Downtown Monterey Travel Guide
Monterey
Visit Downtown Monterey
Popular places to visit
Golden State Theatre
Sit back, relax and enjoy the show at Monterey’s legendary movie palace, which has been delighting theatergoers since 1926.
Dennis the Menace Playground
Set up a picnic on the tranquil shore of Lake El Estero and let the kids run free in this sandy playground.
Monterey State Historic Park
Find out about California’s Spanish, Mexican and American past with a tour of this park’s restored historical houses and museums.
San Carlos Cathedral
Admire ecclesiastical relics on display in the heritage center to learn about this cathedral, which is California’s oldest stone building.
Maritime Museum
Follow the story of this fascinating area from the first inhabitants 6000 years ago, to the days of Cannery Row and beyond.
Monterey Convention Center
Learn about the events happening in Monterey Convention Center during your trip to Monterey. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the seafood restaurants while you're in the area.
Things to do
Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour
Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbeck's Monterey
Monterey: Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise
Top hotels in Downtown Monterey
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
"All around a great experience"
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
The Monterey Hotel
"Beautiful property."
Reviewed on 4 Jun 2026
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
"Very nice and lean"
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
Hotel Pacific
"Room was clean and staff was very kind and helpful. But, the room was noisy. People above were noisy and dod whining, airplane overhead several times in the middle of the night kept me awake."
Reviewed on 3 Jun 2026
The Stevenson Monterey
"Rooms were good. Great staff. Limited parking, hard to find spot when occupancy is full. However overnight street parking is available."
Reviewed on 2 Jun 2026
Monterey Marriott
"Great experience for our anniversary. Close to everything we wanted to see. The valet service was great!"
Reviewed on 1 Jun 2026
Check Downtown Monterey hotel availability
Where to stay in Downtown Monterey
New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Cannery Row and San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater are top sights worth seeing.
Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista isn't home to many top sights, Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row are some notable places to visit nearby.
Old Monterey
Old Monterey is a destination visitors seek out for its pristine beaches, ample dining options and popular aquarium. You might also want to check out attractions like Waterfront or Perry House while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Lighthouse District
Lighthouse District is well-regarded for its pristine beaches, ample dining options and popular aquarium, and you might also want to make a stop by Cannery Row, a top sight in the neighbourhood.
Alta Mesa
While visiting Alta Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center.
