The Stevenson House: A Literary Landmark in Monterey

Explore the historic Stevenson House in Monterey, where Robert Louis Stevenson once lived and wrote, and discover a treasure trove of literary history and artifacts.

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Step back in time at the Stevenson House, a beautifully preserved Spanish Colonial building in Monterey that once served as a boarding house known as the French Hotel. It's here that a young Robert Louis Stevenson, the famed author of *Treasure Island* and *The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde*, resided in 1879. Explore the rooms where Stevenson penned some of his early works and courted his future wife, Fanny Osbourne. The house showcases a collection of Stevenson's personal belongings, antique furniture, and art, offering a glimpse into the life and times of this literary giant and Monterey's vibrant past. The Stevenson House is a must-see for literature enthusiasts and history buffs alike, providing a unique window into the world of a celebrated author and the captivating history of Monterey.

A brief summary to The Stevenson House

530 Houston St, Monterey, California, 93940, US

Local tips

Check the Monterey State Historic Park website for the most up-to-date information on tour schedules and any potential closures.
Consider visiting during the off-season (fall or winter) for a more intimate experience, as the house can get crowded during peak tourist season.
Take some time to explore the Stevenson House gardens, a tranquil oasis perfect for quiet contemplation.

Getting There

Walking

From many points in downtown Monterey, the Stevenson House is easily accessible on foot. ориентируйтесь по Houston Street и Pearl Street. The house is located at the corner of Houston and Pearl Streets. Look for the two-story Spanish Colonial-style building with a historical marker. It's a short walk from the Monterey State Historic Park Custom House and other nearby attractions.
Public Transport

Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) provides bus service throughout Monterey. Several MST routes stop near the Stevenson House. Check the MST website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. Disembark at a stop near downtown Monterey, such as the Monterey Transit Plaza, and walk a few blocks to the Stevenson House. A single ride on MST costs approximately $2.50.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Monterey. Request a ride to 530 Houston Street, Monterey. The fare from Fisherman's Wharf or Cannery Row typically ranges from $8 to $15, depending on traffic and demand.
Driving

If driving, navigate to 530 Houston Street, Monterey, CA 93940. Limited street parking is available near the Stevenson House. Parking garages are located within a few blocks, including the East Garage and West Garage. Parking fees at these garages typically range from $2 to $3 per hour.

Discover more about The Stevenson House

The Stevenson House, located in the heart of Monterey, California, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and its connection to one of literature's most beloved figures, Robert Louis Stevenson. This two-story Spanish Colonial-style building, originally constructed around 1836, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the life and times of the famed Scottish author during his stay in Monterey in 1879. Originally built as an adobe by Don Rafael Gonzalez, the customs administrator at the Port of Monterey, the building later became known as the French Hotel, a boarding house that catered to travelers and locals alike. It was during this period that Robert Louis Stevenson, then a struggling writer, found lodging at the French Hotel while recovering from illness and awaiting the finalization of Fanny Osbourne's divorce. Stevenson's time in Monterey proved to be a pivotal period in his life, both personally and professionally. During his stay at the French Hotel, Stevenson found inspiration in the city's unique atmosphere and the surrounding landscapes. He spent his days exploring the Monterey Peninsula, taking long walks along the coast, and immersing himself in the local culture. It was during this time that he penned some of his early works, including "The Old Pacific Capital," a collection of essays reflecting on Monterey's history and its transition from a Spanish colonial outpost to an American city. Some even say that his walks along the Monterey Peninsula inspired the setting for *Treasure Island*. Beyond his writing, Stevenson's time in Monterey was also marked by his courtship of Fanny Osbourne, an American woman whom he had met in France several years prior. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including Stevenson's ill health and financial struggles, the couple's love persevered, and they were eventually married in San Francisco in 1880. In the 1920s, the Stevenson House became a gathering place for Monterey's vibrant arts community, attracting painters associated with the Society of Six. In 1937, the building was purchased by Edith C. van Antwerp and Mrs. C. Tobin Clark to preserve it as a memorial to Stevenson. They bestowed it to the State of California, and it was restored as a home representing the Spanish Colonial period. The hotel was later named the Stevenson House in honor of Robert Louis Stevenson. It holds a large collection of Stevenson papers and Stevenson memorabilia and features a bas relief depicting the author writing in bed. Today, the Stevenson House stands as a museum and a property of the Monterey State Historic Park, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the world of Robert Louis Stevenson. The house showcases a collection of Stevenson's personal belongings, including first edition books, manuscripts, and photographs, providing a glimpse into his life and work. Visitors can explore the rooms where Stevenson lived and wrote, imagining what it must have been like to be a struggling writer in 19th-century Monterey. The Stevenson House also features exhibits on the history of the building itself, from its origins as an adobe to its time as the French Hotel and its eventual transformation into a museum. Visitors can learn about the families who lived in the house over the years and the role it played in Monterey's development. In addition to its historical and literary significance, the Stevenson House also boasts a beautiful garden, providing a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Visitors can stroll through the garden, admiring the flowers and plants, and enjoying a moment of peace and reflection. The Stevenson House is more than just a museum; it is a living testament to the power of literature and the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson. It is a place where visitors can connect with the past, learn about a remarkable author, and appreciate the beauty and history of Monterey. A visit to the Stevenson House is an enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression on all who enter its doors. It's a chance to walk in the footsteps of a literary giant, to imagine the world through his eyes, and to gain a deeper appreciation for the power of storytelling. Whether you are a die-hard fan of Robert Louis Stevenson, a history buff, or simply someone looking for a unique and enriching experience, the Stevenson House is a must-see destination in Monterey. It is a place where the past comes to life, where literature and history intertwine, and where the spirit of a remarkable author continues to inspire.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Robert Louis Stevenson House

