Lower Presidio Historic Park: A Coastal Gem with Layers of History
Discover Monterey's hidden gem: Lower Presidio Historic Park, where California's rich history unfolds amidst stunning bay views. Explore trails, monuments, and a free museum.
The Lower Presidio Historic Park in Monterey, California, offers stunning views of Monterey Bay and a deep dive into California's rich history. Often called 'The Most Historically Significant Site on the West Coast,' this 25-acre park encompasses prehistoric settlements, Spanish and Mexican era landmarks, and American military history, including the Buffalo Soldiers. Visitors can explore interpretive trails, monuments like the Sloat Monument, and the Presidio of Monterey Museum. It's a great place for walking, picnics, and photography, providing a serene escape with panoramic vistas and historical insights. Despite its central location, it remains a hidden gem, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
A brief summary to Lower Presidio Historic Park
- Corporal Ewing Rd, Monterey, California, 93944, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the Presidio of Monterey Museum on weekends for free admission and a deeper understanding of the area's military history.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy the stunning views of Monterey Bay and the harbor from the park's hilltop location.
- Explore the Harbor Trail for insights into the lives of Monterey's First Peoples and the area's early history.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Monterey or Fisherman's Wharf, the Lower Presidio Historic Park is accessible by foot. Head northeast, following signs towards Pacific Street. The park entrance is located above Pacific Street at the Lighthouse Curve. The walk involves a moderate uphill climb. Allow approximately 15-20 minutes from Fisherman's Wharf. There are no costs associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) provides bus service to the vicinity of the Lower Presidio Historic Park. Several routes stop near downtown Monterey. From the Monterey Transit Plaza, it's a 10-15 minute walk to the park entrance. Check the MST website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride fare is typically around $2.50.
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Driving
If driving, approach the Lower Presidio Historic Park via Pacific Street. Limited free parking is available near the Presidio of Monterey Museum within the park. From downtown Monterey, follow signs for Pacific Street and the Lighthouse District. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season. There are no parking costs.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Monterey. Request a ride to the Presidio of Monterey Museum (76th Artillery Street & Corporal Ewing Road). The drop-off point is a short walk from the main park area. Expect to pay around $8-$12 for a ride from Fisherman's Wharf or downtown Monterey.
Discover more about Lower Presidio Historic Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hippolyte Bouchard Plaque
0.1 km
Explore the Hippolyte Bouchard Plaque in Monterey, a historical landmark that captures the essence of California's maritime heritage.
Sloat Monument
0.2 km
Explore the Sloat Monument in Monterey, a striking sculpture commemorating Commodore John D. Sloat and a pivotal moment in California's history.
Doud House
0.3 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
0.4 km
Experience the best of Monterey's culinary scene at Old Fishermen's Grotto, where fresh seafood and steaks meet stunning waterfront views.
California State Historical Landmark No. 1
0.4 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 Bay Whale Watch
0.4 km
Discover the wonders of Monterey Bay with unforgettable whale watching tours, where marine life meets breathtaking coastal scenery.
Monterey Custom House
0.4 km
Explore Monterey Custom House, a key historical landmark reflecting California's maritime heritage and architectural beauty in the heart of Monterey.
Monterey State Historic Park Office
0.4 km
Explore Monterey State Historic Park Office, a historical gem offering insights into California's rich heritage amidst stunning coastal views.
Monterey Harbor Monument
0.5 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.
Monterey Harbor
0.6 km
Discover the charm and beauty of Monterey Harbor, where stunning coastal views, vibrant marine life, and unforgettable experiences await in California.
Old Monterey Foundation
0.6 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.
Monterey City Historic Preservation
0.7 km
Uncover Monterey's historical gems at the Monterey City Historic Preservation, where the stories of the past come alive amidst stunning coastal beauty.
The Famous Old Fisherman's Wharf Sign
0.7 km
Explore the iconic Old Fisherman's Wharf Sign in Monterey, a vibrant symbol of the city's rich maritime heritage and coastal charm.
Carmel Valley Wine Tours / Tours Monterey
0.7 km
Explore the exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes of Carmel Valley Wine Tours, a must-visit for wine enthusiasts in Monterey, California.
Fisherman’s Wharf
0.7 km
Discover the charm of Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, a historic waterfront destination with fresh seafood, shopping, and stunning ocean views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Presidio of Monterey Museum
0.1 km
Explore Monterey's military history from its indigenous roots to the present day at the Presidio of Monterey Museum, a hidden gem in the Lower Presidio Historic Park with free admission.
Sister City Park
0.2 km
A peaceful waterfront park on the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail, offering stunning bay views and a tranquil escape near Cannery Row.
Monterey Bay Recreation Trail North-North West Seal Lions
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, a serene pathway perfect for biking, walking, and enjoying nature's wonders.
Breakwater Cove Marina
0.3 km
Discover the beauty and adventure of Breakwater Cove Marina in Monterey, where coastal charm meets thrilling maritime experiences.
California's First Theatre
0.4 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.
1 Old Fisherman’s Wharf
0.4 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
0.4 km
Discover Old Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey, a vibrant blend of seafood dining, shopping, and breathtaking ocean views, perfect for all travelers.
San Carlos Beach
0.4 km
Experience the beauty of San Carlos Beach in Monterey, California, where sandy shores meet vibrant marine life and breathtaking coastal views.
Casa del Oro
0.4 km
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.
0 Old Fisherman’s Wharf
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views and vibrant local culture.
Custom House Museum
0.4 km
Explore California's rich history at the Custom House Museum in Monterey, the state's oldest government building and witness to pivotal moments under Spanish, Mexican, and American rule.
Sail Monterey
0.4 km
Discover the beauty of Monterey Bay with Sail Monterey, offering unforgettable sailing experiences, boat rentals, and sailing classes for all skill levels.
