The initiative connects Californians to local history through sites, artifacts and exhibits
From June 17 through July 6, Californians are capable of downloading a free special pass that allows admission for up to 4 people per pass to more than 30 state historic parks throughout California.
Offered by California State Parks, the Historian Passport, normally costing $50, remains valid through the end of 2026 and provides access to a range of historically significant sites that bring California’s past to life.
Credit: Courtesy of California State Parks, Photo by Brain Baer
In celebration of Juneteenth and the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the special-edition Historian Passport aims to make California’s historic landmarks more accessible while welcoming visitors to connect with the diverse communities and events that have helped shape the state.
“California doesn’t hide from hard truths and uncomfortable history – in fact, we embrace it and learn from it.” said Governor Gavin Newsom in a news release from California State Parks. “California is marking these celebrations of freedom by inviting everyone to learn our country’s history for free in our state parks.”
Credit: Courtesy of California State Parks, Photo by Brian Baer
Supported by donations from the California State Parks Foundation and the California State Railroad Museum Foundation, the limited-time free pass grants permission to historic parks and museums unveiling the history of Californian Gold Rush, Native American communities, immigrant experiences and other pivotal chapters in the state’s history.
Participating parks include Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, a historic town founded and governed by African Americans, and Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park, California’s largest roundhouse still used by Native Americans.
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Also, Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park marks the site where gold was first discovered in 1848, while Weaverville Joss House State Historic Park is home to the oldest continuously used Chinese temple in California. A full list of additional Historian Passport acceptance locations is available here.
Credit: Courtesy of California State Parks
“California’s state historic parks preserve some of our nation’s most powerful and meaningful stories,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “I hope the free Historian Passport introduces more Californians to the state’s historic gems and sparks a curiosity, thirst for knowledge and sense of belonging that leads to many return visits.”