The San Carlos Cathedral, also known as Royal Presidio Chapel, was constructed in the 1770s. As the oldest functioning Catholic Church and the first stone building in the state of California, this cathedral's significance to local history is undeniable. The beautiful architectural style of this cathedral is breathtaking, with Spanish and Moorish influences.
A striking ensemble of time-honored landmarks comprise the Monterey State Historic Park. You can tour numerous historic period homes that date back to the 1800s as well as early adobe buildings. Each house has been restored to its original condition and is decorated with authentic antiques to match. There are also gardens you can explore. Come experience a piece of regional history and culture. Admission to the park is free.
Tor House, one of the most prominent attractions in Carmel, was the home of poet Robinson Jeffers and his family from 1919 to 1999. This piece of property located on Carmel Point has an absolutely breathtaking view of the coastline. The property consists of a stone house, Celtic tower and an English garden. A tour of the facility is highly recommended to learn about the famous poet's life.
Also known as Mission Carmel Basilica and more formally, as Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Rio Carmelo, this was the second of the nine missions founded by Father Junipero Serra. The area was originally chosen for its agricultural possibilities in 1771, but the temperate climate and exquisite landscape soon made it Father Serra's favorite. The building, which fell into ruins in the 19th Century and has since been completely restored, exhibits classic fortress-like architecture, with thick, bougainvillea-covered walls and a central courtyard. A Moorish-style bell tower contains nine bells and is open to the public. The steps to climb the tower are a bit steep, but the views from that vantage point are magnificent.
The Old Customhouse is a Spanish Colonial style building that's famous because it's where US Commodore John Drake Sloat declared that California was part of the United States in 1846. Built in 1827, this historic building was used for civic purposes of Monterey County. The one-story structure, with a balcony in the front, reflects the olden style homes. This is the oldest government building in the state and the first State Historic Landmark.
This two level, brick house has been a refuge for many artists, families, writers and people from all walks of life during the early 18th-century. The French House as it was called then was the abode of famous Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson where he courted his to-be wife. This is where he wrote the "Old Pacific Capital," and was inspired to pen the “Treasure Island.” To save it from the verge of destruction, it was bought by two women who in turn gifted it to the state to make it a memorial. Today the Stevenson House has many memorabilia that includes furniture, first edition books and personal belongings of the writer.
Make your way through beautiful Carmel-by-the-Sea one bite at a time. Carmel Food Tours offers insightful and delicious guided walks that take visitors into the heart of Carmel. Savor food from a well-curated selection of Carmel's best eateries and specialty food stores while learning about the unique history of the city by the sea. The tours are suitable for all fitness levels, though more appropriate for adults as many of the food selections are paired with tastes of local wine.
Carmelite Monastery is a stunning, ivory-hued monastery built in 1931, and houses young nuns who form a group called the Carmelite Sisters. Visitors can meditate and contemplate in the quiet, tranquil confines of this monastery and also educate themselves on this monastic way of life. Overall, a visit here will take your mind off the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Among the most photographed and scenic routes in the United States, California State Route 1 has plenty of sites to see, including the formidable Bixby Creek Bridge. The reinforced concrete and open-spandrel bridge was constructed in 1932 to connect Big Sur residents with the outside world, as there was no proper road at the time. The bridge is one of the tallest single-span cement bridges in the world. The historic bridge has been featured on stamps, in automobile advertisements and on scenic California posters. Be sure to bring your camera when visiting this monolithic landmark.
Tor House, one of the most prominent attractions in Carmel, was the home of poet Robinson Jeffers and his family from 1919 to 1999. This piece of property located on Carmel Point has an absolutely breathtaking view of the coastline. The property consists of a stone house, Celtic tower and an English garden. A tour of the facility is highly recommended to learn about the famous poet's life.
The Point Sur State Historic Park has been created around the historic Point Sur Lighthouse in California. This secluded lighthouse was built atop a cliff in 1889 to guide ships navigating the Pacific Ocean and the rocky coast, and to prevent shipwrecks which were prevalent in the area prior to its construction. The lighthouse is still operational and guided day tours of the site are available. Those looking for a spooky experience can go for a moonlight tour or sign up for ghost hunts held on specific dates.
The San Carlos Cathedral, also known as Royal Presidio Chapel, was constructed in the 1770s. As the oldest functioning Catholic Church and the first stone building in the state of California, this cathedral's significance to local history is undeniable. The beautiful architectural style of this cathedral is breathtaking, with Spanish and Moorish influences.