Whether you’re looking for an adventurous trip to the beach or a more laid-back experience, Monterey has something for everyone.
Besides all the fun and exciting things to do in Monterey, the city also has many restaurants that will keep you fueled during your vacation. We’ve compiled a list of the best restaurants in town for you to check out!
1. Fisherman’s Wharf
Fisherman’s Wharf is a busy waterfront neighborhood with plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained. It’s a great place to experience the city on a budget, as there are tons of free things to do!
If you’re looking for something a little more exciting, there are many museums in the area to choose from. One that’s worth visiting is Real Old Paper, which specializes in curated posters from around the world.
You can also take a boat tour along the Bay to get a different perspective on the city. Several companies offer tours from Fisherman’s Wharf, and you can book them on your own or with a guide.
2. Cannery Row
One of the most popular attractions in Monterey is Cannery Row, an historic waterfront district made famous by John Steinbeck’s 1945 novel. It’s a place where you can shop, dine, and stay at Monterey hotels while enjoying some of the best of what this city has to offer.
The area is a must-visit for anyone planning a trip to Monterey, California. From the remodeled buildings to the eclectic mix of stores and restaurants, Cannery Row has something for everyone.
Walk or rent a bicycle along the paved Coastal Recreation Trail and explore Monterey Bay, where you can also kayak, cruise or sail. Other nearby attractions include 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea and world-class golf courses.
3. Monterey Bay Aquarium
The world’s largest aquarium, the Monterey Bay Aquarium showcases Monterey Bay and its rich marine ecosystem. It is an important tourist attraction that draws around two million visitors a year.
Located in the charming Cannery Row district, the Aquarium is an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy some time outdoors while learning about ocean conservation. It features a variety of exciting attractions, including the largest indoor kelp forest in the world and interactive touch pools.
The Open Sea exhibit houses a 1.2-million-gallon tank with an array of open-ocean wildlife, such as yellowfin tuna, giant ocean sunfish, hammerhead sharks, and more. The Giant Octopus and jellyfish exhibits are also a must-see.
4. Museum of Art
The Monterey Museum of Art cultivates curiosity in the visual arts and engages the community with the diversity of California art. Its two locations are conveniently located in downtown and La Mirada, with free parking available.
The Museum has a wide variety of exhibitions that feature both local and national artists. It also features permanent collections that include American, Asian, and European art.
In addition to its extensive collection, the Museum hosts a number of educational programs and special events that celebrate the arts. The Museum offers discounts for students, active military, and SNAP participants.
5. Monterey State Historic Park
The Monterey State Historic Park brings to life the Spanish colonial, Mexican colonial and early American periods of California through a remarkable group of restored buildings. It is a National Historic Landmark and part of the Monterey Old Town Historic District.
- The park features California’s first theater, Monterey Custom House, and adobe houses from the earliest residents of Monterey Bay. It also hosts the Pacific House Museum and interpretive center.
- The Path of History, a two-mile self-guided walking tour through the park, links these buildings. To pick up a copy of the tour, visit the Pacific House Museum.
