Entire home

Historic Gold Rush Cottage - Amazing Porch, Patio & Walk to Downtown

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Exterior
Property grounds
Interior
Outdoor dining
Outdoor dining

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 71379 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Grass Valley, CA
  • Place, Grass Valley-Nevada County Chamber of Commerce
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Grass Valley Brewing
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Center For The Arts
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Airport, Marysville, CA (MYV-Yuba County)
    ‪55 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 7)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

3 Single Beds

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub

Bathroom 2

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Historic Gold Rush Cottage - Amazing Porch, Patio & Walk to Downtown

Step into a piece of California gold rush history without sacrificing a single modern comfort. The Prospector's Cottage is a lovingly renovated 1,379 sq. ft. historic home — originally built in 1880 — that blends the warmth and character of the Sierra Nevada foothills with everything you need for a relaxed, comfortable stay.

Whether you're visiting family in the area, exploring the Gold Country, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom cottage offers the space, privacy, and charm to make it feel like a home away from home.

Unwind the Moment You Arrive. Pull up a chair on the welcoming front porch and take in the quiet, tree-lined neighborhood — a stroll through streets lined with homes from the 1800s and early 1900s. The cottage has a bright, airy feel throughout, with rustic historic touches that tell a story without feeling like a museum. Natural light fills every room, and the thoughtful renovation means everything works beautifully.
Comfortable, Well-Appointed Spaces for the Whole Family

The open kitchen and dining room is the heart of the home — perfect for gathering with family over a home-cooked meal. The kitchen is fully equipped with premium Bosch and LG appliances, including a five-burner gas range, convection oven, microwave, and dishwasher. There's seating for six at the dining table and four at the bar — plenty of room for everyone to pull up a chair. Many guests have used the cottage for Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings.

The main bedroom features a comfortable queen bed, walk-in closet, and a private en suite bathroom with a beautiful historic clawfoot tub and shower — a favorite among guests who enjoy a long, relaxing soak. The second bedroom offers another queen bed with blackout shades for a restful night's sleep. The third bedroom has three single beds, making it ideal for grandchildren or additional guests. Both full bathrooms are impeccably maintained — one freshly renovated with a spa-style shower, the other retaining its original historic clawfoot charm.

The Sierra foothills enjoy some of California's most pleasant weather, and the cottage is designed to take full advantage of it. Relax on the front porch with its Adirondack chairs and porch swing, entertain at the outdoor dining table that seats ten, or settle in on one of two outdoor sofas on the private, fully fenced back patio. A Weber Genesis propane grill sits just steps from the kitchen — ideal for an evening barbecue. The charming seasonal fountain out front adds a lovely finishing touch to the property's curb appeal.

The Prospector's Cottage provides a wonderful base for exploring Gold Country. The cottage is just two blocks from the heart of historic downtown Grass Valley, where you'll find an exceptional collection of independently owned cafes, restaurants, wine bars, boutique shops, and art galleries — all walkable from the front door. Nevada City, one of California's most beautifully preserved Gold Rush towns and just a five-minute drive away, is well worth an afternoon of exploration.

Practical Details:

- Three bedrooms (2 queen beds, 3 single beds) — sleeps up to 7 guests
- Two full bathrooms — one spa shower, one clawfoot tub/shower
- Fully equipped kitchen with premium appliances
- Outdoor dining and living areas with gas grill
- Smart TV with streaming and high-speed WiFi throughout
- Self check-in with smart lock; local co-host available if needed
- Driveway parking for 3 vehicles (off Harper St.)
- Quiet, residential neighborhood — respectful guests appreciated
- Note: Streets are narrow; full-size trucks and vans navigate fine, but large RVs are not suitable

We recommend parking at the cottage and walking to explore — you won't need your car for most of the best things nearby.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

Frequently asked questions

Is Historic Gold Rush Cottage - Amazing Porch, Patio & Walk to Downtown pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Historic Gold Rush Cottage - Amazing Porch, Patio & Walk to Downtown?

