TOP 10 Historic house guided tours in California

Rancho Los Cerritos is a historic museum and park located at 4600 Virginia Road in Long Beach, California, United States. This beautiful Spanish-style hacienda offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture. Explore the lush gardens, learn about the Rancho's past through exhibits and guided tours, and enjoy special events and programs for all ages. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, Rancho Los Cerritos is a must-visit tourist attraction in Southern California.

The Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum is a historical institution located in Compton, California. This museum is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the rich history and culture of the region. Visitors can explore the adobe ranch house, which was built in the early 19th century and served as the home of the prominent Dominguez family. The museum features exhibits on the area's Spanish and Mexican heritage, as well as artifacts and documents related to the Rancho San Pedro land grant. Guests can also enjoy guided tours, educational programs, and special events held throughout the year. Located at 18127 Alameda Street, the Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into California's past.

The West County Museum, located at 261 South Main Street in Sebastopol, California, is a small but fascinating museum featuring local history with rotating exhibits. Open to the public for free on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 2 pm, this volunteer-run institution showcases the original Pomo native settlers, early agricultural history, and the legacy of horticulturalist Luther Burbank in West Sonoma County. The museum also offers a gift shop and knowledgeable volunteers to answer questions. Currently, the museum's exhibit "So… what's in the boxcar?" delves into the museum's archives, showcasing the bits and pieces collected over the years from the town's residents. Housed in a restored 1917 Petaluma and Santa Rosa Electric Railway Depot, the museum's collection includes over 8,000 photographs and artifacts in a Pacific Fruit Express 'boxcar'. Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore Sebastopol's rich heritage at the West County Museum.

Año Nuevo State Park, located at 1 New Years Creek Road in Pescadero, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its elephant seal viewing opportunities. From April to November, visitors can enjoy a self-guided walk along the Año Point Trail to observe up to 10,000 elephant seals as they breed, give birth, and molt their skin on the scenic dunes and beaches. The park also features the Marine Education Center, housed in a historic dairy ranch, offering natural history exhibits and a bookstore. The park's diverse natural and cultural resources attract visitors from around the world, with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking along ocean bluffs, and exploring the remains of a 19th-century lighthouse on Año Nuevo Island. The park's terrain includes coastal prairie, wetland marshes, and dune fields, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including the endangered San Francisco Garter Snake and California Red-legged Frog.

William B. Ide Adobe State Park is a historic park located at 21659 Adobe Road in Red Bluff, California. The park is a popular tourist attraction with its beautiful grounds that are open from sunrise to sunset. The Visitor Center is open Friday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm, where guided tours of the homestead buildings are available. Dogs are allowed on a leash in the picnic area and parking lots. Online reservations are not available for this park. The park is named after William B. Ide, who played a significant role in early California history by writing the proclamation that established the California Bear Republic in 1846, which lasted for 22 days.

The Heidrick Ag History Museum, located at 1962 Hays Lane in Woodland, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for those interested in the rich history of agriculture in California. This museum houses over 100 antique tractors and a vast collection of agricultural artifacts that showcase the evolution of farming in the region. Visitors can choose to take a guided tour with a knowledgeable docent or explore the exhibits at their own pace while listening to an informative guide-by-cell audio service available in both English and Spanish. Whether you're a history buff, a farming enthusiast, or simply curious about California's agricultural heritage, the Heidrick Ag History Museum offers a unique and educational experience for all.

San Francisco by Gilles offers high-quality guided tours of San Francisco, off the beaten path, exclusively in French. Whether you choose a full-day or half-day tour, in a group or privately, the option to customize your experience is available. Away from the crowds, in small groups, your guide will feel like a friend showing you around his city. From the calm waters of the bay to the waves of the Pacific, from the imposing buildings of Downtown to the residential neighborhoods, from the hilltops to the valleys, your guide will share his in-depth knowledge and fascination for the "City by the Bay".

