El Dorado County Historical Museum

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On the El Dorado County Fairgrounds west of downtown (exit north on Placerville Dr from Hwy 50), is this complex of restored buildings, mining equipment and re-created businesses telling the story of old 'Hangtown.' There are displays on the pony express, wanted posters and wagons, a reconstructed old-time grocery and luxurious silk gowns.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Hangtown's Gold Bug Park & Mine

2.36 MILES

About 1 mile north of town via Bedford Ave, this historical park stands on the site of four mining claims that yielded gold from 1849 to 1888. You can…

2. Boeger Winery

4.16 MILES

Amid vineyards that were planted in the gold rush era, relegated to producing sacramental wine for the local church during Prohibition, and then restored…

3. Lava Cap Winery

5.93 MILES

A family of oenophile-geologists picked this spot for its volcanic soil, which grows very fine wine grapes. Free tastings, though sips from their limited…

6. Deaver Vineyards

12.8 MILES

A true family affair going back 150 years, where nearly everyone pouring has the last name on the bottles.

7. Renwood Winery

12.85 MILES

The highly commercial Renwood Winery crafts outstanding Zinfandel, which you can taste in a flight of five wines, optionally paired with 'culinary small…

8. Sobon Estate

13.9 MILES

Founded in 1977, this is an environmentally conscious family-run estate.