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
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California
Monterey: Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo
Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide
Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbeck's Monterey
Top hotels in Downtown Monterey
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Great staff and a beautiful well priced gem
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
The Monterey Hotel
Staff is very friendly and the building is historic. Bathrooms are very good
Reviewed on 2 Jan 2026
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
I did not eat breakfast
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
The Stevenson Monterey
The staff member that greeted us upon arrival was very friendly and courteous. There was always a parking space in the underground lot. Our room was clean, a bit outdated but it’s just a resting place. We will definitely stay there again. Exceptional location.
Reviewed on 4 Jan 2026
Hotel Pacific
Was great! Thanks!
Reviewed on 7 Jan 2026
Monterey Marriott
Only spend one night there and no experience of using breakfast and bar. The location is good and convenient for walking to old fisherman’s wharf and downtown, driving to aquarium only 4mins away.
Reviewed on 1 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Monterey
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 Colton Hall Museum while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Oak Grove
While Oak Grove may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Monterey Bay Aquarium and Del Monte Golf Course.
Alta Mesa
While visiting Alta Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Munras Avenue and Del Monte Shopping Center.
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.
Monterey Vista
While Monterey Vista isn't home to many top sights, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Munras Avenue are some notable places to visit nearby.
New Monterey
If you're spending some time in New Monterey, Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row are top sights worth seeing.
