Columbia State Historic Park

Columbia State Historic Park, covering 12 square blocks in the old business district, depicts a typical boomtown of the 1850s. Never completely deserted, the settlement has been partially restored to its appearance in gold rush days. Among the more than 30 restored buildings in the town are a schoolhouse, bank, newspaper building, barbershop, saloons, the Wells Fargo Express Co. building, shops, the Fallon Hotel and the City Hotel, which still houses guests.

A 22-minute DVD presentation weaves information about the original town settlement with how important a permanent source of water was to gold rush towns. The Columbia Diggins 1852, a 4-day living-history re-enactment, is held in late May, and plays are presented year-round in the restored Fallon House Theater. Townsite tours, stagecoach rides and gold panning also are available.

Guided tours are available. Food is available.