Tour a hard-rock mine and pan for gems.

One of the best places to get a real sense of California's Gold Rush history is at the lively Gold Bug Mine , a fun destination for all ages just off U.S. 50 in Placerville. Here you can tour real mines and hear the brave stories of the men who risked their lives in search of the elusive ore. You can take a self-guided tour of the park's namesake mine, or call to set up a guided tour of adjacent Priest Mine, dug into the hillside by hand in the 1850s. A stamp mill, museum, and a chance to pan for gemstones add to your experience and understanding of this rich chapter in the state's past.

Tours run April through October; the park is open limited hours in winter.

All aboard for jazz-related activities inside and outside the California State Railroad Museum during the 39th Annual Sacramento Music Festival. The California State Railroad Museum will offer jazz musicians performing inside the Museum, aboard popular weekend excursion train rides and even complimentary admission to event badge holders. Plus, several music venues will be located in close proximity to the Railroad Museum and a special free Children’s Stage and activity area will be set-up just outside the Museum in the 1849 Scene. And, for guests interested in a weekend excursion train ride, train rides will be offered Saturday, Sunday and Monday for this special holiday weekend. All aboard for a jazzy experience at the California State Railroad Museum!