Angels Camp, CA…Alongside our county’s sensory delights and natural attractions is a unique collection of retail shops featuring a wide variety of gifts – from handmade local crafts to everything you need for your next outdoor adventure. And Calaveras County’s historic downtowns make for a charming, small-town-America shopping experience. With holiday season approaching, we’ve rounded up some suggestions to help you make the most of your Calaveras shopping experience.

Historic downtown Angels Camp will take you back to the old west with its authentic Gold Rush architecture and eclectic shops. Ranging from Manzanita Emporium filled with locally made goods by various regional artisans, authors and artists to gemstone purveyors, boutique gifts and collectibles, antiques and art.

This side of Texas you’d be hard pressed to find a more authentic Western wear shop than Turner’s Wild West in downtown Angels Camp. Classic brands like Pendleton, Carhartt and Wrangler are here for work and casual apparel, along with the kind of friendly customer service you might expect in a small town. Stay on this side of the street for Stories in Stones, which is a must see for anyone intrigued by gems, crystals and the geologic wonders of the world. You may be lucky enough to hear one of the many stories of international rock and fossil hunting by owners Russ and Pam Shoemaker while you’re there. Visit Vino Metate’s newly opened wine tasting room where you can pick up gift baskets of Spanish varietal wines with local dried fruit, nuts, preserves, and olives. Other gift items include art, cookbooks, ceramics, wine glasses and wine accessories.

Across Main Street, Firefall Jewelers run by the Coca family, features custom designs, hand engraving and stone setting. Purchase something unique from the store, or have something custom made with gemstones or diamonds carefully selected on-site for your someone special. Also on this side of the street, another newly opened store just in time for the holidays: Eclecta Boutique. If antiques is your thing, Nellie Lou’s is your spot, while Prestidge Gallery offers framing and framed art.

Be sure to stop into our very own Visitor Center, where you’ll find a nice collection of gifts and collectibles from the county’s past and present, along with the largest collection of frog-themed merchandise you’re likely to find anywhere. Music lovers should not miss the Aeolian Harp, a cozy place known for its collection of rare and vintage instruments. Just south of downtown, Glory Hole Sports is the place for anyone who loves to fish. For an outstanding collection of Christmas decorations, head to Calaveras Lumber on the north end of town.

Originally built during the silent film era–updated for the 21st century, top off the day by catching a movie at the Angels 6 Theater, one of the few classic downtown cinemas left in Northern California. Or head over to the Angels Camp Museum and Carriage House for an exploration of Gold Rush history. Be sure to check out their history inspired toys and gift items in their gift shop.

Stop in at Sugar Bakery for some delicious baked goods and freshly made coffee. Ready for lunch or dinner? Try Cruscos Ristorante Italiano for authentic Northern Italian cuisine, or Angels Creek Cafe for more traditional American fare.