Located just outside San Francisco, the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site preserves the home and grounds where America’s only Nobel Prize-winning playwright lived. This National Park Service site offers free tours for visitors to immerse themselves in O’Neill’s world and gain inspiration from the tranquil surroundings where he penned some of his greatest works.
The Long Journey of a Restless Genius
Born in New York City in 1888, O’Neill grew up touring the country with his actor father. Disillusioned with his parents’ addictions and his father’s commercial success, O’Neill rebelled. He went on adventures at sea and in gold fields, and battled alcoholism and depression. At 24, tuberculosis forced O’Neill to pause. During recovery, he began writing groundbreaking plays like Beyond the Horizon and Anna Christie.
After winning early acclaim, O’Neill worked with singular focus on an epic 11-play cycle about an American family. Plagued by health issues, he abandoned the project, but triumphed with masterpieces like Long Day’s Journey Into Night. In 1936, he became the first American playwright awarded the Nobel Prize.
After receiving the Nobel Prize, O’Neill wanted solitude to focus on writing. In 1937, he and wife Carlotta built Tao House in Danville, California as a refuge. The home’s name reflects their desire for serenity. At Tao House, O’Neill wrote his late career classics including The Iceman Cometh and A Moon for the Misbegotten.
Tao House sheltered the fragile playwright during his last great creative period.
Tour the Tao House
The centerpiece of the park is the Tao House, the two-story home overlooking a serene valley where O’Neill lived from 1937 to 1944. Visitors can tour the thoughtfully preserved rooms where O’Neill wrote acclaimed plays like The Iceman Cometh and Long Day’s Journey Into Night. Many original furnishings, books, and personal items convey a sense of O’Neill’s life and creative process during his time here. Park rangers provide insightful narratives bringing the spaces to life.
Explore the Grounds
Beyond the home, the park’s 13 acres contain many historic features that contribute to its atmosphere. Wander through the courtyard’s gardens, walk the grounds’ trails that O’Neill enjoyed, or visit the 19th century barn that predates O’Neill’s residence. At the far end is the grave marker for Blemie, the O’Neill family’s beloved Dalmatian. The tranquil setting looking out over the valley provided the isolation O’Neill sought for his work.
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Getting There and Reservations
To reach the site, visitors must take the free park shuttle from the Museum of the San Ramon Valley in Danville, as private vehicles are prohibited. Secure your spot by reserving in advance—email or call at least two weeks ahead. Tours run Wednesday through Sunday at 10 AM and 2 PM and last about two hours. Let them know if you have accessibility needs.
Immerse Yourself in an Artist’s Retreat
With its peaceful, contemplative environment and connection to one of America’s literary giants, the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site makes an inspiring and rejuvenating getaway. Walk in the footsteps of creative genius and be transported to another time and place. Reserve your tour today for an enriching cultural experience at this remarkable Bay Area hideaway.
Three National Parks Near San Francisco You Can Visit in a Weekend
For history buffs, literature enthusiasts, and nature lovers, we’ve got a terrific park hop that takes less than a total of three hours’ drive time round trip! If you’re starting in San Francisco, start out at San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park located in Fisherman’s Wharp, where you can explore a historic fleet and learn unique maritime history and research. In less than an hour’s drive, you’ll find yourself at John Muir National Historic Site, where you can get a tour of the famed naturalist’s home and explore the beautiful grounds. Nearby, you can visit Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site, rounding out a weekend full of culture and history.
By Julie Thompson
