Auburn
Are you from Auburn, California, or are you just visiting and looking for fun things to do? Don’t look any further! That’s right, this guide has the best and most fun things to do in Auburn, CA, so you can get the most out of your time there.
Auburn is the county seat of Placer County, California. It is a city in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and is known for its long past, beautiful scenery, and lively culture. This charming town has both outdoor activities and culture events to offer.
As a city with historic sites, beautiful parks, and award-winning wineries, Auburn has a lot to offer people of all hobbies. Placer High School is also located in Auburn.
Auburn has something for everyone. You can visit historic museums and relive the Gold Rush era, hike and bike along beautiful trails, or just relax in peaceful parks and enjoy delicious wines at nearby wineries.
30 Best And Fun Things To Do In Auburn, CA (2024)
1. Placer County Museum
Start your trip to Auburn with a visit to the Placer County Museum, which is located in the historic Placer County Courthouse. The museum gives visitors an interesting look into the history of Placer County, California, and there are many fun and educational things to do in Auburn, CA, for history buffs and everyone else.
This courthouse, which is now a museum, opened in 1998. It has displays like the Placer County gold collection, the famous Pate Collection of American Indian artifacts, and the picture “Auburn Centennial” by Thomas Kinkade.
The museum also has items from Placer County’s agricultural and industrial growth, displays about the Nisenan people, who lived in the area before Europeans came, and docent-led tours of the museum and Old Town Auburn.
People can look at the displays and learn about the interesting history of Placer County. They can also take a walk led by a docent and learn about the restored courthouse building. They can also look at the Placer County Gold Collection and the Pate Collection of American Indian artifacts.
Address: 101 Maple Street, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
2. Auburn State Theatre
Tonight, one of the most romantic things for couples to do in Auburn, CA is to see their favorite movie at Auburn State Theatre, which is an important part of the city’s culture and past.
This movie theater has been around since 1930 and has a grand lobby with original plasterwork and a 1,200-seat hall with great sound and modern lighting and sound systems. The rows are very far apart, and the seats are like stadium seats.
It also has a varied schedule of performances, including live music, plays, comedies, dance performances, movies, and community events.
Check their schedule and spend a few hours with your partner and family seeing the newest live show. You can also go on your own and enjoy the grandeur of the old theater.
Address: 985 Lincoln Way #102, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
3. Auburn Old Town Gallery
The Auburn Old Town Gallery is a great place for art lovers to go because it shows off the work of local artists and gives tourists and locals looking for fun things to do in Auburn, CA a chance to connect with the city’s creative heart.
This gallery is in the old livery stable building in the middle of historic Old Town Auburn. It shows the work of over 50 local artists in a variety of media, such as paintings, drawings, jewelry, pots and ceramics, sculpture, fiber arts, and more.
The gallery has been open since 1995 and has a friendly setting where people can talk to the artists and learn about how they make art. They can also look through the gallery’s large collection of different kinds of art, find one-of-a-kind pieces made by local artists, and learn more about the local art scene.
Address: 218 Washington Street, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
4. Overlook Park
Overlook Park is one of the best outdoor activities in Auburn, CA, for everyone. It’s a beautiful place to relax and play with magnificent views of the canyon.
Overlook Park is right next to Auburn State Park and has beautiful views of the American River Canyon. It also has walking trails, lots of green spaces for relaxing, having picnics, or taking walks, a skate park with ramps, rails, and bowls for skateboarders, picnic tables, bathrooms, and lots of parking.
There are many fun things to do in this park, like going along the beautiful walking trail, having a picnic, skateboarding, or just relaxing in the calm atmosphere.
Address: 855 Pacific Avenue, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
5. Fast Friday’s Motorcycle Speedway
In the summer, one of the coolest things to do in Auburn, California, is to have fun at Fast Fridays motorbike Speedway, a place where motorsport fans gather to watch exciting motorbike races.
Fast Fridays Motorcycle Speedway has exciting racing action with different types of races, dirt track motorcycle racing, groups cheering, fast-paced competition, themed nights, and concessions with food and drinks for people who want to watch.
