Presentation on Map Reviews Nearby

John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez

4.7 (199) 4202 Alhambra Ave, Martinez, CA 94553, United States

Categories

Tourist attraction
Historical place

Location on the map

Martinez, Contra Costa County, California, US

Phone: +1 925-228-8860
Site: http://nps.gov/JOMU/

Opening hours

Monday:10 AM–5 PM
Tuesday:10 AM–5 PM
Wednesday:10 AM–5 PM
Thursday:10 AM–5 PM
Friday:10 AM–5 PM
Saturday:10 AM–5 PM
Sunday:10 AM–5 PM

Edit info

Total reviews rating 4.7

199 Reviews for John Muir National Historic Site 2024:

Review №1

2024-03-22 06:14:24

Very nice quiet historical place to visit forLovely scenic walk. If the rangers there youre allowed to go inside and view the two properties. Which was a lovely experience. I would recommend this for history buffs!

Review №2

2024-01-24 04:40:14

Really cool historical site. Learned more about John Muir and had some fun. Even the kids enjoyed this stop. Entry is free, yes thays right I said free. There is a short movie about John Muir life and legacy as well as a guided tour. Very interesting piece of California, as well as USA history. East to find, and free entry, as well as free but small parking lot.

Review №3

2024-02-10 01:15:57

This is a great example of government spending. Honoring a wilderness advocate. Perhaps the first contemporary environmentalist. Federally protected here. Although in my heart of hearts I think he would have preferred to be buried in Yosemite national Park. Perhaps were headache was flooded.

Review №4

2024-01-06 01:07:43

Crazy how we stumbled on this returning home from visiting the Marin Headlands but here goes.I knew a little something about John Muir and his legacy including his cofounding of the Sierra Club. My university has his entire library and collection of written works which are accessible online.He got to write about his adventures and political advocacy with the comfort of the mansion, property, and his wifes family resources and friends support.I did learn more about his later years and its interesting to think about how far he walked with what a piece of bread in his pocket from Martinez to Yosemite. He traveled to various continents.I had a blast ringing the bell!

Review №5

2023-12-17 17:38:11

So, it was very special going to the home of the father of state parks. Because of this man we have a lot of nature preserved across the country. His life was a mess but his heart was well placed. Every time I go to a state park now Ill be feeling more connected to it.

Review №6

2023-10-14 00:41:15

It is a perfect place to spend a family weekend morning. Free admission and dogs allowed outside the main house and the adobe. Kids (young and older one as well) will enjoy the junior ranger quest! All together you will discover the beginning of National Park Service, you will admire John Muir and become a naturalist yourself.

Review №7

2023-05-09 03:51:53

This historical gem is easily accessed from Highway 4. Outside the visitor center is a relatively small parking lot and flower beds full of California native plants.The grounds of the site are lawns, orchards, and a few historic buildings.The Muir House has Victorian furnishings and original art, and includes displays with interesting historical information about John Muir and his family. Click the QR code offered in the visitors center to download a copy of the self-guided tour.The grounds have a few picnic tables around the orchards. Notable sites have dial in numbers you can call to hear recording with more information.The Martinez Adobe is also on this site, but it is currently closed due to seismic stability issues.A note on accessibility: The site has wide paved paths, but it is hilly. The Strentzel/Muir House is full of steep stairs. There are stairs up to the front door, and the house itself has multiple floors (including the attic and bell tower).

Review №8

2024-05-17 04:32:58

A piece of history. Wonderful people working there. Its a must see if youre in Martinez.

Review №9

2024-06-05 06:48:38

All I can say is that this place gave me the chills, I felt weaird walking around his house, I felt like I was being disrespectful or something but the outside made me feel mike if I was in a Back 2 the Future movie

Review №10

2023-08-03 03:12:00

It was such a fun experience at John Muir NHS. My 11 year old loved it! I loved it, too. He got to ring the bell up in the attic once he was done with the scavenger hunting. We learned a lot about John and his family. Its afamily-friendly fun zone. Highly recommend!

Review №11

2024-05-06 16:11:19

Admission was free which is always nice, the visitor center was nice, good movie in the theater about John Muirs life, the house is beautiful and you could walk through it all, the grounds were beautiful, only down sides were the Adobe house was closed for some reason and the parking lot is very small. Had to park in the residential area and walk.Rangers were all very friendly and helpful.

Review №12

2023-12-04 03:30:08

It was something special visiting the Father of the National Parks home in Martinez California! Its conveniently located across a 7-11 I believe thats where he would pick up a sixer and a hot pizza before heading home!!

Review №13

2022-08-16 04:19:46

The John Muir National Historic Site is a wonderful historic site that will serve to teach about the historic significance John Muir made in America to preserve natural resources and create Americas National Parks.There are several other nearby National Parks or Historic Site to honor and see John Muirs lifetime work.The John Muir National Historic Site is located on his homestead and farm. Visiting you will step back in time to a simpler day, enjoy wonderful stories about John Muir, his family, his values, and the difference he made in America that lives on today and forever.Do yourself a favor and check out the John Muir National Historic Site, you will not be disappointed!If you find my review helpful, please click on the thumbs-up 👍 icon!You can also follow my posts in Google Maps.Thank you!

Review №14

2023-10-31 03:33:07

Great displays. Very good movie about John Muir and this facility. Store offers great John Muir book collection. Walk through the mansion and grounds.

Review №15

2023-06-11 19:27:58

A very pleasant stop along Hwy 4. Great hiking trail nearby on the other side of the freeway. Short (1 mile), but steep.

Review №16

2023-10-07 22:21:50

I really liked the movie and the audio tour as well as the tour given inside the house. Learned so much and enjoyed my visit.

Review №17

2024-06-20 15:22:20

This essentially just the house that John Muir loved in the last 20 years of his life and not much more. The real tribute to Muir is Yosemite national Park.

