A Walking Tour of Adelaide Drive: A Neighborhood above It All

Discover the architecture of vintage and contemporary homes of historic Adelaide Drive on our fall tour! Enjoy spectacular ocean and hillside vistas as our docents lead you on the half-mile walking tour, stopping at various key points and two open homes with stories of this premier neighborhood.

In the early 20th century, wealthy pioneer families built their coastal homes on Adelaide Drive. Today, five of these residences are still standing as designated landmarks. Current Adelaide residents include artist Don Bachardy, architect Frank Gehry, animator/cartoonist Matt Groening and author Mona Simpson.

Adelaide Drive retains much of the elegance of its early days, thanks to the efforts of property owners and preservationists who value its historic nature. However, nearby high-rise condominiums on Ocean Avenue remind us that, although change is inevitable, a balanced effort to preserve our historic heritage is also important.

Tickets: Advanced purchase is recommended online: $30 members / $40 general public. Accompanied children under 12 years of age are free. Tickets purchased on the day of the tour are $35 members / $45 general public.

Check-in and registration will be at the 4th Street median between San Vicente Boulevard and Adelaide Drive.

check-in will close at 4 pm.

Suggested attire: Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended.

Parking: Limited street parking is available on Adelaide Drive, 4th Street, Georgina Avenue and San Vicente Boulevard. We also suggest alternative transportation, including the Big Blue Bus (Route 9, 4th Street & San Vicente Boulevard stop) and biking.

(518 Adelaide Drive. Photo: Steve Loeper)