Tucked among oak woodlands in Roseville, California, the Maidu Museum & Historic Site offers visitors a chance to explore the history, culture and continuing presence of the Nisenan people, who have lived in this region for thousands of years. The museum sits within a protected 34-acre historic site that preserves the remains of an ancient Nisenan settlement, creating an experience that moves naturally from indoor exhibits into the landscape itself.
For generations, Nisenan communities developed detailed knowledge of the plants, animals and waterways around them. Through practices such as selective burning, gathering and pruning, they helped maintain an abundant landscape that provided food and materials. Today, the museum helps visitors understand these relationships while highlighting both historic and contemporary Nisenan culture.
Inside, exhibits explore traditional California Indian lifeways, including acorn processing, basket weaving, native plants and contemporary Native art. Two galleries and interactive displays make the museum approachable for families, while guided programs provide a deeper look at how Nisenan people lived with and cared for the land.
Outside, a historic trail winds through the former Nisenan village site. Along the route, visitors can see ancient petroglyphs, hundreds of bedrock mortars and native plants and animals, offering a direct connection to the people who lived here for generations. Some of the rock carvings are estimated to be more than 5,000 years old.
Museum & Cultural Experiences
Nisenan Cultural Exhibits – Learn about traditional lifeways, food preparation, basketry, tools and relationships with the natural world.
Native Contemporary Art – Explore rotating exhibitions highlighting Indigenous artists and contemporary Native perspectives.
Interactive Exhibits – Hands-on displays and activities make the museum especially engaging for families.
Native Stories & Demonstrations – Programs may feature storytelling, traditional games, cultural demonstrations and educational activities.
Guided Tours – Docent-led tours connect the museum exhibits with the historic landscape and Nisenan relationship to native plants and animals.
Saturday Public Tour – A one-hour guided museum and historic-site tour is offered Saturdays at 10 a.m. and is included with admission.
Special Events & Workshops – The museum hosts cultural programs, art exhibitions, workshops, campfire programs and other community events throughout the year.
Historic Site & Outdoor Experience
34-acre historic site – Explore a preserved Nisenan settlement and surrounding natural landscape.
Historic Trail – Follow the approximately half-mile trail through oak woodland and the former village site.
Petroglyphs – View ancient rock carvings preserved throughout the historic site.
Bedrock Mortars – See hundreds of grinding holes carved into exposed rock, reflecting traditional food-processing practices.
Native Plants & Wildlife – Discover plants and animals that have long been part of the Nisenan landscape.
Nature Walks – Combine cultural interpretation with a peaceful walk through the surrounding oak woodland.
Gift Shop
Books about Native California
Handmade jewelry
Minerals and arrowheads
Nature-related items
Toys and games
Visitor Information
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed Mondays except for pre-booked school and group tours.
Admission: $7 general admission; $6 for students and seniors. Children under 5, Tribal members, active and retired military members, museum members and NARM members receive free admission, subject to applicable restrictions.
Trail Conditions: The historic trail is gravel and uneven and is not ADA accessible. Mobility aids may have difficulty navigating the trail.
Heat: The historic trail closes when temperatures exceed 99 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring water, sunscreen and a hat on warm days.
Pets: The museum and historic site are pet-free; service animals are permitted.
Visitor Tip: Allow about 1-2 hours for the museum and trail, and consider joining a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the site's cultural significance
The Maidu Museum & Historic Site is owned and operated by the City of Roseville in California. Exhibits and educational programs are developed in partnership with local tribal community members and Nisenan descendants.