Review №18

2021-05-16 00:32:57

Nice historic home to visit! It was free entry, they do have a donation box once you enter the home if you like. Lots of things in the home on display are original from the time period or replica or what was originally in the home. Able to walk through almost the entire home, with each room having different info to read through and they even have a cell phone tour as youre walking through, but we didnt do that and went at our own pace. The third story is the attic space which was neat because there is another set of stairs leading up to the bell tower and observation area and at the bottom of those stairs you can ring the bell. Once you climb up those stairs it is a nice 360° view, not a lot of space, room for about 4-5 people, but very pretty view and windows all around! If in the area I do recommend taking a little time to walk through the home! I added some pictures, but didnt want to give the whole tour myself, lol!

Review №19

2022-01-08 22:58:53

Revisited this historical site with my bf. Learn about John Muir life & his family!John Muir was a writer, a lecturer, a geologist, a botanist, a glaciologist, an explorer, a school teacher, an inventor, a fruit rancher, a husband, and a father.Muir was perhaps this countrys most famous and influential naturalist. If it werent for John Muir and his writings, we probably would not have Yosemite National Park as we know it today. He was also involved in the creation of the Grand Canyon, Kings Canyon, Petrified Forest, and Mt. Rainier National Parks. Additionally, his writings about Alaska led to further preservation of the landscape over time. Because of his influential writings and role in the creation of multiple parks, he is often called The Father of Our National Park System.

Review №20

2024-06-26 11:28:47

This is our park number 351 among the 429 NPS units. We got to visit the house and were able to know more about John Muir life story.

Review №21

2019-07-23 14:00:31

Great place, lots of history, nice decent led tour, nice place to come out and picnic. I hosted a small thing with my son and two friends. We all enjoyed learning about John Muir and the people who worked there were willing to answer and questions. My son also was able to get a junior ranger badge as they had an activity book to take with you as you explored the grounds.

Review №22

2022-10-09 02:32:58

What a cool hidden gem for someone who helped make it possible for us to visit national parks! Loved the grounds and getting to visit grapes, olives, etc! And of course getting to ring the bell! 🔔

Review №23

2017-02-26 16:14:47

This historic site is beautiful and a must-see/do for anyone who loves national parks and wants to know more about the history and story of John Muir.The grounds are not large at all, but it is very beautiful. It is completely free to tour the grounds, you can take a self-guided tour with an audio narrative using your cell phone. There are numbers along the tour, where you call the number the rangers give you, you also dont have to use up your minutes on your phone by staying online till you reach the next station, you can call back and pick up where you left off when you reach the next station. Its really cool.I love that this historic site is so close to where I live, the parking area is small but there is parking across the street if the onsite one is all filled up. The tour doesnt take the long, but like I said the ground are beautiful, its hard not to just take a long stroll through the grounds. Its peaceful.I saw the video at the end, and I must say its really empowering. I found his life to be quite fascinating, especially after watching the video! I highly recommend visiting this landmark!

Review №24

2024-01-23 19:10:19

A great little adventure I didnt know was here. Free!!

Review №25

2017-10-16 19:50:56

Incredible historical site in the heart of urban East Bay. The well-maintained Italianate Muir home is an impressive site of historic interest, but just as good is the surrounding landscape, including orchards, walking paths, and the Martinez Adobe, which commemorates the Anza expedition. Well worth a detour off the freeway.

Review №26

2020-01-07 16:25:34

We love going to National Historic Sites and John Muirs home was our 2nd time to visit. We brought my Father and grandson this time. The house is very well preserved. We especially liked his Scribble Room.

Review №27

2018-05-06 19:59:54

Great little historical site (dont pay attention to the grim facial expressions in the pictures)! I spent roughly 1.5 hours here, which included watching the 20 minute video, looking around both houses on the property, and having a packed lunch in the orchard. Its free, so if youre in the area its definitely worth a visit. The volunteers and rangers were super friendly and knowledgeable. I didnt have time to do the hike up the hill on the trails on the other side of the freeway.

Review №28

2022-04-03 03:38:05

Excellent historic site. Learnt a lot about John Muir. The staff in the place is very kind and welcoming. It also has a phone guide available. No entrance fee. No parking fee.

Review №29

2019-11-09 00:21:28

We really loved this self-guided tour through the home of John Muir. Highly recommend. Such a gem of a find -- we got more than we were expecting!Restrooms in the visitor center, ADA parking, cute gift shop, friendly staff!

Review №30

2023-03-05 22:26:36

The park tells the story of John Muir by showing his house where he lived for ten years and raised his family. You can walk the ground, Sue a nineteenth century house and hike the surrounding hills covered in oak trees. There is a small souvenir info shop as well.

Review №31

2021-02-26 23:51:17

Just did a quick trip to this Bay Area gem. Even though the actual home is closed right now during the pandemic, the property is open and beautiful. There is a cell phone guided tour that was easy. The rangers are friendly & knowledgeable. Ripe fruit from the orchards is available to visitors! The kids can participate in the Jr. Ranger program too. We are looking forward to returning when the home is open and participating in other programs.

Review №32

2023-09-11 21:43:41

Home of the father of national park.Free to visit and well maintain.Warm welcome from the staffs.😘

Review №33

2022-09-22 23:59:17

Easy access—its right off of CA Highway 4. A lot of useful information. I didnt realize Muir became wealthy owning a fruit orchard. This allowed him to retire and attend to his love of conserving nature. Definitely a site to check out if youre in the SF Bay Area!

Review №34

2022-09-27 06:28:09

The Park Rangers posted here were very friendly and really cared about the history.Well worth the visit. Thank you...

Review №35

2022-08-21 00:48:23

Beautiful Home of the legendary John Muir. All of the national park rangers were extremely helpful and very kind.If you’re a fan of John Muir this is a must see!

Review №36

2021-03-12 02:44:27

A great smaller National Historic Site with John Muirs historic home and property. The home is in great condition and so are the orchards and land around the property. Well worth a visit if in the area, and completely free.

Review №37

2022-08-11 00:50:13

Its free! Theres self guided tour. Also, you can visit up to the bell tower. The orchard has a variety of fruits to see.

