California Historical Landmark No. 2: Portolá Journey's End
Visit the site where the Portolá Expedition marked their journey's end and discovered the San Francisco Bay in Menlo Park, California.
California Historical Landmark No. 2 in Menlo Park marks the northernmost campsite of the Portolá Expedition in 1769. Led by Gaspar de Portolá, the group of 63 men and 200 animals journeyed from San Diego in search of Monterey Bay but instead discovered the San Francisco Bay. Finding it too large to traverse, they turned back, making this site a significant point in California's early European exploration.
A brief summary to California Historical Landmark No. 2
- Alma St, Menlo Park, Linfield Oaks, California, 94025, US
Local tips
- Take a moment for quiet reflection on the significance of the site and the Portolá Expedition's impact on California history.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby El Palo Alto, another historical landmark related to the Portolá Expedition.
- Bring a camera to capture the historical marker and the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding area.
Getting There
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Walking
From Menlo Park Caltrain Station (1100 Merrill Ave, Menlo Park), head southwest on Merrill Ave toward Alma St. Turn right onto Alma St and continue for about 1.3 miles. The landmark will be on your right. There are sidewalks along Alma Street. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
From Palo Alto Caltrain Station, take the VTA bus route 22 towards East Palo Alto. Get off at the stop near the intersection of Alma St and Oak Grove Ave. From there, walk approximately 5 minutes south on Alma St, and you will arrive at California Historical Landmark No. 2, located on the right. A single ride on VTA costs $2.50.
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Car
From US-101 S, take exit 404 for Marsh Rd toward Menlo Park. Merge onto Marsh Rd, then turn left onto Alma St. Continue on Alma St; California Historical Landmark No. 2 will be on your right. Limited street parking is available on Alma Street. Parking is free.
Discover more about California Historical Landmark No. 2
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