The visitor center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and major holidays.
Admission to the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site is free, with no entrance fees required. Reservations are necessary, but there are no additional costs.
From San Francisco, take I-580 East to Danville. Board the complimentary shuttle in downtown Danville to ascend to a hillside haven where literary genius once flourished.
No personal vehicle parking is allowed at the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site. Park at the end of Camille Avenue in Danville for shuttle access. No overnight parking or RVs permitted.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Tucked away in the rolling hills of Danville, California, the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site is a serene and historic retreat that encapsulates the essence of America’s only Nobel Prize-winning playwright. This 158.6-acre estate, known as Tao House, is a Monterey Colonial hillside home where O’Neill crafted some of his most poignant works, including _The Iceman Cometh_, _Long Day’s Journey Into Night_, and _A Moon for the Misbegotten_.
The site, accessible only via a National Park Service shuttle from downtown Danville, offers a tranquil escape. The grounds, spanning 13 acres, feature lush gardens, historic trails that O’Neill himself wandered, and a 19th-century barn that predates the residence. A grave marker for Blemie, the O’Neill family’s beloved Dalmatian, adds a touch of personal history to the landscape.
Visitors can immerse themselves in O’Neill’s world through guided tours, available Wednesday through Friday and Sunday, or self-guided tours on Saturdays. The surroundings, looking out over the valley, provide a sense of isolation that O’Neill sought for his creative process. The area is also a haven for wildlife and bird watching, with nearby hiking and mountain biking trails in the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness.
As the seasons change, the site transforms: spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers warm days perfect for exploring, autumn paints the hills with golden hues, and winter brings a serene quiet. For those seeking a deeper connection with the area, local outfitters and nearby artisan towns offer additional adventures and cultural experiences. This historic site is not just a tribute to a literary legend but a living, breathing tribute to the power of solitude and creative expression.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 16 000
- Established year
- 1976
Top 3 Facts about Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site
The historic site is accessible only via a National Park Service Shuttle, with visitors needing to use a 3.5 mile loop hike or shuttle from downtown Danville, starting at 10:00 a.m. on Saturdays for self-guided tours.
This serene oasis is home to oak woodlands, grassy meadows, and vibrant seasonal wildflowers. Birdwatchers can spot numerous species throughout the year, while the grounds are also a haven for wildlife. The tranquil landscape, complete with hiking and mountain biking trails, offers a glimpse into a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal retreat for nature enthusiasts.
Surrounded by oak woodlands and grassy meadows, this site is adorned with vibrant seasonal wildflowers. The rolling hills of the San Ramon Valley offer a tranquil backdrop, with many species of birds visible throughout the year. The area is accessible via trails in the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness, making it an ideal spot for wildlife and bird watching. The landscape is painted with colors of wildflowers, creating a serene and inspiring environment.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in winter or spring to avoid heat. Park at Camille Avenue, hike the 3.5-mile loop through eucalyptus and pastures. Bring sunscreen, water, and a picnic; limited food options on site. Allow an afternoon or full day to explore.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for changing weather, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, and a water bottle. For longer stays, bring camping gear and a first-aid kit. Check the season for specific needs.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the oak woodlands and grassy meadows by staying on trails, avoiding wildflowers, and keeping a safe distance from birds and wildlife. Bring water, wear layers for changing weather, and leave nothing behind but footprints.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water, and check weather conditions and fire restrictions. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities. Be aware of your surroundings and follow all signs and advisories.
Seasons
Visit in spring, when temperatures range from 60 to 80°F, and enjoy mild weather. Stroll through lush gardens and trails, and catch the Eugene O’Neill Festival in August and September, featuring the playwright’s renowned works. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and theater lovers.
Visit in summer for warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and mild weather. Attend the Studio Retreat Summer Workshop in June, a immersive theater experience amidst historic grounds. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and theater buffs.
Visit in fall, when temperatures range from 50 to 70°F, and enjoy the serene hills of the San Ramon valley in golden hues. Take a guided tour, limited to 12 people, and explore the beautifully restored hacienda-style house. No special events are noted for this season, but the tranquil atmosphere and vibrant autumn colors make it an ideal time to visit.
Visit in winter (Dec-Feb) for mild temperatures (40s-60s°F) and fewer crowds. Cool, crisp air enhances the scenic hike and historic charm, making it an ideal time to immerse in this tranquility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site is Danville, California. The site is located on Kuss Road in the rolling hills of Danville. Visitors can access the site by taking a shuttle from downtown Danville.
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Dogs are not allowed inside the buildings, including the main attraction, Eugene O’Neill’s house. They can only be on the grounds while on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Service animals, however, are permitted in all areas.
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You cannot park your vehicle, including campers, trailers, or motorhomes, at the site. Instead, park at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley in Danville and take the free shuttle provided. The shuttle picks up passengers at 205 Railroad Avenue.
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Eugene O’Neill wrote several significant works at his home in Danville, California, including *The Iceman Cometh* (1939), *Long Day’s Journey Into Night* (begun in 1939), *A Moon for the Misbegotten* (begun in 1941), *Hughie* (1941), and *A Touch of the Poet* (1942). He also started but did not finish *More Stately Mansions*. These works were written between 1937 and 1943.