Columbia State Historic Park 11259 Jackson Street, Columbia, CA 95310

"I took this trip with my son's school as a chaperone. It was the best! My family & I are huge fans of history. This is definitely a trip worth taking. We did get a private tour by the state park rangers because of the school. I'm not sure if this is offered on the spot to the public, I do believe it has to be prearranged. It is a town that's almost untouched by time. It was founded in the late 1800's during the gold rush in California. It is up in the mountains & it can get a bit chill. We went during late February & there was no snow, just a bit cold. Many didn't mind the cold. It is a self guided tour. It has a main street that has actual working & selling stores. There is a blacksmith whom still works in the town & sells one of a kind items. Up the town there's a 2 story school from that time era. It is the oldest 2 story school still standing to this day. We got the pleasure to interact with a lady whom pretended to have school with the kids & actually had them act like students back in 1800's. Our boys were separated from the girls. And the lady actually taught them all. I thought that was pretty cool! They have signs to indicate the path to the old school. There are restaurants, candy store, ice scream parlor, coffee, & gift shops. There's also a free 1800's bowling experience that anyone can play with while there. My group of kids were playing bowling for a long while. You set up your own pins as they are made of wood. They do have a candle making store. Areas of artifacts from the time period that are in display. Overall great to visit!"

"Another great spot we just happened to discover while in the area thanks to come local recommendations from wineries here. This is a great little getaway to this area here where one can come explore an old town from gold rush times with some stuff being exactly the way it was in those days. The town has done ana amazing job of preserving its beauty and maintaining these things. Honestly you feel transported back in time and that is beautiful! We also went to grab a nice ice ram in one of the restaurants and happened to notice that the owner has a functioning piano from the 18th century there. This also somehow gave me perspective on the scale of things - everything was so close knit and near by .. the town center/grocerry store is literally walking distance from the jail.. and restaurants near by, to locksmiths stop. It’s quite an experience coming here and we loved to explore this as a family very much"

"Columbia State Historic Park is a great place to learn about the history of the California Gold Rush. We loved wandering through the historic buildings and streets but would have really enjoyed a guided walking tour so we could learn even more. The shops and restaurants were excellent too. Be sure to stop and say hi to the chickens, and go in the candy shop to grab a treat before you leave."

"It was a perfectly crisp autumn day. It wasn't too crowded and all the staff we met throughout were quite friendly and fun. The stagecoach ride was very enjoyable. This was the first time we had done it, but not our first time to the state park. A little difficult for adults with slight mobility issues to climb up into, but manageable. They have someone there to help you."

"Historic Columbia State Park is such an amazing place. Its closed off streets are lined with historical wooden and brick built buildings. There are upgraded businesses and those that appear untouched all hidden within the historical exterior. If you want a relaxing stroll, come early in the morning just before 9AM and watch the shops slowly peel back their iron doors. It’s busier during the day and of course more interactive if that’s what you prefer. If you’d like a journey back in time and even a place to stay...it’s a must see location! These photos were taking early AM."