Discover the Rich History of Monterey State Historic Park
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Monterey State Historic Park, where history and natural beauty converge in California's stunning coastal landscape.
Monterey State Historic Park invites tourists to explore California's vibrant history, offering a unique glimpse into the past with its preserved historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and scenic waterfront views. The park is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, ideal for leisurely strolls and enriching experiences.
A brief summary to Monterey State Historic Park
- 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940, US
- +1831-649-2907
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to enjoy a quieter experience and better opportunities for photography.
- Be sure to check for any guided tours or special events that may be happening during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the park involves walking on various terrains.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the park's scenic areas, surrounded by historical landmarks.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the beautiful architecture and stunning coastal views.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Carmel-by-the-Sea, head east on Ocean Avenue towards San Carlos Street. Turn right onto San Carlos Street and continue walking until you reach 7th Avenue. Turn left on 7th Avenue and follow it as it turns into Mission Street. Continue on Mission Street until you reach the intersection with Lighthouse Avenue. At the intersection, turn right onto Lighthouse Avenue. Continue walking straight for about a mile until you see the Monterey State Historic Park, located at 20 Custom House Plaza in Monterey.
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Public Transportation
Start at the Carmel Plaza bus stop on Mission Street. Take the Monterey-Salinas Transit Line 1 bus towards Monterey. The journey takes about 20 minutes. Get off at the stop nearest to Custom House Plaza. From there, it’s a short walk to 20 Custom House Plaza where the Monterey State Historic Park is located.
Discover more about Monterey State Historic Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monterey State Historic Park Office
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Explore Monterey State Historic Park Office, a historical gem offering insights into California's rich heritage amidst stunning coastal views.
Monterey Custom House
0.1 km
Explore Monterey Custom House, a key historical landmark reflecting California's maritime heritage and architectural beauty in the heart of Monterey.
California State Historical Landmark No. 1
0.1 km
Explore California State Historical Landmark No. 1 in Monterey, a vital piece of California's heritage showcasing the area's rich maritime history.
Monterey Harbor Monument
0.1 km
Explore the rich maritime heritage at Monterey Harbor Monument, a captivating historical landmark offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Monterey's past.
Old Monterey Foundation
0.2 km
Explore Monterey's rich history and cultural heritage at the Old Monterey Foundation, where stories of the past come to life in engaging exhibits and community events.
Doud House
0.2 km
Discover the Doud House, a historical landmark in Monterey, California, where history and beauty intertwine in a captivating journey through time.
Old Fishermen's Grotto
0.2 km
Experience the best of Monterey's culinary scene at Old Fishermen's Grotto, where fresh seafood and steaks meet stunning waterfront views.
The Famous Old Fisherman's Wharf Sign
0.3 km
Explore the iconic Old Fisherman's Wharf Sign in Monterey, a vibrant symbol of the city's rich maritime heritage and coastal charm.
Monterey City Historic Preservation
0.3 km
Uncover Monterey's historical gems at the Monterey City Historic Preservation, where the stories of the past come alive amidst stunning coastal beauty.
Carmel Valley Wine Tours / Tours Monterey
0.3 km
Explore the exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes of Carmel Valley Wine Tours, a must-visit for wine enthusiasts in Monterey, California.
Monterey Bay Whale Watch
0.3 km
Discover the wonders of Monterey Bay with unforgettable whale watching tours, where marine life meets breathtaking coastal scenery.
Golden State Theatre
0.3 km
Discover the Golden State Theatre, a historic venue in Monterey showcasing live music and performing arts amidst stunning Art Deco architecture.
Fisherman’s Wharf
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, a historic waterfront destination with fresh seafood, shopping, and stunning ocean views.
Hippolyte Bouchard Plaque
0.4 km
Explore the Hippolyte Bouchard Plaque in Monterey, a historical landmark that captures the essence of California's maritime heritage.
Cooper-Molera Adobe
0.6 km
Discover the charm of California’s rich history at Cooper-Molera Adobe in Monterey, a beautifully preserved historical landmark showcasing early California life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pacific House Museum
0.0 km
Explore Monterey's past at the Pacific House Museum, a captivating local history museum along the beautiful Recreational Trail.
