A LIVING PIECE OF HISTORY
Where the Gold Rush Lives On
Founded in 1857 at the height of California's Gold Rush, the Columbia City Hotel has welcomed miners, merchants, and wanderers through its doors for over a century and a half.
Nestled in the heart of Columbia State Historic Park, our Victorian hotel stands as one of the finest surviving examples of Gold Rush-era hospitality — lovingly preserved and still very much alive.
FINE DINING
The Dining Room
Our award-winning restaurant celebrates the bounty of the Gold Country with a farm-to-table menu rooted in California's culinary heritage. From locally sourced meats to heirloom vegetables, every plate tells the story of the land.
See the MenuTHE SALOON
Belly Up to the Bar
The What Cheer Saloon has been pouring whiskey since the days when gold dust was currency. Pull up a stool at our original mahogany bar, choose from our curated selection of California whiskeys and craft beers, and raise a glass to the spirit of the Gold Rush.
Visit the Saloon
OUR HISTORY
Since 1857
Columbia was once the second-largest city in California, its streets teeming with forty-niners chasing fortune in the Sierra foothills. The Columbia City Hotel opened its doors to serve them — and has never truly closed. Today, as part of Columbia State Historic Park, we carry that legacy forward.
Read Our Story
ACCOMMODATIONS
Victorian Rooms & Suites
Our nine uniquely appointed Victorian rooms are temporarily unavailable. Dining, the What Cheer Saloon, and catering remain open. Check back soon — we look forward to welcoming overnight guests again.
View RoomsWHAT CHEER CATERING
Bring the Gold Rush to Your Event
From intimate rehearsal dinners to grand celebrations, What Cheer Catering brings the culinary tradition of Columbia City Hotel to your special occasion. Our team crafts seasonal, farm-to-table menus inspired by California's Gold Country heritage — served with the warmth and character of a living landmark.
We Cater
- Weddings & Receptions
- Corporate Events
- Rehearsal Dinners
- Private Parties
- Historic Park Events
- Holiday Gatherings
Request a Catering Quote
Tell us about your event and we'll be in touch to discuss menus, availability, and pricing.
Come Visit
Lodging is temporarily unavailable, but we'd love to see you for dinner, a drink at the saloon, or to plan your next event. Columbia is waiting.
Make a Reservation22768 Main Street · Columbia, California 95310
(209) 540-3810