When you go to the Fast Fridays motorbike Speedway in the summer, you can watch intense and thrilling races and learn about the sport of motorbike speedway and its rules.
Address: 209 Fairgate Road, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
6. Lake Clementine
There are many fun things for both tourists and locals to do in Auburn, California. Lake Clementine is a beautiful pond off of Foresthill Road northeast of Auburn, California.
You can fish for rainbow trout, brook trout, brown trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, carp, and catfish at the lake, which is about 3.5 miles long and 280 acres big. Exploring for gold, canoeing, kayaking, and going on boat trips.
The lake is also surrounded by steep canyon walls that offer beautiful views of the hills and a wide range of birds, such as bald eagles, osprey, hawks, owls, and waterfowl.
To fish, boat, swim, or just relax and enjoy the beautiful Auburn scenery, Lake Clementine is a great place to go.
Address: Auburn, CA, United States.
7. Hidden Falls Regional Park
Hidden Falls Regional Park is a great place for nature lovers and people who like being outside because it is in the rolling mountains close to Auburn, CA.
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This park has 30 miles of trails that are great for walkers, bikers, and horseback riders. It also has a waterfall, beautiful views, and many native plants and animals, such as oak forests, wildflowers, deer, hawks, and coyotes.
At Hidden Falls Regional Park, there are interpretive panels all over the park that tell visitors about the area’s long past. The park also has picnic tables, barbecue grills, and portable toilets.
With its many multi-use trails, flowing waterfalls, and stunning views, the park has something for people of all ages and skill levels who are looking for fun things to do in Auburn, CA.
Address: 7587 Mears Pl, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
8. Knee Deep Brewing Company
Knee Deep Brewing Company is a microbrewery run by a family that is known for its award-winning handmade beers. There are also some fun things for adults to do in Auburn, CA.
Opening in 2010, the brewery is known for its high-quality beers that cater to a wide range of tastes with IPAs, pale ales, lagers, and stouts. The bar is large and has a friendly, casual vibe, making it a great place to enjoy a beer with family and friends.
Knee Deep Brewing Company serves newly brewed beers. You can relax in a lively room or on a dog-friendly patio, or you can take a tour of the brewery and learn how the beer is made.
Address: 13395 New Airport Road H, Auburn, CA 95602, United States.
9. Gold Country Fairgrounds & Event Center
The Gold Country Fairgrounds & Event Center has been around since 1889 and is a multipurpose space for events, recreation, and agricultural exhibitions. It has a lot of history and has many spaces and activities for locals and tourists to enjoy.
This community hub has a lot of different event spaces, the annual Gold County fair, RV camping, and community events like swap meets, car shows, concerts, and educational workshops. It also has a lot of information about Auburn’s agricultural past.
The fairgrounds come to life every year during the Gold Country Fair, a multi-day event that celebrates the area’s rich history, local agriculture, and family fun. Visitors to this site can look forward to a fun and exciting time. In most years, this show takes place over Labor Day weekend.
Address: 209 Fairgate Road, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
10. The Gold Rush Museum
One interesting and free thing that everyone can do in Auburn, CA, is to check out the Gold Rush Museum. This museum is great for families and gives interesting information about the people who went to the goldfields to try to make money.
This museum has hands-on displays from the time of the Gold Rush, a collection of historical artifacts such as clothing, mining tools, gold scales, and other everyday things that Gold Rush settlers used, and an indoor panning stream.
You can go back in time and learn more about the interesting time of the California Gold Rush by digging for gold in the museum’s indoor stream, which is fun and educational for people of all ages.
Address: 601 Lincoln Way, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
11. The Club Car
The Club Car Bar & Restaurant has a laid-back and friendly vibe, and the menu has more than just bar food. Many different types of people enjoy eating at this American restaurant, which is popular with both locals and tourists.
There are creative menu options like burgers, fresh salads, a choice of wines, brick walls, tasty pasta dishes, candlelit tables, and a laid-back atmosphere in the casual dining area. It’s a great place for a casual lunch, dinner, or drinks with friends.
