About The Stone House
The Stone House is a multifaceted venue in the heart of Nevada City, California – a full-service restaurant, tavern, and live music events space rolled into one historic property . Housed in a rough-cut granite building originally constructed in 1857 as the Nevada Brewery during the Gold Rush , it retains much of the old stone facade and vintage character while being completely modernized inside. In 2017 local entrepreneur Jonathan Rowe purchased and restored the landmark, preserving original wood floors and building a dramatic slate-topped bar . Today the Stone House spans roughly 10,000 square feet with multiple levels and six distinct event areas – including two bars, a main dining room (Great Hall), an intimate wine‐cellar “cavern”, a street-level lounge (Parlour), an outdoor stone-walled courtyard, and even an upstairs penthouse suite . It’s often called “a historic gathering place” and “the heartbeat of Nevada City’s live music scene,” blending Gold Country heritage with contemporary hospitality . Signature features like thick stone walls, exposed timber beams, a wooden dance floor, and an industrial-era tunnel room give the venue an old-world charm, while a state-of-the-art sound/lighting system and farm-to-table menu bring it fully into the 21st century . Notably, in 2024 Stone House also launched an on-site organic farm, “Stone House Farms,” to supply fresh seasonal produce for its chefs . From its Gold Rush roots to its current incarnation, The Stone House matters as both a cultural centerpiece of Nevada City and a rare surviving example of 19th-century stone architecture in downtown Nevada City .
Events and Programming
The Stone House hosts a diverse lineup of public and private events year-round. Its calendar includes weekly live music shows in the main Showroom, ranging from local singer-songwriters and folk bands to international touring acts and electronic DJs. Recent concerts have featured jam-fusion and funk (SunSquabi) , world/worldbeat ensembles (Balkan Bump) , electro-folk duos (Moontricks), and jazz/soul acts (Sun Hop Fat) heralding Ethiopian rhythms. In addition to pure music shows, the venue programs themed dinner concerts and cabaret-style events: for example a Victorian-era Christmas dinner with The Rayos folk duo , an annual “Ski Lodge Variety Show” winter revue , and immersive Supper Club tasting dinners curated by its chefs . Comedy and performance art also appear on stage (a local improv troupe opened for DJ Marc Rebillet) , further broadening the offerings. Weddings, corporate events, and private parties utilize the space on quieter nights, but public ticketed shows happen most weekends (often Friday/Saturday nights, and select Thursdays). The Stone House bills itself as “where history meets celebration,” and indeed its events mix Gold Country nostalgia with modern entertainment. As one tells it, you might hear intimate acoustic guitar one night and deep bass EDM the next – it is “not Gold Country without Golden entertainment” . Notable past events include celebrated touring headliners (e.g. the YouTube-famous loop artist Marc Rebillet ) as well as frequent regional acts. Typical ticket prices reflect the wide variety: advance tickets often $15–$25 and door prices $20–$35 per person , with VIP table packages (e.g. a $300 five-person table ) for featured nights. Many shows sell out in advance, reflecting the venue’s popularity as a top live music spot in the Sierra foothills.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Stone House events are generally sold on a first-come basis through the venue’s official channels. The Stone House website and event announcements (often via local media) list upcoming shows and provide links to purchase tickets in advance. A presale period typically opens weeks ahead of major concerts; advance (early-bird) tickets usually cost in the teens ($15–$25) while remaining door tickets are around $20–$35 . For popular acts or dinner shows, it’s wise to buy early – advance tickets often sell out. Some shows offer tiered pricing or VIP packages (for example, purchasing a private table or bottle service) as noted in event descriptions . There is no physical box office posted online, so tickets are mostly obtained via the website or authorized seller. On the night of the event, any unsold tickets are typically available at the door upon opening (usually 30–60 minutes before showtime), subject to remaining capacity. Consistent with venue policy, all guests must be subscribed or registered under their own names. Be prepared to show ID at the door for 21+ events. In short, plan to book online ahead of time for big concerts, and if needed you can ask at any Stone House-hosted event about available wristbands or remaining tickets.
