Salinas, California

Just inland from Monterey's coastline, Salinas provides a unique look into the rich agricultural history of Monterey County. Plan to spend some time exploring the gems that makes this historic town so iconic.

The hometown of Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winning author John Steinbeck, Salinas houses the nationally renowned National Steinbeck Center Museum featuring multi-sensory exhibits, rare artifacts, film clips, and special exhibitions, as well as Steinbeck House, a now favorite eatery—especially if you’re headed to one of the many annual Salinas festivals like California Rodeo Salinas or California International Airshow.

Salinas City Center is the hub of the cityʻs shopping scene, featuring unique boutiques and several art galleries. Discover the heart of Downtown Salinas on a walking tour to see the murals, sculptures and significant historic architecture in Salinas painted by local and visiting artists.

Downtown Salinas is also a culinary hotspot thanks to the growing food scene, numerous breweries popping up, and the weekly Old Town Salinas Farmers Market. Grab some fuel before getting out in to some new terrain at Toro Park, offering outdoor enthusiasts endless trails to roam and reconnect with nature.

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Start your day with fresh local produce at The Farm in Salinas Valley. This gem is a favorite for fresh baked pies and blooming fields during the spring.

Check in and refresh in the comfort of your own canvas-walled suite and listen the roar of the king of the jungle at Vision Quest Safari Bed & Breakfast. Located on the Monterey Zoo property, these unforgettable accommodations combine the luxury of a hotel suite with a wild adventure unlike any other.

Keep the nighttime adventure going and check out the lineup at historic Fox Theater in Old Town Salinas, with live music and comedy sure to impress. Sit back and admire the beautifully restored art deco venue before dancing or laughing the night away.

2 Days in Salinas