Placerville, California, US

Placerville, California, is a charming city known for its rich Gold Rush history, picturesque main street, and a welcoming community. Travelers enjoy wineries, outdoor activities, and cultural landmarks.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/Los Angeles

Local Time

05:44 AM

Population

10,000

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

57-88°F (14-31°C) - Hot and dry; occasional thunderstorms.

Best Time

Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

SMF

Sacramento International Airport

Distance

Approximately 1 hour drive, 50 miles via US-50 W and I-5 N.

Description

Sacramento International Airport offers modern facilities, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to rental cars. It is accessible via major highways.

Placerville, nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, offers travelers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Known as 'Hangtown,' it was a pivotal location during the California Gold Rush. Visitors can explore historic Main Street with its antique shops, cafes, and the iconic Bell Tower. The region is rich with wineries and provides access to outdoor adventures like hiking and whitewater rafting. Edelweiss Gold Mine and the El Dorado County Historical Museum provide deeper insights into the area's storied past. Placerville's community events and proximity to Apple Hill make it a vibrant destination for all.

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Placerville Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Safe

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Visitors should be aware of local traffic laws and regulations regarding alcohol consumption.

Crime Rates

Placerville has a relatively low crime rate compared to larger urban areas. Most crimes are non-violent, such as theft and vandalism.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities are available in Placerville, with access to hospitals and clinics. There are no significant health risks specific to the area.

Natural Disasters

Placerville is at risk for wildfires, especially during dry seasons. Earthquakes are also a potential risk due to California's seismic activity.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement presence is visible and effective, with regular patrols by the Placerville Police Department.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Placerville is limited but generally considered safe. Most residents rely on personal vehicles.

Solo Travelers

Solo travelers can feel safe in Placerville, but should take standard precautions.

Recent Developments

There have been no significant recent developments impacting safety in Placerville.

No data Found...

No data Found...

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Placerville Monthly Weather Overview

Summary

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Best season to visit

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Current Conditions ():

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Best Time to Visit Placerville

Summary: The best time to visit Placerville is from April to June, and September to November, when the weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The landscape blooms in spring, and harvest festivals abound in autumn.

❄️

January

Cold and often rainy, with temperatures around 32°F to 50°F (0°C to 10°C). A quieter time ideal for indoor history tours.

💘

February

Similar to January, the weather remains cold, making it suitable for enjoying indoor attractions and local wineries.

🌱

March

Milder weather emerges, temperatures range from 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C), perfect for early spring hikes.

🌸

April

Best

Pleasant spring temperatures around 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C), with blooming flowers. Ideal for outdoor activities.

🌷

May

Best

Warm spring climate, temperatures reaching 25°C (77°F), perfect for exploring local vineyards and trails.

☀️

June

Best

Early summer heat, enjoyable days often around 30°C (86°F). Great for outdoor festivals and exploring.

🏖️

July

Summer peak with temperatures often above 30°C (86°F). Enjoy water activities but expect a busy tourist season.

🌞

August

Continuing high summer temperatures, often best for evening events and exploring shaded attractions.

🍂

September

Best

Mild autumn weather begins, temperatures drop to around 25°C (77°F). Ideal for visiting during apple harvest.

🍁

October

Best

Cooler fall climate, temperatures between 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C), with vibrant fall colors and harvest festivals.

November

Chilly, with a chance of early snow, temperatures range from 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C). Still good for winery visits.

🎄

December

Cold winter month, often below 10°C (50°F), festive decorations enhance the town's historic streets.

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Seasonal Events in Placerville

September to November

Apple Hill Harvest

Annual harvest with apple picking, live music, and family-friendly activities.

Apple Hill
Third Saturday of every month

Placerville Art Walk

Monthly art event showcasing local artists, galleries, and live entertainment.

Placerville Downtown Association
November 24

Festival of Lights

An annual event marking the start of the holiday season with festive lights and activities.

Placerville Downtown Association
June 13-16

El Dorado County Fair

County fair offering rides, exhibits, live entertainment, and delicious fair food.

El Dorado County Fair
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Popular Foods in Placerville

Apple Pie

A local favorite, using fresh apples from the nearby orchards at Apple Hill.

Barbecue Ribs

Slow-cooked ribs popular at local fairs, offering a taste of regional barbecue flavors.

Artisan Cheese

Local dairies produce a variety of cheeses that are perfect for tasting tours and picnics.

Wood-Fired Pizza

A hit in downtown eateries, made using seasonal and fresh local ingredients.

Farm-to-Table Salads

With an abundance of local produce, seasonal salads are popular in cafes and restaurants.

