Casa del Oro: A Glimpse into Monterey's Golden Past
Step back in time at Casa del Oro in Monterey, a historic general store from the Gold Rush era offering a glimpse into California's past with unique 1850s-themed merchandise and a charming herb garden.
Casa del Oro, or 'House of Gold,' stands as a captivating historical landmark in Monterey, California, offering a window into the region's vibrant past. Built around 1845, this two-story adobe and limestone structure initially served as a general store, operated by Joseph Boston. It quickly became a vital hub during the Gold Rush era, providing miners with essential supplies and a secure place to store their precious gold dust, hence the name. Today, Casa del Oro functions as a charming shop managed by the Historic Garden League, selling a delightful array of 1850s-themed merchandise, from children's toys and housewares to candies and antiques. Its enduring presence within the Monterey State Historic Park makes it a must-see destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike, offering a tangible connection to California's formative years and the allure of the Gold Rush.
A brief summary to Casa del Oro
- 210 Olivier St, Monterey, California, 93940, US
Local tips
- Explore the Casa del Oro Herb Garden, located just outside the store, to experience the fragrant aromas and vibrant colors of herbs commonly used in the 19th century.
- Combine your visit to Casa del Oro with a stroll along Monterey's Path of History, a two-mile route that connects many of the city's historic landmarks.
- Check the operating hours of Casa del Oro and other historic buildings within Monterey State Historic Park, as they may vary depending on the season.
Getting There
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Walking
Casa del Oro is located within the Monterey State Historic Park, specifically in the Custom House Plaza area near Fisherman's Wharf. From Fisherman's Wharf, walk south towards the Custom House. Casa del Oro is a short walk from the Custom House, easily identifiable by its historic architecture. The walk is flat and takes only a few minutes. Note that the Custom House Plaza area can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
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Public Transport
If arriving by public transport, take the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) to the Monterey Transit Plaza. From the Transit Plaza, walk towards Fisherman's Wharf (approximately 5-10 minutes). Then, follow the walking directions from Fisherman's Wharf to Casa del Oro. MST fares are $2.50 for a single ride, or a day pass can be purchased for $6. Tap-to-pay is available on MST buses.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available in Monterey. Request a drop-off at Fisherman's Wharf. From there, walk towards the Custom House and follow the walking directions to Casa del Oro. A taxi or ride-share from the Monterey Transit Plaza to Fisherman's Wharf typically costs between $8 and $12, depending on traffic and demand.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that parking near Fisherman's Wharf and Custom House Plaza can be limited and expensive. There are parking garages in downtown Monterey, such as the East Garage and West Garage. From the parking garage, walk towards Fisherman's Wharf and then to Casa del Oro. Parking rates in these garages typically range from $2.50 to $3.50 per hour. Street parking is also available, but it is often metered and has time limits.
Discover more about Casa del Oro
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