The National Exchange Hotel, Nevada City Nevada City, California

ABOUT

The Setting

In 1849, Nevada City was simply known as Deer Creek Dry Diggins after gold was discovered on the banks of Deer Creek. By 1851, it was the most important mining town in the new state of California. To keep pace with the booming gold rush economy, The National Exchange Hotel was built in 1856 offering world class accommodations for the pioneer take on the Victorian Era.

After being named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, this old dame became a little rough around the edges and a three-year floor-to-rafters renovation began in 2018, with the goal of preserving the charm and history of the building while meeting today’s modern and eco-savvy expectations. Nevada City has seen quite the transformation as well, set in the Sierra Foothills, the town once teeming with gold-hungry prospectors and saloons of ill repute, is now bustling with inclusive vibes, bohemian charm, farmers' markets and artisan proprietors.

Recently, The California Arts Council formally recognized the downtown area as one of only 14 Cultural Districts, honoring the evolution from a rough gold-mining camp to an arts and music magnet and a haven for outdoor adventures. We’ve surely struck gold with this one. 

Sleep and Sanctuary

Timeless elegance pervades the 38 pet-friendly guest rooms; choose between Standard and Double rooms, Studios and King and Queen Suites at The National Exchange. In each you’ll find a unique design story, curated vintage furniture and light fixtures creating a soothing scene inside opulent Victorian-style chambers. Pamper yourself in over-sized bathrooms and spacious showers where you'll find luxurious cruelty-free Beekman 1802 goat milk soaps.

While stepping into the Victorian era is romantic, modern nomads will also be pleased to find Victrola Bluetooth speakers, free Wi-Fi and electric kettles and sustainably-sourced teas for their convenience. Since the National Exchange was not designed with televisions in mind over 150 years ago – an in-room tablet can be utilized for streaming services, but secretly, your hosts hope that you will connect with each other, with the community and the delightful natural surroundings during your stay.

Eat. Pray. Eat.

If you’re looking for sustenance for body and soul, you will strike gold in the historic National Bar and gourmet restaurant, Lola. Much like its namesake, Lola Montez, the actress and courtesan who called Grass Valley home, the cuisine at this high-spirited and modern eatery is sparked by the great wild west and a shine of European finesse; a dedication to beautiful ingredients, locally sourced, sustainable, and seasonally inspired.

Soak in the ambience (and libations) of the historic tavern known throughout the town as the National Bar. In this legendary haunt you’ll find an abundance of seasonally-inspired bespoke cocktails and shareable snacks. Sidle up for a drink, or two. 

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