Take it easy in the warm and friendly atmosphere and enjoy a tasty meal before or after a day of exploring Auburn, CA’s fun things to do while listening to a variety of musical entertainment.
Address: 836 Lincoln Way, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
12. Auburn Bike Park
Auburn Bike Park is on 9 acres and has a view of the beautiful American River Canyon. It’s a fun place for thrill seekers, cyclists, and mountain bikers of all skill levels.
This park opened in 2023 and has many trails for people of all skill levels. There are flow trails with rolling terrain, bermed turns, and jumps for the brave, as well as technical rock gardens and difficult climbs to test your control and skills.
In addition, this park has skill zones where people can improve their mountain biking skills. These areas have practice obstacles like drops, skinny bridges, and rock rolls. While riding through the trails, you can enjoy beautiful views of the American River Canyon.
Address: Maidu Drive, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
13. Regional Park Auburn Disc Golf Course
For disc golfers, the Regional Park Auburn Disc Golf Course is one of the best outdoor things in Auburn. The 18-hole course is beautiful and fun to play.
The golf course is set in a beautiful park with rolling hills, a stream, and a pond. It has a variety of basket positions and technical tasks, as well as chances for long drives.
You can play disc golf with your friends, work on your aim, and improve your disc golf skills. You can also bring a picnic or lunch and relax at the park after the game.
Address: 3770 Richardson Drive, Auburn, CA 95602, United States.
14. The Pour Choice
Take it easy at Pour Choice, a lively social spot where craft drinks and good company coexist. The place serves good coffee and well-crafted beers to both tourists and locals.
The Pour Choice puts an emphasis on supporting local and regional businesses. They serve high-quality coffee drinks, craft beers, wine, kombucha, and even tea, along with coffee beans grown nearby and beers from California craft breweries.
This site also has a modern and clean look. There are comfortable places to sit inside and on the patio upstairs, and the food is delicious. There are pastries, breakfast burritos, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards to choose from.
Address: 177 Sacramento Street, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
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15. Black Chasm Cavern National Natural Landmark
Black Chasm Cavern National Natural Landmark is a secret gem for nature lovers and adventurers looking for things to do near Auburn, CA. It is in the rolling foothills near Volcano.
This amazing cave is only an hour’s drive from Auburn. It was named a National Natural Landmark in 1976 for its stunning displays of rare helictite formations and is 3,100 feet long. It has public tours for people of all ages and features stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and other speleothems.
Take a guided walking tour to see the beautiful cave formations, especially the rare helictites. You can also learn about speleology from the guides, take pictures, or give yourself a challenge by navigating the vertical tunnels and platforms.
Address: 15701 Pioneer Volcano Road, Volcano, CA 95689, United States.
16. Out Of Order Arcade
One of the family-friendly things to do in Auburn, CA, is experiencing thrilling fun moments at the Out of Order Arcade, a unique hangout offering a nostalgic escape into the world of classic arcade games.
Classic arcade games like pinball, air hockey, fighting, driving, and many more can be played here. In the nights, this game center turns into a place where people aged 21 and up can relax with a beer or other drink while playing games.
People who go to the Out of Order Arcade are sure to have a great time doing exciting things and reliving their childhood while playing famous arcade games with their friends.
Address: 13320 Lincoln Way, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
17. Bernhard Museum
A visit to the Bernhard Museum Complex, a treasure trove of local history should make your list of educational and fun things to do in Auburn for everyone.
The Bernhard Museum Complex was built in 1851 as the Traveler’s Rest Hotel. It has displays about Auburn’s past, from the Gold Rush to the Victorian era and later.
The museum brings the past to life with artifacts, photos, and educational displays. It is also the site of the unique 3rd Grade Living History Program.
Learn about Auburn’s history of making wine, look around the rebuilt winery and processing building, go on a tour of the Bernhard House with a docent, and live like you’re in the Victorian era.
Address: 291 Auburn Folsom Road, Auburn, CA 95603, United States
18. Auburn AxeThrowing
Adults can enjoy a fun axe-throwing adventure at Auburn Axe Throwing, one of the many unique things to do in Auburn, CA.