Review №38

2022-06-28 00:38:42

Very cute national site! The park rangers were very nice and friendly as well.The house was interesting to walk around and learn about John Miurs family and life.They also have a junior ranger program that is fun for kids (no matter what age). :)

Review №39

2019-06-09 00:58:31

I dont give much 5 stars.The house, the remains of the farm, the adobe and the open space are all first class in a single way. A true piece of nature, nurture and history. If you are in the mood downtown Martinez is charming and full of fun places to eat along with other shops. If you want to arrive via a country road, come through Tilden Park down to Alhambra.

Review №40

2019-05-18 21:22:22

Great historical site which showcases the life and home of the father of the National Parks system. The entrance has extremely friendly, helpful guides, a collection of Muir memorabilia (including all his books), two wheelchair-accessible individual restrooms, and a small theatre which seats around 20-25 guests comfortably for a 20-minute video about his life and the site. The houses two floors, attic, and bell tower (which you can ring yourself!) can all be toured at your own pace, with a collection of period furniture and placards documenting each room. A guide is on-site for any questions as well. If needed, a large golf cart can accommodate anyone who may have trouble waking up the hill to the house. Highly recommended to visit, and best of all, its free (though donations are accepted if you please)!

Review №41

2024-02-10 21:49:12

Surprised and delighted.. and will go back. nice grounds.. and really interesting tour of house with knowledgeable docent. staff very friendly too

Review №42

2023-12-31 17:27:26

Beautiful way to have spent my lunch break.

Review №43

2023-11-24 05:45:17

This is a nice National Historic Site. I went here and was satisfied with my experience. This NHS preserves conservationist John Muir’s house. It has a visitor center with some exhibits and an informative 20 minute film explaining his life, his efforts to protect and advocate for America’s National Parks, and the fruit farm he maintained here. His house is located on top of a hill and has a preserved kitchen, study, multiple bedrooms, an attic, and a small chamber on top of the house covered in windows which provides scenic views of the surrounding area. This site also preserves the rest of his farm and nearby Mt. Wanda, which has some hiking trails. I gave this National Historic Site five stars because it has an informative film and a well preserved house.

Review №44

2023-07-05 01:59:03

What a great landmark from one of natures greatest environmentalists of all time! 🌲Has restrooms 🚻 and bicycle parking 🅿️

Review №45

2021-09-06 23:31:48

Beautiful pice of history and so much to see.It is in very well preserved shaped and nice to see and learn history!Thank you for preserving.Good for whole family.Very educational

Review №46

2023-04-07 15:52:40

Amazing National Historic Site. The house built in the 1800s is beautifully maintained, and the orchards are gorgeous.

Review №47

2017-04-23 02:20:10

Great place to be here on Earth day! The parking is limited. So please ensure you park at the Alhambra high school parking lot and use the shuttle. The NPS staff is really nice! Dont miss the short movie in the visitors center. Strangely Google maps took us to back side of the parking lot but ensure you go to the front side next to football field -- thats where the shuttle stop is.

Review №48

2024-05-17 19:11:29

Was traveling for business and made it just in time to explore the house. Very inspiring but I wish they were open an extra hour.

Review №49

2019-08-02 05:33:53

I remember visiting this as a field trip for school, and was extremely excited to take my husband. I will warn its not the most exciting thing for younger kids. As an adult I appreciated this visit a lot more.

Review №50

2022-11-22 16:09:16

This is a good place to visit with kids. A house tour and a large farm with a lot of fruit trees. You are allowed to pick fruits for consumption. A good picnic place with picnic tables as well.

Review №51

2019-02-09 22:33:17

The park rangers are knowledgeable and love what they do, and the site is a lovely, well-maintained historic location. Definitely worth visiting if you are in the Martinez area. One can also find out more about the Port Chicago monument as well, which sparked a major turning point in not only the militarys history, but the nations.

Review №52

2019-03-17 07:21:19

Beautiful spot to wonder around and learn some local history about the Muir family. The staff was lovely and answered all questions we had. I cant wait to return!

Review №53

2022-01-15 06:57:01

Since I love NP, I am fully admire what John Muir did for generations to come. And he actually have loved about 25 years of his last life in local Martinez!

Review №54

2023-09-15 19:25:17

Stevie Miller sounded great here! Beautiful nighttime venue.

Review №55

2018-09-12 00:02:07

Awesome place and in our own back yard! We had a really good time exploring and learning about the history of the era and area.

Review №56

2023-06-09 20:42:26

Very good experience. The staff is friendly, professional, and very knowledgeable! Learn a lot more about John Muir and his family.

Review №57

2019-03-11 15:39:37

We visited the John Muir National Historic sure in a rainy Sunday afternoon. We enjoyed a ranger walk/talk about John Muir’s life and a very good ~20 minute video as well. I look forward to visiting again on a day we can explore the trails/grounds. I would recommend this to any park buff

Review №58

2021-12-30 22:23:36

Beautiful home where John Muir lived with his wife and daughters. Surrounded by hiking trails of different levels. Kids did the junior ranger program in the visitor center. The house is very well preserved and documented.

Review №59

2024-06-20 22:40:03

Our family got a private tour back in 1963 when we moved to Martinez. I remember it very fondly.

Review №60

2023-07-18 21:42:11

I had 2 youngsters and they loved every minute of it. The staff was Amazing and very aware of the words they used in the presence of little ears. We will definitely be going back to pick fruit & excited about it!! Thank You Lindsay and Rangers for letting our jr rangers on the team 😄😊

Review №61

2023-09-13 19:34:16

Those interested in conservation and protected wildlife areas needs to see the home of John Muir, learn about him, his family and legacy. Its a nice afternoon stop. Bring a picnic to sit out in the orchards. Pick fruit from the orchards.

Review №62

2020-01-15 01:59:15

Beautiful grounds. Love the detail inside the house and history in the Adobe. Very helpful .

Review №63

2024-05-03 03:05:58

A great historical place to go. I learned a lot about John Muir and his legacy.

