Amador City:A Taste of Old California

The moving of Highway 49 from the center of town to a by-pass that takes the majority of the traffic around the area has added to the tranquility of the site.  What used to be a steady stream of stop and go traffic on a spring afternoon has disappeared making it safe to walk along the streets without fear of being mowed down if you try to cross the street.  Because most quests are in the town Friday through Sunday, most of the shops and eating establishments are open only Wednesday through Sunday, so plan accordingly.

The main street of town has turned into a great shopping area for all kinds of unique and special gift items, as well as unusual items to decorate your home or garden.  There are multiple antique stores, but not just your standard trek to the baby boomer’s childhood (although those are still fun), there are some wonderful antique Victorian Clothes, very unique items from the gold rush era, and antique garden décor. Shops such as the Antique Gardener and Country Living use real and faux antiques to create a fun, upscale country atmosphere.  If you like whimsical garden art or beautiful Mexican and Southwest style pottery don’t miss Lanza’s just as you arrive on the north end of town. And if you are looking for something to cater to your feminine side, try the Lavender Bench with its incredibly realistic flowers, beautiful tins, and great gifts for that new baby. There is a wonderful kitchen shop, an art studio, an unusual textile jewelry and art store and woman’s fashions to name a few. 

But this town isn’t just for women; for those of you with grown up, or not so grown up little boys, send them to the model train yard at the north end of town.  This spot is incredible!  Located on three city blocks the Little Amador Railroad has 1500 feet of g-scale track that goes through model towns, mines, sawmills and farms in their extensive, finely landscaped gardens.  The track travels under bridges, through buildings and finally down to the train-yard located in the basement next to the family home.  There is a little train shop on the grounds that sells train memorabilia and collectors items for the train enthusiast in all of us.  Don't forget to stop in the Gold Country Museum, it is well worth a little of your time to explore.

There are two places in town where you can get breakfast and lunch. In the center of town is the Buffalo Chips Emporium, which serves some delicious diner style food including sandwiches and hot dogs and comes complete with an old fashioned ice cream fountain.  Located in what used to be the town drinking establishment, it has a beautiful old antique bar with walls full of great Americana artifacts that are for sale.  Andrae’s Bakery is at the south end of town in one of the few newer buildings and offers handmade breads and pastries, pre-made gourmet sandwiches, quiche and pizzas as well as a robust selection of cheeses and lunch meats that will go great with that perfect bottle of wine.  Continued