The Monterey State Historic Park is comprised of a variety of preserved buildings that show the cultural diversity of the area, from when Monterey was a Spanish outpost, to it being the capital when this area was a Mexican province, to California becoming a state of the United States. A good place to start is the Pacific House Museum, open everyday from 10-4 (and free). The Pacific House is a museum which illustrates the growth of Monterey and California through the years, as well as an area dedicated to the Native Americans of the area.
There is a free walking tour you can take throughout the city which takes you by all of the historic homes, or you can join a park ranger for a narrated walking tour on most days. In addition, there are free ranger walks through many of the homes, each lasting 45 minutes - be sure to get a schedule of tours at the Pacific House. Some buildings you can visit: Royal Presidio Chapel, the oldest structure in Monterey; Colton Hall, where the Constitution of California was written, California's first theater, and more.
We enjoyed the tours we took today - the ranger was very informative, and it was all very interesting. If you're a history buff, or just have some free time, or are looking for something to do that is free, this is the place for you.
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