Casa del Oro
0.1 km
Explore Casa del Oro, a historical landmark in Monterey, California, showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
GoCARTOURS Monterey
0.1 km
Experience the thrill of go-kart racing amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Monterey, California, at GoCARTOURS Monterey.
Monterey History and Art Museum
0.1 km
Explore the captivating blend of history and art at Monterey History and Art Museum, where every exhibit tells a story of the region's rich cultural heritage.
Custom House Museum
0.1 km
Explore the Custom House Museum in Monterey, a gateway to understanding the region's vibrant maritime history and cultural heritage.
The Original Monterey Walking Tours - guided tours of historic Monterey and Cannery Row
0.1 km
Uncover the rich maritime history of Monterey and Cannery Row with guided tours that blend storytelling with scenic exploration.
Monterey Sea Lions
0.1 km
Experience the lively Monterey Sea Lions, a captivating natural attraction showcasing playful marine life against a stunning coastal backdrop.
California's First Theatre
0.1 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of California at California's First Theatre, a historical landmark in scenic Monterey, offering a glimpse into the performing arts.
0 Old Fisherman’s Wharf
0.1 km
Discover the charm of Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views and vibrant local culture.
Monterey Conference Center
0.1 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Monterey Conference Center, where business meets the beauty of California's stunning coastline.
GoCar Tours | Monterey Sea Car Tours
0.1 km
Experience the scenic beauty and rich history of Monterey, California, with GoCar Tours' unique GPS-guided adventures.
1 Old Fisherman’s Wharf
0.2 km
Discover the timeless beauty and culinary delights of Old Fisherman’s Wharf, a must-visit coastal retreat in Monterey, California.
Old Fisherman's Wharf
0.2 km
Discover Old Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey, a vibrant blend of seafood dining, shopping, and breathtaking ocean views, perfect for all travelers.
The Monterey Mural by Granizo
0.2 km
Explore the mesmerizing Monterey Mural by Granizo, a vibrant celebration of local culture and artistry in the heart of Monterey.
Casa Soberanes
0.2 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Casa Soberanes in Monterey, California, a must-see tourist attraction.
Essential places to dine
Jacks Monterey
0.1 km
Discover culinary delights at Jacks Monterey, where local flavors meet breathtaking coastal views in an unforgettable dining experience.
Benihana Monterey
0.1 km
Experience the thrill of teppanyaki at Benihana Monterey – where culinary artistry meets entertainment in every meal.
Paluca Trattoria
0.2 km
Discover Paluca Trattoria: where Italian culinary traditions meet fresh local seafood in an enchanting waterfront setting.
Crabby Jim's seafood
0.2 km
Experience Monterey's best seafood at Crabby Jim's Seafood – where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Cibo
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine combined with live jazz in the heart of Monterey at Cibo—a culinary gem offering delightful flavors and vibrant entertainment.
Crab Louie's Bistro
0.2 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Crab Louie's Bistro on Monterey's historic Fisherman's Wharf - where ocean views meet culinary excellence.
Domenico's on the Wharf
0.3 km
Experience exquisite seafood and Italian cuisine at Domenico's on Fisherman's Wharf - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Café Fina
0.3 km
Experience exquisite seafood and authentic Italian cuisine at Café Fina in Monterey's scenic Fisherman's Wharf.
Fish & Chips Cafe
0.3 km
Experience authentic fish and chips at Monterey's picturesque Fisherman's Wharf with stunning ocean views.
Abalonetti Bar and Grill
0.3 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Abalonetti Bar and Grill, where coastal charm meets Italian flavors on Monterey's picturesque Fisherman's Wharf.
The Crown & Anchor
0.3 km
Experience culinary delights at The Crown & Anchor in Monterey - where exquisite flavors meet vibrant social vibes.
Crab House
0.3 km
Discover Crab House in Monterey – where fresh seafood meets vibrant international flavors along Fisherman's Wharf.
Turn 12 Bar & Grill
0.3 km
Discover Turn 12 Bar & Grill in Monterey: where delicious Californian cuisine meets an exciting sports bar atmosphere.
Montrio
0.3 km
Discover Montrio in Monterey: A sophisticated dining experience offering exceptional American cuisine with local flavors.