Seating and Layout
The Stone House’s interior is split over multiple levels, each with its own character. The main event space is the central Showroom : a large, open hall with a stage at one end and a wooden dance floor on the tile; this area accommodates up to ~300 people (standing or in dancing configuration) . In general admission concerts the dance floor and front aisles are for audience use, with a few stage-side tables (up to ~50 seats) set up for dinner-concert formats . Above the Showroom, the Great Hall functions as the formal restaurant/dining room, seating about 80–100 at long communal tables . The adjoining Lounge upstairs (with plush leather seating and wood tables ) serves cocktail patrons and smaller seated groups (up to 50). Downstairs, the Parlour tavern is the ground-floor bar area (up to ~100 standing/cocktail guests) . The stage lighting and sound system are high-end – indeed Stone House touts “superior acoustics and lighting” in its showroom – so audio reaches the full room. For viewing, standing near the center-front yields the best sightlines and sound, but it can be loud; those preferring to sit can choose a side table or perch in the lounge upstairs. There is no separate balcony – all areas share the ground-level sightline to stage. In short, seating is flexible: expect a mixed general-admission/standing floor by default, with some table seating around the edges and upstairs for quieter viewing or dining. Note that every event may arrange tables differently (for example, dinner shows have reserved center tables) so specific sightlines depend on how that night is set up.
Getting There and Parking
The Stone House’s address is 107 Sacramento Street, Nevada City, CA 95959 . This places it on Sacramento Street (the town’s main street) just a block east of Broad Street in historic downtown. The venue sits midway between Pine and Bridge Streets, bordered by the old stone Courthouse and Deer Creek Trail. By car, it’s accessible via major routes: from Sacramento or the Bay Area, take I-80 east to Colfax (or Highway 49 through Auburn), then follow CA-20 (Washington Street) west into Nevada City. The Stone House will be on your left (south) near the splashy neon sign at Sacramento & Clark (across from a small park). From Grass Valley (6–7 miles south), CA-49 north to CA-20 will also bring you downtown. Make sure your GPS notes “107 Sacramento St” as destination .
Parking immediately at Stone House is extremely limited: the on-site lot can only hold a handful of cars. In fact, reviewers have warned that the “parking lot is very small” , so don’t expect a spot there once others have arrived. Free street parking is available but tight – most of Broad/Sacramento Street parking is metered (though typically free evenings and Sundays). A public parking lot is one block west on Broad Street (down the hill from the venue); it can be used if Space permits (check posted “City Parking Lot” signage). Because of these limits, many visitors opt for ride-sharing. Taxis or Uber/Lyft drops can pull up right on Sacramento Street at the front. There is even a new planned pedestrian walkway and widened ADA ramp to the building entrance , which will improve drop-off access. Public transportation is also an option: Nevada County Connect Route 5 stops at Sacramento & Adams Street (near Schell Bridge Pub), just a short walk from Stone House . From that stop, face the creek and walk one block east on Sacramento to reach the venue. In practice, most locals drive or use rideshare; late-night buses are minimal, so plan your ride home carefully after shows.
Inside the Venue
Inside The Stone House you’ll find a warm, rustic-meets-luxe atmosphere. The décor blends rough stone and dark wood (from reclaimed timbers upstairs to the polished bar surfaces) with cozy lighting. As you enter (usually through the tavern/Parlour on Sacramento St), friendly staff will likely greet you. The ground floor has the main bar (the Parlour) and general standing area; the upper level has the fine-dining Great Hall and cocktail Lounge . For live shows, tickets are checked at the upstairs side door or main entrance and you’ll proceed to the Showroom floor. Security is casual but ID is required for 21+ events.
The Stone House operates a full bar with craft cocktails, local wines and beers on tap. All event nights have bar service in both the downstairs and upstairs bars. During public concerts the kitchen is usually open through the early evening: for example, one listing notes “Restaurant open 6–10pm” on show nights . The menu features contemporary American cuisine rooted in local and seasonal ingredients. (Guests frequently praise dishes like the fresh salad and fried chicken .) The lounge upstairs offers a comfortable place to sit with drinks or snacks; the parlour serves a tavern menu (lunch/small plates). A seasonal Supper Club tasting menu is offered periodically in the main dining room, highlighting the chef’s curated dishes.
