Grass Valley - Nevada City Cultural District

Grass Valley-Nevada City Cultural District is one of just 24 state-designated California Cultural Districts, alongside our sister district in Truckee.

California Cultural Districts highlight the cultural legacy of our state's most valuable resource—its diversity. From larger, urban areas to uncharted rural locations, each district helps grow and sustain authentic arts and culture opportunities, increase the visibility of local artists, and promote socio-economic and ethnic diversity through culture and creative expression.

The historic twin cities of Grass Valley and Nevada City are home to the Nisenan, the area’s oldest indigenous peoples. The District is rich in cultural histories and the arts, and has an exciting emerging wine culture. The twin cities boast outstanding year-round programming in music, theatre and dance; a density of artists and makers; and an unparalleled festival culture.

Tours

Our web-based tours highlight the history and culture of Nevada City, Grass Valley, and our surrounding communities.

Mural Tour of Nevada County

28 STOPS| SELF-GUIDED | CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

Featuring a robust (and ever-expanding) collection of public murals throughout Nevada County, this self-guided tour will lead you to unexpected places.

Nevada City Walking Tour

13 STOPS | GUIDED | WALKING | 1H 30M | 1 MI

Relive key moments of Nevada City’s history, from pre-Gold Rush settlement up to the 1970s. Featuring notable buildings and beautiful vistas.

Haunted Nevada City Ghost Tour

21 STOPS | GUIDED | WALKING | 1H 30M | 1.5 MI

Illuminated by the flickering flames of gas streetlights, Nevada City is the perfect setting for tales of the numerous ghosts who haunt our historic buildings.

MUSE Magazine

A Guide to Local Art & Culture

An annual publication of the Nevada County Arts Council, MUSE highlights
the creative people and places that make the Grass Valley-Nevada City and Truckee Cultural Districts unique.

Upcoming Events

Plan your visit


Getting Here

Getting Around


Artist Spotlights

Cultural District Partners

The Grass Valley-Nevada City Cultural District is a partnership between Nevada County Arts Council, the City of Nevada City, the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce, the City of Grass Valley, and the Greater Grass Valley Chamber of Commerce.