Review №64

2022-08-29 17:23:42

Such a great local treasure. This is one of the most important people in our nations park systems history. Go visit. Learn and support. Really nice grounds to stroll around and lots of local fruits you can snack on with kiddos all summer. We had figs and an apple and the grapes were almost ready. Excellent historical house with very very cool lookout up top. Very nice guides and staff. Good facilities kinda small parking lot but people come and go quickly.

Review №65

2023-03-13 03:17:48

I was surprised to enjoy this place! We stopped just for the NPS stamp, but the grounds are lovely! The house was well kept. You currently cannot get into the adobe since it is not earthquake safe and they are hoping to update it to code with some grant funds, but for now, you just enjoy the outside. The rangers were lovely, shop was nice, restrooms were clean!

Review №66

2023-04-03 21:07:54

This place was really cool I like going to the house-- it was free, it was amazing to see the style they lived in at that time, the old fashioned phone, the high ceilings the small rooms, the furniture it was kind of out of sight.Unlocking the grounds and looking at all the fruit trees and the plants.Free parking and then I took the trail and that was really out of sight...

Review №67

2023-06-23 23:16:41

FREE.. Beautiful and pretty interesting. Great tribute to John Muir

Review №68

2022-11-29 01:27:28

I was in Richmond the other day and searched for somewhere I could spend some time, and I decided to visit this NHS in Martinez. I knew I was visiting home of John Muir, but I was astonished to find John Muir was the Father of the National Park System! I was so excited because I just visited some national parks and I liked them all!There was self-guided audio tour available. You could scan the code at the visitor center, or call the phone number on each sign inside the park. By pressing the stop number, you would hear stories about the life of John Muir and his family.The house was also open for visitors. When you go into the house, just grab a brochure at the entrance, read through it while walking in the house, return it before leaving the house. The house was well maintained and the tour brochure was well organized. It was like you were there and the history uncovered in front of you. That was so cool.The rangers were very friendly and helpful too. If you are in Bay Area and love national parks, this is definitely a place that worth visiting.

Review №69

2021-06-14 22:56:32

Nice house and free entrance, give you whole story about John Muir.

Review №70

2019-11-19 19:14:20

Amazing experience early Monday morning, I got a 1 on 1 photo shoot in the house. Amazing preservation and thoughtful presentation. A hidden National Park gem in a sea of freeways and oil refineries.

Review №71

2020-03-07 19:42:40

Free entrance, free and easy parking, beautiful house and interesting history of a man and family who shaped our nation’s national park system.

Review №72

2019-10-21 04:53:53

Nice place to visit. Great idea to do small quick wedding on valentines day.

Review №73

2023-10-31 23:25:40

Great place if you want to learn the history of The man who helped shape the way we think about our relationship with wilderness today. Bring a smartphone, the audio commentary is great, but requires a smartphone.

Review №74

2024-03-28 21:10:02

Future project starting April 3

Review №75

2024-04-03 21:46:25

It was a great experience

Review №76

2021-03-23 03:35:27

Very interesting and historic. Go hike Mt Wanda afterward.

Review №77

2024-01-17 03:28:51

Was beautiful and amazing. Loved the movie before going on your self guided tour.

Review №78

2024-03-29 22:21:15

Free admission! Great for a Cub Scout outings/adventure.

Review №79

2023-03-16 02:02:30

Had a great time with our school group. Eric gave an excellent, informative as well as educational tour.All with a good dose of low key humor. We all really enjoyed our trip. Thank you ❣️

Review №80

2022-08-02 22:13:27

This is a really nice place to go to when all the fruits are ripe, becuase you can pick all the fruit you want off of their big verity of fruit trees and bushes. Some fruits theyve got are peaches, grapes, plums, limes, lemons, pears, pomegranate, and quite a few more that I cant quite remember off the top of my head. And the John Muir house has lots of cool things to explore and has lots of cool history in it. Fun place to go!

Review №81

2024-05-08 01:17:52

Love coming during the week as a quiet place to walk with the baby.

Review №82

2024-04-08 02:02:57

Low key but a great collection honoring John Muirs life and legacy

Review №83

2024-05-08 14:11:37

This is a beautiful historic site. Free to visit

Review №84

2023-08-06 04:53:06

So cool to see where the father of our national parks spent some time in his life writing and working. This is a well preserved piece of history with great staff excited to share stories and facts.

Review №85

2023-04-04 18:18:18

I wasn’t expecting much but needed to show two little grands a fun time on a cloudy day.Place wasn’t busy and staff was helpful and full of interesting snippets about John Muir and his life.Everyone has a fun time. Definitely recommend you check it out.

Review №86

2023-06-13 03:33:10

What a beautiful property and interesting history here.

Review №87

2023-08-24 20:36:04

Great house and grounds tour! Park Rangers were super friendly and informative. If you know who John Muir is you must go here!

Review №88

2023-09-06 10:32:42

Nice, quiet reflective spot. Beautiful orchard and nice walking paths. House is hosted by passionate volunteers who are very informative.

Review №89

2024-03-02 05:01:04

A delightful step into history at the home of the father of the national parks.

Review №90

2020-03-19 03:12:31

Such a positive influence on nature.... historically incredible in my eyes

Review №91

2022-10-04 23:26:45

Highly recommend! Self guided tour or private tours available for the grounds. They even allow guests to pick certain fruit on the property depending on the time of year. Cant wait to take my family to check it out!

Review №92

2019-08-04 16:22:22

This is a great place to take the kids and grandparents. Its great for all ages. We had a picnic there and enjoyed the scenery. Dont forget to get the junior ranger badges for the kids. Across the street, theres a nice place to hike. I like how theres a tour, short video, and gift shop. Nice amenities. Enjoy a relaxing Sunday or any day here.

Review №93

2024-04-09 19:18:46

Staff were awesome.