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Closest Airports to Placerville

Regional Airport

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Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC)

Sacramento Executive Airport caters mostly to private and charter flights, with basic amenities and a focus on general aviation.

Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes drive, 54 miles via US-50 W and I-5 S.

Ideal for private pilots and charter services. Limited commercial services available.

SAC Website

International Airport

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Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

Sacramento International Airport offers modern facilities, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to rental cars. It is accessible via major highways.

Approximately 1 hour drive, 50 miles via US-50 W and I-5 N.

Use the rental car services on-site for convenience. Check-in can be busy during peak hours, so arrive early.

SMF Website

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Popular Trip Types

Family Vacation Icon

Family Vacation

Placerville, California, is a family-friendly destination with activities for all ages. Families can enjoy exploring the historical Gold Rush town, visiting the local train museum, and partaking in outdoor adventures such as apple picking in the nearby orchards. The area also offers family-friendly hiking trails and picnic spots, providing plenty of opportunities for quality family time.

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Couples Retreat

Placerville offers a charming and tranquil setting perfect for a romantic couples retreat. Couples can explore the area's renowned wineries and vineyards, taking wine tours and enjoying intimate tastings. The town's scenic landscapes and cozy bed and breakfasts provide ideal settings for relaxation and romance.

Outdoor Adventure

Situated in the beautiful foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Placerville is a fantastic base for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby American River offers thrilling white-water rafting adventures, while the surrounding mountains provide ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Adventure seekers will find plenty of activities to satisfy their appetite for excitement.

Historical Exploration

Placerville is steeped in Gold Rush history, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the Gold Bug Park and Mine, as well as the Placerville Historical Museum. Walking tours of the old town reveal stories of the past, providing a glimpse into the area's rich heritage.

Wine Tasting Tour

Placerville is located in the heart of El Dorado County's wine region, offering an ideal setting for wine enthusiasts. The area is home to numerous wineries and vineyards, where visitors can taste a wide range of wines from the region. The scenic beauty of the vineyards combined with the personalized experiences provided by local vintners makes for an unforgettable wine-tasting tour.

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Custom Language

Head for the hills

Go to the countryside

Encourages exploring scenic outdoor areas around Placerville.

Eureka

I've found it

A nod to California's gold rush heritage and spirit of discovery.

Hangtown

Old name for Placerville

Refers to Placerville's frontier justice past.

Apple Hill

Local orchard area

Represents the popular agricultural and touristic area near Placerville.

Fair Play

Wine region

Known for its exceptional vineyards close to Placerville.

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Popular Sports & Teams in Placerville

El Dorado High School Cougars Football

The El Dorado High School Cougars are known for their competitive football team, participating in regional high school championships.

El Dorado High School Athletics

Placerville Speedway Racing

Placerville Speedway is a popular location for sprint car racing and hosts regular events attracting racing enthusiasts.

Placerville Speedway

Union Mine High School Diamondbacks Basketball

The Union Mine High School Diamondbacks have a strong basketball program, participating actively in local and state competitions.

Union Mine High School Athletics

El Dorado Hills Soccer Club

This club provides opportunities for youth to participate in soccer with a focus on skill development and teamwork.

El Dorado Hills Soccer Club

Placerville Little League Baseball

Placerville Little League offers baseball programs for children, fostering a love for the game and sportsmanship.

Placerville Little League

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Unique customs/traditions

Gold Panning Tradition

Reflecting its gold rush history, gold panning remains a popular activity symbolizing the town's heritage.

Apple Harvest Celebrations

Annual tradition celebrating the apple harvest with community events and activities.

El Dorado Wine Festivals

Celebrating local winemaking traditions, these festivals feature tastings and vineyard tours.

Hangman's Tree

While the actual tree is gone, the legend remains a part of town's history and symbolism.

Fair Play Wine Festival

Focuses on local vintages and regional expertise in viticulture.

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Recommended Activities by Group Type

Educational (Half-day)

A historical site where families can learn about the gold rush with exhibits and nature walks.

Apple Hill

Apple Hill Farm Tours

Outdoor (Full-day)

Seasonal tours featuring apple picking, farm events, and delicious treats ideal for family outings.

Placerville Historical Museum

Placerville Historical Museum

Museum (1-2 hours)

Offers educational exhibits showcasing local history that kids and adults can enjoy together.

Cedar Ravine Park

Family Picnic at the Park

Outdoor (2-4 hours)

A beautiful park with picnic areas and hiking trails, perfect for a relaxing family day out.

Wildlife Safari Park

Wildlife Safari Park

Outdoor (Half-day)

An interactive wildlife experience that educates families about conservation while providing fun entertainment.

Ticket to travel

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