Initially, it was a mining town known as Hangtown. Its names changed several times until it was officially named Placerville in 1854. It was also known as Old Dry Diggins. The place has a gently preserved historic district in the center. There was a gold mining camp here and a railway station. The climate of Placerville is not too hot in comparison with the other cities and towns of Sacramento. The winters are cool and wet, while the summers are dry and hot. There’s no trouble with transportation — two highways lead to Placerville connecting it with the areas of Sierra Nevada foothills.

It’s one of the most charming towns established in the times of the gold rush. Golf was found in the hills and in the river beds. Unfortunately, everything connected with the gold mining in significant amounts results in criminal events. Fortunately, justice was restored long ago, and, at present, Placerville is among the safest place in Sacramento, California. The place neighbors with the Capital of Sacramento and El Dorado City with its magnificent Lake Tahoe. There are attractions and places of interest obligatory for visiting.

Short Facts

• 1848 was fateful for the place that was later called Placerville — James W. Marshall, American carpenter and sawmill operator discovered gold deposits;
• In the period of the gold rush the place was known as Dry Diggin’s, which signified the miners’ manner to put the dry soil in cartloads and later wash them out with running water for the gold to appear;
• In 1849, Dry Diggin’s was renamed into Hangtown (it’s not hard to understand that it happened because of the criminal past of the place, where numerous people were hung not without reason);
• In 1850, the local religious community insisted on a friendlier name for the place, and only in 1854 the Hangtown was renamed into Placerville;
• In 1850, the first post office appeared together with developed transportation systems, stores, markets, banks, educational institutions, and restaurants.

Regardless of the tragic, diverse, and unpredictable past, Placerville still stays a zone of attraction for new residents. It cherishes its history and offers a very convenient dwelling with a properly developed infrastructure.

If you consider yourself a wine connoisseur, such places as Boeger Winery, Lava Cap Winery, David Girard Vineyards, and Miraflores Winery will have something to please you with. These are nice places where you can have a picnic, go on a wine tasting event, have an excursion, look at the process of the best wine materials in the state.

Get to the center of Placerville to see its focal point situated in the historic district. It’s the Bell Tower of Placerville. The tower itself dates back to the years of the gold rush, and it’s preserved in its original state. Sometimes, the local authorities decorate the tower, depending on the event or a celebration.

Visit Boa Vista Orchards to taste the best cider in California and taste their delicious snacks. The heaviest crowds get here in November in October, but we still consider this place a MUST for visiting with family and friends. Of course, it’s not only about apples. The place offers delicious meals, BBQ, and numerous treats. Besides, you’ll also get a chance to see how blackberries, apricots, pears, and peaches are grown.

The Farm Table Restaurant. The place offers meals based on the products of the local farmers. It’s typical American cuisine with mouthwatering desserts and homemade quality dishes. Those who stick to vegan dishes and gluten-free products will be pleasantly surprised by the variety.

Bricks Eats & Drinks. Another cozy diner where you can order a top-notch steak with a glass of craft beer. There are also burgers, French fries, and dishes with shrimps. The place is situated in a historic building, and its name is directly connected with the design of the brick walls.

Sweetie Pie’s. It’s a regular daytime café where you can have a meal with your kids and enjoy classic brunches, lunches, and breakfasts. There’s a wide choice of pastry and a coffee bar.

Bene Ristorante Italiano. Needless to say that the place offers mainly Italian dishes. Almost every local has his favorite dish here. Taste their affogato, and you’ll have to get back here again and again. The service is impeccable, and the selection of wine and beer should be suitable for anyone.

• Placerville demonstrates a flawless atmosphere of a suburban feel. It’s a very conservative place with its own traditions.
• The educational institutions in Placerville are highly appreciated. Most locals agree that the public schools here are definitely above average.
• Placerville is a perfect town for people who prefer slow-paced life with a possibility to out once in a couple of months.
• The airport is only about one hour away from the center of Placerville.
• All entertainments here are peaceful and inspirational. Enjoy the visits to the local wineries, art galleries, museums, and resort areas.
• It looks like the police are out of need here because the crime rates here are as low as they can be.