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Experience the Charm of Historic Murphys

A Timeless Escape in the Sierra Foothills

Murphys, California packs a lot of different vacation “wins” into one small, walkable town. That combination is exactly why it’s become such a popular getaway destination in Northern California.

A sunlit street lined with trees and a house under a clear blue sky.

Wine country without the crowds
Murphys is often called a more relaxed alternative to Napa Valley. Dozens of tasting rooms line its compact Main Street, so visitors can easily walk from one to another—no driving, no planning headaches, just a laid-back wine experience.

Gold Rush history and charm
Founded during the California Gold Rush, the town still feels rooted in that era. Historic buildings, old saloons, and preserved architecture give it an authentic character that’s hard to replicate.

Walkability + small-town vibe
Everything—wine tasting, restaurants, shops, live music—is concentrated in a charming downtown. It’s the kind of place where you park once and spend the day exploring on foot.

Access to outdoor adventure
Murphys sits in the Sierra Foothills, so you’re minutes from hiking, cave exploring, and scenic drives. Popular nearby spots include Calaveras Big Trees State Park (home to giant sequoias) and Mercer Caverns.

Year-round appeal
Murphys is a year-round destination, with festivals, outdoor dining, and live music in the warmer months, vibrant harvest events in the fall, and a cozy, quiet charm in winter. No matter the season, there’s always something to experience.

Food, events, and local culture
Murphys punches above its weight with restaurants, live music, and events like Murphys Irish Day, which draws huge crowds every year.

Murphys works because it blends wine country, history, outdoor adventure, and a relaxed, walkable atmosphere—all in one place.

Cozy B&B

For couples and small groups seeking an intimate escape, Dunbar House Inn and Event Property is our historic 1880s bed and breakfast, where mornings begin with a gourmet breakfast and evenings unwind in a lush private garden. Six uniquely appointed rooms offer romance and quiet charm, while the grounds also serve as Murphys' premier venue for weddings and celebrations of up to 150 guests. If you're planning a getaway built around connection — with fellow guests, with each other, or with a special occasion — Dunbar House Inn and Event Property is home base.

Dunbar House Inn and Event Property

Boutique Inn

Prefer a bit more independence during your stay? The Victoria Inn offers 13 individually appointed rooms in the heart of downtown Murphys, each with its own character — from clawfoot tubs to private balconies — without a fixed breakfast schedule to plan around. It's ideal for travelers who want boutique charm and flexibility in equal measure, whether you're here for a weekend of wine tasting, a reunion with friends, or simply exploring Main Street at your own pace.

The Victoria Inn

Family Vacation

For travelers who want a home away from home, our ten vacation rental properties offer full privacy, full kitchens, and room to spread out — from cozy downtown condos to spacious multi-bedroom houses with pools and private yards. Best suited to families, larger groups, or longer stays where having your own space matters, these rentals let you set your own schedule while still being just steps from everything Murphys has to offer.

V Vacation Rentals

Experience Murphys

Fun for Everyone!

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Dining

Murphys' Main Street serves up some of the Sierra Foothills' best dining, from farm-to-table fare to casual local favorites. Enjoy a meal at V Restaurant, Bistro & Bar, Grounds Restaurant, Murphys Hotel Restaurant, Doke Sushi, Murphys Grade, and many more — most within easy walking distance of your vacation rental.

Let's Eat

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Wine Tasting

Wine tasting is a Murphys tradition, with friendly tasting rooms lining Historic Main Street and award-winning wineries just beyond town, including Ironstone Vineyards, known for its large-scale summer concerts. Stop by the Murphys Visitor Center for tasting room maps and guides to exploring Calaveras Wine Country.

Let's Drink

A white gazebo in Murphy's Community Park surrounded by trees.

Attractions

Beyond Main Street, Murphys is an adventure wonderland year-round. Explore Big Trees State Park, boat and fish at New Melones Lake, hit the slopes at Bear Valley Mountain Resort, or try golf, hiking, cave exploration, and gold panning — with something new to discover in every season.

Let's Explore

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Weddings & Events

Celebrate in Murphys, CA

Murphys has become one of Northern California's most sought-after wedding destinations, with small-town charm, award-winning wineries, and a walkable downtown to enjoy. Dunbar House Inn and Event Property is the region's premier venue, hosting everything from grand celebrations to intimate elopements. Once the ceremony ends, our sister properties keep the celebration going, offering families and guests a place to stay just moments away, so the festivities can continue long after the last dance.

Host an Event

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Everyone Is Invited

Gathering in Murphys, CA

Traveling with family, friends, or a whole crew? Between our historic inns and ten private vacation homes throughout downtown Murphys, we have the space and flexibility to bring your group together — however you like to travel. Whether you're planning a reunion, a milestone celebration, or simply a getaway with your favorite people, our properties make it easy to gather under one roof or spread across a few, all within walking distance of Main Street.

Explore Options