Monterey, a city with a rich cultural heritage, is the oldest city in the state and served as the state capital for a short period of time. Founded in 1770 by Captain Gaspar de Portola and joined by Franciscan Father Junipero Serra, Monterey was under the rule of the Spanish until July 1846 when Commodore John Drake Sloat arrived and claimed California for the United States.

With its unique adobes and famous attractions such as the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row, Monterey has become a thriving tourist destination with world-class dining, scenic beaches with accompanying hiking & biking trails, and historic parks.