The National Exchange Hotel in downtown Nevada City (a sister property to Grass Valley’s Holbrooke Hotel) shines with opulent furnishings and rich colors in its common areas. (Case in point: the jewel-toned seating in Lola restaurant and the Grand Lounge.) The hotel opened in 1856 as a gathering spot and communication hub; in 1973, it was added to the National Registry of Historic Places; in 2021 it reopened after a three-year closure for a massive facelift. History is reflected throughout the property with floral wallpapers and dark woods, including in its 38 fully renovated guestrooms, all uniquely decorated with vintage furnishings and fixtures. (Modern luxuries exist, too, like luxury bedding, extra-fluffy towels and good Wi-Fi.) The on-site National Bar and Lola restaurant make the property a one-stop shop, but just beyond the door lies Nevada City’s inviting and very walkable downtown, so guests will want to venture out.

Photo: Courtesy of @nationalexchangehotel on Facebook