Other amenities: Unlimited Wi-Fi is provided to guests throughout the building . Restrooms are located on each floor. Coat racks or a staffed check are typically available during colder months. It’s worth noting that attendees should follow the venue’s policies – for example, outside food/drink is not permitted, and large bags may be checked for safety. Heavy camera equipment is generally prohibited (phones and small cameras are OK). Smoking is not allowed indoors; an outdoor smoking area is on the patio by the Alibi Texas BBQ hut. The Stone House strives to be inclusive – for instance, a new ramp is being added to make the entrance wheelchair-accessible – but some portions of the historic building (like steps up to the Great Hall) may still pose challenges for mobility.
Nearby Amenities
Downtown Nevada City is a compact historic district, so many conveniences are a short walk away from Stone House. For dining before or after an event, a notable spot is Friar Tuck’s (111 N. Pine Street), a gastropub just a couple of blocks north, with full dinner service Thu–Sun evenings . Other local restaurants (cuisine from Italian to Thai) and coffee shops line Broad and Commercial Streets within a 5–10 minute walk. A public parking lot and the Deer Creek Tribute Trail (a scenic walking/biking path) are adjacent as well. If you need to spend the night, the Stone House itself offers a luxury 3-bedroom penthouse suite on the third floor . Otherwise, several small inns and B&Bs in Nevada City can be booked, and for chain hotels or convention-style stays the nearby city of Grass Valley (about 10 minutes south) has options (Best Western, Comfort Suites, etc.).
After-hours transportation can be trickier: the last county buses run around evening, so many guests pre-arrange cab or ride-share from Sacramento area to return. Rideshare pickup is easiest on Sacramento or Broad streets. If driving, there are a few 24-hour limits, but shopping (Safeway) and services are mostly closed by 10pm – plan ahead. The historic downtown charm means narrow sidewalks and occasional pedestrians, so give yourself extra time to walk from parking or transit. In general, arrive early in the evening to settle in (downtown shops close around 5–6pm on weeknights), and enjoy a stroll through Nevada City’s turn-of-the-century streets before your event.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Stone House stands out due to its blend of rich history and a vibrant cultural role. Architecturally, it’s remarkably intact: much of the original 1850s stonework remains (for example, iron hinges from the old brewery doors) . This authenticity has made it a local landmark – one reviewer called it the “perfect setting” for celebrations, praising its beautiful stone surroundings . Inside, unique features like the vaulted “wine cavern” (once a brewery vault) and the newly restored wooden floors remind visitors of its past, even as they enjoy modern lighting and sound . On the cultural side, few venues of this scale exist in tiny Nevada City, so it naturally draws the community together. KVMR radio notes the venue’s roster of eclectic live acts, calling it “the heartbeat” of the area’s music scene . The owner’s emphasis on sustainability and local meetups also resonates: sourcing from Stone House’s own garden and farm ties in the Sierra foothills’ agricultural heritage. Anecdotally, locals appreciate how The Stone House revived a long-empty historic building – it helped reenergize downtown nightlife and dining. Beyond any one performance, the venue regularly hosts fun neighborhood traditions (like the annual ski-lodge variety show) and has become a point of pride in town. For artists, it offers above-average production in a small-city setting (state-of-art sound & lighting ); for audiences, it’s a spellbinding mix of Gold Rush-era ambiance and first-class entertainment. In essence, The Stone House is special both for its late-19th-century character and its role as a community gathering spot that keeps Nevada City’s heritage alive.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility and Logistics. Although the venue is historic, efforts have been made to improve access. A new ramp and expanded sidewalk at the front entrance are planned to meet ADA standards . Once inside, however, note that the main stage and upper dining area involve stairs, so check with staff if you need accommodations. The parking lot aside from the venue is tiny , so arrive 30–45 minutes early if you intend to park on-site or on the street nearby. Evenings in November–March can be chilly in the foothills, so bring a jacket – the stone interior is warm once it gets busy, but the walk from your car or drop-off might be cool.