Coldwell Banker Realty in Petaluma, California is a premier real estate agency located at 165 1st Street. Serving the communities of Petaluma, Cotati, Penngrove, Rohnert Park, Santa Rosa, Windsor, Sebastopol, Sonoma, Vallejo, Napa, Novato, and San Rafael, our team of over 70 talented Independent Sales Associates are dedicated to helping you find your dream home in the North Bay area. With a focus on giving back to the community, our Independent Sales Associates are actively involved in various local organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, the DARE program, Petaluma People Service, and more. We take pride in participating in events like Christmas for Kids and our local hometown parade.

Located on the highest point of East Anacapa Island in Ventura, California, the Anacapa Island Lighthouse has been a crucial navigational aid for sailors traveling through the treacherous Santa Barbara Channel since its completion in 1932. The lighthouse, with its third-order Fresnel lens, guided countless ships safely through the channel, preventing shipwrecks and accidents. The lighthouse station was manned by a dedicated crew who maintained the beacon, fog signal, and tower, ensuring the safety of maritime traffic in the area. Visitors to the Anacapa Island Lighthouse can explore the surrounding area and enjoy the stunning views from the rocky shores of the island. While tours of the lighthouse itself are not permitted for safety reasons, the visitor center on the island provides information about the history and significance of this historic structure. The original Fresnel lens, which was replaced with a modern solar-powered acrylic lens in 1989, is on display at the visitor center for visitors to see.

The Leonis Adobe Museum, located at 23537 Calabasas Road in Calabasas, California, is a historical institution that brings California's 1880s Rancho period to life. Visitors can join the award-winning team as part-time tour guides, where they can learn about the legacy of Espiritu Chijulla Leonis and her legal battle to retain the Adobe after her husband's death. The museum also offers tours of the historic Leonis Adobe house, where visitors can interact with Percheron Horses and learn about their interesting breed. Supporting the museum through visits and memberships helps to preserve and share the story of the Leonis family and the community built around the rancho. Members receive benefits such as free entry to events, discounts in the gift shop, and access to the Passport 2 History program. Animal sponsors receive a personal certificate and a plush ranch animal of their choosing as a thank you for their support.

Sumêg Village, located in Trinidad, California, is a unique tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Yurok culture. The village features authentic Yurok family houses, a sweathouse, changing houses, a redwood canoe, and a dance house. It is used by the local Yurok community for educational purposes and to share their rich culture with park visitors. Throughout the year, Sumêg Village hosts various celebrations and welcomes school groups studying California history. The village was planned and constructed in the 1990s by the Yurok people in collaboration with park staff. Modern amenities such as a parking area, covered cook shelter, and picnic tables are available for visitors.

The Cayetano Juárez Adobe is a historic adobe building located at 376 Soscol Avenue in Napa, California. This institution serves as a living museum, showcasing the rich history and culture of the region. Visitors can explore the adobe's traditional architecture and learn about the life of Cayetano Juárez, a prominent figure in Napa's history. The institution offers guided tours, educational programs, and special events that celebrate the heritage of the area. With its picturesque setting and informative exhibits, The Cayetano Juárez Adobe provides a fascinating glimpse into the past of Napa Valley.

Located in Monterey, California, Casa Soberanes is a historic tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the rich history of the area. The institution includes significant historic houses and buildings, such as the Custom House and Pacific House, which are open for tours from Tuesday to Sunday. Guided walks are also available on Thursdays through Sundays, allowing visitors to explore the area with knowledgeable guides. Monterey State Historic Park is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, as it preserves and interprets places and objects of statewide historic significance. The park offers hour-long guided history tours, as well as a self-guided mobile phone tour along the "Monterey Walking Path of History". Visitors can explore the two-mile path and discover some of California's most historic homes, buildings, and beautiful gardens.

Located in Santa Barbara, California, the Old Mission Santa Barbara 1786 is a historic institution that serves as both a museum and a place of worship. Visitors can take a step back in time as they peruse artifacts, learn new stories, and explore the Mission's rich history. The institution also features a historic mausoleum for remembrance and the Santa Bárbara Mission Archive-Library, which houses a wealth of early California and Mission history. Visitors can immerse themselves in historic books, rare documents, and preserved artifacts to gain a deeper understanding of California's roots. Additionally, guests can learn more about the Franciscan Friars who have lived at the Mission since its founding in 1786. Those looking for a spiritual experience can join a morning, afternoon, or weekend Mass in the historic Mission Church.

