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Nevada City is one of Northern California's most picturesque towns, located just an hour northeast of San Francisco in Nevada County. The tree-lined city, which was originally settled in 1849 as a mining town, is home to some of California's best-preserved historic buildings, including the 1865 Nevada Theatre, the state's oldest-operating theater, which has hosted performers such as Mark Twain and Mötley Crüe throughout its history. Visitors can explore the city's history at its converted firehouse museum, which showcases indigenous artifacts alongside artifacts related to the region's early European and Chinese pioneers. Delightful gift shops, antique stores, wine tasting rooms, and restaurants and cafes line the city's downtown historic district. Just outside the city, the charming community of Grass Valley is home to acclaimed wineries like Sierra Starr Vineyards and Lucchesi Winery. Annual special events include the Wild and Scenic Film Festival, the Nevada City Storytelling Festival, and one of the nation's oldest and largest Constitution Day celebrations.
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