Admission and Rules. Most concert events at Stone House are 21+ unless otherwise noted, so carry a valid ID. The dress code is casual, though some guests enjoy dressing up for dinner shows or theme nights (e.g. “ski lodge” attire for the winter variety show). Early arrival is key: doors often open an hour before showtime to allow seating, so lining up early can get you good spots. Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided throughout the building , which is handy for coordinating with friends via apps. Typically you can expect to stand or sit where you like, as seating is first-come; reserved seating is only used for special ticketed dinners. Camera phones are fine, but flashlight/disruptive photography is discouraged. Outside food or alcohol is not allowed, and security may inspect large bags for safety (keep it minimal). If you have mobility needs or other concerns, a quick phone call ahead of time (whenever possible) can clarify any accommodations the staff can provide.
Food and Drink. Stone House’s restaurant opens Wed–Sun at 5pm and serves a seasonal farm-driven menu. On show nights, dinner service usually continues into the early evening (often until around 10pm ). If you plan to dine, reservations are strongly recommended, especially on Fridays/Saturdays. During concerts, food is available while the kitchen is open, and both bars stay busy serving drinks through intermission. Typical menu items include creative salads, gourmet burgers, fried chicken and quality entrées – patrons have praised the food as “excellent” and “delicious” . Expect main courses to be in the \$20–\$30 range (some reviewers have noted dinner for two with drinks ran around $146 ). Tipping your server and bar tender is customary. Also, a fun fact: “Cup of the Mountains” (a hot boozy dessert drink) is a popular signature cocktail there.
Nearby Tips. The Stone House is located in Nevada City’s downtown, so you can easily wander around to explore before or after a show. Arrive early to grab drinks or appetizers at neighboring bars (e.g. Friar Tuck’s) or just take in the historic Main Street atmosphere. Late-night onward transportation requires planning: local buses end early, so Uber/Lyft or a designated driver are safest bets for the late-night drive back. Finally, remember that Nevada City is at about 2,500 feet elevation, so drink H2O and be prepared for mountain weather changes.
How do I purchase tickets for events at The Stone House, and what do they cost?
Tickets are usually sold online through the venue’s official site or authorized outlets, often going on sale weeks before a show. Advance (presale) tickets are typically cheaper (around \$15–\$25) and door tickets run about \$20–\$35 . For popular concerts, it’s best to buy early as they can sell out. Some special events also offer VIP packages or reserved tables (for example a \$300 table ).
Where is The Stone House located, and how can I get there?
The Stone House sits at 107 Sacramento Street in downtown Nevada City . It’s near the intersection of Sacramento and Broad Streets, in the historic Main Street district. Drivers can reach it via CA-20 (Washington Blvd) from the west or north, or from I-80 via Colfax. The entrance is on Sacramento Street at the front of the building, easily identifiable by the neon sign. Public buses (Nevada County Connect Route 5) stop on Sacramento near Pine/Adams, about one block away .
What parking options are available if I drive to The Stone House?
On‐site parking at The Stone House is very limited (the small lot fills up quickly) . Visitors often use metered street parking on Sacramento or Broad streets, or the public parking lot one block east on Broad (check for posted hours and rates). After evening hours many meters are free. Given the tight parking, many guests prefer ride-share drop-off at the front entrance. Allow extra time to find parking if you drive.
Is there public transportation (bus) service to The Stone House?
Yes. Nevada County Connect Route 5 (Grass Valley–Auburn) runs through downtown Nevada City. It stops on Sacramento Street at Adams (and Pine) . From those stops, it’s a short walk (a few hundred feet) east on Sacramento to reach The Stone House. Check the current bus schedule for times – service is typically weekdays and may not run late in the evening.
What is the seating arrangement at The Stone House?