Review №94

2017-06-17 19:12:39

Such a fun place to explore! There are fruit trees all over that you can pick. Bring the kids and your 🐕

Review №95

2019-05-19 02:14:47

What a great find! I love Yosemite and so have always been interested in John Muir. Theres free parking, a visitor center which is also free with donation boxes all over the site. You can tour the inside of the house. its big, beautiful & ornate. The house is open until 4p.m. you can tour the grounds after the house closes. in The visitor center they have a 20-minute movie on John Muir, a gift shop & restrooms

Review №96

2024-04-07 23:49:52

Excellent tribute to the spokesman that inspired the national ark system.

Review №97

2023-04-13 22:51:37

To hang out where John Muir actually lived is awesome think of the history here in Martinez but think of John Muir sitting on his Porch Looking Over the Water telling Teddy Roosevelt that he needs to help out the environment tell me that isnt cool.

Review №98

2024-02-13 06:45:09

Lovely park like setting. Free admission.

Review №99

2020-08-30 12:11:54

AWESOME!! John Muir must have been one super cool dude, I mention those words since I never met him. This area here isnt just about the house, but also the grounds. The visitor center was redone not to long ago. You can start a hike from the grounds here. A good size parking lot. A whole lot of history here. Dont think John spent much time here since he was such an outdoors man. Thanks for all you did John. Would have been great to meet you.

Review №100

2023-04-04 03:26:10

An important (and somewhat overlooked IMHO) piece of US and California history, a great tribute to an American treasure, John Muir. And its free! Take your kids to the attic and ring the bell - its only moderately annoying 😅

Review №101

2023-10-08 22:46:14

Do you know you drive by this place especially if you live in or near that neighborhood at least once a week and if you don’t go in and check it out you’re gonna miss out on a great piece of history it’s open daily from 10:00am to 5 PM. There’s a cool hike you can go on. You should be ashamed of yourself if you haven’t done it already. Go outside and smell some fresh air learn some history.

Review №102

2021-06-24 22:57:41

I felt welcomed in his home. The information presented in each room introduced me to John Muir and his fsmily on a personal level . I left feeling affection for them all as well as being grateful for his marvelous work as a naturalist and citizen advocate. The guide book is brief, engaging, and has drawn illustrations one can color later at home.The grounds are welcoming too. One can wander freely guided by small signs. They even invite visitors to sample the fruit in the orchards! Shade and fruit trees, stream and bridge, and an historic adobe home well maintsined, as tho family were still in residence. Touring this local treasure is always a sweet and memorable experience. Sand its free!

Review №103

2021-04-17 20:45:40

I love historical homes, I love museums, this is both. Great place to learn about Muir and see how he lived. Being able to do a self guided tour, because covid, did not diminish the experience. Some trails were closed but the area was beautiful and staff great! We had the house to ourselves for 20 mins and the staff were well informed and engaging.

Review №104

2021-10-18 03:17:43

Had there been tea and no ropes on the seats, it would have felt like someone was living there and we were just dropping in for a visit. Lovely home, complete with plants on the porch. The delightful chaos of Johns study alone was well worth the visit.

Review №105

2023-05-11 20:37:59

Had a really good time visiting this fascility. Since it was free and we cared about the history behind it, didn’t care much about other tourism lacking aspects and enjoyed the overall experience! Visited in 2018

Review №106

2019-12-03 23:32:03

Went there on Thanksgiving weekend. It was rainy but that did not dampen our visit. The park ranger ( I am sorry forgot his name😔)had a very nice tour at 11AM on that Sunday. I learned so much about John Muir that totally surprised me. I can safely say that getting an education on the father of National parks and for free...was an experience I will never forget. Go! ...touring his house and getting a guided tour is totally Free

Review №107

2023-05-15 20:01:19

This was a fun low key place to visit. The house was period. The staff was awesome. The gift shop and staff full of information. Free..Donations accepted

Review №108

2019-01-08 06:43:03

A fun historic East Bay site. Also free to visit. The John Muir house is in good shape and has some interesting rooms/history/artifacts. I believe it is 3 or 4 stories with the attic. You are allowed to walk around most areas. There is also a small guest house at the back of the property you can visit. Worth a quick visit if youre in the area.

Review №109

2019-04-11 03:05:56

This was a beautiful location and it made me so happy that it’s so well kept up. The workers are incredibly helpful and friendly. They made this historic location sound interesting and the workers are very knowledgeable about John Muir and his home. The bottom floor of the house is wheelchair accessible with help of a lift, but the second floor is not wheelchair accessible. Definitely recommend going on one of the tours.

Review №110

2019-11-26 23:01:45

The video of John Muirs history was very enjoyable. The house itself was magnificent . Beautiful architecture marble fireplaces just gorgeous. First time visiting this site with a field trip kind of a rush through but I will be going back for a longer stroll through the house and grounds.

Review №111

2023-12-24 06:52:48

An Interesting place. Good for one or two hours. staff are friendly and helpful.

Review №112

2016-08-23 05:10:29

Great way to learn about John Muir and see how he lived when in the bay area. The site is not too big and can be visited in a couple hours, although you can extend your visit by going for a walk on the trails across the highway. You can walk through the main house by yourself, or join the ranger led tour at specific times.

Review №113

2020-01-21 03:38:33

Home of one of the greatest people to ever live. I only wish I could thank him in person for what he did for the land.

Review №114

2021-06-28 02:36:04

I came here in 2018. A nice place to enjoy the afternoon for a few hours. I’d love to come back and enjoy a picnic with friends. Or maybe shoot a wedding if they do weddings here. It’s perfect for a field trip or family outing. If you’re in the area and need something to do, stop by.

Review №115

2022-01-08 05:59:19

I recently brought a group of naturalists to the John Muir Historic Site for a tour, a gravesite visit and a hike to Mt. Wanda. The NPS rangers treated us like royalty, answered all of our questions, and made our visit both memorable and fun. Cant thank the staff enough for their attention to detail, their hospitality and their knowledge. Many thanks for sharing this remarkable mans legacy. – Tom Graham

Review №116

2023-06-06 04:06:16

Love visiting the historical sites. This place was awesome. The rangers who were working were really friendly too.

