On a ridge of the forested foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Paradise has long been something of a hidden treasure for its residents. The Maidu people were the first to inhabit this beautiful region, and they lived here for generations, utilizing the plentiful natural resources. The area began to grow exponentially once gold was discovered in California in 1848. In 1859, the 54-pound Dogtown Nugget, at that point the largest gold nugget ever found, was discovered in the rivers just above Paradise. Soon, the area was a burgeoning community of miners, sawmill workers, farmers, and their families. The town of Paradise was incorporated in 1979.

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Located at 475 Pearson Road, the Gold Nugget Museum offers reflections of the past, collections of the present, and aspirations for a glorious future. This iconic Paradise institution is in the process of rebuilding from the damage of the 2018 Camp Fire, and visitors are encouraged to come view our current exhibits. Admission is free, though donations are graciously accepted.