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 city's 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. 

If you love train travel, Salinas is home to Monterey County’s only Amtrak station. Plan ahead to attend one of the many Salinas festivals or events such as California Rodeo Salinas, California International Airshow and Salinas Valley Fair.

Things to Do

 

Explore Salinas

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. 

 

Discover What's New

7 minute read
7 minute read
2 minute read
  • Posted on October 7, 2024
2 minute read
2 minute read
  • Posted on September 16, 2024
7 minute read
  • Posted on September 4, 2024

Explore more

things to do in Monterey County

This is an image of a clear commemorative glass from Big Sur Food & Wine Festival held up against the dramatic coastline backdrop of Big Sur, California. The rolling mountains lead straight in to the ocean waters

Monterey Events

What's Happening
Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail Pacific Grove

The Blog

See What's New
This is an image of a table full of food & wine at Coastal Kitchen in Monterey

Food & Drink

Wine and dine
This is an image of two women on a dirt hiking path at Pfeiffer Falls. The women are walking away from the camera and are wearing brightly colored workout clothing and backpacks. The women are smiling at each other and are surrounded by lush and green redwood trees.

Trip Inspiration

Outdoor Adventure
01 / 04

Search all lodging