Review №117

2017-07-14 15:16:55

Love it! If you are a fan of John Muir, California History, or the history of Yosemite, you have to take a visit to the Muir house. You can go inside the house and all the way upstairs into the bell tower for a nice view. There is good clean bathrooms, not too much walking, and a good informational shop.

Review №118

2018-10-21 22:42:23

Very hospitable and knowledgeable folks from the National Park Service. This is a free location and a good lesson in U.S. history. I recommend watching the 20 minute movie and if you time your visit correctly, the guided tour is quite interesting. If not, the self guided tour will take less than 30 minutes.

Review №119

2021-06-13 16:35:53

Currently they are having self guided tours. We loved climbing through the house all the way up into the Bell Tower! California history, loved rotating exhibit, had letters from the past, that brought history ALIVE. Free! We shopped in gift shop & found many books & gifts.

Review №120

2018-01-05 00:42:10

We’ve been several times and always enjoy it when we go back. The video of John Muir’s life is really informative and interesting. Going into the house we found a park ranger that told us so many things we didn’t know about the family. She was GREAT! The view from the Belvedere was great too!

Review №121

2022-07-24 07:24:16

Instructive, a little quaint, an interesting glimpse into California history. Worth a visit

Review №122

2023-05-01 15:55:38

We enjoyed the trip and my 7yo learned a lot from the park rangers and the activity booklet. He got a junior ranger pin.

Review №123

2018-07-21 22:10:05

Love this place - hard to believe it was ground zero for John Muir’s many campaigns to preserve the environment with Martinez now being surrounded by refineries. A modest hike from the train station if you want to take Amtrak there - very easy to bike there from the station as well. The Visitor Center has a good film to watch to get the history of John Muir and it’s nice to cool off in the theater on a hot day.

Review №124

2023-09-22 13:56:08

I went here as part of an elementary school field trip. Really cool place. Lots of interesting history.

Review №125

2024-05-12 22:10:30

This is a free event. But donations are welcome.

Review №126

2018-06-03 04:02:51

A really nice place! The kids always have fun ringing the bell in the attic

Review №127

2021-10-21 16:05:04

I love this place. And yes I volunteer here so its just a subject that I cant get enough of. Theres a lot of history here in martinez. Theres a lot of history concerning John muir. And we all should be aware of this. Come on down when covids not bothering you. Remember essential oils are the key. John the Baptist parents diffused the sweet smelling oil amongst the townspeople to keep them well every morning and every night.

Review №128

2019-03-16 23:16:39

Very worthwhile! I went in March and there were beautiful poppies and wildflowers everywhere, John Muirs house was very interesting, definitely recommended for the beautiful nature. The park rangers were very nice.

Review №129

2017-07-26 21:41:29

Absolutely amazing! Beautiful. Stunningly and realistically captures life from another era. So much to see and partake in. Tours are a must do! Be prepared for a few flights of stairs and a bit of a walk around the awesome property.

Review №130

2023-10-18 15:25:10

A nice open space to explore. I had fun in the house itself and the video was very informative!

Review №131

2021-02-04 01:27:09

Beautiful little location with a fascinating history of the park and John Muir. The house was not open for tours but it was nice to stroll the grounds. The rangers were very helpful and informative. No fee!

Review №132

2019-06-01 13:32:09

Incredibly friendly staff. Their are bathrooms in the visitor center but none in the Muir-Strentzel House. Seasonally fruit is available from the orchard. Their are aspects of the site that will be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. Kids can even ring the bell tower! Whats cooler than that?

Review №133

2021-06-13 01:33:34

This was fun! It’s free to tour, and the Rangers are so helpful. I loved the scribbling room, reading about John Muir, and seeing his little sequoia tree he planted

Review №134

2023-05-13 20:48:09

My class really enjoyed their field trip here. Many want to go back with their families, especially to pick the fruit.

Review №135

2017-12-06 09:15:07

This National Historic Site should be on anyones list if a lover of our National Park system. John Muirs diligence, activism and writings brought about a historic shift of thought through the creation of protected lands. His passionate words and ceaseless dedication not only established Yosemite National Park but also helped to protect Grand Canyon NP, Mt Rainier NP, Petrified Forest and Glacier Bay. A visit here allows one to see his home, the office and desk where he wrote his many powerful works, and a small portion of the estates remaining orchards.

Review №136

2014-11-14 21:01:00

The hike up Wanda is terrific. Half hour up twenty minutes down if you’re into the exercise. The trip up can get your heart pounding and leave you breathless, if you wish. Lots of shade, trees and a good view await you. At about twenty minutes from the bottom there is a nice side trip if you turn right onto the narrow trail at the billboard/ picnic table. If you want to continue to Mt Wanda stay to the left and left again at the Y. About 200 feet past the Y is a narrow trail to the left leading to the top of Mt. Wanda. Keep this trail a secret we would not want this beautiful trail to get crowded

Review №137

2023-11-12 23:27:42

Great park staff and volunteers! Very interesting history of the area.

Review №138

2024-05-14 05:53:49

The staff was great and very knowledgeable.

Review №139

2016-03-25 23:35:06

I have had a hard time wrapping my head around this national Park because the home belonged to his wife Louie Strentzel. She inherited it from her father and ran the 2600 acre farm, orchards, and household.After she married John, he moved in and helped with the orchards and the trees but did not run the farm. He wrote, he traveled, he camped, he lobbied, and he studied.Louie encourage him in his writing, supported him with the funds of the farm to lobby in DC and travel to Alaska, introduced him to her contacts her family had made over the years, gave him a home, 2 daughters, and kept the home while he traveled .....and the National Park is called John Muirs Historic Home (Site).This is how we have lost her story.I asked the ranger on duty why Louie is not mentioned in her own home, and he said her piano is in the living room. After speaking to him in more depth he said maybe we could do a better job in our signage. I hope he will. I hope they all will.

Review №140

2017-06-28 02:01:33

John Muir home, just in our neighborhood, no charge for entrance.

