Northern California is known for many things including it’s charming small towns. Marysville is one with a ton of potential and some must visit shops you might miss if you don’t know where to look. So come with me on a journey back to my hometown for some local knowledge on where to find downtown’s best shops.
Must Stop Shops
Sissy’s Attic
First stop on our list is going to have to be Sissy’s. This place is heaven on earth for all the thrift queens and antique lovers. You’ll be immediately drawn in by the beautiful display of vintage glassware in the window and upon stepping through the door you’ll be in for quite the surprise! This place is massive, filled to the brim with two whole stories of treasures waiting to be found. I absolutely was taken aback by the stunning open floor plan and themed shopping experience. They had everything laid out in categories which made the experience all the better! There is a wonderful mix of antique, vintage and newer items and some killer prices as well. This is a shop you’ll want to take your time in and peruse every nook and cranny. The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful and don’t forget to make your way upstairs to the records and clothing boutique!
Digs
Digs is another must visit especially if you’re looking for a statement piece of furniture for a really good price. The shop itself is laid out beautifully not too overcrowded with perfectly curated pieces. It had tons of unique furniture and the prices were astonishingly fair! The owner was so sweet and helpful. The store had a very good selection of vintage books too and some beautiful jewelry options as well. This is the perfect place to stop in at if you’re looking for that special statement piece that’s not going to break the bank.
Yesterday and Today Antiques
This shop is a very classic antique shop packed to the brim with items of all sorts. It was nicely categorized and they had a really cool knife and sword area in the back of the shop. This place had a lot of nice cast iron pieces and some cool vintage cookware. The building was a bit older and on the smaller side but they had some very unique pieces and the owner was very friendly.
Food and Treats
Local Spicery
Although, they don’t have an open store front this is still a must stop if you're heading through Marysville or staying a few days. You can easily order online for pickup or have it delivered to your house for when you get home. They have so many options but I highly recommend the Ohhh-Mommy Umami and the At Home Movie Night Salts Bundle. Local Spicery is by far one of the coolest shops you will find in downtown and you can rest assured knowing that you’re getting top quality products that are not only delicious but a useful souvenir. The spices and flavor are unmatched and don’t even get me started on their tea selection! They also have an adorable storefront in Tiburon, California if you’re in the Bay Area be sure to give them a visit!
Candy Box
Candy Box has been a Marysville staple for decades and for good reason! I remember growing up I would always get excited seeing that familiar white and pink box with the little lady on the front. You can taste the love and experience this place has in the treats, especially the chocolate caramel turtles. If you only have time for a couple of stops this is one you truly do not want to miss. Just look for the big red awning and make sure you give the chocolate caramel turtles a try!
The Brick Coffee House Cafe
Brick House has one of downtown’s cutest outdoor seating areas and the food is always fresh and tasty. They have really good coffee, and the employees are friendly and helpful. They are a little on the pricey side for a smaller town but the food and atmosphere make it worth it.
Tracey’s Diner
If you’re looking to get a full stomach while keeping a full wallet and get a dose of nostalgia along the way, Tracey’s Diner is the place for you. Tracey’s is a blast from the past classic diner serving up homemade fresh pies daily and home style meals. Wether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch or dinner you’ll find something here. The portions are generous and the service is excellent. Be sure to get there early before they sell out of the banana cream pie! And if you have kids in tow ask to sit at the car table- mine love it!
Bars and Dives
Silver Dollar Saloon
Silver Dollar is another Marysville staple that’s been around for decades. Located in one of the towns historic buildings, the inside screams of the past gold mining era with a beautiful wooden bar area. Its rustic charm coupled with good food and friendly service makes this a worthy spot to stop and grab a burger or steak. The building has a rich history as it used to be an illegal brothel during the gold mining era. I recommend stopping by after dark to catch a glimpse of the unique storefront sign all lit up. It’s the perfect backdrop for an Instagram worthy selfie.
Wood Butcher
If you happen to be in town on a Tuesday be sure to catch the Wood Butchers taco Tuesday. This place has good food, good drinks, and good vibes.
Stassi’s 4th Ward Tavern
Downtown Marysville Classic that’s been serving the area for decades. Stassi’s is small and cozy nestled up on the train tracks on the outskirts of downtown. This place is a no frills no fuss bar where the locals likely are. If you’re looking for a drink at a good price and some of the towns friendliest bar tenders this is the place for you. The bar lets you pay to play whatever song you want like a new age type of jukebox. Be sure to pick your seat at the bar carefully because every time a train rolls by, a number is picked and if you’re sitting in the lucky seat you get a free drink!
History and Scenery
Chen Ling Chinese Garden
Be sure to stop by the Chen Ling Chinese Garden to check out the cool artwork and read up on some local history. The Garden is only open to public on certain days and times so be sure to check the hours in advance. But even while closed you can admire the art from the sidewalk.
*Pro Tip: If you’re looking to kill some time and want to take a nature drive head out toward Spenceville Wildlife Area. Just outside of Marysville, during the winter and early spring, you can take a scenic drive through the backroads. Here you’ll find beautiful rolling hills with lots of stops to get out and stretch your legs. There are a lot of nature trails through the wildlife area where you can walk the fields with the local cattle and get some fresh air. During the warmer months be aware of rattlesnakes. Be sure to catch the sunset over the hills if you do decide to explore.
Places To Avoid
Ellis Lake
From afar the lake may appear as a beautiful oasis in an area full of buildings, but looks can be deceiving. The lake is unfortunately very poorly maintained by the city and the walking path around it is usually filled with trash and duck poop. If you must stop however, I would recommend using the parking area located off of 12th Street and heading over the walking bridge to the gazebo. Be careful of the geese if you decide to feed the ducks they are not very friendly!
Riverfront Park
It is neither on the riverfront nor is it a park. Unfortunately, this natural space is poorly maintained and is a very common hangout for the houseless community. There are some small trails and a boat launch that may or may not be usable during the summer months when the river is low. Overall I would avoid this area.
In conclusion, every town has its good and bad, and Marysville is no exception. It may not be an award winning vacation town but it does have immense potential and has some pretty incredible small businesses ran by hardworking, locals. So if you’re passing through take the time to explore the local shops and pay a visit to the owners who are likely working behind the counter.
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