One of California's most historic cities, Monterey served as California's capital under Spanish, Mexican and U.S. military rule.The U.S. flag was first officially raised in California here on July 7, 1846, bringing 600,000 square miles of land to the United States.

Monterey State Historic Park is a collection of significant historic houses and buildings interspersed throughout Old Monterey. Hour long guided history tours are led regularly; tour information and tour tickets may be obtained at the Custom House (adjacent to Old Fisherman's Wharf). Our history tours are a great way to start your discovery of Monterey.