There are several throwing targets at this axe-throwing center, as well as bar games on trivia nights. Beginners can get lessons, and expert throwers can work on their skills.
The axe-throwing center has skilled teachers who will teach you the right way to safely and accurately throw axes at the target, no matter how much you know about the sport.
Do something different with your friends by going to this one-of-a-kind attraction as part of your Auburn trip.
Address: 11905 Dry Creek Road, Auburn, CA 95602, United States.
19. Topgolf Sacramento
Topgolf Sacramento – Roseville offers a unique blend of technology, entertainment, and socializing for all ages and skill levels, making it a popular destination for visitors and locals exploring unique things to do near Auburn, CA. for all ages and skill levels.
This attraction is about a 20-minute drive from Auburn. It has large, climate-controlled bays, a lot of food options, point-scoring games, live music, and entertainment on certain days. There are also private party rooms that are great for birthday parties, business outings, or social gatherings.
Topgolf Sacramento visitors can look forward to a fun and exciting day of exploring different activities, such as playing one of the many point-scoring games that Topgolf offers, which makes the golfing experience more engaging and thrilling.
Address: 1700 Freedom Way, Roseville, CA 95678, United States.
20. Auburn Public Library
Exploring: The Auburn Public Library is the hub of the community and has a lot of tools, programs, and a friendly space where people of all ages can find educational and fun things to do in Auburn.
The library has been around since 1971 and has a wide range of books, audiobooks, ebooks, magazines, and other materials for people with different hobbies.
The Auburn Public Library probably has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for fiction, non-fiction, history records, or books for kids.
You can look through the library’s large collection of books more closely, use computers with fast internet connections, and take part in educational events and programs.
Address: 350 Nevada Street, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
21. Mt. Vernon Winery
The Mount Vernon Winery has been around since 1996 and is run by a family. It has a lot of fun and interesting things for adults to do in Auburn, CA.
The tasting room is in a beautifully renovated old milk house from the 1950s. It has beautiful gardens with views of the lush vineyards that will make your visit a pleasure.
In addition, guests can pick from a large selection of wines, such as reds, whites, ports, and even a Muscat. They can also enjoy stunning views of the fields and unwind in a friendly setting.
Address: 10850 Mt Vernon Road, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
22. Auburn Pasquale’s Ristorante
After a day of finding fun things to do in Auburn, do you need a place to stop and relax? Then go to Auburn Pasquale’s Ristorante, a great Italian restaurant with comfort food and a friendly vibe.
This restaurant has pizza, pasta, lunch specials, antipasti, and even kid-friendly options to suit everyone’s tastes. They also sell gift cards that are great for birthdays, holidays, or any other event.
You can eat tasty Italian food like pizza, pasta, salads, and main courses in a casual setting, or you can make things even easier by ordering ahead of time or making a reservation.
Address: 210 Washington Street, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
23. Foothills Bowl
Want to do something fun today in Auburn, CA? After that, go to Foothills Bowl, which is a famous place for bowling fans and families looking for a fun day trip.
There are 24 bowling lanes with automatic scoring systems in the leisure center. They also have a huge arcade, billiard tables, and a private event space for birthday parties, business events, or any other special event. The gutter bumpers are great for younger bowlers or people who need a little extra help getting to the pins.
The entertainment center also has a restaurant and bar where you can get tasty food and cool drinks. It’s a full package for family fun.
Address: 13489 Bowman Road, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
24. Placer Nature Center
Discover many fun outdoor activities in Auburn, CA, today by going to the Placer Nature Center. This attraction gives you a unique chance to connect with the local environment through educational events and exploring the nearby forests.
The Placer Nature Center is a place where teachers and people who want to learn more about nature can find resources.
They offer a wide range of environmental education programs for kids and adults, including school field trips, summer camps, environmental science travel, home schooling, scout programs, and more. Both tourists and locals can also help.
Docents can help you learn about the local plants and animals as you walk around the nature center’s grounds. You can also join one of the educational programs to learn about things like identifying animals, plant ecology, or conservation efforts, or you can go on your own trip.