Monterey Sea Lions
0.4 km
Experience the lively spectacle of Monterey's playful sea lions at Fisherman's Wharf, where nature's charisma meets historic charm, creating unforgettable coastal memories.
Pacific House Museum
0.4 km
Explore Monterey's past at the Pacific House Museum, a captivating local history museum along the beautiful Recreational Trail.
Monterey State Historic Park
0.4 km
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Monterey State Historic Park, where history and natural beauty converge in California's stunning coastal landscape.
Essential places to dine
Benihana Monterey
0.3 km
Experience the thrill of teppanyaki at Benihana Monterey – where culinary artistry meets entertainment in every meal.
Rockfish Harbor Grill
0.4 km
Experience fresh seafood with breathtaking views at Rockfish Harbor Grill on Monterey's historic Fisherman’s Wharf.
Osteria Al Mare
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Osteria Al Mare in Monterey—where fresh seafood meets homemade pasta in a charming coastal setting.
Abalonetti Bar and Grill
0.4 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Abalonetti Bar and Grill, where coastal charm meets Italian flavors on Monterey's picturesque Fisherman's Wharf.
Fish & Chips Cafe
0.4 km
Experience authentic fish and chips at Monterey's picturesque Fisherman's Wharf with stunning ocean views.
Café Fina
0.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood and authentic Italian cuisine at Café Fina in Monterey's scenic Fisherman's Wharf.
Crabby Jim's seafood
0.4 km
Experience Monterey's best seafood at Crabby Jim's Seafood – where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Domenico's on the Wharf
0.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood and Italian cuisine at Domenico's on Fisherman's Wharf - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Crab House
0.4 km
Discover Crab House in Monterey – where fresh seafood meets vibrant international flavors along Fisherman's Wharf.
Crab Louie's Bistro
0.4 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Crab Louie's Bistro on Monterey's historic Fisherman's Wharf - where ocean views meet culinary excellence.
Paluca Trattoria
0.4 km
Discover Paluca Trattoria: where Italian culinary traditions meet fresh local seafood in an enchanting waterfront setting.
Jacks Monterey
0.5 km
Discover culinary delights at Jacks Monterey, where local flavors meet breathtaking coastal views in an unforgettable dining experience.
Cibo
0.6 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.
Coastal Kitchen
0.7 km
Experience fresh seafood and local flavors at Coastal Kitchen in Monterey's Cannery Row—where every meal tells a story.
The Crown & Anchor
0.7 km
Experience culinary delights at The Crown & Anchor in Monterey - where exquisite flavors meet vibrant social vibes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Morning Star Pearls
0.4 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
0.4 km
Explore the exquisite collection of handcrafted silver jewelry at Monterey Bay Silver Company, where each piece reflects the beauty of the California coast.
Sock Harbor
0.4 km
Explore Sock Harbor, a charming gift shop in Monterey offering unique souvenirs and local crafts that embody the spirit of California's coast.
Carousel Candies
0.4 km
Discover a world of sweet treats at Carousel Candies in Monterey, where nostalgia meets gourmet delights amidst stunning coastal views.
Ocean Front
0.4 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.
Harbor House
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Harbor House, the perfect spot for memorable keepsakes in Monterey's charming Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
Pirate's Cove
0.4 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local crafts at Pirate's Cove Gift Shop in Monterey's Fisherman's Wharf.
Wharf's General Store
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts at Wharf's General Store, a charming destination on Monterey's vibrant Fisherman's Wharf.
Joseph Boston Store
0.4 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
0.6 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.
Bliss Boutique
0.7 km
Shop in style at Bliss Boutique, Monterey's premier women's clothing store, offering unique fashion and accessories for every occasion.
Franklin Street Collaborative
0.7 km
Discover unique local art and handcrafted treasures at Franklin Street Collaborative, Monterey's charming boutique that celebrates local makers and creativity.
Sea Dreams
0.8 km
Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures at Sea Dreams in Monterey, where every item tells a story of the past.
Cannery Row Antiques Mall
0.8 km
Explore the charm of Cannery Row Antiques Mall, where history and art intertwine in Monterey's vibrant antique hub.
LunaBlu
0.8 km
Discover unique high-end designer and boutique clothing at LunaBlu, Monterey's premier shopping destination for fashion enthusiasts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pearl Hour
0.5 km
Experience the eclectic charm and unique cocktails at Pearl Hour, Monterey's hidden gem for nightlife enthusiasts.
Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
0.5 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.
Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
0.5 km
Discover the Best of California Wines at Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant in Monterey – A Cozy Spot for Enthusiasts and Casual Drinkers Alike.
The Wine Experience
0.7 km
Discover the finest wines and a cozy atmosphere at The Wine Experience in Monterey, where every sip tells a story.
London Bridge Pub
0.7 km
Discover the delightful mix of British tradition and Californian flavor at London Bridge Pub in Monterey.
Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
0.7 km
Discover craft beer in a historic train station at Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot, a lively brewpub in beautiful Monterey, California.
The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
0.8 km
Indulge in artisanal cocktails and a cozy ambiance at The Whisky Club, Monterey's premier destination for whisky lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.
Compact Disco
0.8 km
Experience Monterey's nightlife at Compact Disco, where classic cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
Britannia Arms
0.8 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
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alfredo's Cantina, Monterey's favorite cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
Bulldog Sports Pub
1.0 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
1.0 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
1.1 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
1.2 km
Discover the exquisite wines of Bargetto Winery Tasting Room in Monterey, a perfect blend of flavor and coastal charm.
LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110
1.5 km
Discover the enchanting LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill, where mouthwatering cuisine meets stunning views in the heart of Monterey.
