Spectacular setting
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General Vallejo's Home (Lachryma Montis)

4.7
·189 reviews·Sonoma, United States

Step into 19th-century California at General Vallejo's grand Gothic Victorian estate, Lachryma Montis. Explore history, peaceful grounds, and a charmi...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Spectacular setting

General Vallejo's Home (Lachryma Montis)

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into 19th-century California at General Vallejo's grand Gothic Victorian estate, Lachryma Montis. Explore history, peaceful grounds, and a charming pond.

4.7
(189 reviews)

"Definitely worth stopping by! Turns Vallejo of the town into a real person."

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TIP

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Your $3.00 entry includes Mission Sonoma too! A fantastic deal for history buffs.

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Drive to Mission

Easily accessible from Mission Sonoma by a short walk or drive.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gothic Victorian Architecture

Gothic Victorian Architecture

The Main House

Step back in time in this beautifully maintained mid-1800s home, offering a glimpse into the life of General Vallejo.

Peaceful Pond and Grounds

Peaceful Pond and Grounds

Exterior Grounds

Enjoy a tranquil moment by the pond, surrounded by lovely aging trees and picnic spots.

Chalet Museum

Chalet Museum

Adjacent to the Main House

Explore the Chalet museum next door for additional historical context and artifacts.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit

To truly soak in the history of General Vallejo's home, aim for weekdays during the off-season. Weekends and peak tourist times can bring more visitors, potentially impacting the serene atmosphere many travelers seek. Consider visiting in the morning before larger groups arrive.

Combine with Mission Sonoma

Your ticket to Lachryma Montis also grants access to Mission Sonoma. Many visitors recommend walking or driving between the two sites, making it an efficient way to experience two significant historical landmarks in one outing. Plan for at least a couple of hours to explore both.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Off-season days
Why
Enjoy solitude and relaxation
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This historic home scared the sh*t out of me. The outwardly appearing idyllic gothic Victorian home, built in 1851 for General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, called Lachryma Montis (Tears of the Mountain,) was supposed to be one of my usual historic home videos….. but it took a turn. I can honestly say I have been in (and investigated) countless purportedly haunted places across the globe, but NONE ...
@la_history_girl
2K likes • 16.7K views

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Your $3.00 entry includes Mission Sonoma too! A fantastic deal for history buffs. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Drive to Mission

Easily accessible from Mission Sonoma by a short walk or drive. Reddit

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📚 Explore at Your Own Pace

Wander through the home and grounds independently. Reddit

🌳 Peaceful Picnic Spot

Pack a lunch and relax by the pond on a sunny day. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Combo Ticket Value

Your $3.00 entry includes Mission Sonoma too! A fantastic deal for history buffs. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Drive to Mission

Easily accessible from Mission Sonoma by a short walk or drive. Reddit

📚 Explore at Your Own Pace

Wander through the home and grounds independently. Reddit

🌳 Peaceful Picnic Spot

Pack a lunch and relax by the pond on a sunny day. Reddit

🐦 Birdwatching Opportunity

Keep an eye out for woodpeckers and other local birds. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(189 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find General Vallejo's Home a beautifully maintained historical gem offering a step back in time. The affordable combined ticket with Mission Sonoma is a major draw, and the peaceful grounds provide a lovely setting for relaxation. Some noted a lack of detailed labeling within the house, but the overall experience is considered very worthwhile for understanding California's past.

"Dec 1, 2024
I enjoyed this space all to myself. Old elegant home, peaceful pond and beautiful aging picnic tables. Pack some food and relax with a book on a sunny offseason day."

Diane Mostad

"About a half mile from the Mission, General Vallejo's home is part of the nominal Mission price and you can either walk or drive, which my wife and I did. The Gothic Victorian mid 1800's home is beautifully maintained and is open for you to explore and takes you back to what life was like for the General and his family. A member of the Park Service was on hand to share some of the history of the home and other buildings on site as well as a turtle pond and grape vines growing accross the street. In front of the home an American flag flies, but the Bear Flag is absent because the family member turning the home over to the Park Service stipulated that since General Vallejo almost lost his life in prison after the Bear Flag Revolt, the Bear Flag was not to be flown here."

Alan Hennessy

"Definitely worth stopping by! Turns Vallejo of the town and the street in SF into a real person. Items and rooms were not well labeled but it was interesting nonetheless."