Rockfish Harbor Grill
0.4 km
Experience fresh seafood with breathtaking views at Rockfish Harbor Grill on Monterey's historic Fisherman’s Wharf.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Joseph Boston Store
0.1 km
Explore the Joseph Boston Store in Monterey, CA - a unique blend of gift shop, antique store, and historical landmark filled with treasures.
The Feral Market
0.1 km
Explore The Feral Market in Monterey for unique gifts, local artisan crafts, and stylish clothing that embody the spirit of California's coastal charm.
Harbor House
0.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Harbor House, the perfect spot for memorable keepsakes in Monterey's charming Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
Wharf's General Store
0.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts at Wharf's General Store, a charming destination on Monterey's vibrant Fisherman's Wharf.
Ocean Front
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Ocean Front, a charming gift shop on Monterey's scenic Fisherman's Wharf, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Carousel Candies
0.2 km
Discover a world of sweet treats at Carousel Candies in Monterey, where nostalgia meets gourmet delights amidst stunning coastal views.
Pirate's Cove
0.2 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local crafts at Pirate's Cove Gift Shop in Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf.
Sock Harbor
0.2 km
Explore Sock Harbor, a charming gift shop in Monterey offering unique souvenirs and local crafts that embody the spirit of California's coast.
Bliss Boutique
0.3 km
Shop in style at Bliss Boutique, Monterey's premier women's clothing store, offering unique fashion and accessories for every occasion.
Morning Star Pearls
0.3 km
Experience the elegance of handcrafted pearl jewelry at Morning Star Pearls in Monterey's Fisherman’s Wharf, where beauty meets artistry.
Monterey Bay Silver Company
0.3 km
Explore the exquisite collection of handcrafted silver jewelry at Monterey Bay Silver Company, where each piece reflects the beauty of the California coast.
Franklin Street Collaborative
0.3 km
Discover unique local art and handcrafted treasures at Franklin Street Collaborative, Monterey's charming boutique that celebrates local makers and creativity.
LunaBlu
0.4 km
Discover unique high-end designer and boutique clothing at LunaBlu, Monterey's premier shopping destination for fashion enthusiasts.
Monterey Imports
0.5 km
Explore Monterey Imports, your gateway to unique fashion in the heart of Monterey, California, filled with stylish apparel and accessories.
Maybe On Monday
0.5 km
Explore Maybe On Monday in Monterey for unique gifts, handcrafted jewelry, and local artwork that capture the essence of California's coastal charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
0.1 km
Discover the Best of California Wines at Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant in Monterey – A Cozy Spot for Enthusiasts and Casual Drinkers Alike.
Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
0.3 km
Discover craft beer in a historic train station at Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot, a lively brewpub in beautiful Monterey, California.
Compact Disco
0.4 km
Experience Monterey's nightlife at Compact Disco, where classic cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
London Bridge Pub
0.4 km
Discover the delightful mix of British tradition and Californian flavor at London Bridge Pub in Monterey.
The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
0.4 km
Indulge in artisanal cocktails and a cozy ambiance at The Whisky Club, Monterey's premier destination for whisky lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.
Britannia Arms
0.4 km
Discover Britannia Arms, a lively pub in Monterey offering a delightful mix of traditional dishes and local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
Alfredo's Cantina
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alfredo's Cantina, Monterey's favorite cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
Pearl Hour
0.9 km
Experience the eclectic charm and unique cocktails at Pearl Hour, Monterey's hidden gem for nightlife enthusiasts.
Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
0.9 km
Experience the best of mixology at Bar Cart Cocktail Co. in Monterey, where every cocktail tells a story and the atmosphere is always vibrant.
The Wine Experience
1.1 km
Discover the finest wines and a cozy atmosphere at The Wine Experience in Monterey, where every sip tells a story.
LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110
1.1 km
Discover the enchanting LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill, where mouthwatering cuisine meets stunning views in the heart of Monterey.
Bulldog Sports Pub
1.4 km
Discover Bulldog Sports Pub, Monterey's vibrant sports bar offering delicious food and live sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
1.5 km
Experience Monterey's nightlife at Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
1.5 km
Discover the lively ambiance of The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar, where great food, craft beers, and sports come together in Monterey.
Bargetto Winery Tasting Room
1.6 km
Discover the exquisite wines of Bargetto Winery Tasting Room in Monterey, a perfect blend of flavor and coastal charm.
