The Gem Of California's Gold Country Is A Town In The Sierra Nevada Foothills With Fun Shops And Restaurants

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Stretching across the western foothills of the Sierra Nevadas, Gold Country is hands down one of California's most underrated mountainous regions. Although nearly two centuries have passed since the mid-1800s Gold Rush, the treasures of this historic period can still be seen today. Many long-abandoned Mother Lode sites now serve as recreation areas and former gold-mining hubs — such as the chilly ghost town of Bodie and Volcano, a tiny town full of old-world inns — draw tourists from far and wide. Copperopolis is another cherished gem of California's Gold Country.

However, since the community sprang up in 1860 — just a few years after the Gold Rush fizzled out — its heyday was rife with a different kind of boom. As its name suggests, Copperopolis staked its claim in copper, serving as one of the key mineral suppliers for bullets and shells during the Civil War. You can sift through Copperopolis' storied past with a stroll through the town square, which has boutique shops, restaurants, and other fun haunts. Although Copperopolis is tiny, there is much to do.

Lined with old-fashioned storefronts and an undeniable Wild West facade, Copperopolis' downtown plaza feels like a step back in time. The Town Square at Copper Valley, as it's formally known, actually sprang up far more recently. Peruse the local shops that line this charming plaza. For example, you can thumb through electric and acoustic guitars and accessories at the Guitar Gods School of Music. If you're planning to get out in California's grand nature, snag some outdoor essentials and fishing supplies at Gateway Adventure Co.

The Gateway Hotel is perched in the heart of this seemingly frozen-in-time plaza. The stately hotel boasts positive reviews online for its atmosphere and amenities, which include complimentary Wi-Fi and parking. If you feel like spending more time in Copperopolis, this would be the place to stay.

Further south from downtown, about a 10-minute drive away, is Copperopolis' second shopping area. Here you can check out Fig & Grove, a local boutique selling handmade and nature-inspired soaps, candles, skincare, and other delicious-smelling products. One Google review says, "Fig & Grove is such a charming addition to Copperopolis! ... You can tell a lot of care goes into everything they make. A great spot for unique, eco-friendly gifts." For boho chic and country-style clothes, drop by Wild Roses, where you'll find everything from sundresses and cowboy boots to earrings and turquoise bracelets. 

As for food and drink in Copperopolis, you have many options. Pick up a pick-me-up at Copper's Java House, or tuck into savory fare at Griff's BBQ & Grill — a top-rated pick on Tripadvisor. Craving something more on the Italian side? Grab a few gold rush-inspired slices at Gold Dust Pizza, which also serves up calzones, sandwiches, and other finger-licking staples.

You can also submerge yourself in the history of Copperopolis, or Copper as it's called by locals, over at Ira's Old Corner Saloon on Main Street. The historic tavern has housed a saloon since its founding in 1862. Venture up the street to see a few other snapshots of the past, including the first school bell in town and an 1830s cannon. Be sure to head around the corner to Copperopolis Park to see various mining equipment from the days of ore.

To get to Copperopolis, out-of-towners can fly into the nearby Stockton Metropolitan Airport (SCK). Located in California's affordable riverside hub of Stockton, just 40 miles west of town, the small airport offers direct flights to Las Vegas and Phoenix. The larger Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is also only about a two-hour drive away.