Nevada County Life

Most of us in the Grass Valley and Nevada City area woke up today with a light dusting of snow outside our windows. For us, it was just enough for a snow ball fight in our downtown Grass Valley yard with my 2-year old son. But, get ready for more. The National Weather Service says Tuesday night snow levels at 2500 feet, dropping to 1900 feet on Wednesday before rising again. Friday, and possibly going into Saturday, snow levels of 2700 feet.

So, what should we do this week in Nevada County? If you like the snow, pull out your snow shoes and drive for a few minutes East on Highway 20. White Cloud is only 15 minutes or so outside Nevada City, and has a fun snow play area for sledding or snowman building, and miles of trails for snow-shoeing and cross country skiing. Of course, we’re only 45 minutes from Boreal, the closest resort for downhill skiing and snow boarding.

If you’re not so fond of the snow and rain we’re having this week, look for indoor activities.  The Imaginarium is having their preschool play day on Tuesday, February 10th from 9am-12pm for preschool age, and they are having an Open to the Public day on Saturday, February 21st, from noon-5pm. Or, drop by Summer Thymes on Colfax Avenue in Grass Valley any day for a tasty hot drink to stay warm. You could always take in a movie downtown at the classic Del Oro Theater.

Wondering what to do for Valentine’s Day in Nevada County? This year Valentine’s Day is on a Saturday, so that makes for a fun full day or weekend! These are some of my ideas:

Go wine tasting. Tour our local vineyards dotted around the foothills for a tasty day and lovely scenery. Many of them are open to the public for wine tasting on weekends. Visit Northern Sierra Wine Country for information and maps.  Or, like the sound of wine tasting, but wishing to stay in town? The Lucchesi Winery tasting room in downtown Grass Valley is putting on a Valentine’s Day event. There will be wine tasting, music, hors d’oeuvres, chocolate, and flowers! Visit thisisnevadacounty.com for details about this event.

For a romantic outdoor dining adventure, pack a creative picnic and head to the South Yuba River. Or if you prefer to go out to eat… In downtown Nevada City, try the fondue at Friar Tuck’s, Thai at Sopa Thai, or everything is good at the New Moon. In downtown Grass Valley, Italian always has a romantic flair, so go to Villa Venezia.

Whatever you plan to do on Valentine’s Day, there are many local shops with the Valentine’s Day gifts and treats you need. In downtown Grass Valley, stop in Dorado’s for chocolate, Foothill Flowers of course, Sierra Starr Winery for champagne, and Aimee Taylor’s on Mill Street has some unique jewelry, prints, and other gifts.