As of 1 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Historic Gold Rush Cottage - Amazing Porch, Patio & Walk to Downtown on 14 May 2026 start from £320, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Historic Gold Rush Cottage - Amazing Porch, Patio & Walk to Downtown?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Historic Gold Rush Cottage - Amazing Porch, Patio & Walk to Downtown?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Historic Gold Rush Cottage - Amazing Porch, Patio & Walk to Downtown?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Historic Gold Rush Cottage - Amazing Porch, Patio & Walk to Downtown located?

Located in the heart of Grass Valley, this holiday home is within a 5-minute walk of Grass Valley Brewing, Grass Valley-Nevada County Chamber of Commerce and Greater Grass Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center. Center For The Arts and Lola Montez House are also within 15 minutes.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 32 out of 32 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 32 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 32 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patrick M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location, close enough to town to walk to food, but quiet enough for easy enjoyment.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

eileen p.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely house, fully stocked with everything you might need (including dog treats!)
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

margaret d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is our second stay - the amenities are wonderful, it feels so nice and homey. Both times the house was spotless and stocked with everything we needed. We live to sit on the porch and enjoy the sunset, and so convenient to everything. Hoping to return soon. It is definitely our top pick in Grass Valley.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Catherine C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Upscale Cozy Stay

This was an awesome mini vacation and a great cottage
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jaap L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay in nice house in central Grass Valley

Fantastic house. Very well stocked great amenities nice beds. Great for group or families.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Welcoming and dog friendly

Prospectors Cottage is a well equipped home for an enjoyable stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Coleen W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Grass Valley Cottage

Everything was perfect. Nice cottage and was great with walking distance to all the restaurants and shops.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rox Ann K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Our Stay

House was beautiful and very charming. I just didn't like the driveway, have a big truck!! Very nice stay
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Oct 2023
We're glad that you enjoyed your stay! The driveway does take some getting used to, but can be navigated with a big truck. It helps to have a back-up camera.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gerry B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Short stay

Such a pleasant place. Extremely well organized and thought out!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Aug 2023
Thank you for the kind words! We're glad that you enjoyed your stay.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nancy N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful and Convenient

We can't say enough about our stay at Prospector's Cottage. The location couldn't be better and the property was clean, modern and sooo comfortable. The large front porch is perfect for a morning cup of coffee and for reading!! We had two dogs, one large and one small, and the owner has made this dog friendly and welcoming!! We will return!!!!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicole R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Girls Weekend

We had an amazing time exploring the Grass Valley and Nevada City Area. The house was immaculate and they provided everything we needed. We were able to walk to downtown Grass Valley for dinner and shopping and got to see the Christmas tree lighting. Such a wonderful stay and great house!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely, warm place

We so enjoyed our stay at the Prospectors Cottage. We were there for a wedding and I only wish we had time to truly enjoy the place. The cottage was adorable and well appointed. The yard was so peaceful. It was a wonderful place and we would stay again in a heartbeat!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Sept 2023
Thanks for the kind words. We’re very glad that you enjoyed your stay! Please come back again
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hayley H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect family friendly getaway

My family, including kids, grandma, and our dogs, had a great stay. This house itself is very clean, the furniture is very comfortable, and they have many amenities to make a pleasant stay. I personally think this host goes out of their way to be hospitable. The house has many things to show they care and all the amenities of home. The location is also great! It is walkable to the downtown area, and a short drive to many trails. Overall, 10/10 recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Visit!

My family and I had a wonderful visit to Grass Valley! We enjoyed the downtown location of the beautiful Prospector’s Cottage. We changed the number of guests after we booked and the local host was very helpful and quick to respond to the request. We would stay again without hesitation at this wonderful rental when visiting Grass Valley.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Jan 2024
Thank you for the kind words Susan. You were a wonderful guest. Please come stay at our place again some time
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing home in Grass Valley

This is our second trip to the Prospector’s Cottage. We layout of the house is perfect for our family. Everyone has their own space. We love walking to downtown Grass Valley and walking our pups thru the neighborhood. Thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daniel S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exactly what you look for in a place to stay

This place is high quality, looks great inside, and has everything you need for a nice stay. The short walking distance to downtown GV is great, and you're a short drive away from Nevada City and other places to see. The home is well stocked, quiet, and while we couldn't use the back patio due to rain - the space would be excellent in the sunshine. Overall, exactly what you look for in a 5 star stay. Would stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent location. Excellent home.

