In a move that underscores the importance of historical awareness and accessibility, California is offering a special free Historian Passport to its state historic parks. This initiative, announced by Governor Gavin Newsom, coincides with the celebrations of Juneteenth and the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The pass, typically priced at $50, will be available for free download from June 17 through July 6, 2026. It grants unlimited entry for up to four people to more than 30 state historic parks throughout California until the end of the year. This effort is part of a broader initiative to make the state’s rich history accessible to all residents and visitors.
Celebrating Freedom and Heritage
The free Historian Passport is a testament to California’s commitment to embracing and learning from its complex history. Governor Newsom emphasized that this initiative is a stark contrast to recent federal policies that have attempted to whitewash American history. By offering free access to these historic sites, California invites everyone to explore and understand the real history of the nation.
First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom highlighted the importance of this initiative in connecting Californians with their heritage. “Building on our Outdoors for All initiative, we’re creating even more opportunities for Californians to explore the natural beauty and rich history that define our state,” she said. The pass is supported by donations from the California State Parks Foundation and the California State Railroad Museum Foundation.
Exploring California’s Historic Gems
The participating parks showcase a diverse range of cultural, political, and social history. From Gold Rush-era communities to military landmarks, historic homes, missions, and museums, these sites offer a comprehensive look into California’s past. Notable parks include Colonel Allensworth State Historic Parka significant site representing Black history in California, and Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Parkwhich marks the beginning of the Gold Rush.
California State Parks Director Armando Quintero expressed pride in the state’s efforts to celebrate diversity and connect people with meaningful stories. “I hope the free Historian Passport introduces more Californians to the state’s historic gems and sparks a curiosity and thirst for knowledge that leads to many return visits,” he said. The pass is part of the state’s Reexamining Our Past Initiative, which aims to tell the full story of how California came to be.
Expanding Access and Opportunities
The free pass builds on Governor Newsom’s State Parks Forward announcement on Earth Day, which aims to establish three new state parks and expand existing ones by more than 30,000 acres by the end of the decade. This initiative is part of a broader effort to make California’s natural and cultural resources accessible to all residents.
Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D., Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus, emphasized the significance of widening access to historic state parks. “Juneteenth is a celebration of Black freedom, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of equality. By widening access to California’s historic state parks to more families, we help ensure that public lands are places where everyone can learn and benefit from,” she said.
The free Historian Passport follows Governor Newsom’s directive in January that more than 200 state parks offer free entry on Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026. This initiative provides another stark contrast with the Trump administration, which directed the National Park Service to no longer offer free entry on MLK Day and Juneteenth.
To download the free pass, visit and follow the prompts to add the pass to your account. A full list of participating parks is available at parks.ca.gov.
