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Location
Visitor tip
Book a docent-led tour instead of self-guiding — reviewers consistently praised the knowledgeable docents whose storytelling and personal connections to the home's history made the experience significantly more engaging and memorable.
Visitor tip
Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grounds — the venue has a dedicated picnic area and allows photography on the property with registration, making it ideal for a full afternoon visit combining learning with outdoor dining.
Visitor tip
Ideal for families with 3rd graders — the museum offers a specialized 3rd Grade Living History Program that brings historical learning to life, with interactive elements like grinding wheat into flour that deeply engage younger learners.
About Bernhard Museum
Local museum in a hotel built in 1851. Museum of life in the mid-19th-century in an old hotel, with artifacts & furnishings from that era.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Historical Museum
- Built
- 1851 as Traveler's Rest Hotel
- Highlights
- Victorian farmhouse, winery, historic wagons, Gold Rush-era artifacts
- Admission
- Free
- Hours
- Tue-Fri 1-4 PM, Sat-Sun 11 AM-4 PM
What visitors say
I really enjoyed this museum. I love places that show everyday life from the past — it’s fascinating to see how people lived, how their furniture and clothing changed, and what life was like before the internet. It truly sparks the…
Awesome tour with such wonderful knowledgeable guides! So much history here. Daisy and the wonderful lady who did our tour (forgot her name) were so wonderful in sharing all the special moments in the house and all the history. We…
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An Incredible Hidden Gem in Auburn! The Bernhard Museum is an absolute must-visit for anyone interested in history! I had an amazing experience thanks to two wonderful docents who went above and beyond, even giving my friend and…
From 87 Google reviews
Did You Know?
- The museum is housed in an inn built in 1851 during the Gold Rush era, making it a primary historical artifact itself that visitors can tour
- The museum features well-preserved artifacts dating back to 1805, spanning nearly two centuries of California history
- The site includes a restored 1874 winery and restored 1881 wine processing building, representing the evolution of Auburn's economy from Gold Rush to agricultural development
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