Things to Do in Amador County This October

Gold Country is at its best this time of year, and Amador County has a full calendar of ways to enjoy it before the season turns. Here's a look at what's worth putting on your list for the rest of October.

The Sutter Creek Wine Walk, Saturday October 17

The big one. Fifteen local Amador County wineries come to town and set up inside the shops and businesses of downtown Sutter Creek, so you can stroll Main Street, sample the wines, and enjoy appetizers along the way. It runs 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., and tickets are limited to just 300, so it sells out. Grab yours early through the Amador Community Foundation.

Farmers markets, Saturdays through October

The Amador Farmers Markets run through the end of the month, with the Sutter Creek market on North Main Street every Saturday. It's the last stretch of the season, so it's a good time to stock up on local produce before the winter markets wind down.

Knight Foundry tours, second and fourth Saturdays

Sutter Creek's Knight Foundry is one of the last water-powered foundries in the country, and it opens up for tours on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month (October 10 and 24). A great piece of living Gold Rush history.

Preston Castle, Ione

The striking Preston Castle in Ione offers tours on the first and third Saturdays, and as Halloween approaches it leans into its haunted reputation with special spooky events. Worth checking the schedule if you like a little history with a side of goosebumps.

Black Chasm Cavern, Volcano

A National Natural Landmark just outside Volcano, with guided tours that take you down into three decorated chambers, past rare helictite crystals and a vivid blue lake. Kid-friendly, with gold panning and a gift shop and museum on site. Open daily through the fall, weather permitting.

Wine country, any day

Amador is home to some of the best old-vine zinfandel in the state, mostly in the Shenandoah Valley, plus a cluster of tasting rooms right on Sutter Creek's Main Street. On a cool October afternoon, there's no better way to spend it.

However you spend the month, every stop keeps it local, and that's the kind of weekend we like around here.

And if the idea of living in the middle of all this sounds right to you, I'd love to help you find your spot here.