Review №141

2017-03-22 21:06:14

Live Life Today, Travel USA!!!! To visitJohn Muirs National Historical Home in Martinez California. Go all the way to the top to ring the bell.Their is other buildings and another museum to enjoy. I recommend to see the short movie first.Dont forget to support the visitors center on the way out.

Review №142

2018-12-12 00:30:10

Interesting house and working office for a gifted writer of articles espousing the protection of Americas natural treasures. You can learn a lot about the man here, and at nearby Muir Woods. This site is also the NPS guided tour starting place to visit nearby Port Chicago National Memorial. Call first to get on the tour.

Review №143

2021-04-10 16:49:22

A great place to take a step back in to the life and times of John Muir. The City of Martinez holds a few events there, that are family fun. I highly recommend visiting John Muirs historic house.

Review №144

2017-09-23 00:17:53

Nice place to see and learn about John Muir and the impact he had on preserving nature and wildlife. Very insightful. Best part its free to visit. The people are were very nice and engaged in answering questions.

Review №145

2019-06-27 05:44:10

I was curious to learn who john muir was and what impact he had on the community and the state that Im currently visiting. I enjoyed the 20min video which pretty much summed up his life and work. Im forever grateful for his dedication and all his hard work.

Review №146

2018-03-28 00:44:59

Its free and a great 2 hour excursion into the history of john muir and the formation of our national parks. Start with the 15 minute movie in the entrance area, then explore muirs house and the grounds at your own pace. I learned a lot about protecting our natural landscapes, history of the area, and and loved looking at the old archetecture.

Review №147

2021-10-18 00:26:08

Great place to learn a bit more about John Muir and a lot more about his wife and daughters. Loved that it is a self guided tour you can do at your own pace.

Review №148

2018-11-09 23:38:47

This is a little gem of a place. Theres a 20 minute movie about John Muir that I would recommend seeing. And a nice easy walk arpund the grounds. The house is exceptional in capturing the period of the times.

Review №149

2019-05-04 15:40:34

A museum inside John Muirs house. The museam had a lot to see in it, and they let us climb to the very top of the house, which had good views. The tour gudes are very knowledgeable and there is an interesting movie that plays in the visitor center. Definately recommend if you are near there.

Review №150

2018-04-30 15:59:53

Unfortunately, I was not able to get in because of some special fundraising event that was by invite only. The nice lady at the museum volunteered to at least show me the grounds, but I did not want to interfere with the event. Be sure to call ahead to see if they are REALLY open. I was frustrated given that the event was happening during regular hours and they should have at least posted something about that on the web.

Review №151

2023-08-30 09:06:30

Rangers are super friendly. Lots to learn here. Take a walk at the mansion.

Review №152

2022-09-30 18:59:54

Great films to provide historical significance and development of our national parks and his dedication to finding and documenting trees, animals and creepy crawlers.

Review №153

2018-08-28 06:19:14

Beautiful house surrounded by orchards. The house is very well maintained and interesting to explore. Mount Wanda is a nice hike if you have the time.

Review №154

2018-05-21 02:47:39

Ok, I was really impressed with the park and learning more about John Muir. He was, of course, awesome about preserving natural wonders, but he was also pragmatic about the real world and real world economics. Obviously there is a balance and he understood it. If you go there (which you should) i found that the scribble room was amazing! The nationsl park service has done a stellar job with this amazing monument!!!!! I am in awe just how awesome john muir was (is). How sad it would be if never was!

Review №155

2022-06-27 03:38:52

Nice little park to stop at see a statue of Mr. Muir.

Review №156

2021-09-21 12:09:54

Martinez chief tourist attraction is another example of why the National Park Service is Americas Best Treasure.The Muir House, as the locals call it, was originally the home and ranch of Naturalist John Muirs father-in-law, Dr Strentzil. Upon designation from the Park Service, the grounds were renamed the John Muir National Historical Site which have neatly housed priceless artifacts, writings, photographs, ramblings, and in an almost magical way, the very spirit of the father of the National Parks, the late, great John Muir.After marrying Strenzils fiercely independent yet touchingly loyal daughter, Louie, Muir moved to the Strenzil ranch where he and Louie raised their family of two daughters, Helen and Wanda. He found Martinez to be his home base between many famous expeditions and frequent trips to his beloved Yosemite Valley. Often criticized by outsiders for being away more than at home, his wife, Louie was adamant in her insistence John be free to climb the mountains and get their glad tidings which he then would share with the world through his writings, observations and drawings.In a country where now climate change is a threat to the existence of humanity, it is truly a blessing to have the works of Americas greatest environmentalist and lover of nature close at hand. Many of the best proposals for saving the earth from the ravages of mankind have come from scholars utilizing the grounds and materials available at the site.The local non profit support groups, The John Muir Association as well as the Muir Heritage Land Trust continue Muirs work on a day to day schedule as well as fund raise for the protection of open space near the park and to support the efforts of the NPS at the site.

Review №157

2016-08-04 00:42:05

John Muir played many roles in his life, all of which helped him succeed in his role as an advocate for Nature. As America’s most famous naturalist and conservationist, Muir fought to protect the wild places he loved, places we can still visit today. Muir’s writings convinced the U.S. government to protect Yosemite, Sequoia, Grand Canyon and Mt. Rainier as national parks.

Review №158

2022-10-10 00:51:41

Hidden. Unappreciated. GemLow key. Friendly Park rangers. Accessible history. Visit next time you are in the SF Bay area.

Review №159

2020-03-02 18:23:42

Everyone working here was so nice and friendly. I learned so much and really appreciated everything I saw. They also have a phone tour which made the tour a bit modern but it was easy! Cant wait to return.

Review №160

2019-03-18 01:38:36

It offers a glimpse into the life of John Muir and his immediate family. The house is well preserved with artifacts from his time. The garden around the house is full of trees planted by him. The NPS Ranger provides a tour of the house and shares several tales from his time.

Review №161

2018-06-02 20:01:54

Wonderful visit, house is well maintained. I would have liked it if the additional home further back was restored. Orchard isnt much. Overall beautiful and worthy of a visit.