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Cooper-Molera Adobe

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Golden State Theatre

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House of the Four Winds

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Monterey City Historic Preservation

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Old Monterey Foundation

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The Famous Old Fisherman's Wharf Sign

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Carmel Valley Wine Tours / Tours Monterey

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Carmel Valley Wine Tours / Tours Monterey

Fisherman’s Wharf

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Monterey State Historic Park Office

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Monterey Harbor Monument

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Monterey Custom House

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California State Historical Landmark No. 1

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Frank E. Sollecito Ballpark

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Doud House

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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.

Experience fresh seafood and stunning ocean views at Sandbar & Grill in Monterey – your go-to spot for coastal cuisine.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Maybe On Monday

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Rubystar Gems & Gifts

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LunaBlu

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Monterey Imports

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Luminata Books & Gifts

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Cha-Ya

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Bliss Boutique

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Franklin Street Collaborative

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Nice Consignment Boutique

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The Feral Market

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Joseph Boston Store

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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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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Alfredo's Cantina

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Britannia Arms

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Compact Disco

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The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey

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Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot

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Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant

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London Bridge Pub

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LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110

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LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110

Pearl Hour

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Bar Cart Cocktail Co.

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The Wine Experience

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Trident Room

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Bulldog Sports Pub

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Del Monte Bar & Grill

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Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge

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The Stevenson House: A Literary Landmark in Monterey

A brief summary to The Stevenson House

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of The Stevenson House

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Stevenson House

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Robert Louis Stevenson House

Cooper-Molera Adobe

Golden State Theatre

House of the Four Winds

Monterey City Historic Preservation

Old Monterey Foundation

The Famous Old Fisherman's Wharf Sign

Carmel Valley Wine Tours / Tours Monterey

Fisherman’s Wharf

Monterey State Historic Park Office

Monterey Harbor Monument

Monterey Custom House

California State Historical Landmark No. 1

Frank E. Sollecito Ballpark

Doud House

Unmissable attractions to see

Monterey County Youth Museum

Big Sur Land Trust

Larkin House

Monterey Museum of Art

Monterey Moon Tree

San Carlos Cathedral

Monterey Acquarium

Colton Hall Museum and Jail

Casa Serrano

Old Monterey Jail

Monterey Ghosts

GoCar Tours | Monterey Sea Car Tours

The Original Monterey Walking Tours - guided tours of historic Monterey and Cannery Row

The Monterey Mural by Granizo

Monterey Conference Center

Essential places to dine

Melville Tavern

Old Monterey Café

Cella Restaurant & Bar

Estéban Restaurant, Local's Favorite, Open for Weekend Brunch & Dinner, NOW Patio Dining!

EPSILON

Rosine's Restaurant

Alvarado Street Brewery

Stokes Adobe Restaurant

Turn 12 Bar & Grill

Montrio

The Crown & Anchor

Cibo

Jacks Monterey

Loulou's Griddle In the Middle

Sandbar & Grill

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Maybe On Monday

Rubystar Gems & Gifts

LunaBlu

Monterey Imports

Luminata Books & Gifts

Cha-Ya

Bliss Boutique

Franklin Street Collaborative

Nice Consignment Boutique

The Feral Market

Joseph Boston Store

Harbor House

Wharf's General Store

Ocean Front

Carousel Candies

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Alfredo's Cantina

Britannia Arms