Jamestown

The main street of Jamestown is off Hwy 49 and therefore free of thoroughfare traffic. With its wooden boardwalks, balconies, and storefronts, Jamestown has managed to retain much of the feel of the Gold Rush days. Inviting shops, particularly the emporium, merit a browse, the western-style saloons are full of local color, and the 1859 Historic National Hotel as well as the Jamestown Hotel have been restored to a beauty such as the Gold Rush days never witnessed. Just above Main Street on Fifth Avenue is the Railtown 1897 State Historic Park where visitors can see old freight and passenger cars, steam trains, and the roundhouse. Rides on an old steam train are offered on summer weekends. (209 984-3953, www.csrmf.org/railtown)