Monterey's Moon Tree: A Lunar Legacy
Discover the Monterey Moon Tree: A coast redwood grown from a seed that journeyed to the moon, planted in 1976, a symbol of history, science, and nature's enduring legacy.
The Monterey Moon Tree, a coast redwood in Friendly Plaza, possesses a unique history. Grown from a seed carried to the moon on Apollo 14 in 1971 by astronaut Stuart Roosa, it symbolizes humanity's reach beyond Earth. Planted in 1976 as a Bicentennial gift, the tree stands near Colton Hall, where California's constitution was drafted, and the Old Monterey Jail, creating a nexus of historical significance. While visually similar to other redwoods, its celestial origin sparks curiosity and wonder, connecting visitors to both local and cosmic history. A visit offers a moment of reflection on human ambition and the enduring power of nature, making it a compelling stop for those exploring Monterey's rich heritage.
A brief summary to Monterey Moon Tree
- 536-570 Pacific St, Monterey, California, 93940, US
Local tips
- Combine your visit with a tour of Colton Hall Museum and the Old Monterey Jail for a deeper understanding of Monterey's history.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique beauty of the Moon Tree and its surroundings in Friendly Plaza.
- Check the City of Monterey's website for events happening in Friendly Plaza during your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
From Cannery Row, a popular tourist area, the Moon Tree is approximately a 20-30 minute walk. Head southwest on Cannery Row, then turn left onto Foam St. Continue onto Reeside Ave, then turn right onto Del Monte Ave. Turn left onto Figueroa St, then turn right onto Pacific St. Friendly Plaza, where the Moon Tree is located, will be on your left, near Colton Hall. This is a straightforward walk through the heart of Monterey.
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Public Transport
Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) offers several routes that stop near Friendly Plaza. From the Monterey Transit Plaza, located downtown, take any MST line heading towards Pacific Street. Disembark at a stop along Pacific Street near City Hall. From there, Friendly Plaza is a short walk away. A single ride on MST costs $2.50. Check the MST website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to the intersection of Pacific Street and Madison Street in Monterey. Limited street parking is available, but nearby parking garages offer more options. The Downtown East and Downtown West garages are located a block away from Friendly Plaza. Parking rates in these garages are typically free for the first hour, then $1.00 per 30 minutes, with a daily maximum of $12.00. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak tourist season.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are readily available in Monterey. Request a ride to 550 Pacific Street, Monterey, CA, which is the address for Colton Hall Museum in Friendly Plaza. Expect to pay around $8-$15 for a short ride from Fisherman's Wharf or Cannery Row, depending on traffic and demand.
Discover more about Monterey Moon Tree
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