John Steinbeck House

The John Steinbeck House is a 1936 residence on Greenwood Lane that blends Modern Movement and Ranch Style architecture across a substantial property in the Santa Cruz Mountains foothills. The home served as a setting for focused creative work and was later added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The house was home to John Steinbeck and his wife Carol from 1936 to 1938, a period of significant literary output. During their residence, two of his most important novels took shape.

The guest house on the property served as a gathering place for writers, artists, and friends who visited the family during their time there. The setting reflects how much Steinbeck and his wife valued hospitality and intellectual exchange with their circle.

This is a private residence and not open to the public, so visitors can view it only from outside and explore the surrounding area. Those interested in Steinbeck's life can visit his birthplace in Salinas, which welcomes visitors.

The couple left the house in 1938 as the location lost the seclusion that had been essential for Steinbeck's writing process. This decision shows how dependent he was on his working environment.

Location: Monte Sereno

Inception: 1936

GPS coordinates: 37.23250,-121.99900

Latest update: December 12, 2025 08:01