Review №162

2022-09-18 14:10:58

Great afternoon with the kids. Great little history lesson. Cant believe this place still doesnt charge admission. Great local treasure.

Review №163

2022-06-05 15:24:08

Great place to visit with family learning about John Muirs life and his instrumental role in protecting natural resources and establishing the Federal Parks system.

Review №164

2012-10-21 03:59:18

If you are interested in John Muir, or ( Martinez) historical sites this is a must see. You can tour the house and the grounds, though some rooms are blocked so you can only see the display. Fun for a local trip

Review №165

2021-11-29 15:56:39

We first stopped at the Martinez shoreline park. We went for a short walk here and got stuck in line getting out by a unbelievable long freight train. We got to the John Muir House just before closing and sunset. We had the whole place to ourselves. 😎👍

Review №166

2017-12-04 01:21:46

Great slice of history in downtown Martinez. Helpful rangers and fun walk. The renovations have made it more park-like but less intimate

Review №167

2024-05-05 19:50:29

Worth the visit, great docents.

Review №168

2022-04-16 14:31:15

If you love history as I do you will enjoy this place. Walk the grounds, talk to one of the rangers.They really do a good job here.

Review №169

2022-05-30 08:21:29

Love to take a nice walk there again on a nice sunny spring and summer day to get it in on going to good National Parks of nice walk tours as its for everyone to take a walk and have fun with nature.

Review №170

2021-07-18 18:35:15

Lived in Martinez until I was 19.Passed it so many times as I walked down Alhambra Ave. to school.Remember when the JM home was just a relic before being purchased and restored, but have never been inside

Review №171

2020-12-11 00:19:27

Lovely place to visit and walk around. Lots of orchard trees and other interesting flora! House is closed due to covid, but the grounds are well worth a visit.

Review №172

2021-03-25 22:37:16

Beautiful piece/ place of history! Very peaceful.

Review №173

2024-03-30 20:36:31

Beautiful place and great history.

Review №174

2018-04-19 14:38:22

Great historical house. Amazing how modern the house looked considering when it was built. The workers are very professional and informative. Grounds are just lovely. Would definitely go back.

Review №175

2018-04-05 23:31:46

Its a beautiful slice of California history. Not only John Muirs home, but also the oldest Adobe structure in Contra Costa County. AND, no entrance fee!i!

Review №176

2022-03-21 01:51:38

Lovely setting and lots of details via phone sites. Who knew Muir was a rich businessman. Go to the attic and ring the bell!

Review №177

2018-08-09 19:51:31

Its worth taking the one hour guided tour with the park ranger. One can learn about John Muir and his family as well as the residential area.

Review №178

2023-01-03 21:51:02

Lovely. Nice guides, tours, and photos. Limited parking. Donated about $5 each to enter.

Review №179

2019-11-29 19:24:41

Great historical place. A must visit for any lover of the National Parks or John Muir fan. If you love 1800s houses, you will love this place. Very friendly staff.

Review №180

2016-08-02 06:16:28

Great historic site - see where John Muir and his family lived. Tour the orchard. Not crowded and great walking and hiking. Free admission. Friendly staff.

Review №181

2017-07-23 19:15:04

It was a walk with my daughter we loved the history the house #make a change

Review №182

2020-10-15 00:08:45

I had no idea John Muir lived in Martinez. Nice tour of the house with interesting artifacts. Ring the bell at the top.

Review №183

2016-07-07 13:12:51

Terrifically well-done small museum of Americas first environmentalist, filled with mementos and history. Be sure to go all the way up to the attic to take in the views and the additional displays there.

Review №184

2021-07-18 23:40:01

As a National Parks fan, how could you not visit the beginning of one of the men most responsible for the National Parks. John Muir and Roosevelt made a good team.

Review №185

2018-05-24 06:38:50

Its a cool place with interesting history. It also has some orchards around the house. Plus it has a bell on the top floor which they let you ring; so thats cool.

Review №186

2024-06-06 19:38:14

Beautiful. No crowds.

Review №187

2021-04-21 22:01:00

The toys were self-guided and very limited and the Vicente Martinez Adobe is not open at this time but the orchards and Fields and Peachtree orchards was quite nice

Review №188

2018-06-20 13:07:40

This is a gem. One usually thinks of John Muir in the wilderness, not in a beautiful house in Martinez. His story is interesting, and the property is pretty.

Review №189

2023-10-30 02:34:07

I accidentally stumbled across this on my way to Stockton. Worth an hour or two detour in life.

Review №190

2020-12-31 03:43:59

Cant go inside right now, but I still like walking the grounds. Well worth a visit if you are in the area, especially in Non-Covid times.

Review №191

2021-10-13 22:40:28

Great place to learn about the Father of National Parks, John Muir.. he did an awesome job and very inspiring to keep our natural resources from total destruction...

Review №192

2021-08-24 04:34:17

Its a nice place to visit...and a very interesting historic home.. John Muir...a great American contributor...A father of national park..

Review №193

2019-12-15 00:13:50

1. It’s free....2. The learn why John Muir been called “ father of our national park “3. Extremely friendly park rangers....4. Did I say : it’s free ?Hahahahaha hahahahaha

Review №194

2018-08-04 10:35:38

Friendly Federal park staffing. Free parking and a peach to remember John Muir.

Review №195

2019-02-09 21:59:14

Very cool place to visit! John Muirs house is very well kept, its free to walk in, and the rangers are very nice people!

Review №196

2019-03-23 22:05:41

Interesting exhibits. Excellent and very helpful park workers. Nice place to visit takes about one hour to visit house and grounds.

Review №197

2017-10-14 23:41:03

Stopped by to check out John Muirs residence in Martinez. A great old adobe structure is also located on the property. A must see for California history.

Review №198

2019-05-16 13:18:44

The John Muir National Historic site is a beautiful landmark of the East Bay that offers a peaceful getaway from the rat race of city life.

Review №199

2022-06-14 18:22:11

This venue was free and very interesting. The staff there was very knowledgeable and friendly. Nice area to walk around.