Monterey History and Art Museum
Discover Monterey's captivating history and vibrant art scene at the Stanton Center, a cultural hub showcasing the city's unique heritage and artistic expressions.
The Monterey History and Art Museum, also known as the Museum of Monterey, resides in the Stanton Center, offering a captivating journey through the city's rich past and artistic expressions. Located in Custom House Plaza, near Fisherman's Wharf, the museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts and art, emphasizing Monterey's connection to the sea and its cultural evolution. Visitors can explore exhibits dedicated to maritime history, local art, and significant historical events, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region's heritage. With its central location and engaging displays, the museum serves as a gateway to discovering Monterey's unique identity and contributions to California's story. The museum is open from Thursday to Monday, offering a cultural experience for all ages.
A brief summary to Monterey History and Art Museum
- 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, California, 93940, US
- +1831-372-2608
- Visit website
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events to enhance your visit.
- Combine your museum visit with a stroll along Fisherman's Wharf to experience Monterey's maritime atmosphere.
- Take advantage of the nearby waterfront parking, but be aware of hourly rates and time limits.
Getting There
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Walking
From Fisherman's Wharf, walk southwest along the waterfront towards Custom House Plaza. The Monterey History and Art Museum is located in the Stanton Center, a two-story building situated directly across the plaza from the Custom House, near the large anchor. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and offers scenic views of the harbor.
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Public Transport
Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) buses serve the Monterey Transit Plaza, a short walk from the museum. From the transit plaza, walk towards Fisherman's Wharf and then continue to Custom House Plaza. Several MST routes connect to the plaza, including the free MST Trolley which operates during the summer and select holidays, providing easy access from Cannery Row and other key areas. A single ride on MST costs $2.50.
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Driving
If driving, approach the museum via Del Monte Avenue. Turn onto Washington Street to access the Waterfront Parking Lot adjacent to Fisherman's Wharf. From the parking lot, walk towards Custom House Plaza; the Stanton Center will be visible on the far side of the plaza. Parking costs $1 per half hour, with a daily maximum of $15.
Discover more about Monterey History and Art Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monterey Harbor Monument
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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 State Historic Park Office
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Monterey Custom House
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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
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Explore California State Historical Landmark No. 1 in Monterey, a vital piece of California's heritage showcasing the area's rich maritime history.
The Original Monterey Walking Tours - guided tours of historic Monterey and Cannery Row
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Uncover the rich history and coastal beauty of Monterey with guided walking tours that bring the area's stories to life.
The Famous Old Fisherman's Wharf Sign
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Explore the iconic Old Fisherman's Wharf Sign in Monterey, a vibrant symbol of the city's rich maritime heritage and coastal charm.
Old Fishermen's Grotto
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Old Monterey Foundation
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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.
Carmel Valley Wine Tours / Tours Monterey
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Explore the exquisite wines and breathtaking landscapes of Carmel Valley Wine Tours, a must-visit for wine enthusiasts in Monterey, California.
Fisherman’s Wharf
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Monterey Bay Whale Watch
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Discover the wonders of Monterey Bay with unforgettable whale watching tours, where marine life meets breathtaking coastal scenery.
Monterey City Historic Preservation
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Doud House
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Discover the Doud House, a historical landmark in Monterey, California, where history and beauty intertwine in a captivating journey through time.
Golden State Theatre
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Hippolyte Bouchard Plaque
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Unmissable attractions to see
Pacific House Museum
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Explore Monterey's past at the Pacific House Museum, a captivating local history museum along the beautiful Recreational Trail.
Monterey State Historic Park
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Experience the rich cultural heritage of Monterey State Historic Park, where history and natural beauty converge in California's stunning coastal landscape.
Monterey Sea Lions
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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.
Custom House Museum
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Explore California's oldest government building, the Custom House Museum in Monterey, and step back in time to witness the state's rich maritime history and cultural heritage.
0 Old Fisherman’s Wharf
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Casa del Oro
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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.
1 Old Fisherman’s Wharf
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Discover the timeless beauty and culinary delights of Old Fisherman’s Wharf, a must-visit coastal retreat in Monterey, California.
Old Fisherman's Wharf
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Discover Old Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey, a vibrant blend of seafood dining, shopping, and breathtaking ocean views, perfect for all travelers.
GoCar Tours | Monterey Sea Car Tours
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Experience the scenic beauty and rich history of Monterey, California, with GoCar Tours' unique GPS-guided adventures.
Monterey Conference Center
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Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Monterey Conference Center, where business meets the beauty of California's stunning coastline.
California's First Theatre
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The Monterey Mural by Granizo
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Discover Monterey's captivating history through the vibrant artistry of the Monterey Mural, a stunning ceramic tile masterpiece by Guillermo Wagner Granizo, chronicling the city's evolution.
Casa Soberanes
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Step back in time at Casa Soberanes, a beautifully preserved 1840s adobe in Monterey, offering a glimpse into California's rich history and cultural heritage with its charming architecture and tranquil gardens.
Monterey Acquarium
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Discover the wonders of the ocean at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, home to diverse marine life and a global leader in ocean conservation, research, and education.
Municipal Wharf
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Essential places to dine
Jacks Monterey
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Paluca Trattoria
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Benihana Monterey
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Crabby Jim's seafood
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Cibo
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Crab Louie's Bistro
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Domenico's on the Wharf
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Café Fina
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Fish & Chips Cafe
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Abalonetti Bar and Grill
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Crab House
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The Crown & Anchor
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Turn 12 Bar & Grill
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Loulou's Griddle In the Middle
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Sandbar & Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Joseph Boston Store
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The Feral Market
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Harbor House
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Wharf's General Store
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Ocean Front
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Carousel Candies
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Pirate's Cove
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Sock Harbor
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Morning Star Pearls
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Bliss Boutique
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Monterey Bay Silver Company
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Franklin Street Collaborative
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LunaBlu
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Monterey Imports
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Maybe On Monday
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
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Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
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London Bridge Pub
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Compact Disco
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The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
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Britannia Arms
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Alfredo's Cantina
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Pearl Hour
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Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
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LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110
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The Wine Experience
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Bulldog Sports Pub
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Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
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The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
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Bargetto Winery Tasting Room
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Indian summer
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Old Capital Club
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Monterey Civic Club
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Pacheco Club
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Paper Wing Theatre & Supper Club
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Preez69Studio
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at Preez69Studio, Carmel-By-The-Sea's premier adult entertainment club, perfect for an unforgettable evening.
Terrace Lounge
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Experience the serene ambiance and exquisite cocktails at the Terrace Lounge, a hidden gem in Pebble Beach, California.
Big Sur Taphouse
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Court's Lounge
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The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
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Khartoum Lounge
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Tessora's Barra di Vino
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Cardiff & Cocktails
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The Vesper
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Katie Bloom's
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