Nestled along the picturesque coastline of California, Monterey County stands as a distinctive destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with unparalleled meeting experiences. Offering various unique meeting venues that go beyond the ordinary, Monterey County is all in to make your meeting the best yet! From meetings under the sea to wine-tasting rooms and beachside views, each setting provides a distinctive backdrop for memorable and productive gatherings.
Events by Classic
Photo Credit: The Perry House
Events by Classic Group help to produce a unique experience offering service in multiple locations!
Consider booking a meeting or event at The Barns at Cooper Molera. This venue offers the perfect combination of rustic elegance and history. Located in downtown Monterey, The Barns was built in the 1800s and fully renovated to not only show the beautiful property but also provide guests with a unique experience including the history that comes with it. Upon request, visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the property's fascinating past. With a capacity to accommodate up to 600 guests, this venue is perfect for any occasion.
Events by Classic's collection of historic venues include The Perry House, a vernacular-style Victorian home that can accommodate up to 150 guests. Originally built in 1860, the house has been thoughtfully designed to host special meetings or events. The beautiful property includes two full bars, a cozy fire pit, lush outdoor gardens, and ample space for guests to mingle and explore. Guests can explore the house and make their way to the Harbor View Lounge to enjoy the breathtaking ocean views.
The last property on the list is Monterey Beach Station. It is situated right on the sand, providing a unique venue experience that is only steps away from the ocean. This location can accommodate up to 1,500 guests and offers custom cuisine the entire group will enjoy. Additionally, there are team-building activities available, such as wine and paint, kayaking, henna classes, and more.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Photo Credit: Monterey Bay Aquarium
The world-renowned aquarium is a natural draw to visitors who come to Monterey County. However, what's even more exciting is that you can now turn this popular attraction into an intimate setting for your next meeting or event! Experience the underwater world and host a sustainable event at the aquarium.
You can select from various venues, including The Open Sea, where attendees can dine while enjoying the sight of tuna speed by a swarm of sardines. Another great option is The Ocean’s Edge, where attendees can be mesmerized by the Kelp Forest Exhibit and experience the diver’s eye view of leopard sharks, wolf eels, and even sardines.
If that's not enough, the entire aquarium is also available to host a meeting, allowing attendees to explore all of the amazing exhibits for an unforgettable night. Moreover, their culinary philosophy is worth booking a meeting as well. Focusing on fresh, local, and in-season ingredients, the Aquarium works with suppliers who care about ocean conservation ensuring that they only serve the best cuisine.
Monterey County Fair & Event Center
Photo Credit: Monterey Fair & Event Center
There are a variety of venues available at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center, such as the Monterey Room, Salinas Room, and King City Room. These venues can accommodate up to 1,000 guests each. Additionally, there is the Seaside Room which is perfect for events with up to 300 guests. The venue also has outdoor spaces available for use as well. This twenty-two-acre, state-owned venue is ideal for any type of group gathering. Catering and bar services are also available for events hosted here.
Salinas Sports Complex
Photo Credit: Salinas Sports Complex
The Salinas Sports Complex presents two exquisitely appointed banquet halls, the Exhibition Mall and the Rodeo Room, which can accommodate gatherings of 160 to 600 people. This makes it the perfect venue for your upcoming celebration. The venue is versatile and can cater to events of varying sizes, ensuring a personalized and sophisticated experience in either of their spacious banquet halls. Whether you're planning a large or small event, the Salinas Sports Complex provides an exceptional setting.
Sunset Center
Photo Credit: The Sunset Center
Located in the heart of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Sunset Center is an excellent venue for hosting distinguished meetings and events. The facility comprises three well-appointed meeting rooms: Carpenter Hall, Babcock Room, or Chapman Room, as well as main and promenade lobbies, an outdoor plaza, and terrace, making it a versatile and elegant backdrop for various occasions. The Sunset Center is only a few steps away from a range of upscale restaurants, boutique shops, art galleries, and local inns, enhancing the overall experience for event attendees.
Vineyards and Tasting Rooms
When visiting Monterey, a vineyard or tasting room is a great place to go. A Taste of Monterey has an event space that is 4,000 square feet in size and is carefully designed. They also offer catering services. Folktale Winery and Vineyards has private rooms that are distinguished. They also offer a curated tour of their facilities.
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
Photo Credit: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
The Hospitality Pavilion, situated in the heart of the Laguna Seca Recreation Area, offers a stunning panoramic view of the world-famous racing circuit. This venue is an ideal space with convenient and versatile space for any event. Each rental includes 50 round banquet tables, 400 padded chairs, 42-inch plasma televisions, and ample free parking. The Hospitality Pavilion can comfortably accommodate up to 850 guests, and a divider is available to create three separate rooms for more intimate gatherings.
