About

History that’s living in the moment

Stunning monarchs. Endless birdlife. Vivid wildflowers. Rockstar geology. Wow-worthy whales. Pacific Grove’s landmark museum opened in 1883, the same year as the Brooklyn Bridge. While it holds the position of one of the oldest natural history museums in the United States, its collection’s deep diversity of the Central Coast’s flora, fauna, and historical artifacts and stories, its pioneering scientific work, and its interactivity with the community make it as current as ever.

The Pacific Grove Monarch Sanctuary at 250 Ridge Road is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset daily. Museum volunteer docents can be found at the Monarch Sanctuary from Nov to Feb when available, generally from 11-3 daily, weather permitting.
You can also take a walk around the sanctuary while listening to our new AUDIO TOUR! This audio tour guides visitors through the Pacific Grove Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, enriching the interpretive signs along the trail.