Monterey State Historic Park is nestled in the heart of Old Monterey. It is just steps from Fisherman’s Wharf. The park preserves California’s rich past across 80 acres of adobe houses, gardens, and historic sites. This National Historic Landmark District immerses visitors in the birthplace of statehood, colonial architecture, literary heritage and coastal elegance.
What Makes Monterey State Historic Park Unique
Monterey was California’s capital under Spanish, Mexican, and early American rule. Here you can walk the exact Path of History where treaties were signed. The first U.S. flag was raised and California’s Constitution was drafted. With 17 restored structures—including the Custom House, Colton Hall, the First Theatre, and Stevenson House—the park offers an unparalleled journey through pivotal chapters of California’s story.
Top Activities & Amenities
?️ Guided House Tours & Audio/Self-Guided Tours
Guided 45‑minute tours run Thursday–Saturday at Stevenson House (10 am) and Larkin House (2 pm), first‑come, first‑served, $10 adults, free under 17. A free cell‑phone audio tour covers stops across 12 historic buildings. Self‑guided brochures and AdventureLab scavenger hunts are also available at the Custom House Plaza.
? Historic Buildings & Gardens
Visit iconic structures. Explore the Custom House, which is California’s oldest government building as of 2025. Discover Colton Hall, where the state constitution was debated. Walk through Soberanes Garden with its famed blue gate. Find the hidden Memory Garden. Garden tours showcase early water‑wise landscaping techniques.
? Educational & Interpretive Programs
Park rangers lead interpretive walks. They conduct Junior Ranger programs and history camps for children. Additionally, they organize seasonal events like reenactments in Colton Hall and “Christmas in the Adobes.” Group tours and school programs deepen understanding of Monterey’s layered past.
? Photography & Walking Trails
The Path of History spans two miles of quiet streets lined with adobes, gardens, and coastal views. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the adobe textures, bay vistas and garden color palettes under ever‑changing light.
?️ Gift Shop & Visitor Amenities
The Custom House Museum Store carries local history books, maps and gifts. Vault‑style restrooms and a small picnic area are available near the plaza. Wheelchair‑accessible routes link key buildings and interpretive panels.
Visitor Tips
- Opening Hours & Fees: Park buildings open Thurs–Sat; self‑guided paths are always open. Guided tours cost $10 for adults (under‑17s free); audio and walking tours are included with admission.
- Parking: Pay lots at Wharf and city garages; early arrival recommended on weekends and during events.
- Accessibility: Paved, gently sloped paths offer wheelchair access to most sites; check for specific ramps at Colton Hall and Custom House.
- Pets: Leashed dogs allowed outdoors only (Walking Path and picnic zones); no pets inside historic buildings.
- Photography: Allowed outdoors; interior photography may be restricted—confirm at each site.
- Special Events: Highlights include Constitution Day in Sept and holiday-time Christmas in the Adobes; timed tickets may be required.
- Self-guided Resources: Brochures available at Pacific House Museum or Custom House; AdventureLab app offers kid-friendly scavenger hunts.
- Nearby Services: Cafes and restaurants are plentiful within the park; Coast Guard Pier and Wharf area restrooms add convenience.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Visit early morning in spring. Stroll through the gardens before crowds arrive. Witness Monterey Bay mist swirling past the Custom House Plaza. During “Christmas in the Adobes” (early December), the historic adobes glow with candlelight and carolers, offering a magical evening experience. For a hidden gem, slip into the seldom-noticed Pacific House Museum—an intimate space with rotating exhibits and cooling shade, perfect for history lovers seeking a quiet moment.