Monterey, California: Monterey State Historic Park

Located just two hours south of San Francisco, the Monterey State Historic Park is often overlooked by tourists who have come to see the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fisherman's Wharf, Cannery Row, and the beautiful Pebble Beach golf course. It is the Park, however, that offers perhaps the best look into the history and culture of the region. The Park is home to over a dozen 19th century structures, which are surrounded by lush gardens and several Spanish-style fountains. The 1827 Custom House, one of California's oldest structures, is located within the Park and in very close proximity to Fisherman's Wharf, which makes visiting both very convenient.

Monterey was originally founded by the Spanish in the 18th century and served as a Spanish capital until 1821, when it became the Mexican capital of California (following Mexico's independence). Monterey was designated as the only legal port of entry for all foreign ships and remained under Mexican control until 1846, when it was claimed by the United States during the Mexican War. Monterey was officially ceded to the United States in 1848 in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.

Buildings and artifacts of the sea trade that once flourished in the area are easily accessible to tourists. In addition, visitors have access to one of the rental abodes of Robert Louis Stevenson and the Larkin House, once the brief home of Civil War General William Tecumseh Sherman, who was then an Army lieutenant. Whether visitors are spending several hours or several days, the Monterey State Historic Park offers an interesting and educational glimpse into California's past.