Jamestown

It’s unbelievable but true: you can still wade into the shallows of the South Fork of the American River and find flecks of gold, just like the fortune-seeking pioneers first did over a century and a half ago. One of the best places to do it is in Jamestown, one of California’s original Gold Rush towns in Tuolumne County.

Things to Do in Jamestown

Pan for Gold

When in the heart of Gold Country, why not try your hand at prospecting? Shops around town still sell gold-sifting pans and other gear to help you search for that elusive nugget. Ask to be shown the special swirl technique that helps separate tiny bits of the precious metal from river silt. Admittedly, it is hard to know what’s what in the bottom of your pan, especially with plenty of “fool’s gold”(technically worthless iron pyrite glittering in the bottom of your pan). For better luck, plus geological and historical trivia while you search and swirl, try panning with a guide.

Visit Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

Afterward, you can experience Jamestown history in another way at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park. Combining industrial heritage and railroad history, “the movie-star railroad” (as it’s long been known) has been a popular filming location for nearly its entire existence; credits range from an early talkie to Back to the Future Part III. 

The park hosts outdoor movie nights, holiday happenings (especially for Halloween), and “Tales of the Roundhouse” story nights (check its calendar for details). In September, park visitors can hop aboard a vintage passenger coach pulled by an authentic locomotive for a 6-mile, 45-minute cruise through the scenic Sierra foothills.

Walking tours of the still-working railroad roundhouse, which includes a look at props from past films, are a big hit with kids and devoted train fans.

More: Tuolumne County

Revisit Jamestown’s Legacy of Film and TV Westerns

The Jamestown Walk of Fame further celebrates the TV and movie history that’s touched on at Railtown, plotting out spots where scenes were shot for well over two dozen small- and big-screen productions. 

Explore Jamestown’s Historic Center

While you’re there, be sure to take some time to stroll around this picturesque California Historical Landmark town; many of the buildings date back to the tail end of the Gold Rush or earlier. Check out the former National Hotel and Restaurant, which once catered to the builders of the Sierra Railroad. Though it recently closed, it’s a grand construction right out of a classic Western film, and dates to 1859. It’s not hard to imagine it as the bustling hub of this community. 

More: Yosemite's Gateway Towns

Restaurants and Where to Grab a Drink in Jamestown

Jamestown’s historic Main Street is lined with restaurants, saloons, and gathering spots. For hearty breakfasts and classic American comfort food, locals and visitors alike flock to The Smoke Cafe. A few doors down, Jamestown Hotel pairs smoked barbecue, a lively saloon atmosphere, and a historic setting dating back to the 19th century. 

Not every place deserving of a visit in this town is steeped in history, though. Established in 2021, Bear Tent Brewing Co. offers a family-friendly tasting room with games and lots of space—as well as craft pours made with such ingredients as juniper, golden plums, and peaches. Enjoy more local beer and live music at The Rawhide Saloon, and savor premium spirits, wine, and cigars at Stogie's Gold Country Lounge. Just outside downtown, Perch Rooftop Dining offers cocktails, steaks, and sweeping foothill views.