Placer County holds 1,400 square miles of unique geography to explore, each steeped with its own landscape, history, activities, and characteristics that make it special. Whether you are looking to spend time surrounded by nature or indoors eating mouthwatering foods, you can find it all in Placer County. Towns like Loomis, Rocklin, and Newcastle embody this region’s diversity, blending natural beauty, historical significance, and appetizing local flavors together to provide endless entertainment and adventure. Get ready to take a glimpse into what makes these three charming locations such special additions to Placer County, and why they deserve a spot on your next itinerary.
Loomis: Small Town, Large Culinary Legacy
Loomis is a community in Placer County not to be missed on your next trip to the area. Named after one of the town’s pioneers James Loomis in 1890, the town would go on to be the second largest fruit-shipping station in Placer County in the early part of the 20th century. Home to a plethora of local farms and historic fruit sheds–it’s no wonder this growing agriculture town is known for its culinary prowess. High-Hand is a signature spot with an incredible nursery to browse, café, brewery and a host of gift shops and art gallery in the historic fruit packing sheds. Live music is on tap at the brewery most weekends. If you make your way to the “four corners” intersection in the downtown area, you will find popular local eateries like LBB Gastropub & Smokehouse, il Pizzaiolo Wood-Fired Pizza, Reds Bistro, and the iconic Taylors, a burger spot known for offering over 300 kinds of milkshakes. Visitors can also find a cozy spot to enjoy their morning coffee at Smithville & Co, and wine tasting at Secret Ravine, one of the oldest wineries in the area. Over at The Flower Farm, you’ll find a café, gift shop and location for special events as well as the on-site Casque Winery. Loomis is truly an incredible destination that promises unforgettable experiences for visitors and residents alike.
Rocklin: Where History Meets Adventure
Rocklin is a tight-knit, welcoming community that blends its rich history with a vibrant shopping and dining scene. First established as a destination along the transcontinental railroad, Rocklin was officially incorporated in 1893. Its legacy as a mining town is set in stone, both literally and figuratively, as Rocklin provided nearly 2,000 train carloads of granite to build a portion of the San Francisco state capitol building. Today, Rocklin has a new legacy that revolves around its wide array of outdoor activities. You can golf at the 18-hole, lush Whitney Oaks Golf Club. Quarry Park Adventures offers a variety of interactive activities suitable for all ages that is sure to appease your more adventurous side, and Quarry Park Amphitheater puts on a laid-back concert series. Rocklin also has a good dining scene, featuring innovative options like The Chef’s Table, Bennett’s Westside Grill, Pink Martini with happy hour and live music on the weekends to authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Mezcaltio. Whether you enjoy live music or tasting delicious food, you’ll find it all in Rocklin.
Newcastle: The Home Of Farm-Fresh Tradition
Sitting among the lush Sierra Nevada foothills, Newcastle is a quaint town with a rich agricultural heritage dating back to the mid-19th century. Originally established as a stop along the transcontinental railroad, Newcastle quickly became the center of the nation’s fruit industry. Today, the town continues to thrive as a beacon of fresh, seasonal produce like stone fruit and a variety of citrus, including our famed Satsuma mountain mandarins. Visitors immerse themselves in this town’s charm and legacy by exploring local gems such as Newcastle Produce, Lecavalier Cellars and tasting room, Hillenbrand Farmhaus Brewery, Dono dal Cielo Winery, and Twin Peaks Orchards. The historic Newcastle Fruit Packing Shed is also a must-see destination, standing as a testament to the town’s history while also making space for its future–now serving as a creative space for local artists.
On your next trip to Placer County make sure to stop in Loomis, Rocklin, and Newcastle. Whether you’re discovering a historic fruit shed, tasting locally made wine, or attending a concert at the Quarry Park Amphitheater, each destination offers a warm welcome and plenty to keep you busy. Plan your visit today and uncover these hidden gems of Placer County for yourself–where unforgettable experiences await you at every turn. Discover Loomis, Rocklin, and Newcastle—and let the charm of these towns sweep you off your feet!