We loved our stay at the cottage! We loved the layout and space. Each room was very spacious and smartly decorated. The backyard was private. Everyday we’d walk the block to downtown for shopping and lunch. We’ll definitely be back!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfortable

Updated, spacious, outdoor sitting areas, lots of light in the kitchen area.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jul 2023
Thanks for the kind words Carolyn and for being such a great guest. The cleaning crew said that you left the place immaculate!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Simona P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Better than home!

So many thoughtful touches throughout. Very comprehensive property booklet. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Feb 2023
Thank you for being such a great guest Simona. We'd love to welcome you back to the Prospector's Cottage in Grass Valley, CA anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandra R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Prospector’s Cottage Stay October 4-7

Upon arrival at the cottage, my family and I felt welcomed as if we were at home. Beautifully appointed, with great attention to detail that provided every comfort needed and beyond for a wonderful stay. Perfect location to walk downtown. Mornings enjoying a cup of coffee on the front porch taking in the tree-lined views were magic. We were sad to leave and are already looking forward to our next stay in 2025. Highly recommend this beautiful property.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

margaret d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Cottage

What a beautiful cottage in a convenient location. Walking distance to restaurants, shopping, and more. The amenities were above and beyond. The outside space offered not only multiple seating options to enjoy the views and spectacular sunsets, but seating options, and grill in the back. Definitely look forward to a return visit. Peggy
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shelly P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

This lovely house was perfect for our weekend getaway. The booking process was easy. Communication, house information and instructions were clear and easy to follow. The house was well appointed, comfortable, very clean and had everything we needed. The location was fantastic! We walked to town for refreshments, entertainment, shopping, and dinning. We hope to come back. It was a great place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Aug 2023
Thank you! We're glad that you enjoyed the house and its proximity to the downtown shops and restaurants. We'd love to have you back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Valerie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our stay at Prospectors Cottage

PC was our base to explore California’s gold country, Lake Tahoe, the Yuba River, Donors pass and lake as well as other activities. It was clean and comfortable. We came ‘home’ every day exhausted from hiking, swimming, shopping, and playing. The cottage was perfect for our needs. Much nicer and more comfortable than any hotel room. It afforded us time to our selves after our fun filled days to reflect and relax. I would definitely stay again. Recommend 10/10 The Smiths ❤️
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tom R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magnificent

From schedule to return and everything in between: MAGNIFICENT. The entire supporting staff did a professional job in maintaining a most beautiful house. Many thanks.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome House with Historic Charm

My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the house, property, and location! It is decorated with class, comfort, and great attention to detail. The layout of the house was ideal for us and the extra pet amenities get a HUGE thumbs up! The binder of information and labels placed around the house were super useful. The property is big, private, and perfect for outdoor activities (BBQ, corn hole, and visiting). The local dining was delicious (Chinese, Mexican, and Italian) - Maria’s Mexican restaurant is steps from the house and I highly recommend enjoying a meal from this restaurant. Thanks for sharing this gem of a house.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

About the host

Your host

Host profile image
I live in Pittsburgh PA but love visiting Grass Valley as we have family and friends in the area. We also have Jenny who is our local host that can meet with guests if they have any needs while staying at the house.

Why they chose this property

This is a close knit neighborhood that is just 2 blocks from downtown and the newly renovated plaza on Mill St. We love walking to the many restaurants, bars, wine shops, coffee houses, and quaint shops. We also love going to the river, Nevada City, and Lake Tahoe from the house.

What makes this property unique

The Prospector's Cottage is unique as it combines historic details (built in 1880) with modern design and touches. The house has been completely renovated. The front porch is a great place to hang out and enjoy the peaceful view of the neighborhood. The fenced-in back patio has a pergola with 2 giant outdoor couches, a dining table that can seat 10.

The house has a very light and airy feel to it despite being a historic property from the 1800's.

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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