Address: 3700 Christian Valley Road, Auburn, CA 95602, United States.
25. Black Hole Of Calcutta Falls Trailhead
One of the interesting things to do in Auburn, California is to check out the Black Hole of Calcutta Falls Trailhead. This is a cute and easy-to-reach walk that is great for nature lovers and anyone else who wants to spend some time in nature.
This attraction has a 2.2-mile round-trip easy hiking path, a western state trail section that is great for long runs or horseback riding, a wooden footbridge, and a waterfall that only flows during certain times of the year.
Also, both tourists and locals can explore the trail with their pets on a leash. They can enjoy the beautiful views and seasonal waterfall, making it a great place for a family trip, a quick getaway for couples, or a peaceful afternoon.
Address: 150 CA-193, Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
26. Claude Chana Statue
Visit the Claude Chana statue to find out about interesting things to do in Auburn, CA. It is one of the first things you see when you enter Old Town Auburn.
This 45-ton statue honors Claude Chana, the man who found gold in the foothills east of Sacramento in 1848. It was built during the Gold Rush, when many shops, restaurants, and antique shops were spread around the area.
People can look at this one-of-a-kind and impressive piece of art and learn about the background of the Gold Rush Miners era.
Address: Auburn, CA 95603, United States.
27. Foresthill Bridge
Built in 1971, the Foresthill Bridge is one of the most exciting and fun places to visit in Auburn, California. It’s perfect for nature lovers and people who want to see the beautiful scenery from above.
The Auburn-Foresthill Bridge is another name for the Foresthill Bridge. At 730 feet, it is the tallest bridge in California by deck height, standing tall above the North Fork American River and giving stunning views of the river and the surrounding area.
You can drive across this bridge and enjoy beautiful views of the American River Canyon below. You can also take a stroll on the walkway, go hiking below the bridge, or have a picnic at one of the many pullouts near the bridge and enjoy your meal while taking in the view.
Address: Placer County, Sierra Nevada, North Auburn
28. Old Auburn Historic District
You should put visiting the Old Auburn Historic District at the top of your list of fun and exciting things to do in Auburn, CA. It’s a charming place that has a unique mix of historic charm, award-winning restaurants, specialty shops, and events all year long.
This historic area has been around since 1849 and is full of buildings that were built during the Gold Rush. There are shops, saloons, and homes with balconies and fancy brickwork and ironwork in these buildings.
Today or tomorrow, the Old Auburn Historic District is a great spot to spend time. It will stick with you because it has a charming atmosphere, nice people, and lots of things to see and do.
Address: Placer County Courthouse, 101 Maple Street, Auburn, CA 95603.
29. Newcastle Lavender Farms
The Newcastle Lavender Farms are one of the most beautiful things to do near Auburn, CA, in the summer. They are only a 5-minute drive away.
They have Open Farm Days when the lavender is in full bloom so people can walk around the fields, take pictures, and buy fresh-cut lavender bundles and other lavender goods. During the year, you can go to many different special events, like wreath-making lessons and lavender festivals.
During your visit, you can walk through lavender fields that smell great, enjoy the bright colors, and maybe even pick your own flower. At the gift shop, you can also buy lavender, oils, soap, candles, massage items, and gifts to take home.
Address: 2450 Paddock Lane, Newcastle, CA 95658, United States.
30. Folsom Lake State Recreation Area
Exploring the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, a famous vacation spot with lots of fun things to do for families and nature lovers near Auburn, CA. The area is surrounded by the beautiful Folsom Lake.
This park has trails for hiking and biking, as well as boats and water sports like wakeboarding and water skiing. You can also fish, swim, ride horses, camp, have a picnic, fish, and pan for gold.
There is also a 32-mile-long American River Bicycle Trail in the park, which is a famous bike path that connects Folsom Lake to many parks in Sacramento County before reaching Old Sacramento. The lake has fish like bass, trout, and catfish.
Enjoy things like fishing, boating, or just relaxing while taking in the beautiful views of the area when you go to the recreation area.
Address: 7755 Folsom-Auburn Road, Folsom, CA 95630, United States.