19 Fun & Best Things to do in Murphys, California

Murphys, California, is one of the best places to relax, unwind, and explore some of the most historic sites in California. Established almost 200 years ago, Murphys has a rich history as a mining community, Gold Country and was the birthplace for many of the first millionaires in California.

It sits at the base of the Sierra Foothills, about a two-hour drive southeast of Lake Tahoe. Nearby cities include San Francisco and Sacramento and small towns such as Angels Camp.

Now, it sits as a quiet and charming community full of wine tasting, tasting rooms with different foods, and also different restaurants and cafes on Main Street in downtown Murphys.

There are plenty of things to do in Murphys, California. From outdoor activities, such as hiking near the Ebbetts Pass or Moaning Caverns, even food tours at their local farmers market event, guided walking tours, and wine tasting, there’s something for everyone in Murphys.

The small town is less than an hour’s drive away from Calaveras Big Tree State Park, Bear Valley Ski Resort, and the historic Mercer Caverns.

For those that want to get a taste of small-town life in California, there are many concert series that occur during the summer months in Murphys, full of live music, food tasting, and so much more.

With a wide array of shopping, tours, and historical gold rush sites, there’s virtually no shortage of things to do in Murphys, California.

This is one of the coolest small towns for people to explore the other side of California without the sandy beach advertisements, glitz, and glamour, learn more about the Gold Rush era, and enjoy the beauty of the Sierra Foothills.