The venue has multiple levels and versatile spaces. The main floor “Showroom” is a large open area with a stage and wood dance floor, holding up to ~300 guests . On that floor, standing/general-admission areas share space with a few stage-side tables (for dinner seating). Upstairs, the Great Hall provides formal dining tables (about 80–100 seats) , and an adjacent Lounge seats about 50 more . A downstairs bar (Parlour) also serves up to 100 standing patrons . In practice, concert nights are mostly open-floor GA, while seated tables are available in the dining areas or for special meals.
Are seats reserved or first-come at Stone House shows?
Most live-music events there are unreserved (general admission); arrive early to claim a spot. A few shows (especially dinner concerts) sell reserved tables or dinner tickets with seating included. Unless otherwise stated, plan on first-come seating. Concerts with tables often indicate on the ticket if they are assigned.
What ages can attend events at The Stone House?
The default age restriction is 21+ for most evening shows, since alcohol is served. Valid ID (driver’s license or passport) will be checked for entry on those nights. Some special family-oriented events (like Sunday dinner shows or holiday matinées) allow children. Always review the event listing: typically, if it doesn’t mention “All Ages,” assume it’s 21+.
What is the dress code at The Stone House?
There is no formal dress code at The Stone House. Attendees usually wear casual or smart-casual clothing. Some shows have fun themes (e.g. Western wear for a “ski lodge” variety show), but you are welcome in jeans and a nice shirt or even shorts on hot nights. Comfortable shoes are recommended since you may stand or dance. Basically, wear what you’d wear to a nice casual dinner or bar.
Can I bring my camera or record The Stone House shows?
Small personal cameras and smartphones are generally fine for photos or video of the performance. However, professional photography/videography often requires prior approval by management. Always respect the performers and avoid using flash. If in doubt, ask at the door. Filming isn’t usually encouraged during music shows so the experience isn’t disrupted.
Are there coat checks and accessible restrooms?
Yes. During evening events, the staff will typically offer coat hooks or a coat check at the entrance. Restrooms (including at least one wheelchair-accessible restroom) are located on each floor. A new ramp at the main entrance is being added to improve wheelchair access , but note that some areas (stairs to upper dining) still have steps. If you have specific access needs, you can call and they will assist.
What food and drink options are available?
The Stone House has a full bar and restaurant. The kitchen serves an upscale American menu with local ingredients, open Wed–Sun at 5pm and continuing dinner service into the evening (often until ~10pm on show nights ). You can dine on-site before a concert or order at intermission. Both downstairs and upstairs bars remain open all night serving cocktails, local beers, and wine. Menu items (salads, entrees, etc.) typically range \$20–\$30. One couple noted that a multi-course meal with drinks came to about \$146 for two . Overall, plan to tip bartenders/servers and enjoy farm-fresh dishes during your visit.
Is Wi-Fi provided at The Stone House?
Yes. Complimentary wireless internet is available for guests throughout the building . You can use it to check emails or browse schedules at intermission. (Coverage in historic stone buildings can be spotty, but the venue advertises free Wi-Fi service.)
How far in advance should I arrive for a show?
It’s best to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before doors open. The Stone House often opens its doors about an hour before showtime for seating and dinner service. Arriving early lets you grab a good spot or table and order food/drinks before the performance. Popular concerts may have lines, so giving yourself extra time is wise. A late arrival risks missing opening acts or seat choice.
Is there lodging available at The Stone House?
Yes. The Stone House offers a private three-bedroom penthouse suite on its third floor (with kitchen and bath) as an Airbnb-style rental . This allows visiting performers or guests to stay right on-site. Outside of that, visitors typically find hotels and motels in nearby Grass Valley (about 5–6 miles away) or reserve one of the local historic inns in downtown Nebraska City.
What is the history of The Stone House building?
The Stone House began as the Nevada Brewery, built in 1857 to serve Gold Rush miners . It’s one of the oldest stone commercial buildings in Nevada City. After a fire in 1881 and subsequent rebuild, it remained a brewery and saloon through the 19th and early 20th centuries. The building stayed mostly unused for decades until its 2017 restoration . Now repurposed, it still showcases its historic granite walls and original architectural details, even as a modern restaurant and music hall.
