Festivals & Community Events
Year-round community events including Gold Rush Days, State Fair, car shows, concerts, and seasonal celebrations throughout Auburn.
Pumpkin Nights at Gold Country Fairgrounds
Seasonal fall event featuring thousands of illuminated carved pumpkins, themed displays, fall treats, and family activities.
Mandarin Festival
Annual winter celebration of Placer County's citrus heritage with mandarin tastings, local vendors, entertainment, and family activities.
Active Adventures
Get your adrenaline pumping with mountain biking, rafting, horseback riding, and other outdoor sports in Gold Country.
Bicycle Emporium
Local bike shop offering bike sales, rentals, repairs, and expert advice for exploring Auburn's trails and roads.
Rafting, Mountain Biking & Horseback Riding
Auburn serves as gateway to American River rafting, extensive mountain bike trail systems, and horseback riding adventures in the Sierra foothills.
Arts & Culture
Explore Auburn's creative side—Old Town galleries, the historic State Theatre, public murals, live music, and community celebrations.
Old Town Art Galleries
A walkable cluster of galleries and studios along Lincoln Way showcasing Gold Country landscapes, Sierra Nevada photography, and the work of local artists.
Auburn State Theatre
A restored 1930 art deco theatre in the heart of Old Town hosting live concerts, theatre, comedy, and film screenings in an intimate historic setting.
Placer County Fair
A beloved annual summer fair with carnival rides, livestock and 4-H exhibits, local vendors, and live entertainment at the county fairgrounds.
Ready to Explore Auburn?
Plan your visit today and discover why Auburn is California's best-kept secret.
Explore More of Auburn
Continue exploring California's Gold Country
Outdoor Adventures
Hike scenic trails, explore parks, and discover Auburn's natural beauty along the American River canyon.
History & Culture
Step back in time and explore Auburn's rich Gold Rush heritage through museums, historic sites, and walking tours.
Arts & Culture
Experience Auburn's vibrant arts scene with galleries, theaters, and cultural events throughout the year.
Events
Join Auburn's vibrant community at festivals, markets, and seasonal celebrations throughout the year.
Food & Drink
Savor Auburn's culinary scene from farm-to-table restaurants to craft breweries and Gold Country wineries.
Accommodations
Discover comfortable lodging from historic hotels to cozy cabins in Auburn's charming Gold Country setting.