The Covina Firehouse Jail Museum, operated by the Covina Valley Historical Society, is a true snapshot of life at the turn of the last century. Located at 125 East College Street in Covina, California, this craftsman-style house was originally built for a local pharmacist and has been fully furnished to offer visitors a rare glimpse into the past. The museum showcases local historical artifacts, documents, and photographs, providing insight into early rural life in the San Gabriel Valley. The building, which served as a municipal jail until 1974, also houses a collection of vintage pictures and records that highlight the area's cultural and social history. The museum is open free of charge every Sunday from 1-3 pm and offers guided tours for small groups. Volunteers are always welcome to help with museum operations, and the Covina Valley Historical Society hosts dinner meetings and walking tours to engage with the community and share the rich history of Covina. Whether you're interested in local history or simply looking for a unique experience, the Covina Firehouse Jail Museum is a must-visit destination in the heart of Covina's historic downtown district.

Located on 3rd Street in Encinitas, California, the Encinitas Boathouses are a unique sight to behold. These two towering structures, resembling enormous boats, stand out among the quaint beach houses and cottages in the area. Built in the late 1920s by architect Miles Kellogg using salvaged timber from a local bathhouse and the historic Moonlight Beach Dance Parlor, these boathouses have never set sail. Instead, they have served as homes for landlubbers for decades. With 19 portholes, mariner's wheels, and a quirky starboard list, the SS Encinitas and SS Moonlight showcase early California courtyard architecture and vernacular design associated with Historic Highway 101. Each boathouse measures 15 feet tall by 20 feet long and offers around 1100 square feet of living space.

Lighthouse Point is a charming tourist attraction located at 700 West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz, California. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Santa Cruz Surfing Museum housed in the historic Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse. Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic coastal path, explore the beautiful gardens, and watch surfers catching waves at the popular Steamer Lane surf spot. Lighthouse Point offers a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Santa Cruz's rich maritime history.

Malibu Lagoon State Beach is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Malibu, California, United States. The grounds are open daily from 8:00am to sunset, with the historic Adamson House offering public tours on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 11am-2pm. The Malibu Lagoon is where Malibu Creek meets the Pacific Ocean, and visitors can enjoy picnicking, nature trails, bird watching, and exploring the unique tidal wetland ecosystem. The Adamson House, a California Historical Landmark, overlooks the lagoon and Surfrider Beach, showcasing historical artifacts and decorative ceramic tile from Malibu Potteries. The adjacent Malibu Lagoon Museum provides a look into the area's history, from the Chumash tribe to the surfing era. Access to the museum and first floor of the house is available for disabled visitors. Guided educational programs and self-guided school group reservations are offered. Dogs are not allowed on trails or the beach. Come visit Malibu Lagoon State Beach for a day of history, nature, and relaxation.

Año Nuevo State Park, located in California, United States, is a park known for its elephant seal viewing experience. From April to November, visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour to see up to 10,000 elephant seals returning to breed, give birth, and molt their skin on the scenic dunes and beaches. No tours or reservations are needed during this time, as visitors can walk out to the viewing areas on the Año Point Trail. Docents are available at each viewing area to provide information and answer questions. A free permit is required to visit the seals, which can be obtained at the park from 8:30-3:30 daily. The park also features the Marine Education Center, housed in a historic dairy ranch, and offers a variety of natural and cultural resources for visitors to explore. The terrain of Año Nuevo includes coastal terrace prairie, wetland marshes, dune fields, and coastal scrub, hosting a diverse range of plants and animals, including rare species like the San Francisco Garter Snake and California Red-legged Frog. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching along the ocean bluffs, with Año Nuevo Point being a major bird migratory route. Additionally, the park offers Equal Access Tours for visitors requiring mobility assistance.

The Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, located in Tahoma, California, is a historic summer home that was completed in 1903 by San Francisco businessman I. W. Hellman. The mansion, also known as Pine Lodge, is considered one of the finest in the high Sierra region. The estate, spanning nearly 2000 acres, was later inherited by Hellman's daughter, Florence Hellman Ehrman, and her husband Sydney. The mansion features beautiful grounds and gardens, with various outlying buildings including a caretaker's cottage, maids' quarters, and boat houses. Visitors can explore the mansion and grounds through guided tours offered by the Sierra State Parks Foundation. The mansion is open to the public year-round, allowing visitors to experience the opulent tradition of Tahoe summer homes. The tour includes a look at the various rooms furnished with dark, overstuffed furniture, Navajo rugs, and hand-woven paneling. Guests can also learn about the history of the mansion, including its modern utility systems and the activities that were enjoyed by the Ehrman family and their guests.

Welcome to General Sherman Quarters, your gateway to the rich history and vibrant culture of Monterey, California. Located at 464 Calle Principal in the heart of Monterey, our establishment offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of California's most historic cities. As part of the Monterey State Historic Park, we are just a stone's throw away from over 10 historic structures and sites, including the renowned Custom House Plaza and Old Fisherman’s Wharf. Monterey is a city steeped in history, having served as the capital under Spanish, Mexican, and U.S. military rule. It was here that the U.S. flag was first officially raised in California in 1846, marking a significant moment in American history. Immerse yourself in this rich heritage by embarking on the "Monterey Walking Path of History," a two-mile journey through time. Discover where Spanish explorers first landed in 1602, stroll along one of the nation's last remaining whalebone sidewalks, and follow in the footsteps of famed author Robert Louis Stevenson.

Welcome to SecureSpace Self Storage West Carson Torrance, your trusted partner for all your moving and storage needs. Conveniently located at 722 West 220th Street, Torrance, California, our facility offers a variety of storage solutions tailored to meet your specific needs, whether you're downsizing, relocating, or simply seeking extra space for your belongings. Our facility boasts a range of storage unit sizes, starting from our compact 5x5 units, ideal for storing seasonal items or small furniture, to our spacious 10x15 units, perfect for housing the contents of a larger residence. Whether you're storing a few boxes or an entire household, our friendly and knowledgeable staff are here to help you select the perfect unit and provide expert advice on packing and storage.

Welcome to San Clemente Shore by Wedgewood Weddings, your idyllic Southern California sanctuary where the Pacific Ocean sets the stage for unforgettable weddings. Nestled at 150 East Avenida Magdalena in San Clemente, California, this stunning venue combines the charm of Spanish-style architecture with the breathtaking beauty of ocean views. Say your vows against the backdrop of rolling waves and capture timeless moments on our wrap-around balcony while your guests enjoy cocktails and the gentle sea breeze. Our venue features a vaulted grand ballroom with exposed beams, a comfortable bar/lounge area, and meticulously landscaped grounds, perfect for both intimate and grand celebrations. At San Clemente Shore, we offer all-inclusive, customizable packages that take the stress out of wedding planning, allowing you to focus on the joy of your special day. Our expert team provides daily planning assistance, a walkthrough rehearsal, and ceremony coordination to ensure every detail is flawless.

Welcome to Teresa Peters Executive Realtor, your trusted partner for all your real estate needs in Baldwin Hills and the surrounding markets. Located at 6080 Center Drive, Los Angeles, California, our agency is dedicated to providing comprehensive real estate services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Despite the challenges of a fluctuating real estate market, our expertise and commitment ensure that you receive the highest level of service and guidance throughout your buying or selling journey. At Teresa Peters Executive Realtor, we understand the complexities of the real estate landscape, especially in high-demand areas like California. Our team is well-versed in navigating these challenges, whether you're looking to invest in luxury properties, explore affordable housing options, or find your dream home amidst Southern California's competitive market. We stay informed about the latest developments, regulations, and opportunities, such as new legislation affecting housing and innovative projects transforming the region.