Experience the history of the gold rush in the heart of Placerville Historic Main Street. Watch "Experience El Dorado": http://www.experienceeldorado.com/cs/index.php

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park -- Coloma, CA.

James Marshall's cabin, museum and gift shop, Sutter's Mill, original gold discovery site, two historic churches, schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, cemetery, the Noteware-Thomas House, hiking trails. Bring the family and a picnic lunch and plan to spend the day in the historic park that is located near the beautiful South Fork of the American River. http://www.parks.ca.gov/

Wakamatsu Tea & Silk Factory Memorial -- Gold Hill, CA.

Dedicated on June 7, 1969 by then Governor Ronald Reagan and several Japanese Officials, this unassuming small monument has drawn visitors from around the world. Visitors who are curious about the history of a young Japanese girl called Okei who died in 1871 at just 19 years old and who is buried on a hillside nearby on private land.
http://www.directcon.net/pharmer/Wakamatsu/Wakamatsu.html

Gold Panning at the South Fork of the American River -- Coloma, CA.

Rent a pan or bring your own. There is an area just across the river from Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park where you can settle in and try your luck. If Rodney is around, he is a fixture in the park, you might be lucky enough to get a lesson in gold panning from him.

Whitewater rafting on the South Fork of the American River, Coloma, CA.

The South Fork of the American River has been referred to as the best rafting in the country. The guides are well trained and provide every safety possible if you choose to participate in one of the most exciting outdoor adventures available anywhere. Read more...

Gold Bug Mine and Park -- Placerville, CA.

Hattie�s museum, the 362-foot hard rock mine, gift shop, stamp mill, hiking trails and gold panning make for a terrific outdoor adventure for the whole family. Bring a picnic and enjoy a day of history and fun at the park. http://www.goldbugpark.org/

Wine Tasting

There are over fifty wineries throughout the county in the areas of Gold Hill, Apple Hill, Camino, Pleasant Valley and Fair Play. Enjoy Barbera, Zinfandel, Shiraz, and many other fine varieties as well as the great hospitality extended by our vintners. There is also a group of wineries in the Apple Hill area known as the Apple Hill Wine Trail. http://www.eldoradobusiness.com

Apple Hill

Over fifty farms and ranches provide farm fresh fruit and vegetables, baked and canned goods, and crafts and entertainment. Apples are their claim to fame but there is much more to see and do in the beautiful El Dorado countryside. Their high season is from early September to December but some farms are open year round. http://www.applehill.com

Skiing

Sierra At Tahoe, Twin Bridges and Heavenly Ski Resort in South Lake Tahoe offer world class skiing, snowboarding and winter sports in a world-renowned location. Read more...

Crystal Basin Recreation Area -- Eldorado National Forest

Eldorado National Forest - Contact the El Dorado Information Center at 530.647.5415 for information or go the their website at www.fs.fed.us/r5/eldorado.

Sly Park Recreation Area

For information call the El Dorado Irrigation District -- Park: 530.644.2545, for reservations call 530.644.2792 or visit www.eid.org.

Christmas Trees

Many farms and varieties of trees to choose from. Over 30 farms throughout the county and many of the farms have saws and all have care instructions. http://www.chooseandcut.com

Micro Breweries

Three to choose from or visit them all in the areas of Gold Hill, Apple Hill and Placerville.

Gold Hill Brewery: http://www.goldhillvineyard.com/brewery.html

Jack Russell Brewing Company: http://www.jackrussellbrewing.com/main.sc

Placerville Brewing Company: http://www.placervillebrewing.com/history_press.asp