Alicia DiGiammarino

What People Like

Affordable combined ticket
Beautifully maintained home
Peaceful grounds and pond

What People Dislike

Limited labeling inside

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

General Vallejo's Home, also known as Lachryma Montis, is conveniently located about a half-mile from the Mission in downtown Sonoma. You can easily walk there or take a short drive. Many visitors find it a pleasant stroll, especially on a nice day. Reddit

While specific parking details can vary, it's generally accessible by car. Given its proximity to Sonoma Plaza, many visitors opt for parking in the downtown area and then walking or driving the short distance. Reddit

Information on direct public transport routes to the home itself might be limited. However, Sonoma Plaza is served by local bus routes, and from there, it's a short walk to the historic site. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The admission fee is very affordable, often around $3.00, and this ticket typically includes entry to Mission Sonoma as well, offering great value for exploring multiple historical sites. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check the official California State Parks website or local listings for the most current operating hours before your visit to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required for General Vallejo's Home, especially for individual visitors. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. However, for group tours or special events, it's advisable to inquire about booking procedures. Reddit

No, the Bear Flag is not flown at Lachryma Montis. This is due to a stipulation by a family member who donated the home, as General Vallejo had a difficult experience in prison after the Bear Flag Revolt. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can explore the beautifully maintained Gothic Victorian home, learn about General Vallejo's life, and wander the peaceful grounds with a pond. The adjacent Chalet museum also offers additional historical insights. Reddit

Yes, you can explore the home at your own pace. This self-guided approach allows you to immerse yourself in the history and architecture without feeling rushed. Reddit

While self-guided exploration is common, a member of the Park Service is often on hand to share historical details about the home and other buildings on site, providing valuable context. Reddit

The vineyards across the street are a reminder of the region's rich winemaking history, which was also a part of General Vallejo's life and legacy in Sonoma. Reddit

Visitors have noted seeing woodpeckers frequently around the house, and there's a turtle pond on the grounds, adding a touch of nature to the historical experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the Gothic Victorian home offers stunning architectural shots. The peaceful pond and the surrounding grounds also provide beautiful, serene backdrops for photography. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted inside historic homes, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask a docent if you're unsure. Be mindful of flash photography, which can sometimes be restricted. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historical sites and state parks to protect the integrity of the structures and the visitor experience. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

General Vallejo's Home offers a unique educational opportunity for families. The self-guided nature of the tour allows children to explore at their own pace, making history more engaging. The peaceful pond and grounds provide space for kids to move around and enjoy the outdoors. Consider bringing a picnic to extend the visit and let them burn off energy in a scenic setting. Reddit

While the historical details might be more suited for older children, the visual aspect of the grand Victorian home and the natural surroundings can capture the imagination of younger visitors. The nearby Mission Sonoma also offers further historical exploration that can be combined for a more comprehensive family outing. Remember to check for any specific family-friendly events or programs that might be offered seasonally.

💰 Budget Travelers

Lachryma Montis is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. The combined ticket price, often around $3.00, grants access to both the General's home and Mission Sonoma, offering significant historical value for a minimal cost. Reddit

Packing your own food for a picnic on the grounds can further reduce expenses, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful setting without additional dining costs. The self-guided nature of the visit also means you won't incur costs for guided tours. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking to experience California's rich history without breaking the bank.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into 19th Century California Life

Lachryma Montis, meaning 'Tears of the Mountain,' was the grand estate of General Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, a prominent figure in early California history. Built in 1851, this Gothic Victorian mansion was more than just a home; it was a symbol of his influence and aspirations in the burgeoning state. Exploring its rooms offers a tangible connection to the past, showcasing the lifestyle of a wealthy and influential family during a pivotal era. The home's architecture itself is a testament to the era's style, blending Victorian aesthetics with a unique regional flair. TikTokReddit

Visitors often remark on how the house 'turns Vallejo of the town and the street in SF into a real person,' humanizing the historical figure. While items and rooms might not always be meticulously labeled, the overall experience is described as 'interesting nonetheless.' The presence of a Park Service member on-site to share history further enriches the visit, providing context beyond what's immediately visible. The grounds, complete with a peaceful pond and vineyards across the street, add to the immersive historical atmosphere. Reddit

It's important to note the absence of the Bear Flag, a deliberate choice reflecting General Vallejo's complex relationship with the Bear Flag Revolt. This detail, while subtle, adds another layer to understanding the historical context and the personal impact of these events on individuals. The combination of the home's architecture, the historical narratives, and the serene setting makes Lachryma Montis a compelling stop for anyone interested in California's rich past.

Exploring the Grounds and Natural Beauty

Beyond the historic house, the grounds of Lachryma Montis offer a tranquil escape. The 'peaceful pond' is a highlight for many, providing a serene spot to relax and reflect. Aging picnic tables dot the landscape, inviting visitors to pack a lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon surrounded by nature. This aspect of the visit is particularly appealing for those seeking a moment of quiet contemplation amidst their travels. Reddit

The presence of vineyards across the street serves as a visual reminder of Sonoma's enduring connection to viticulture, a legacy that General Vallejo himself was a part of. Birdwatchers might also find the grounds appealing, with visitors noting frequent sightings of woodpeckers and other local avian life. The natural elements of Lachryma Montis complement the historical significance, creating a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for all types of visitors. Reddit

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