San Francisco is filled with many historic buildings, but if you venture out of the city, you can find even more historic gems, including one of the oldest hotels in the state. Located in a charming (and historic town, the National Exchange Hotel has over a century of history filling its halls, beginning with the California Gold Rush.
One of California’s oldest Hotels
The National Exchange Hotel isn’t just historic in California; it is also one of the oldest hotels west of the Rockies. Nevada City was initially a small settlement that started with the discovery of gold in Deer Creek in 1849. The budding town grew quickly; by 1851, it was the largest mining town in California. Eventually, as the town drew in more people, sturdier, less fire-prone buildings became a necessity. One of the first brick structures built became what is now known as the National Exchange Hotel. The hotel opened its doors in 1856 under the name Bricknell Block.
The building served as a central part of the city for decades, hosting the city’s first telegraph office and even the post office. Over the years, the hotel has gone through many changes: adding and removing balconies, rooms, and even a pool at one point. One room was even recently discovered during renovations after being walled off for years.
After more than 150 years, the National Exchange Hotel needed renovations and underwent extensive work in 2018. Architects and designers restored and preserved many of the historic features that make the hotel special, including the exterior of the hotel, which is almost unchanged from when it first opened.
Today, Guests can stay in one of the hotel’s 38 rooms, decorated with a nod to Victorian style. An upscale restaurant called Lola and a chic bar are available to guests and visitors alike. The hotel lives up to its lively past, holding various events such as special holiday dinners and weekly live music.
Nevada City is roughly a 3-hour drive from San Francisco. The town is known for its historic downtown area and its easy access to nearby nature in the Sierra Nevada Foothills.