Carmel’s Hidden Gems: A Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour
About:
With wine tasting, a rich art scene, fairytale-esque architecture, and renowned restaurants, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a perfect escape for those seeking a touch of California magic. Embark on a captivating self-guided walk and discover the hidden gems nestled within this charming village. This self-guided tour promises a delightful adventure, leaving you with a taste of California magic and a newfound appreciation for Carmel's timeless allure.
To take the tour, download our free app:
Open the app, tap on Nearby Walks, then tap on the Carmel’s Hidden Gems tour.
Once you activate the tour and start walking, content will automatically play as you approach each stop. Or, if you feel like exploring from the comfort of home, you can experience it virtually by paging through the content and manually playing the audio from each stop on the tour!
Some Background on Carmel:
Originally home to the historic Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo, this quaint village flourished as a center for California's mission system. Following a period of change, a visionary named Santiago J. Duckworth envisioned a retreat near the Mission, inadvertently laying the foundation for the Carmel we know today. This artistic spirit continues to thrive, attracting not only artists and writers, but even Hollywood legends! Fun fact: Clint Eastwood even served as Carmel's mayor for a time.
A notable attraction in Carmel is the historic Forest Theater. In 1910, Herbert Heron had a vision for an outdoor theater. So, he purchased a plot and built a wooden stage and benches. In July of the same year, Heron acted in the Forest Theater’s first performance David, which was enjoyed by over a thousand audience members. These people didn’t seem to mind the theater’s lack of electricity, for which calcium floodlights and bonfires compensated. In 1949, Heron founded the Forest Theater Guild, which still performs today.
Carmel is known for its Storybook, or Fairytale, Craftsman cottages. Hugh W. Comstock, a local builder, was responsible for several, including the Tuck Box, pictured above, which was built in 1926. With a steep shingled roof, exposed wood framing, and textured stucco, the Tuck Box exemplifies Carmel’s Storybook architectural style.
What are you waiting for? Download the app and discover Carmel on foot!