Murphys, CA

The Mercer Caverns were discovered in 1885 by gold prospector Walter J. Mercer and were opened to the public later that year. The series of caves are enormous, stretching over three thousand feet into the surrounding limestone and reaching a depth of 192 feet. If you would like to see the beautiful interiors of the cave system you can join a guided tour – tours last around 45 minutes and are offered every half an hour. You will need to be reasonably fit to complete the tour as there are over 200 steps to climb each way, the equivalent of climbing 16 flights of stairs. (There is no elevator). However, there are many stops along the way where you can take a breather. Remember to bring your camera – flash photography is allowed in the caves.

Mercer Caverns, 1665 Sheep Ranch Rd, Murphys, CA 95247, Phone: 209-728-2101

While you are in Murphys you should not miss the chance to pop into Art on Main to see what the arty and creative people of the Calaveras Country (video) are exhibiting. The gallery opened in 2012 and is dedicated to showcasing the work of local artists, many of whom work at the gallery and are on hand to answer your questions. You will find a fine collection of original art works as well as fine art reproductions for sale. All techniques are on display including pastels, water-colors, acrylics and oils as well as jewelry, glass art, textiles and sculptures.

Art on Main, 466B Main Street, Murphys, CA 95247, Phone: 209-728-1888

You are invited to come and rub shoulders with Foothills winemakers and food lovers at one of Murphys most popular eateries located on Main Street Murphys. The inviting Alchemy Cafe is dominated by a beautiful old bar (where you can sample a large selection of beers on tap) and offers a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere. The food style could be described as American Gastro Pub and features an extensive and eclectic menu of farm-fresh foods which have been carefully selected to compliment the amazing wines of the region. You will find perennial favorites like Caesar Salad and Crab Cakes alongside hearty Braised Short Ribs, Roast Pork Belly and their signature Alchemy Meatloaf. Be sure to leave some space for one of their delicious desserts.

Alchemy Café, 191 Main Street, Murphys, CA 95247, Phone: 209-728-0700

Wineries and vineyards:

From humble beginnings as a crop farmer, John Kautz decided to plant his first grape vines on a small 12-acre plot in 1948, and the rest, as they say, is history. Now a fourth-generation business, Ironstone Vineyards produces award-winning wines under several labels which are sold all over the US and 50 other countries worldwide. After tasting a selection of their wines at the Tasting Room you will be able to join a complimentary tour of the wine caverns, amphitheatre, museum and other estate facilities. The estate Deli serves delicious lunches or picnics which you can enjoy in the beautiful gardens. The estate hosts regular events and the Music Room is available for hire for weddings or special occasions.

Ironstone Vineyards, 1894 6 Mile Rd, Murphys, CA 95247, Phone: 209-728-1251

Located in the historic 1850 Albert Michelson House on Murphys tree-lined Main Street, the Hovey Winery Tasting Room is a must-visit attraction on your Murphys itinerary. Hovey Winery founder Chuck Hovey has been producing wines in the Sierra foothills since 1983 and in the last two decades his distinctive style and innovative spirit has earned him over 500 medals at major wine competitions. When you visit the Tasting Room you are invited to try a few of their tasting flights or order wines of your choice by the glass to enjoy in the tasting room, outside on the patio or at picnic tables on the lawn.

Hovey Winery, 350A Main Street, Murphys, CA 95247, Phone: 209-728-9999

The vineyards which provide the noble grapes which go into making Hatcher Wines can be found in the Sierra Foothills, where they enjoy near-perfect vine-growing conditions. Owner and wine maker Matthew Hatcher’s innovative wine-making skills are responsible for putting Hatcher Winery on the map and it would be a shame to leave Murphys without tasting some of his wines. The winery produces a consistently good range of both whites and reds, including Zinfandel, Berbera, Malbec, Merlot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Voignier, as well as some delicious dessert wines. The Tasting Room is located right in the heart of Murphys.

425 Main St, Murphys, CA 95247, Phone: 209-605-7111

Certified organic by CCOF since 2005, Lavender Ridge Vineyard and Winery produces a fine range of hand-crafted small-batch wines in the Sierra Foothills. Taking full advantage of their location, which is very similar to the Southern Rhone region of France, Lavender Ridge specializes in Rhone varietals Roussanne, Voignier, Syrah, Mourvedre and Grenache. You do not even have to leave town to taste their distinctive wines – their Tasting Room and gourmet artisan market is located in the heart of Murphys and offers not only wine tastings but wine and cheese pairings, gourmet artisan foods, delightful lavender pamper products and much more.

Lavender Ridge Vineyard and Winery, 425A Main Street, Murphys, CA 92547, Phone: 209-728-2441

If you are traveling with kids:

Murphys Community Club and Park is located in the heart of Murphys where it provides an ideal outdoor location for community events, summer concerts, weddings and picnics. You are welcome to visit the park all year round, but it is officially maintained and open for business during the summer months from April to October. You can get your day off to a great start by taking a run around the park or visit during the day to let the children enjoy the great children’s play ground. You can bring along a picnic to enjoy under the shady trees – picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are also Bocce Courts and free concerts and events are held year round.

Murphys Community Club and Park, 505 Algiers Street, Murphys, CA 95247, Phone: 209-728-8183